The Chicago Cubs are returning to the playoffs for the first time since the 2020 season. Chicago clinched its postseason spot with an 8-4 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday. The playoffs were the expectations for this Cubs team coming into the 2025 campaign considering it finished above .500 in 2023 and again 2024. Taking the next step, especially in manager Craig Counsell's second season at the helm, was a reasonable ask, and Chicago delivered. Boyd was a first-time All-Star this season, while Horton has helped anchor the rotation down the stretch even after Imanaga returned.