South Bend Cubs playoff preview, game one Wednesday

After a historic regular season, the South Bend Cubs are closing in on game one of the Eastern Division Playoffs.

The Cubs travel to Grand Rapids to take on the West Michigan Whitecaps Wednesday night.

The 2016 version of the Cubs, take after Manager Jimmy Gonzalez.

“Relax, play the game and good things will happen,” said Gonzalez.

That care free attitude has served the Cubs well.

Their 84 regular season wins, are tied for second most in franchise history.

It’s also the third straight season with an attendance record.

Joe Hart is the President of the South Bend Cubs.

“It’s been an amazing summer. Attendance record and 84 wins. It says a lot about the community and team,” said Hart.

And players say a lot of those victories are because of the fans that come out to watch the team day in and day out.

P.J. Higgins is a catcher with the Cubs.

“Everyone loves playing here. Great facility and great place to be a part of,” said Higgins.

The cubs starting pitcher for game one is Oscar De La Cruz.

De La Cruz knows how critical this series is and how different it is to pitch in the playoffs.

“It’s a little difficult because you need to make adjustments quick. With the playoffs,” said De La Cruz.

A historic season leads to big playoff expectations for players, management and fans.

“If he comes out and throws like he’s been throwing, I feel really good about our chances. It playoffs man, and that’s what’s exciting in South Bend,” said Hart.

Game one of the three game series is set for 6:35 p.m. Wednesday night.

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