Chicago Cubs Pitching Strategies in Wild-Card Standings
The Chicago Cubs encounter critical pitching decisions as the National League wild-card standings take shape. Despite a clear opportunity to secure a playoff spot on Tuesday night against the Miami Marlins, the Cubs missed their chance. They needed either a win or an Arizona Diamondbacks loss to advance to the postseason, but ultimately fell short in a 12-inning game, losing 8-2.
The Cubs faltered in the 10th inning, with Matt Shaw unable to execute a bunt against Marlins reliever Jack Ralston. Instead, he popped out at eye level, costing a chance to advance runners on first and second base. Ian Happ followed with a deep fly out that would have scored the winning run if Shaw had successfully bunted. Nico Hoerner managed a walk, and Pedro RamÃrez reached a full count before grounding out for the final out.
“These are the moments that you prepare for,” Shaw stated. “Experience plays a crucial role. This will help next time I’m in such a situation.”
Neither team scored in the 11th inning, but problems mounted for the Cubs in the 12th. The Marlins scored six runs, including three charged to Edward Cabrera. A troubling 1-for-18 performance with runners in scoring position and 15 stranded runners intensified the sense of a missed opportunity. This, combined with other NL wild-card contenders’ game results, kept the Cubs in a three-way tie for the wild card with five games remaining.
Nico Hoerner dived for a ball hit by Otto Lopez for a single in the 11th inning at Wrigley Field, illustrating the high-stakes atmosphere.
Upcoming Pitching Decisions
The Cubs must efficiently align their starting pitchers for upcoming games to set up a postseason rotation, posing key decisions. Left-hander Shota Imanaga provided a strong performance, though limited by his pitch count, conceding only one run over five innings with seven strikeouts and no walks or home runs. His September ERA stands at 1.96 over four starts, contrasting his previous year’s form.
“In my third year, I’ve reflected on my past performances and made necessary improvements,” Imanaga disclosed through his interpreter.
Right-hander Kevin Gausman is slated to pitch on Wednesday against the Marlins. However, Thursday’s starter remains to be determined. The Cubs’ rotation strategy for the upcoming series against the Red Sox is uncertain due to a projected nor’easter in Boston, bringing heavy rain over the weekend.
Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the importance of adapting pitching plans: “As weekend nears, weather considerations will emerge, informing decisions.” Only one off-day remains before the wild-card series commences Tuesday, limiting adjustments. A potential weekend doubleheader or a Monday regular-season finale, prompted by rain, could further complicate plans.
“Our goal is to be prepared for the remaining games, with weather-influenced decisions coming soon,” Counsell explained.
Potential Rotation Influences
Deciding pitcher rotation for the wild-card round might depend on their opponent. Facing the Phillies may favor lefty-heavy rotation to counter left-handed hitters like Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper. Yet, given the tight wild-card standings, the Cubs might finalize the rotation before knowing their opponents, largely driven by their 7-8 record over the past two weeks.
The Cubs might consider activating left-hander Justin Steele for the weekend in Boston, dependent on his Wednesday bullpen session. Steele, absent since April 2025, performed well in recent rehab, as per Counsell.
“His successful rehab outing is significant,” Counsell noted. “Roster decisions following Justin will be crucial.”