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Cubs' Playoff Outlook: September 2025
9 months agoUS
As the 2025 MLB regular season winds down, the Chicago Cubs are in a strong position to break their playoff drought. With just over three weeks remaining, their performance will determine whether they secure a division title or a wild-card spot. This article examines the Cubs' playoff scenarios and what fans can expect.
Key Insights
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The Cubs (80-60) are currently 5.5 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central but hold the tiebreaker. Winning the division would guarantee a first-round bye.
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The Cubs have a solid lead in the wild-card race, holding a five-game cushion over the Mets for the top spot.
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Six of their remaining seven opponents have records at or below .500, giving them a favorable schedule to maintain their position.
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Manager Craig Counsell is focused on taking it one game at a time, emphasizing that early pitching plans are often unsuccessful.
Why this matters: Securing a playoff spot is crucial for the Cubs to end their postseason drought. A strong finish can lead to a deep playoff run, boosting team morale and fan engagement.
In-Depth Analysis
The Cubs' path to the playoffs involves several possibilities:
Winning the Division: The Brewers have a significant lead, and the Cubs need them to falter to overtake them. A division title ensures a bye to the Division Series.
Top Wild-Card Spot: Currently, the Cubs hold the top wild-card spot, which would allow them to host a wild-card series at Wrigley Field. They have a comfortable lead over the Mets and Padres.
No. 2 or 3 Wild-Card Spot: If the Cubs slip, they would be on the road for the best-of-three wild-card series. The series against the Mets could be pivotal for seeding.
Missing the Postseason: While unlikely, it is still mathematically possible for the Cubs to miss the playoffs. FanGraphs gives them a 99.8% chance of making it.
The Cubs recently added pitcher Aaron Civale and first baseman Carlos Santana to bolster their roster for the playoff push. Counsell's focus remains on short-term planning to adapt to the ever-changing circumstances of a baseball season.
FAQs
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Q: What is the Cubs' magic number to clinch a playoff spot?
As of early September, their magic number is 14.
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Q: Who would the Cubs play if the season ended today?
They would likely face the San Diego Padres in a best-of-three series at Wrigley Field.
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Q: What are the Cubs' chances of winning the World Series?
According to Baseball Prospectus' PECOTA model, they have a 6.3% chance, the best among non-division leaders in the National League.
Key Takeaways
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The Cubs are in a strong position to make the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
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Key factors include maintaining their lead in the wild-card race and capitalizing on a favorable schedule.
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Manager Craig Counsell's strategic approach focuses on immediate adjustments rather than long-term planning.
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Fans should monitor the series against the Mets, which could impact seeding.
Discussion
Do you think the Cubs will make a deep playoff run this year? Share your predictions below!
Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!
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