Nothing to play for? Rays and Rockies could be spoilers

ByDAVID SCHOENFIELD
September 13, 2016, 11:11 AM

— -- In 2007, the New York Mets held a seven-game lead over the Phillies with just 17 games remaining on their schedule. The Phillies swept them at home to cut into the lead, but the Mets still seemed relatively safe. Of their 14 remaining games, six would come against the Nationals, who would finish that season 73-89. The Nationals beat the Mets two out of three in Washington. The final week kicked off with the Mets still leading the Phillies by 2.5. They hosted the Nationals for three games. The Nationals, who finished last in the NL in runs scored that season, won 13-4, 10-9 and 9-6, humiliating Mets pitching. Four days later, the Mets had lost the NL East title, losing two of three to the 71-91 Marlins.

Here are some potential spoilers to pay attention to:

1. Nationals: 3.72
2. Cubs: 3.83
3. Giants: 4.00
4. Mets: 4.01
5. Cardinals: 4.3

6. Rockies: 4.33

Tyler Chatwood has a 1.77 ERA on the road, so keep an eye on his matchups. The Rockies also have players chasing individual titles with Nolan Arenado tied for the NL home run lead with Kris Bryant and DJ LeMahieu?one point behind Daniel Murphy for the batting crown, so don't expect the regulars to sit much. With a 69-74 record, Walt Weiss would love to guide his team to a .500 finish.