Cubs, Pirates Clash Amidst Struggles, Postseason Hopes

The Chicago Cubs, currently holding the first wild-card spot in the National League and trailing the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers, face the Pittsburgh Pirates in a crucial three-game series as part of their final road trip. The Cubs are aiming to return to the postseason for the first time since 2020, relying on strong performances from players like Jameson Taillon, who will start Monday's game against his former team, the Pirates. Pittsburgh struggles offensively, ranking last in runs scored per game, but boasts promising pitching prospects like Bubba Chandler and consistent starters such as Mitch Keller, which could pose challenges for the Cubs. The Cubs' Nico Hoerner is on a hitting streak and batting near .300, putting him in rare company among recent Cubs hitters and bolstering their postseason push. With the Cubs' magic number to clinch a postseason spot at four, and the team focusing on maintaining their lead over wild-card contenders like the San Francisco Giants, this series is pivotal. The Pirates, despite their sub-.500 record and recent losing streak, have the pitching depth to disrupt Chicago's plans and potentially play spoiler in the NL Wild Card race.