Cubs magic number takes on new importance after clinching

The Chicago Cubs clinched a postseason berth with their victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday, but there is still importance when looking at the team's magic number. For that reason, the Cubs won't be taking their foot off the gas pedal during the final 10 games of the regular season. The Cubs' magic number to secure the top National League Wild Card spot is 5.

Cubs magic number still has huge stakes in playoff race

Entering play on Thursday, the Cubs have a 5-game lead over the San Diego Padres for the top Wild Card seed. As things stand now, the Cubs would host the Padres at Wrigley Field for all three games in the National League Wild Card round. That would be the reason why the Cubs won't exactly be rolling out their "Sunday lineup" for the rest of the season.

It should also be noted that the Padres are only two games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for first place in the National League West. In other words, there is a strong chance that the Cubs' first postseason series will be against either the Padres or the Dodgers.

For a Cubs team that is not without flaws, playing three games at Wrigley Field, as opposed to the West Coast, could make the difference between being one-and-done and advancing to the National League Divisional round.

The Cubs are set for a four-game series against the Cincinnati Reds this weekend, and while the team is likely to roll out a hangover lineup on Thursday night, the series could have some significant postseason implications. The Reds are currently two games behind the New York Mets for the final Wild Card spot. Considering the team the Reds are chasing, the New York Mets, have lost 8 of their last 10 games, their path very much remains available for Cincinnati.

In other words, yes, the Cubs are in the postseason, but there is work that remains to ensure they are not one-and-done.

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