{
  "id": 8287362,
  "title": "How one inning could be a 'fatal flaw' for Cubs in 2026 MLB postseason",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/18/how-one-inning-could-be-a-fatal-flaw-for-cubs-in-2026-mlb-postseason",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-18T18:58:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/one-inning-could-fatal-flaw-185833302.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Chicago Cubs, boasting a strong roster of star players and rising stars, face a potential fatal flaw that could jeopardize their postseason prospects in 2026. According to ESPN's David Schoenfield, the ninth inning may prove to be the most challenging stage of a game for the Cubs. With no clear-cut closer on the roster, the team could struggle to close out games in October. The lack of a reliable closer raises concerns about the team's ability to secure victories in the high-pressure situations that often define postseason baseball. While the Cubs possess a formidable offense and defensive lineup, their pitching staff, particularly in the ninth inning, appears to be a significant liability. The team's first playoff opponent is projected to be the Philadelphia Phillies, who have a history of dramatic ninth-inning comebacks. If the Cubs cannot find a dependable closer, their postseason run in 2026 may be short-lived, despite their talented roster.",
  "summary": "One inning could be what ends the Cubs' postseason run this year.",
  "key_points": [
    "Cubs lack a reliable closer in 2026 postseason",
    "Ninth inning poses potential fatal flaw for team",
    "Phillies projected first playoff opponent"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}