bleacherreport
The Chicago Cubs are set to visit Fenway Park for a three-game series against the Boston Red Sox from Friday through Sunday, but a looming nor'easter could wreak havoc on the schedule. According to the Weather Channel, heavy rain and strong winds are expected to persist throughout the weekend in Boston, casting doubt on whether all games will be played as planned.
For the Red Sox, who have already clinched a playoff berth and are essentially locked into the second American League wild-card spot, any postponements would be merely a minor inconvenience. However, the same cannot be said for the Cubs, as the outcomes of these games carry massive implications for the National League wild-card race.
Chicago currently sits atop the NL wild-card standings with an 87-69 record, tied with the San Diego Padres. The Philadelphia Phillies occupy the final wild-card slot and hold a four-game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks. While all three teams are likely to reach the postseason, the seeding remains far from decided.
Key Analysis
Before heading to Boston, the Cubs will face the Miami Marlins, a team already eliminated from playoff contention. If the storm forces a doubleheader against the Red Sox, Boston may opt to manage its lineup and pitching staff with an eye toward the postseason, potentially giving Chicago an edge in securing home-field advantage over Philadelphia and San Diego.
Meanwhile, the Phillies face a daunting week with matchups against the Milwaukee Brewers and Tampa Bay Rays, two of baseball's top teams. Similarly, the Padres will battle the Los Angeles Dodgers and Arizona Diamondbacks in a challenging slate. As the nor'easter bears down on Boston, fans and teams alike await MLB's decision on how to proceed with this pivotal series.
Originally reported by bleacherreport.