!Cubs to Playoffs! Party and Champagne After 4 Years of Absence

The Chicago Cubs, who hadn’t reached the postseason since 2020, celebrated big on Wednesday afternoon after securing their spot in the National League playoffs with an 8-4 victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates.The players and coaches embraced and congratulated each other on the field before continuing the celebration in the visiting locker room at PNC Park.With protective tarps and glasses, the team got soaked with champagne and beer, while some smoked victory cigars. Some did both.Manager Craig Counsell highlighted the importance of this achievement: “It’s a great season effort. You celebrate the first goal you’ve achieved. We’ve reached our first goal and that’s exciting.”

You can’t do this in normal jobs: celebrate and spray yourself with champagne. You just can’t do it, can you? So you take advantage of it, have fun, enjoy each other and celebrate each other.

Craig Counsell

Ian Happ was key in the victory, connecting a home run and driving in three runs, in the triumph that extended the Cubs’ streak to four consecutive victories.With an 88-64 record, the Cubs seem destined for the playoffs following their impressive performance in May. They currently lead the National League Wild Card standings and are 4.5 games behind the Milwaukee Brewers, leaders of the Central Division.The pitcher Matthew Boyd commented on the difficulty of reaching this instance: “This means a lot to all of us. We’re not done yet. That’s the most important thing. We still know where we want to go.”Pete Crow-Armstrong, who has had a standout season, also expressed his enthusiasm for the playoffs and his confidence in Ian Happ’s leadership.

It was definitely mentioned: ‘This isn’t the last thing.’ Ian learned from the best. Ian is one of the best at conveying that. Ian has meant a lot to me, as a person. I will follow his example. I fully trust Ian Happ as a leader.

Pete Crow-ArmstrongKyle Tucker, who has been on the injured list since September 9 due to a left calf injury, will visit a physical therapy group in Florida.Nico Hoerner emphasized the importance of camaraderie and persistence in baseball, highlighting the joy of celebrating this milestone with the team.Counsell also thought of the Chicago fans, expressing the wish that they can enjoy October baseball and accompany the team on this exciting journey.