Two series could shape the National League playoff picture

June 5, 2013; Atlanta, GA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates second baseman Neil Walker (18) turns a double play over Atlanta Braves shortstop Andrelton Simmons (19) in the fifth inning at Turner Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Shirey-USA TODAY Sports

Atlanta Braves (64-60) at Pittsburgh Pirates (64-60)

Why the series is important to the Braves: Their chances are seemingly becoming more remote to win the division (6 games back). A series win at PNC Park is almost imperative with the Washington Nationals hosting the Arizona Diamondbacks. Would help in the Wild Card race, but another slip could mean the end of any division hopes.

Why the series is important to the Pirates: The Buccos are 5.5 games behind the division leading Milwaukee Brewers. They also sit 2.5 games behind second place (and the NL #1 Wild Card) St. Louis Cardinals. Milwaukee is off today and will host the Toronto Blue Jays for a pair. The Cards will face the Cincinnati Reds (our other series to watch).

Pitching matchups:
Monday: Ervin Santana (12-6, 3.66, 1.253) v Vance Worley (5-2, 2.51, 1.132)
Tuesday: Aaron Harang (9-7, 3.51, 1.412) v Francisco Liriano (3-9, 3.78, 1.286)
Wednesday: Alex Wood (9-9, 3.07, 1.228) v Gerrit Cole (7-4, 3.78, 1.307)

Series tidbit: The Pirates defend their home rather well, posting a 39-24 record at PNC Park. Atlanta is five games below .500 on the road (27-32).

The Braves are coming off a three-game series sweep of the suddenly vulnerable Oakland A’s. Still, that series could serve as a catalyst for the stretch run. I can’t see the Nationals backing up unless something extreme occurs.

Either way you slice it, the winner of this series will hold no less than the current #2 NL Wild Card. A sweep by either team coupled by an unforeseen sweep of the Cards by the Reds would put that team (Braves or Pirates) in the #1 Wild Card slot.