What is the story about?
What's Happening?
The New York Mets are facing a crucial series against the Chicago Cubs as their postseason hopes hang in the balance. Having lost 11 of their last 15 games, the Mets are tied with the Cincinnati Reds for the third and final wild-card spot in the National League. However, the Reds hold the advantage due to their head-to-head record against the Mets. Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor emphasized the need for the team to win to improve their playoff chances. The Mets have struggled significantly since mid-June, with a record of 35-52. Left-hander David Peterson is set to start against Cubs rookie Cade Horton, who has been performing well recently. The Cubs are also vying for the top wild-card spot and home-field advantage in the upcoming series.
Why It's Important?
This series is pivotal for both the Mets and the Cubs as they aim to secure their positions in the playoffs. For the Mets, a successful outcome could revive their postseason aspirations, while failure could end their chances. The Cubs, on the other hand, are looking to solidify their wild-card position and gain home-field advantage. The outcome of this series will have significant implications for the National League playoff picture, affecting team strategies and fan expectations. Both teams are under pressure to perform, with potential impacts on player morale and management decisions.
What's Next?
The Mets will need to focus on winning their remaining games to keep their playoff hopes alive. The Cubs will continue to strategize their pitching lineup to maximize their chances in the wild-card series. Both teams will be closely monitoring the performances of their key players, such as David Peterson and Cade Horton, as they navigate the final week of the regular season. The results of this series could lead to changes in team dynamics and future planning for the postseason.
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