Heres the real pennant races.

About a month ago, it seemed as if there were no MLB pennant races. Of course now all the divisions are sewn up. (except for maybe the AL West) The wild card races in both leagues have become much closer than we could have anticipated. Both the Red Sox and Braves have been playing at almost historically terrible paces that teams such as the Cardinals and Rays may seriously have a shot to overtake them. In my opinion, I dont think theres enough time. But the Red Sox, who right now cannot put a pitcher on the mound that can get a hitter out, are almost trying to not make the playoffs. The same can be said about the Braves who are barely hanging on without two of their best first half starters. ( Jurrjens and Hanson) If there was one more week to play, both teams could be well out of it. 
Assuming both the Red Sox and Braves make the postseason, they need to look no further than teams such as the 2000 Yankees, 2005 White Sox and the 2006 Cardinals for inspiration on how a team that is terrible in the last month of the season can still win when it counts.