Cubs Face Crucial Pitching Decisions Amid Wild Card Race

The National League wild-card standings are creating significant challenges for the Chicago Cubs’ pitching strategy. They faced a key opportunity to secure a playoff spot on Tuesday night against the Miami Marlins, needing a win or an Arizona Diamondbacks loss. However, they missed multiple chances in the 10th inning, ultimately losing 8-2 in 12 innings.

The game saw Matt Shaw unable to advance runners from first and second base, popping out instead of executing a bunt. This misstep was critical. Ian Happ followed with a deep fly out, which would have scored the winning run from third if Shaw had bunt successfully. Nico Hoerner’s two-out walk and Pedro Ramírez’s sharp grounder ended the inning.

“These are the moments that you prepare for,” Shaw expressed. “I know that I’ll have to put a bunt down again. We all understand the stakes and keep preparing for these situations. Experience like this will help next time.”

Neither team scored in the 11th inning, but the Cubs struggled in the 12th as the Marlins secured six runs, three charged to Edward Cabrera. Going 1-for-18 with runners in scoring position and leaving 15 runners stranded highlighted a missed opportunity. With the Phillies defeating the Brewers and the Padres losing to the Dodgers, the Cubs find themselves tied in the wild-card race with five games left.

Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner attempted to stop a hit from Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez in the 11th inning at Wrigley Field, Sept. 22, 2026, Chicago. (Photo by John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune)

Strategically, the Cubs must align their starting pitchers for the postseason rotation. Left-hander Shota Imanaga’s recent performance has been a boost. He allowed one run in five innings, not conceding any walks or home runs, while striking out seven. Imanaga boasts a 1.96 ERA in September.

“It’s my third year in MLB,” Imanaga commented, via interpreter Edwin Stanberry. “I reflected on past seasons and identified improvements. This year, my health feels good, which is crucial.”

Right-hander Kevin Gausman is slated to pitch Wednesday, but Thursday’s starter remains undecided. The Cubs’ rotation for their final series against the Red Sox is uncertain, worsened by a forecasted nor’easter in Boston. Manager Craig Counsell noted that adjustments to the rotation might occur due to upcoming important games.

“As we approach the weekend, weather will be a consideration,” Counsell stated. “We need to position ourselves well for the upcoming games.”

The opponents in the wild-card round could impact decisions. Facing the Phillies would prompt the Cubs to prefer a lefty-heavy rotation to counter left-handed power hitters like Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper. Current standings require the Cubs to decide on their rotation setup soon.

The Cubs’ recent 7-8 performance underscores the importance of these decisions. One option involves bringing back left-hander Justin Steele, who hasn’t played in the majors since April 2025. Counsell mentioned Steele might return for the Boston series, following a bullpen session on Wednesday.

“Steele’s recent rehab outing was encouraging,” Counsell said. “It’s important he feels confident in his performance. We must assess the team’s needs and make the right choices.”