The Cubs, sadly, have faded out of postseason contention. While they are still mathematically alive — their elimination number is 4 — essentially, it’s “wait till next year” again for our favorite team.
So let’s take a look at the still-undecided postseason races. With the Cubs’ loss Wednesday, the Brewers clinched the NL Central, and when the Yankees defeated the Mariners late Wednesday evening, they clinched a postseason spot.
Here’s where all the contenders and races stand entering Thursday’s action.
NL East
The Phillies’ magic number to clinch the NL East title is 4. They play the Mets in a four-game series beginning tonight in Citi Field, so if the Phillies win the first two games (or any two games) of that series, they will be NL East champions.