Cubs secure top NL wild card after crucial victory over Cardinals

The Chicago Cubs, a team in Major League Baseball, achieved a significant milestone in their season by clinching the top NL wild card. This victory came on September 26, 2025, when they faced off against the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field, finishing the game with a score of 7-3. Michael Busch played a pivotal role in this win, contributing two home runs and driving in four runs, helping to propel the Cubs to a season record of 91 wins and 70 losses. Pitcher Jameson Taillon also had an impressive performance, allowing only one run over six innings of play. The Cubs’ victory became even more meaningful as it secured their place in the playoffs, marking their first postseason appearance since 2020. They are set to host the San Diego Padres in the first round of the playoffs, with Game 1 scheduled for Tuesday, September 29, 2025. In addition to Busch's standout performance, other players showcased their skills, with Pete Crow-Armstrong and Seiya Suzuki also hitting home runs during the game. The Cardinals, on the other hand, faced a disappointing season, finishing at 78 wins and 84 losses, which placed them in fourth in the NL Central and excluded them from playoff contention for the third consecutive year. In a subsequent game on September 27, 2025, the Cubs continued their success by sweeping the Cardinals with a 2-0 victory. Seiya Suzuki extended his impressive hitting streak by homering for the fourth straight game, a feat that boosted his season totals to an impressive 32 home runs and 103 RBIs, leading the team. Javier Assad also contributed significantly, pitching 5 1/3 shutout innings. This win showcased the Cubs' strong lineup and solid pitching depth as they approach the playoffs. With the playoffs just around the corner, the Cubs are energized and eager to compete for a championship. They have demonstrated resilience and talent throughout the season, culminating in their successful bid for the wild card. As they prepare to face the Padres, the team is focused on harnessing their recent momentum and making a significant impact in the postseason, aiming to end their playoff drought since 2020.