The battle for the National League Wild Card is entering its final stretch, and while two spots seem to be all but locked up, the battle for the final berth is intense.
The Current NL Wild Card Standings
The teams currently holding the three coveted Wild Card spots are in a strong position to make it to the postseason.
The top two teams have created a comfortable buffer, but the third spot remains up for grabs.
Here are the teams holding the Wild Card spots:
- Chicago Cubs (87-64): The Cubs have a commanding lead and are on the verge of officially clinching the top Wild Card spot. Their consistent performance throughout the season has put them in a great position to host the Wild Card series.
- San Diego Padres (82-69): The Padres are also in a very strong position. With a solid record and a multi-game lead over the remaining contenders, they are highly likely to secure their spot and prepare for October baseball.
- New York Mets (78-73): The Mets are currently clinging to the final Wild Card spot. Despite a recent rough patch, they have managed to stay just ahead of a crowded field. Every game from here on out is a must-win for the team as they face pressure from the teams behind them.
The Teams in the Hunt: The Fight for the Final Spot
The race for the last Wild Card berth is where the real drama lies. A handful of teams are making a desperate late-season push, hoping for a chance at the postseason.
- Arizona Diamondbacks (77-75): The D-Backs are the biggest threat to the Mets, sitting just 1.5 games out. Their recent hot streak in September has put them in a prime position to leapfrog the Mets in the final weeks.
- Cincinnati Reds (75-76) and San Francisco Giants (75-76): These two teams are tied in the standings, both 3.0 games back. While they have more ground to make up, a few wins and a couple of losses by the Mets could put them right back in the thick of the race.
- St. Louis Cardinals (74-78): The Cardinals are currently 4.5 games out. While their chances are slimmer, they are still mathematically alive and will be playing spoiler to their opponents in the final weeks.
What to Watch for in the Final Weeks
The remainder of the regular season will be a dramatic sprint to the finish line. Pay close attention to these key matchups and storylines:
- The Mets’ remaining schedule: Can they withstand the pressure and hold on to their lead, or will they falter?
- Head-to-head series: The upcoming games between the Diamondbacks, Reds, and Giants will be critical in deciding who earns that final playoff spot.
- Clinching scenarios: The top teams are close to securing their spots, so be on the lookout for official playoff clinch announcements.
With the division titles in the National League mostly settled, all eyes are on this thrilling Wild Card race. Every single game counts, and the final playoff picture will likely come down to the very last weekend of the regular season.
Last modified: September 17, 2025
