Chicago Cubs Get Major Help In Playoff Race From Mets

The Chicago Cubs are probably not doing much scoreboard watching as they get ready for their crucial second game against the Atlanta Braves.

Up a half-game in the Wild Card standings entering Wednesday, they still can control their destiny in some ways if they win out.

But with the Miami Marlins playing a doubleheader, Chicago could have been overtaken in the standings, regardless of a positive outcome against the Braves.

The Cubs got major help in their chase for the playoffs after the New York Mets beat the Marlins 11-2 in Game 1.

Now, even if they lose their game Wednesday and Miami wins the second game of the doubleheader, the worst position Chicago will be in is tied for the final spot.

They would still miss the playoffs based on the tiebreaker rules if the regular season ends with both teams having the same record, but that's a much easier hill to climb than if they were trailing by a half or full game with three remaining in the regular season.

Maybe someone in the clubhouse will tell the Cubs about the result that took place.

That might motivate them and turn their attention away from the game that got away on Tuesday.

Or maybe they still take the field with an ignorant bliss knowing what they have to do is win the rest of their games.

Whatever the case is, Chicago has new found life after the Mets gave them a major assist in their chase for the postseason.

Now, it's up to them to go out and take care of business.