My concerns for the Cubs heightened after today’s 12-0 loss to the Pirates.  The hamstring  injury to Jake Arrietta reinforces my skepticism for back-to-back World Series Championships.  I was already worried about their rotation, considering that a team like the Astros strengthened their position with the acquisition of Justin Verlander.  The Astros are taking a page out of the Saints playbook from Katrina, hoping to capitalize on the misfortunes of Harvey and lift the spirits of Houston by winning the World Series.  It was a smart move!

The Cubs had a great August, including the six-game streak at the expense of the Pirates and Braves.  I thought they were headed in the right direction, but injuries can change a team’s momentum quickly, and the Brewers are on their heals.  Milwaukee lost in walk-off fashion to the lowly Reds this afternoon, failing to gain any ground on the division-leading Cubs, while the Cardinals gained a game in the standings.  The Cubs have to at least split this series in Pittsburgh and keep the Pirates out of the race.  Tomorrow’s match-up of Quintana and Cole could be pivotal in the drive to the playoffs.  The Pirates are still 9.5 games out, following last week’s Cubs sweep at Wrigley.

This may be the last time I mention the White Sox this season, but they are a pitiful 26.5 games behind the Indians in the AL Central and still not the worst team in baseball.  The Phillies still own that distinction.  The red-hot Tribe won their 12th straight game today, and Trevor Bauer, who the Cubs remember from the World Series, won his eighth decision in a row.  They can fight it out with the Astros in the playoffs.   Of greater concern to the Cubs are the Dodgers, Diamondbacks, and Nationals that have already shown superiority this season.  The only non-division teams remaining on the Cubs schedule are the Mets and the Rays, who are dangerous simply because they’re out of contention.

Go Cubs!