What's Happening?
The Chicago Cubs are set to continue their winning streak as they face the Washington Nationals in a three-game series. After securing victories against the Colorado Rockies and Atlanta Braves, the Cubs are positioned to win their third consecutive series. The team, currently holding the first wild-card spot in the National League, showcased a strong performance in the series opener against the Nationals, winning 11-5 with four home runs. Cubs' second baseman Nico Hoerner emphasized the team's cohesive performance across pitching, defense, and offense. Left-hander Matthew Boyd, who has had a challenging month, is expected to start for the Cubs, aiming to improve his recent performance.
Why It's Important?
The Cubs' current performance is crucial as they aim to secure a strong position in the postseason. With the team holding the first wild-card spot, maintaining their winning momentum is essential for their playoff aspirations. The series against the Nationals, a team with a losing record, presents an opportunity for the Cubs to solidify their standing. The outcome of these games could significantly impact the Cubs' playoff trajectory and their ability to compete against stronger teams in the postseason.
What's Next?
Following the series with the Nationals, the Cubs will face the Atlanta Braves and Tampa Bay Rays, both of which are competitive teams. These upcoming games will test the Cubs' ability to maintain their performance against higher-ranked opponents. The team's strategy and player performance in these matches will be critical in determining their success in the postseason.