LEADING OFF: Cole vs Lester; Texas showdown; Syndergaard up

A look at what's happening around the major leagues today:

Gerrit Cole (17-8, 2.64 ERA) gets the start when Pittsburgh opens a pivotal three-game series in Chicago against the Cubs, who can clinch their first postseason berth in seven years with a win or a Giants loss. The playoff-bound Pirates are trying to catch first-place St. Louis in the NL Central or at least hang onto the top NL wild card. Chicago is 3 1/2 games behind Pittsburgh. Cole is 6-1 with a 3.10 ERA in eight career starts against the Cubs, who turn to lefty Jon Lester (10-11, 3.46).

Read Full Story