Cubs Win Fifth NL Central Series, Lead Division by Five Games

The Chicago Cubs are having a strong 2025 season, marked by their best start since 2016 and a commanding five-and-a-half game lead in the NL Central. Following Ian Happ's walk-off single in the 10th inning, the Cubs secured a series win against the Pittsburgh Pirates, marking their fifth consecutive series win against division opponents — a feat last achieved in their 2016 World Series-winning season. While the offense ranks among the best in baseball, the team's pitching, particularly from Jameson Taillon, Matthew Boyd, and Cade Horton, has been crucial, especially after the injury to Shota Imanaga. The bullpen has notably improved since a rough start, becoming one of the league's strongest units. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer plans to be aggressive in acquiring pitching before the July 31 trade deadline to further bolster their postseason chances. Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the team's focus on seizing small advantages throughout games, which has helped them win tightly contested matchups.