Shota Imanaga's home run struggles and Wrigley wind make over 7.5 the play for Braves-Cubs

This late in the season, there are a few types of series: one that doesn't matter at all because neither team will make the postseason.

Another is between one team that is still battling for the postseason.

Then there are those between two teams trying to make the playoffs or solidify their position.

And, finally, there is one between two teams that are essentially locked into making the postseason , but maybe not the exact spot.

That's what we have tonight between the Atlanta Braves and the Chicago Cubs, perhaps a preview of a playoff series.

The Braves are one of the more consistent teams in baseball this season.

They've been one of the best teams in the sport all year, and since opening day, they've positioned themselves as the division leader.

I believe they may have lost it for a stretch when the Philadelphia Phillies were hot, but the point remains that this is one of the more complete and best teams in baseball.

However, they do have a weakness: road games.

They are above .500 on the road, but being 26 games above .500 overall, the majority of that is their home record.

There really isn't a question about whether the Braves will make the postseason; they just need to lock up the division, and they currently have a 5.5-game lead.

Looking to push that division lead further is today's starter, JR Ritchie.

For the season, Ritchie is 1-2 with a 4.50 ERA and a 1.43 WHIP.

He really doesn't have significantly different home and road splits.