With just five days remaining in the 2025 MLB regular season, the race for playoff spots is reaching a heated finale with four spots still up for grabs. Close contests are taking shape with three division titles and two wild card spots separated by only 1.5 games or fewer. One of the most intense rivalries is unfolding for the third wild card spot in the National League. Currently, the New York Mets hold the coveted position with a record of 81-76, but they’re closely chased by the Cincinnati Reds and Arizona Diamondbacks, both at 80-77.
In a stunning comeback, the Mets overcame a five-run deficit to defeat the Chicago Cubs 9-7 on Tuesday. This crucial win in the first game of their three-game series gives them control over their playoff destiny. Looking to secure their position, the Mets will rely on rookie right-hander Jonah Tong, who recently secured a win against the San Diego Padres, delivering eight strikeouts over five innings without allowing an earned run.
Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs, with a record of 88-69, have already clinched a wild card berth. The Cubs are 1.5 games ahead of San Diego for the top wild card spot and hope to maintain this lead with veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd on the mound. Despite ranking seventh in ERA in the NL, Boyd has struggled in recent outings, allowing four or more runs in five of his last six starts.
This game is tightly contested, with betting odds slightly favoring the Cubs at -121, while the Mets stand at +100. Besides the Mets-Cubs clash, the MLB schedule is packed with 12 other games, providing ample excitement for fans and bettors.
One notable game includes the Rays taking on the Orioles, though both teams are out of playoff contention. The Orioles claimed a 6-0 victory in Tuesday’s series opener after a challenging stretch. Meanwhile, the Rays’ recent misfortunes continue with 12 losses in their last 17 games. Projections favor the Orioles to cover the run line, and Rays slugger Junior Caminero is expected to break his six-game home run drought.
For the Mets-Cubs game, predictions consider a high-scoring affair, likely to exceed seven runs. SportsLine experts anticipate pitcher Jonah Tong to pitch at least five innings following a bullpen-heavy opener the night before.
Looking beyond baseball, the Army Black Knights face East Carolina in college football on Thursday. Army’s season has been marked by close contests, with two losses in overtime. Meanwhile, East Carolina aims to recover from a recent loss and is slightly favored, though the game’s projections lean towards a lower score tally.
In summary, as the MLB regular season nears its conclusion, teams are grappling for playoff positions, promising a thrilling end to the season.