One stunning Cubs starting lineup move could define Game 1 of 2025 MLB playoffs

The numbers actually back this decision.

Jordan Campbell

Chicago Cubs v Pittsburgh Pirates / Nick Cammett/GettyImages

The San Diego Padres announced that right-handed starting pitcher Nick Pivetta will get the nod against the Chicago Cubs in Game 1 of their National League Wild Card series on Tuesday afternoon. While the Cubs are still mapping out their plans for the pitching staff, Pivetta getting the start could set the stage for a stunning lineup decision.

After spending most of the season as the veteran presence in the Cubs' clubhouse and a left-handed hitting specialist while spelling Michael Busch at first base, Justin Turner could be an option to start Tuesday's game at third base.

First and foremost, Turner starting at third base should be viewed through the same lens as the idea of the Cubs using an opener. You want to take advantage of the matchup that is in front of him. Against Pivetta, Turner is one of the best matchups that the Cubs have to offer.

Cubs could shock MLB with this starting lineup call in 2025 MLB Playoffs

The sample size is small, but in 9 career plate appearances against Pivetta, Turner has 5 hits with 2 doubles and 2 home runs. Cubs' manager Craig Counsell is always looking for the advantage over his opponent, and using Turner at third base to open the game may be one of the first levers he pulls.

Defensively, however, in a playoff series, Turner shouldn't be the Cubs' answer at third base for the entire game. The premise would be that once Pivetta is taken out of the game, Turner is replaced by Matt Shaw. Shaw's defense at third base has been excellent this season, and certainly will be needed at the end of games.

Offensively, however, Shaw ended the 2025 season on a cold spell. In 83 plate appearances during the final month of the regular season, Shaw slashed .222/.313/.375 while striking out over 27% of the time. In other words, for as great as Shaw's second half had been, he's still a rookie in the middle of a stretch where pitchers have adjusted. That could be what helps Counsell turn to Turner to open Game 1.

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Jordan Campbell

For nearly 15 years, Jordan has been a workhorse across the FanSided network - including being the inaugural site expert for Cubbies Crib, as well as a stop at Da Windy City as the site expert. In addition to returning to be a Co-Site Expert at Cubbies Crib, Jordan was previously the Site Expert at Bear Goggles On. In the years since, Jordan has joined FanSided's full-time team, serving as a staff writer for the MLB division. Jordan's work can be seen across the MLB division, including a consistent presence on our Cubs, Twins, Astros, and Tigers sites. Since 2010, Jordan has dedicated his craft to providing insightful commentary on all things Chicago sports, and he has enjoyed his venture into all things Major League Baseball.