If Craig Counsell’s blunt assessment of the Cubs’ performance this year shocked some, the players in the clubhouse didn’t seem rattled. Two leaders of the group, Jameson Taillon and Dansby Swanson, summed it up succinctly: “He’s right.

With nine days remaining in the regular season, the Chicago Cubs aren’t officially eliminated from postseason contention, but that is merely a formality at this point. It’s a disappointing position for the organization to be in,

The Cubs were supposed to set the pace in the NL Central but instead they're watching the Brewers celebrate a division title.

MacKenzie Gore struck out nine in seven sparkling innings, and the Washington Nationals beat the Chicago Cubs 5-1.

Jameson Taillon allowed two hits over six innings, Dansby Swanson hit a 16th home run and the Chicago Cubs beat the Washington Nationals 3-1 on Friday to stave off elimination from postseason contention.

Kyle Hendricks #28 of the Chicago Cubs throws a pitch during the third inning of a game against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field on September 21, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Nuccio DiNuzzo/Getty Share Starter Kyle Hendricks received a roaring applause as he exited Saturday’s 5-1 loss against the Nationals.

The Chicago Cubs (79-76) will host the Washington Nationals (69-86), in the final game of a four-game series, Sunday at 2:20 p.m. ET.The Nationals (+164 underdog moneyline odds) visit the Cubs