Jose Quintana was a midseason acquisition by the Chicago Cubs and has been a major key for their push towards the postseason late in the year. Today, the Cubs reduced their magic number to clinch the NL Central division to just two games with a 5-0 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers.
It has been an intriguing season for the Cubs, to say the least. After breaking their curse and winning the World Series last season, the Cubs have had a roller coaster season. They have not looked like the team that they were last season for most of the season, but may be starting to get their mojo back at the right time.
One of the biggest keys for the Cubs in today’s win was Quintana. He pitched all nine innings and gave up zero runs, while allowing just three hits. Quintana also struck out 10 Milwaukee batters.
Now that the Cubs’ magic number is down to two, it is reasonable to assume that they will be heading back to the postseason. Chicago starting pitcher Jon Lester talked about making the playoffs, whether they limp in or power themselves in.
Just what the doctor ordered. pic.twitter.com/aCIZAF52XT
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) September 24, 2017
“All you got to do is get in,” Lester said. “It doesn’t matter how the season looks, what everybody’s stats are. Whether you limp in or you sprint in, it doesn’t matter. You get in, anybody has a chance. I’ve always been a big believer in that. And there’s been a lot of teams over the years that have proven that.”
Assuming the Cubs do make the postseason, they are a team that no one will want to face. Watching them find ways to pull out wins in the playoffs last year would be enough to scare any opponent.
Chicago will have their work cut out for them this season. They will have to deal with teams like the Washington Nationals and Los Angeles Dodgers, who have both had big seasons. That being said, the Cubs firmly believe that they can beat anyone and they seem to be gaining confidence late in the year.
Wonderful Weekend in milWaukee. pic.twitter.com/LfuMzyFKKO
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) September 24, 2017
There is no denying the potential that the Cubs have on their roster. A starting rotation including Quintana, Lester, Jake Arrieta, and Kyle Hendricks will not be easy to knock out in the postseason. Add in an offense that features Anthony Rizzo and the reigning MVP Kris Bryant and the Cubs are a threat to anyone.
Expect to see the Cubs clinch their playoff berth at some point in the coming week. They have just two games to win and that won’t be an issue for them. Chicago may not win another World Series, but they are certainly going to be entertaining to watch come playoff time.
Do you think the Chicago Cubs can repeat as World Series champions? If not, who do you think will win the World Series this season? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below!