What five keys can be given for the Chicago Cubs in order for them to knock off the Pittsburgh Pirates in their one-game Wild Card game on Wednesday?
1. Jake Arrieta Must Live Up to His Cy Young Caliber Potential
Obviously the biggest key for the Cubs is to get their Cy Young candidate and ace pitcher playing with the confidence that he has shown down the stretch of the season since the All-Star break. Jake Arrieta has been nearly perfect since the break and has put up some numbers that are competing with some of the best starters in MLB history. Arrieta has to power his team to a win against a tough Pirates' lineup and has to find a way to outplay Gerrit Cole.
2. Anthony Rizzo Must Make a Major Impact
Another key player for the Cubs heading into Wednesday night's game is superstar first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who is a candidate for the NL MVP award. He must find away to make a major impact with his bat and be the leader that Chicago needs him to be. Cole is a very tough pitcher, but a big swing or two from Rizzo could be enough to send the Cubs into the next round of the postseason.
3. The Bullpen Must Pitch Well If Called Upon
One of the biggest issues with the Cubs throughout the season has been the inconsistent play of their bullpen. Arrieta likely won't need a ton of help from the bullpen, but the Cubs could have to call on their bullpen at some point in the game. If that does end up being the case, they have to step up and pitch well throughout the innings that they are asked to pitch.
4. Chicago's Young Offensive Talent Must Come Through
Theo Epstein has to be happy with the young offense that he has been able to put together. Kris Bryant, Kyle Schwarber, Javier Baez and plenty of other players are going to be asked to put up huge numbers on Wednesday night. Relying on young players isn't the best option in postseason play, but if they can play to their full potential there is a good chance that the Cubs can outscore the Pirates fairly easily.
5. Joe Maddon Must Manage the Game of His Life
Hiring Joe Maddon was a huge addition for the Cubs and he is a big reason that the team is in the postseason this year. Managing this playoff game against Pittsburgh won't be easy, as Maddon will have to figure out how to balance his offense with his defense. Arrieta being on the mound makes things much easier, but the Cubs will still need Maddon to manage the game of his life to come away with a win and move forward.
All of that being said, Wednesday night is going to be a very special game for the Cubs and their fan base. Chicago has been a major surprise this season, but they aren't ready to end their season.
Expect to see them compete very well and if they can take care of these five things they could very well come away with the win.
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