Cincinnati Reds Push Wild-Card Hopes with Wins Over Playoff-Bound Cubs

The Cincinnati Reds are in a tight race for the final National League wild-card spot, currently two games behind the New York Mets with eight games remaining in the season. They recently won two games against the Chicago Cubs, including a 1-0 victory with a one-hit complete game pitched by Hunter Greene and a 7-4 win highlighted by a season-high five home runs, including two by Spencer Steer. Steer's two homers and Elly De La Cruz's 20th homer of the season helped the Reds overcome a poor start from Nick Lodolo, who will continue to pitch in the crucial series. The Cubs, already postseason-bound with the top wild-card spot, have struggled offensively against the Reds' pitching, despite strong performances from players like Matt Shaw and Dansby Swanson. Both teams feature solid pitching, with Lodolo and Shota Imanaga starting key games, underscoring the competitive nature of these matchups as the Reds fight to extend their playoff hopes. Reds manager Terry Francona and players like Steer emphasize their commitment to fighting through to the final game for a chance at the postseason.