Predicting the Entire 2016 National League Playoff Field

Feb 22, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) gets ready to hit with Jason Heyward (22) during spring training camp at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 22, 2016; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo (44) gets ready to hit with Jason Heyward (22) during spring training camp at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports
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Wild Card No. 1 – Pittsburgh Pirates

May 24, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates left fielder
Charles LeClaire, USA TODAY Sports

The poor Pirates seem like they’re playing in the wild card playoff game every single year. They’ve hosted the game in each of the last three years and have won just once. If they finish in this spot, Pittsburgh will once again play host to the National League’s wild card game.

This team certainly has the lineup depth to make a deep October run, although there are question marks in the rotation, especially with A.J. Burnett leaving the team. Gerrit Cole could take the next step in his career and become a Cy Young award contender.

When it comes down to it, though, the team just can’t match the firepower of the Cubs. Chicago is just as deep, has better pitching and appears to be the hungrier team at this point. A lot can change over the course of the season, but the Pirates look destined to be a tough-luck wild card team once again.

Next: NL West Champion - San Francisco Giants