Cubs Target Playoff Spot in Crucial Series Against Nationals
The Chicago Cubs return to Wrigley Field this Friday for the first game of a three-game series against the Washington Nationals, as they look to solidify their position in the playoff race. With a traditional afternoon start, the Cubs (80-60) are poised to make a significant move towards clinching a postseason berth, carrying a magic number of 14. Meanwhile, the Nationals (56-83) are playing out the remainder of their season without hope for October.
Cubs’ Position in the Playoff Race
After a much-needed off day on Thursday, the Cubs are currently leading the National League Wild Card standings, outpacing the San Diego Padres and the New York Mets. Despite their strong showing, the NL Central title appears to be slipping away; they sit 5.5 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers (86-55). Securing the top wild card spot would guarantee the Cubs a home playoff series, a welcome prospect for a franchise that last tasted postseason success in 2020 when they won the NL Central during the pandemic-shortened season.
Injury Updates and Player News
The Cubs are also hopeful for the return of outfielder Kyle Tucker, who exited Tuesday’s game due to calf tightness. His presence would be a significant boost as the Cubs push towards the playoffs.
How to Watch the Game
Game Day: Friday, September 5
Time: 1:20 p.m. CT / 2:20 p.m. ET
Watch: AppleTV+
Listen: 670 The Score and WRTO 1200 (Cubs), 106.7 The Fan and DC 87.7 (Nationals)
Location: Wrigley Field, Chicago
Probable Pitchers for Friday’s Matchup
Cubs: Javier Assad (1-1, 4.05 ERA)
Javier Assad steps onto the mound for the Cubs, tasked with holding down a rotation that is currently dealing with injuries. Assad has been solid since returning from the injured list, where he spent most of the season recovering from a left oblique strain. Over four starts, he has accumulated 10 strikeouts and five walks in 20 innings, allowing only two home runs. Though batters are hitting .289 against him, his ability to limit damage may prove vital in a high-stakes matchup.
Nationals: Jake Irvin (8-10, 5.42 ERA)
On the other side, Jake Irvin will take the mound for the Nationals. His season has been challenging, especially lately, as he has struggled with a 1-5 record and a 7.53 ERA in his last seven starts. Irvin faced a tough outing against Tampa Bay in his last appearance, where he allowed four earned runs over six innings. With batters hitting .269 against him this season, the Cubs will look to capitalize on any opportunities he presents.
Injury Report for the Cubs
The Cubs are currently monitoring several players on the injured list:
Jameson Taillon, RHP (15-day, left groin strain): Taillon is slated to pitch a rehab game at Triple-A Iowa on Friday.
Michael Soroka, RHP (15-day, right shoulder discomfort): The team is assessing his next steps following a recent bullpen session.
Ryan Brasier, RHP (15-day, left groin strain): Expected to pitch a rehab game on Saturday.
Miguel Amaya, C (10-day, left ankle sprain): Amaya is progressing with baseball activities in Arizona, with hopes of returning this season.
Injuries have also affected key players like Eli Morgan and Justin Steele, both of whom are on long-term rehab assignments or out for the season.
As the Cubs gear up for this important series, the stakes are high, and every game counts as they aim for a return to the postseason.
