That happened in 2004 because supposedly the Cubs were thought to be a tough out in 2004 with Prior, Wood, Zambrano, Clement and Maddux. Do you think the Cardinals would tank so that the Cubs couldn't win the WC, giving a scarier team (most likely) a chance to win the WC? I would buy the argument if you are trying to tell me that the Cards would rather play the WC winner (COL/SF/ATL/FLA) than Philly or LA, but not if you are saying the Cardinals would rather the Cubs not be amongst the 4 playoff teams, they of 9 straight playoff losses.