Cardinals - Cubs

USA - MLB

The Cubs were in need of making up ground, and the team responded brilliantly by securing their eighth consecutive win with a commanding 5-1 victory over their division-rivals, the Cardinals, on Saturday night at Busch Stadium. This impressive streak marks the longest winning run for the North Siders since 2016.

Their latest triumph has brought the club to within 3 1/2 games of the top spot in the National League Central and 3 games back in the Wild Card race. Chicago has been in excellent form, winning 11 out of their last 15 games in the second half of the season, significantly boosting their chances of making it to the postseason.

This successful run has positioned the Cubs to consider enhancing their roster ahead of Tuesday's trade deadline. In the recent win against the St. Louis team, various players stepped up to the plate and delivered remarkable performances.

Starting pitcher James Taillon allowed hits to the first two batters he faced but then displayed tremendous resilience, holding St. Louis to an o-for-17 performance for the rest of the game. Ian Happ contributed significantly with a go-ahead two-run homer in the third inning, while Nick Madrigal, returning from injury, made his presence felt with two hits and a spectacular diving stop in the fourth, preventing a hit from Contreras.

Veteran catcher Yan Gomes added to the offensive firepower with a two-run homer in the fourth inning, and Mike Tauchman had an impressive three-hit night. With their impressive form, the Cubs are now looking to focus on strengthening specific areas of their roster.

While the back of the bullpen has shown great improvement, adding another arm, particularly a left-handed reliever, could prove beneficial. The rotation is also an area that could be targeted for potential upgrades, and the team might benefit from adding another right-handed bat to lengthen their lineup.

Tonight's game against the Cardinals will be an exciting one as the Cubs look to ride the wave of their winning streak and continue their strong performance against their division rivals.