NL Postseason Field is Set — and it Includes the Pirates
For the first time in 21 years, the Pittsburgh Pirates are headed to the playoffs. The Buccos defeated the Cubs 2-1 last night, and with some help from the Washington Nationals (who lost to the St. Louis Cardinals), the Pirates are guaranteed at least a spot in the win-or-go-home Wild Card game.
It was a big night for the Pirates. The last time they were in the playoffs was 1992, when it lost to Atlanta in seven games in the National League Championship Series. That year was also the last time Pittsburgh had a winning record. This year, the Pirates got back to winning and got back in the postseason.
It was a good night for the Cincinnati Reds, too. They also clinched a playoff spot and set the National League postseason field. Here's how it looks:
NL West champs: Los Angeles Dodgers
NL East champs: Atlanta Braves
NL Central champs: To be determined — The Cardinals, Pirates, and Reds all play in the same division and will all make the playoffs. One of these teams will be tops in their division, but right now it's a tight race. The Pirates and Reds are both two games back of the Cards.
Prediction time: What team will win the National League title? Who will come out on top in the NL Central? Let us know in the comments section below!
Photo: Relief pitcher Jason Grilli and catcher Russell Martin celebrate after Martin tagged out Nate Schierholtz of the Chicago Cubs for the final out on September 23, 2013 in Chicago, Illinois. The Pirates won 2-1. (Brian Kersey/Getty Images)
