Chicago Cubs Clinch First Playoff Spot Since 2020 After Win Over Pirates in Commanding 88th Victory

The Chicago Cubs are officially back in the postseason after five years away. On September 17, the Cubs secured their 88th win of the season by defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 8-4 at PNC Park.

That victory locked them in as the second team from the National League Central to punch a ticket to October baseball.

Wild Card Positioning and Playoff Scenarios

While the Chicago Cubs have guaranteed their place in the playoffs, their seeding is still in play. Entering the final 10 games of the season, they trail the Milwaukee Brewers by 4 ½ games in the NL Central. That deficit makes a division crown unlikely, but Chicago is on track to host a best-of-three Wild Card Series at Wrigley Field.

Their most probable opponent? The San Diego Padres.

Big Moves Fuel Chicago’s Turnaround

Chicago’s return to relevance didn’t happen overnight. It began with bold investments both in the dugout and on the field. The Cubs committed $40 million over five years to hire manager Craig Counsell away from the Brewers, signaling the end of a disappointing stretch under David Ross. On the roster side, the front office pulled off a blockbuster trade to acquire All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros.

Kyle Tucker’s Uncertain Status Raises Questions

The Tucker trade has already paid dividends, but his impact moving forward remains a concern. He’s currently sidelined with a calf injury, leaving his availability for the postseason unclear. Beyond that, Tucker will test free agency this winter, putting the Chicago Cubs’ willingness to pursue a long-term deal under the microscope.

Rookie and Veteran Power Secure Playoff Berth

In the clinching game against Pittsburgh, the offense came through despite another shaky outing from starter Matthew Boyd.

Ian Happ and rookie catcher Moises Ballesteros both launched home runs, lifting the Cubs to victory. Boyd, who has battled through injuries in recent seasons, has struggled since the All-Star break as his innings have increased.

Chicago Cubs Set to Line Up Postseason Rotation

The Chicago Cubs now have the chance to reset their pitching staff ahead of October. Left-hander Shota Imanaga is expected to lead the rotation, with top rookie Cade Horton likely following as the No.

2 starter. This setup gives Chicago a promising 1-2 punch in the Wild Card round.

Recent Playoff History Still Fresh in Fans’ Minds

The Cubs’ last postseason appearance came in the shortened 2020 season, when they made the expanded playoff field but were swept at Wrigley Field by the Miami Marlins. Their last full-season playoff berth dates back to 2018, when they fell to the Colorado Rockies in the NL Wild Card Game. That loss came one day after a division tiebreaker defeat to the Brewers.Also read: New York Mets Francisco Lindor Beams with Pride as Wife Katia Performs National Anthem at Mets Game

A Long-Awaited Return to October Baseball

From investing in leadership to making bold roster moves, the Chicago Cubs have worked their way back into contention. Now, with a playoff spot secured and a chance to play at home in front of the Wrigley faithful, Chicago looks to write a new chapter in its postseason history.