The National League wild-card race between the Mets, Giants and Cardinals comes down to the final weekend, which seemingly plays right into the Cubs' hands.
If the Mets and Giants come out on top, Noah Syndergaard could face Madison Bumgarner in Wednesday's wild-card game, ensuring neither ace would likely be available until Game 3 of the NLDS.
The Mets held a 1 {-game lead over the Giants for the first spot entering Thursday's off day. The Giants were one game ahead of the Cardinals for the second spot after both lost home games to sub-.500 teams on Wednesday night. Both had night games on Thursday.
With so much on the line, it should be one wild wild-card finish this weekend. In the AL race, the Blue Jays and Orioles try to hang on to their spots, with the Tigers lurking on the outside rail.
Since the NL race is of vital interest to the Cubs, who play the wild-card winner, here's how the weekend stacks up for the three contenders.
Pitching matchups are subject to change.
