# Michael Busch's Wild Card Push

> Busch's late-season surge could tip Cubs' NL Wild Card race
- Title: Michael Busch's Wild Card Push · Chicago Cubs On SI | Shortify
- Summary: Busch's late-season surge could tip Cubs' NL Wild Card race Busch's recent hot streak with runners in scoring position and improved lefty performance may…
- Keywords: michael busch, cubs, nl wild card, seahawks, seattle, nfl, mlb, playoffs, batting, left-handed pitching, runners in scoring position, cubs wild card
- Source: Chicago Cubs On SI — https://si.com/mlb/cubs/onsi/is-michael-busch-finding-his-groove-at-the-right-time-for-the-cubs-15
- Published: 2026-09-16T03:41:09+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: michael busch, cubs, nl wild card, seahawks, seattle, nfl, mlb, playoffs, batting, left-handed pitching, runners in scoring position, cubs wild card
## Busch's 2026 slump
Busch slugged .395 this season versus .866 OPS in 2025 with 34 home runs.
## Recent hot streak
Busch hit .300/.423/.500 in last 26 plate appearances with six RBI and five walks.
## Wild Card race
Cubs lead NL Wild Card standings with half-game over Phillies and 1.5-game lead over Padres.
## Lefty improvement
Busch now slugs .228/.332/.401 against lefties versus .207/.642 in 2025.
## Runners in scoring
Busch hits .285 with 54 RBI and .793 OPS with runners in scoring position.
## Playoff history
Busch posted 1.128 OPS in 31 plate appearances during 2025 postseason.
## Recent series
Busch went 5-for-11 with four RBI in series against Pirates as Cubs won two of three.
## Cubs' offensive strength
Cubs' strong offense has lessened reliance on Busch's production this season.
## Strikeout reduction
Busch cut strikeout rate from 23.5% to 23.1% and walk rate from 9.5% to 12.7%.
## Wild Card push
Busch's recent form could help Cubs secure NL Wild Card spot.
## Key takeaway

Busch's recent hot streak with runners in scoring position and improved lefty performance may help Cubs in Wild Card push