Pittsburgh Pirates fans may feel conflicting rooting interests while watching one of Thursday’s three winner-take-all playoff matchups.
The Chicago Cubs host the San Diego Padres in Game 3 of their Wild Card Series to determine who advances to the National League Division Series. Former Pirates pitcher Jameson Taillon will start for Chicago against Yu Darvish.
Taillon began his career in Pittsburgh after the Pirates drafted him between Bryce Harper and Manny Machado with the No. 2 pick in 2010. The 6-foot-5 right-hander posted a 3.67 ERA in 82 career starts, working a career-high 191 innings in 2018.
Shut down seven starts into his 2019 campaign, Taillon underwent Tommy John surgery for the second time. He missed all of 2020 before returning to pitch two seasons with the New York Yankees.
Taillon rejoined the NL Central when signing a four-year, $68 million contract with the Cubs before the 2023 season. He registered a 3.68 ERA and career-best 1.06 WHIP in 23 starts this year.
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After going on the injured list in early July, Taillon returned in August to make two strong starts before getting sidelined again. The 33-year-old bounced back to allow four combined runs over his final four outings of the regular season.
The Cubs will turn to Taillon with their season on the line. Matthew Boyd started a Game 1 win before the Padres extended the series with a 3-0 triumph on Wednesday.
Thursday’s Game 3 will mark Taillon’s third career playoff appearance and second start. He allowed three runs in 4 1/3 innings for the Yankees in 2022.
Taillon said after Wednesday’s loss, per Marquee Sports Network, that his excitement grew during the game when he realized he’ll pitch in a do-or-die playoff matchup.
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“You do a lot of work throughout the years and throughout the season just to be ready for big moments,” Taillon said. “I’m looking forward to it.”
Game 3 between the Cubs and Padres starts at 5:08 p.m. ET on ESPN.
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Featured image via Sep 27, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jameson Taillon (50) delivers a pitch against the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning at Wrigley Field.