Who do we root for this week, Cards or Pirates?

[Biff Pocoroba]

Given that the Reds swept the Cubs, I don't really care who wins the Cards-Pirates series. No matter what, it means we've gained two-and-a-half games over the past three nights. If we can beat the Brew Crew, it automatically rises to 3.5 games.

If the result of their series means we overtake the Cards for second place, then great. If it means that we stay in third but move closer to first, then that's great too.

And same applies, though to a lesser degree this weekend when the Bucs and Diamondbacks play. If we can keep winning, then we're guaranteed to move closer to first place or, as a consolation, improve our odds for one of the two wild card spots.

[Kingspoint]

Go Cards!

[NebraskaRed]

Molina is back in the lineup. Have to believe that his presence will make a difference for the Cards.

[GAC]

Cards 2 back, we're 2.5 back.

Ain't got nothin' to complain about.

[Kc61]

Cards now play at Chicago and Milwaukee. Then -- they play Braves, Reds, Pirates, Reds, Pirates. 17 games against the Braves, Reds and Pirates consecutively.

After that, they have only sub-.500 teams although they do play the Nats and a bunch of road games.

The 17 game stretch for the Cards in late August and early September against contenders provides the chance for the Reds and Bucs to run up a lead on them.

The Pirates schedule isn't as bunched up with tough games but they have their share. Now they play Arizona home and then play the Giants and Padres on the West Coast. Then, they play six with the Cards, three at Texas, with some Brewer series in between. Interesting to see how they handle the west coast at this point in the season -- Giants and Pads are decent clubs at home.

So over the next three weeks or so, the Reds should continue to have opportunities to gain ground, the Reds are now in good position if they keep winning. Reds have more home games left than the others, Pirates fewest. Reds have four with the Diamondbacks at GABP next week, various series with the Pirates and Cards. In September three against the Dodgers at GABP.

And of course six against Pittsburgh near the end, sandwiched in between games v some weaker teams including Astros and Mets.

The Pirates, Cards, and Reds each have 12 or 13 games left against the other two. September promises to have a lot of exciting games, although it's too bad the Cards finish up so early playing against contenders.