Following the Cubs win over the Pirates on Thursday afternoon, another magic number was lopped off after Chicago’s 9-6 win on Thursday afternoon

The Cardinals got a big night from Tommy Pham to beat Milwaukee 5-4 and Anthony Rizzo drop in the eventual winning run in the 12th inning for the Cubs, who went on to beat the Pirates 3-2.  The number drops two more after Wednesday night.

CardsCardinals magic number to clinch the Central Division — 13

Cardinals 91-54
Pittsburgh 87-59

 

The Royals lost for the ninth time in 12 games and appear to be limping towards the finish line, but they got help from the Tigers who beat Minnesota 7-4 in 12 innings, reducing the number by one.

RoyalsRoyals magic number to clinch the Central   Division — 8

Royals 85-60
Minnesota 75-70

 

The magic number is determined by taking 163 and subtracting the number of wins for the Cardinals (or Royals) and subtracting the number of losses for the Pirates (and Twins) respectively.