I don't want to overstate the important of finding a way to win this game, but it would be huge on several fronts: 1) Obviously WC race, stay 1 back and don't get too far behind, then the absolute worst you can end up after this unfavorable series and the Cubs' favorable series is 2 back. You're also starting to put some heat on the Nats at 2.5 back, so a possible backup option comes into play. 2) Division race, suddenly you're 4 back again. Not insurmountable. 6 back with 14 to play, yeah it's probably over. 3) Even if you don't WIN the division, it's important to keep it close. Want the Cardinals having something to play for up to the very end. We wanted the Cubs to lose of course, but them inching closer to the Cardinals with 7 games remaining against them is not necessarily a bad thing. Tie game, got to find a way to win this one today.