It has been a while since Chicago Cubs fans had to figure out the magic number, a flashback to the late 2010s that disappeared around the same time Kyle Schwarber was nontendered. But it’s time to brush up on those math skills again.

CHICAGO -- Michael Soroka is on his way back to the Chicago Cubs after being sidelined by a shoulder strain. Soroka pitched 2⅓ innings of one-run ball in a rehab appearance with Triple-A Iowa on Thursday. His fastball was clocked as high as 96.6 mph -- a significant improvement on his velocity right before his injury.

Chicago's magic number to clinch a wild-card spot in the National League playoffs was reduced to seven after Friday's 6-4 win over the Rays.

Boyd grew his franchise-record pickoff total to 11, highlighting the parts of his game impacting the Cubs, even on a day when he didn't fare as well on the mound as he has during his All-Star season.

The Chicago Cubs have been projected to part ways with their $85 million slugger as a brutal slump closes out a career worst season.

The Iowa Cubs lost to Indianapolis, 4-0. Austin Gomber was dominating for six innings for the I-Cubs, allowing no runs and just two hits. He struck out nine and walked no one.

The Cubs' bullpen thrived for a second straight game, with four relievers retiring all 12 batters they faced as they continue to venture forward without injured closer Daniel Palencia.

The Chicago Cubs are projected to move a slugger off their playoff roster after bringing in a new player to replace him.