Pirates face Cubs in series with wild card implications this weekend

The Pittsburgh Pirates, currently 53-50, are a half-game behind the Arizona Diamondbacks for the final wild card spot in the National League. After a recent series loss to the New York Yankees, the Pirates are set to host the Chicago Cubs in a three-game series beginning Friday. The Pirates are 4.5 games behind the Cubs, who lead the wild card standings, and have previously played competitively against them this season. With significant performances from their starting pitchers, the Pirates aim to capitalize on their home advantage at PNC Park and improve their standing in the NL Central.

• 7:55 PMYahoo Sports — Pirates enter crucial Cubs series with wild card hopes very top of mind