Varsha
Wrigley Field will be buzzing as the Chicago Cubs host the Kansas City Royals in a midweek MLB matchup, kicking off a three-game series under the Chicago lights. With the Cubs reeling from a tough loss to the Boston Red Sox but riding an impressive stretch, and the Royals looking to play spoiler, here’s your complete guide to tuning in and what to expect.
Game 1: Key Details
- Matchup: Kansas City Royals @ Chicago Cubs
- Date: Monday, July 21, 2025
- Time: 8:05 p.m. ET (7:05 p.m. CT local)
- Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
- Starting Pitcher for Cubs: Ryan Brasier (reliever, opening the game)
- TV/Streaming: MLB Network, Marquee Sports Network, MLB.TV
- Free Live Streams:
- fuboTV (free trial)
- DirecTV Stream (free trial)
- Hulu + Live TV (subscription, select markets)
- Sling (subscription)
Streaming Service Comparison
| Service | Free Trial | Promo | Monthly Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| fuboTV | Yes | $20 off first month | $84.99 |
| DirecTV Stream | Yes | $30 off first month | $84.99 |
| Hulu + Live TV | Yes | – | $82.99 |
| Sling | No | – | $45.99 |
Recent Cubs Performance: Momentum or Bump?
- Last Series Recap: The Cubs dropped their Sunday game 6-1 to Boston despite a promising effort from Cade Horton, missing a sweep after five wins in six games.
- Standout performers: Seiya Suzuki and Pete Crow-Armstrong have been energetic leaders, but the offense struggled in the series finale versus strong Boston pitching.
- Key Stat: Since interleague play began (1997), the Red Sox are now 13-14 against the Cubs at Wrigley.
Royals Outlook
Kansas City comes to Chicago looking to reset. With a lineup featuring young firepower and a pitching staff eager to prove itself, the Royals are aiming to steal a win or two and get momentum back on their side.
Upcoming Cubs vs. Royals Series Schedule
| Game | Date | Time (ET) | Probable Cubs Starter | Probable Royals Starter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | July 21, 2025 | 8:05 p.m. | Ryan Brasier (Opener) | TBA |
| 2 | July 22, 2025 | 8:05 p.m. | TBA | TBA |
| 3 | July 23, 2025 | 2:20 p.m. | TBA | TBA |
Starters beyond game 1 have not been officially announced as of this morning. Check team sources for updates closer to gametime.
Key Matchups & Players to Watch
- Cubs: Keep an eye on Pete Crow-Armstrong, Dansby Swanson, and Seiya Suzuki for sparks at the top of the order. Watch Chicago’s bullpen management, as Brasier opens game 1.
- Royals: Kansas City will look to capitalize against Chicago’s relievers, hoping for timely hits from their own top prospects and middle-order bats.
Betting & Odds
- FanDuel Odds: Cubs are favored at -152 to win game 1, reflecting both home field advantage and recent strong play.
Prediction
With recent momentum, home-field advantage, and energy from up-and-coming talent like Crow-Armstrong and Suzuki, the Cubs are poised to take this series, especially with the Royals still searching for consistent pitching. Expect Chicago to take at least two out of three, but don’t count the Royals out for a potential upset if their young core gets hot.
How to Watch for Free
- TV: MLB Network (check local sports blackout restrictions), Marquee Sports Network in Chicago market.
- Streaming: Grab a free trial from fuboTV or DirecTV Stream for access. MLB.TV also offers streaming for out-of-market games.
FAQ: Royals vs. Cubs
Yes—this is the first of a three-game set. Games continue Tuesday and Wednesday, wrapping up the Cubs’ homestand.
Reliever Ryan Brasier will start as an opener; expect the bullpen to play a big role.
Yes! fuboTV and DirecTV Stream both offer free trial periods for new users.
First pitch is 8:05 p.m. ET (7:05 p.m. Chicago time).
As Chicago aims to keep their playoff hopes alive and Kansas City comes in hungry, who will take the upper hand at historic Wrigley Field tonight?
