Cubs Clinch NL Wild Card Home Field with Michael Busch's Four-Run Performance Against Cardinals

The Chicago Cubs secured home-field advantage for their National League wild-card series with a 7-3 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals, highlighted by Michael Busch's outstanding offensive performance including two home runs, a triple, and a double that drove in four runs. Busch's power surge has been remarkable, with 34 home runs this season and six in his last 13 games, contributing significantly to the Cubs' strong finish at 91-70. Cubs starter Jameson Taillon delivered a solid pitching performance, allowing only one run over six innings and striking out eight, strengthening the team's playoff positioning. The Cubs will face the San Diego Padres in the wild-card series beginning next Tuesday, with Taillon likely to start an as-needed Game 3 on regular rest, while the team monitors the health status of pitcher Cade Horton. On the Cardinals' side, Nolan Arenado and Jordan Walker each homered, but the team has struggled recently with a three-game losing streak. The Cubs' balanced offense and effective pitching have positioned them well for the postseason as they aim to capitalize on home-field advantage.