7 Pivotal Games

The Cubs’ next six games are against two division opponents who are both rivals for the Wild Card: the Pittsburgh Pirates and St. Louis Cardinals.

The Pirates have had a surprisingly good offense – sitting 2nd in Major League Baseball in runs scored. Meanwhile, the pitching has been slightly disappointing, sitting 17th in ERA. But with a +51 run differential (the Cubs are at +65) they appear to be the real deal.

If they maintain their run production, I think they might be one of the three favorites, along with the Cubs and the 2nd place team in the NL East, to capture a plyoff spot.

The Cardinals, on the other hand, are at a -4 run differential, and are a huge surprise. Jordan Walker has turned a corner in his career and JJ Wetherholt gives them a genuine rookie of the year candidate. But at 17th in runs scored and 13th in ERA, it would be a surprise if they can sustain things.

But for the Cubs, whose pitching staff looks a bit shaky and in need of reinforcements, facing these two teams offers the possibility of putting a bit more space above them in the standings or the danger of joining them in the glut of teams fighting for a spot.

Here are my thoughts on the different possible outcomes:

• 7-0; Not possible, maybe?
• 6-1: I’d be floating on air, as the Cubs would have a strangle-hold on a Wild Card spot, and could stay within shouting distance of the Brewers for the Central title
• 5-2: Still ecstatic, as it is up to the Pirates and Cardinals to make up ground
• 4-3: Pleased, but the Central will probably be getting more out of reach. And the Cardinals and Pirates will still have hope.
• 3-4: Somewhat satisfied, as these are tough, divisional road games. Unless another Wild Card team makes a run, the Cubs will still be in the driver’s seat for a playoff spot.
• 2-5: Frustrated as the race is tightening up. But the pitching matchups were tough, and the Cubs should be making additions soon. Not a total disaster, but it’s getting close.
• 1-6: Extremely frustrated, as not the Cardinals and Pirates are at or above the Cubs. Plus, other Wild Card contenders will probably have picked up ground.
• 0-7: Despondent. The possibility of the playoffs will appear to be slipping through the Cubs’ collective fingers. Will they still even make a big deal at the deadline?

After these 7 games, we’ll see if I feel the same.