The Chicago Cubs could potentially clinch a playoff spot for the first time in five seasons, and can do so as soon as Wednesday.

The Cubs moved one step closer to the playoffs on Monday when they shutout the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-0 at PNC Park, dropping their magic number for a playoff clinching scenario to just two.

Unfortunately, since three teams are tied in the loss column behind them, they cannot clinch a playoff spot on Tuesday, but they can take another step toward doing just that when they take the field in Pittsburgh.

Here’s what you need to know.

National League Central Standings:

Milwaukee Brewers – 91-59

Chicago Cubs – 86-64 (5 GB)

National League Wild Card Standings:

Chicago Cubs – 86-64

San Diego Padres – 82-68 (4 GB of Cubs)

New York Mets – 77-73 (5 GB of Padres)

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