Adam Wainwright and Manager Mike Matheny embrace in the first inning after learning the Cardinals clinched the NL Central. (photo/MLB)

Adam Wainwright and Manager Mike Matheny embrace in the first inning after learning the Cardinals clinched the NL Central. (photo/MLB)

With the Pirates’ 4-1 loss to the Reds on Sunday, the Cardinals clinched the National League Central title.  The Cardinals will begin the National League Division Series against the Dodgers in Los Angeles on Friday and will host Game 3 and Game 4 (if needed) at Busch Stadium on Oct. 6 and 7.

Adam Wainwright, who was scheduled to start Sunday against the Diamondbacks was scratched from the game and Nick Greenwood started in his place.

The Washington Nationals have the best record in the National League and will face the winner of the one game wildcard between Pittsburgh and San Francisco.