Milwaukee Brewers Best Wins against Chicago Cubs
By Todd Welter
The Milwaukee Brewers kick off their 2022 season at Wrigley Field when they take on the Chicago Cubs. This rivalry was once so one-sided that the Brewers’ home ballpark was affectionately nicknamed Wrigley North by Cubs nation.
Over the past couple of seasons, however, the Milwaukee Brewers have caught up to the Chicago Cubs. The Brewers own the series advantage with a 200-198 record along with a 20-9 record this decade. The Brewers have won two NL Central Division titles since 2018. Milwaukee has seen its championship contention window stay open while the Cubs have seen their window slammed shut.
The rivalry has become a part of the Wisconsin and Illinois culture clash.
Wisconsinites do not like the Illinois toll road system and Chicago sports teams. In addition, Wisconsinites do not particularly enjoy Illinois residents crossing the border to visit Lake Geneva, Door County, the North Woods, or American Family Field and acting like they own the place.
Illinois residents cannot stand hearing about the toll complaining–everyone has to pay them. In addition, Illinois residents hate the Green Bay Packers along with their fans gloating all the time and that Wisconsin even exists.
The Milwaukee Brewers are starting to move up on the list of most hated teams by a good portion of Illinois citizens. Although, the Brewers will probably never reach the level of hatred shown towards the Green Bay Packers. Well, at least as long as American Family Field still stands because it is one of the few times Cubs fans get to experience a nice ballpark with functioning restrooms.
Enough about culture clashes and taking a subtle jab at Wrigley Field.
The main reason the Brewers are moving up the rivalry ladder with the Cubs is not that the cities are an hour and a half drive depending on traffic but because the Brewers have been competing for the NL Central division title for the last five years. Also, the Brewers and Cubs have played some memorable games this century.