The Chicago Cubs Magic Number

Monday, August 31, 2026

34

Cubs are leading the Brewers 16-3 late at Wrigley ... stay tuned!

Go Cubs go!

Image Credit: RFBleachers

How The Number Works

The Chicago Cubs Magic Number for the NL Central Division title is calculated using the following formula:
Total Number of Games + 1 - Wins by the Cubs - Losses by NL Central opponent with fewest losses.

The Magic Number is affected by one of two events: a Cubs win or that opponent losing. The number was 163 at the beginning of the season. When the number hits 0, the Cubs have clinched the NL Central and are in the PLAYOFFS!

This site represents the Magic Number for clinching the National League Central Division. If the Wild Card becomes relevant for getting into the postseason, this site may contain both. In that case, the Wild Card number will clearly be denoted. That formula works similarly but can be affected by MLB's convoluted tiebreaker system.

The Chicago Cubs Magic Number

Monday, August 31, 2026

34

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How The Number Works