Thu Sep 18 02:40:00 UTC 2025: **Cubs Clinch Playoff Berth, Celebrate First True Postseason Trip in Five Years**
**PITTSBURGH** – Champagne showers erupted in the Chicago Cubs’ clubhouse at PNC Park Wednesday afternoon after the team secured their first true postseason berth in five years with an 8-4 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. The win marks a significant milestone for the team, which last experienced a full-fledged playoff celebration in 2017.
The Cubs’ journey to the playoffs wasn’t without its challenges. A shortened 2020 season limited celebrations, and in 2018, the team opted against a wild card celebration while pursuing a division title that ultimately eluded them.
“This is the right group to do it with,” outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong said amidst the jubilation. “I love being a Chicago Cub. I love being able to celebrate with these people, specifically.”
Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the rarity and importance of these moments. “You don’t get to do this in regular jobs, where you get to celebrate and throw champagne on each other,” he said. “You just don’t get to do it, right? So you take advantage of it, have fun with it, enjoy each other and celebrate each other.”
Veteran pitcher Matthew Boyd revealed the team had been anticipating the moment since spring training, adding, “We’ve been thinking about that first champagne shower since February. And this is just one step in where we ultimately want to go.”
While the team relishes the accomplishment, they remain focused on their ultimate goal: a World Series title. “We’re not done yet. There’s still a mission to be accomplished,” Boyd stated.
The Cubs’ victory was fueled by a strong start, with four runs in the first inning highlighted by back-to-back home runs from Ian Happ and Moisés Ballesteros. Despite a rocky start from Boyd, the bullpen shut down the Pirates, pitching six scoreless innings.
The win provided an opportunity for reflection. Nico Hoerner spoke of the special bond among teammates. Happ, the longest-tenured Cub, fittingly recorded the final out. Counsell also acknowledged the dedication of the Cubs fans. “You want the fans to be able to experience October baseball and be a part of that and take them on a journey with the team.”
With 10 games remaining in the regular season, the Cubs (88-64) still have plenty to play for. They trail the Milwaukee Brewers (92-59) by 4 1/2 games in the NL Central but hold the tiebreaker.
First Piper 