Post-Gazette wild-card coverage

Good morning, happy wild-card day. Check back here throughout the morning for info and analysis on the Pirates’  and Cubs’ wild-card rosters once they are announced, and Stephen J. Nesbitt will chat about it at 2 p.m.

Brady McCollough takes a look at how long the Pirates’ window to contend will stay open. They face decisions this offseason on Neil Walker, Mark Melancon and Pedro Alvarez, but the big one looms a few years off: Trade Andrew McCutchen before free agency to get more than just a draft pick for him, or keep him through the end of his contract, knowing they probably won’t be able to re-sign him?

The history of the wild-card game, from a 1993 vote to a 2009 committee to PNC Park.

From Nesbitt, a fun dive into the departure of the Pirates’ mascot for the team they oppose tonight.

Pirates notebook: Cole flies under the radar before his start.

Cubs notebook: Maddon still focuses on fun.

Stats Geek from Brian O’Neill.

Gene Collier writes about Maddon’s “Go out and play,” mentality, with an assist from the Rolling Stones.

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Over at Grantlant, Jonah Keri previews tonight’s game.

USA Today’s Bob Nightengale writes that Cole’s confidence matches him up well against Jake Arrieta.

From the Chicago Tribune: Cubs veterans talk about keeping it simple.