With the Houston Astros coming to town for a three-game series to wrap up the 2023 season, the Arizona Diamondbacks have a chance to punch their ticket for the playoffs.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!It would be the Diamondbacks first trip to the playoffs since 2017.
But how can they clinch today?
As of September 29th, Arizona holds a 1.5-game lead over the Marlins, a 2-game lead over the Cubs, and a 3-game lead over the Reds.
This means the Diamondbacks can have a guaranteed spot in the Wild Card by tonight if one of two things happen.
Scenario 1: Diamondbacks beat the Astros
This scenario is simple: the Diamondbacks control their own destiny and can secure a Wild Card spot by beating the Houston Astros tonight at 6:40.
The Diamondbacks are rolling out their ace Zac Gallen on the mound to attempt to do so.
On the Astros side, they are also fighting for a playoff spot, and things got even more interesting after the Mariners walked off the Rangers last night.
The Astros currently hold a slim one-game lead over the Mariners for the third wild card spot in the American League.
Which means Houston will also be going with their best pitcher available, J.P. France. Additionally, the Astros are one of the best road teams in baseball, as they hold a 43-35 record in front of an opposing crowd.
Last year, these two teams split the season series at two games apiece.
Scenario 2: Cubs and Marlins lose
While this scenario forces the Diamondbacks to rely on other teams, there is still a possibility.
The Cubs will be on the road, taking on the first-place Milwaukee Brewers. This season, the Cubs and Brewers are 5-5 against each other.
And for the Marlins, after seeing their game against the Mets get postponed in the 9th inning last night, they will be in Pittsburgh to take on the Pirates at 3:35 p.m.
The Pirates are currently nine games below.500, and the Marlins hold a 3-1 record against them this year.
If the Diamondbacks were to lose while both the Marlins and Cubs secured wins, Arizona would maintain only a one-game advantage over Chicago and a half-game lead over Miami.
So, as you can see, it is absolutely crucial that the Diamondbacks go with scenario 1 and lock up that playoff spot tonight.
