The Reds chase their first playoff berth since 2019, aiming to sweep the Cubs in their season finale.

The Cincinnati Reds, one game behind the New York Mets for the National League's final wild-card spot with seven games left, aim to sweep the Chicago Cubs in their season finale, having won four straight including three victories over Chicago. The Reds (79-76) are seeking their first playoff appearance since 2019, relying on starter Andrew Abbott, who has a strong career record against the Cubs but has struggled recently. The Cubs (88-67), who clinched a playoff berth, have lost three straight to the Reds, scoring just seven runs in the streak. Chicago will start Jameson Taillon, returning from injury and posting a 1.69 ERA in four recent starts, in a bid to spark a postseason push. Both teams face high stakes as the season’s final stretch unfolds.