In just a few hours, the Cubs and Cards will begin a two-game set in London. In Chicago, the debate has been whether this trip serves the team as they’ve been playing much better (winning 10 of the last 12) or if the layoff will cost them momentum as the Reds don’t appear to be slowing down.

It would appear that the 31-44 Cardinals need the two wins more than the Cubs. We can all pretend that 8 of the 10 Central division teams can still win their respective divisions, reality has to set in sooner than not. While only9.5 games out, St. Louis hasn’t trended positively all season.

MLB doesn’t care who wins the series although they’d probably prefer a split. They could hype game one’s loser will want to even things up Sunday morning (locally). As a couple national voices have correctly stated, Cards-Cubs don’t need some artificial setting for tension or drama.

Regardless of what anyone at Clark & Addison has said, the Cubs are taking this series seriously, starting Justin Steele and Marcus Stroman. Getting up early Sunday morning will remind many who rise early for the Open and Wimbledon, but I’ll be pining for more 9:00 a.m starts.

Go Cubs, or as they say across the pond, Go Cubs!