Chicago Cubs postseason contention and injury status

The Chicago Cubs are currently engaged in a competitive race for the National League Wild Card spot. Early in September, the team held a 78-60 record while battling the Philadelphia Phillies for the top position. During this period, the Cubs set a franchise record for home runs in a single month, highlighted by a nine-home-run performance against the Milwaukee Brewers.

As the postseason approaches, the Cubs have reached a near 99% certainty of making the playoffs, maintaining a lead over both the Phillies and the Arizona Diamondbacks. However, the team faces significant challenges regarding its pitching rotation. Injuries have heavily impacted the roster, including Cade Horton, who is sidelined following Tommy John surgery, and setbacks for Justin Steele, alongside multiple stints on the injured list for Matthew Boyd and Edward Cabrera.

While the Cubs trail the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central standings, the organization remains focused on securing a Wild Card berth to pursue a World Series championship.