When your horse wins at Churchill Downs and the whole squad pulls up! ⚾️🐎 📸 via @cubs https://t.co/THyz2tNtzG Via @NBCSports on X

What happened: The Chicago Cubs gathered at Churchill Downs after a horse win ahead of Friday's game in Cincinnati. The Cubs and Reds are tied 1-1, and the scheduled matchup remains 0-0.

Why it matters: The timing lands in the middle of a split series, so the next game will decide which club moves in front. Nothing changes in the set until the scheduled game gets underway.

By the numbers: Series: 1-1. Scheduled score: 0-0.

What to watch: Watch for first pitch later Friday, when the series moves forward from its 1-1 start.

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