The Cubs thumped the Cardinals on Friday, lowering their magic number for the top Wild Card spot to one in the process. While the Padres didn’t cooperate in their win over the Diamondbacks, the Cubs can do it themselves with another victory this afternoon. They might have to since that loss eliminated the D-backs from contention. Saturday is pivotal for the final WC spot as well, as the Reds have moved back into a tie with the Mets.
Jameson Taillon will make his 23rd and final start of the season in this one, setting him up to start an as-needed Game 3 next week on regular rest.