Overview

• With nine games left, New York is 79-74, two games ahead of Cincinnati and Arizona and three up on San Francisco.
• The Reds hold 4-2 head-to-head advantages over both the Mets and Diamondbacks, giving them the nod in two- or three-team ties.
• Arizona has rebounded after selling at the deadline but finishes against the Phillies, Dodgers and Padres, a demanding stretch that will test its surge.
• The Mets host the Nationals before road trips to the Cubs and the resurgent Marlins, an ending that looms large after their recent eight-game slide.
• Chicago has effectively secured the top Wild Card slot, narrowing the NL focus to the final berth as the Giants try to stay in range against a tougher slate.