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In a thrilling matchup that underscored the fierce rivalry between the Cubs and Cardinals, Saturday, September 27, 2025, provided another chapter in what has become a classic showdown in the NL Wild Card race. With the Cubs leading 7-3, the game was filled with drama and history, captivating the crowd at Wrigley Field.
As the bottom of the eighth inning approached, the spotlight shone brightly on Michael Busch. After hitting a home run in both the first and fifth innings, along with a double and a triple, Busch stood at the plate just a single shy of achieving the coveted cycle. However, the Cardinals made a tactical decision, opting for an intentional walk to keep Busch from adding to his remarkable performance.
“I’m not here for anybody’s amusement,” said Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol. “I’m trying to win a game. The next guy [Nico Hoerner] grounded out to the pitcher, so I think it worked.”
This decision was met with a chorus of boos from the home crowd, which anticipated witnessing Busch etch his name in history. Cubs manager Craig Counsell acknowledged the tension by stating, “Rightfully, it was not met with friendliness from the home crowd, but it’s just a baseball decision.”
NL Wild Card Implications Fueling Rivalry
The rivalry heightened not only due to the history between the two teams but also because of the implications of the NL Wild Card standings. Both teams entered the game with different postseason hopes—the Cubs with their playoff position secured and the Cardinals fighting for a glimmer of hope.
Before Busch’s walk, the action on the field had already set the stage for a historic moment. Dansby Swanson, who had followed a two-run homer by Pete Crow-Armstrong with a double, made his way to third base after successfully stealing it during Matt Shaw‘s at-bat. This stolen base marked Swanson’s 20th of the season, giving the Cubs three players with both 20 home runs and 20 stolen bases—tying a Major League record held previously by the 1988 Mets and the 2009 Phillies.
“I understand it,” said Swanson, reflecting on the intentional walk decision regarding Busch. “I hate that we obviously didn’t get a chance at some history today for him. I hate it for Buschy. But I guess I’d be a little bit sick of watching him hit a lot of homers and all that kind of stuff too.”
Busch’s Spectacular Season Continues
Busch’s performance in 2025 against the Cardinals has been nothing short of spectacular. With one game remaining in the season series, his slash line against St. Louis is an astounding .467/.510/1.222, featuring nine home runs, five doubles, and 17 RBIs. This dominance has made him the first Cub to record at least 13 total bases in a game twice during the same season, both of which occurred at Wrigley Field against their historic rivals.
However, amid the accolades and historical pursuits, Busch remained focused on the bigger picture: team success. “I just felt good today. Selfishly, I wanted the at-bat,” he admitted. “But there’s nothing better than the victory itself.”
Understanding the Tensions
Manager Marmol expressed no regrets about choosing the intentional walk, defending the decision by emphasizing their strategy to gain an edge in the game despite the crowd’s backlash. “We’re giving it to him there with our [pitcher’s] headwork,” Marmol said. “He should take it. Take advantage of it.”
As the game concluded in favor of the Cubs, 7-3, the excitement did not fade. The competitive spirit between the clubs solidified the age-old rivalry, reminding fans of the nostalgia that comes with NL Wild Card matchups. As the playoffs approach, every game remains pivotal, with teams vying for a chance to secure their postseason destinies.
Looking Ahead
With just one game left in the season series, all eyes will be on the Cubs and Cardinals as they prepare for what promises to be an electrifying finale. The stakes are high, and history is always waiting in the wings. The 2025 season continues, with the NL Wild Card picture becoming increasingly clear, and fans eagerly anticipating each moment.
FAQs about the NL Wild Card
What is the NL Wild Card?
The NL Wild Card refers to one of the playoff spots in the National League, allowing teams that do not win their division to compete for a chance at the World Series.
How many teams compete for the NL Wild Card?
Typically, there are two NL Wild Card spots available in the playoffs, filled by the teams with the best records who did not win their respective divisions.
What is the format for the NL Wild Card playoffs?
In recent seasons, the NL Wild Card playoff format may include a one-game playoff or a best-of-three series to determine which team advances to the Division Series.
Why is the Cubs vs. Cardinals rivalry significant?
The rivalry between the Cubs and Cardinals is one of the oldest and most storied in Major League Baseball, characterized by intense competition and a passionate fanbase.
How does the NL Wild Card affect team strategies?
Teams often adjust their rosters, pitching rotations, and game strategies in pursuit of the NL Wild Card, emphasizing their need for strategic moves down the stretch to secure a postseason berth.
