2008 NLDS Game 3 vs Dodgers

Lore & Background

The Cubs' Game 3 loss to the Dodgers marked the franchise's ninth consecutive post-season defeat, dating back to the 2003 NLCS.

In Their Own Story

Anticipation hung heavy over Wrigley Field as the bottom of the ninth approached with the score knotted at three apiece. With one out, catcher Geovany Soto drew a call for strike three on a disputed pitch from umpire Jerry Meals. Piniella erupted onto the field, his argument against the strike zone echoing through the stadium before he was ejected. The bench reeled without its skipper during the tension-filled extra frames. In the tenth inning, the Dodgers seized the opportunity, scoring two runs to secure a 5-3 victory and eliminate Chicago.

Reader's Guide

Game 3 was played on October 4 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles.

Did You Know?

• The Cubs were swept 3–0 by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLDS.
• The series was not tied 1-1 entering Game 3; the Dodgers led the series 2-0 after winning Games 1 and 2 in Los Angeles.
• A victory in Game 3 would not have sent the Cubs to the NLCS; they would have still needed to win Game 4 to advance, as the series was best-of-five.