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After these past couple of weeks of constant movement, I still feel a bit like a zombie, but getting a good night’s sleep in my own bed marks a positive shift. I hope to settle in for the rest of the season, and fingers crossed that the Cubs will provide us with plenty of thrilling baseball as the season winds down. While the chances of a playoff run are slim, they are not entirely out of reach. Even if the playoffs elude us, this group can continue to improve and lay the groundwork for a successful next season.
There are moments when I prefer not to be right. However, I often pointed out during the team’s struggles at the end of the 2022 season that nothing is guaranteed and that the path to success is rarely straightforward. The 2016 squad gelled impressively quickly, making waves at the close of the 2015 season before taking off at full speed. Some organizations experience rapid ascent like that, yet many others oscillate with mixed results until they manage to refine their team chemistry just right.
Without revisiting previous games, it seems this team has delivered good, albeit not spectacular, baseball over the last 300 to 350 games. There are numerous positives to highlight, and I’m confident that the Cubs rank in the upper half of teams during that timeframe. If baseball were likened to an ultramarathon, this team would likely be hovering around a playoff position. They have consistently achieved a competitive edge, though it’s not a triumphant finish line, and no one will be celebrating just yet. Yet, it signifies progress.
Reviewing the roster, it’s apparent that there are few players approaching the end of their contracts, their team control, or their careers. The essential components are in place for this team to be in a strong developmental position. However, on the flip side, roster space is rather limited. Enhancing the team becomes significantly more challenging when replacements have to be made on a one-for-one basis. You need to be quite certain in your talent evaluation and ensure that the chemistry remains intact. Changing players on the roster carries the risk of losing the production you’re accustomed to while simultaneously dealing with the inconsistency of the new additions.
It may not seem like this team is on fire right now; I could argue that the Cubs are merely lukewarm. However, one poorly executed series against Cleveland overshadows what has otherwise been a decent run. The Cubs are 12-8 over their last 20 games, with no other team in baseball boasting a winning percentage that high throughout the season. Winning 12 out of every 20 games puts you in contention as one of the favorites for the World Series. They’ve performed exceptionally well at 12-5 when not facing Cleveland, which showcases elite-level baseball.
It is true that the competition during this stretch hasn’t been formidable. So what? All teams get the chance to enhance their records against weaker opponents. Regrettably, the Cubs’ schedule presented many of their easier matchups towards the end of the year. Ultimately, you can only compete against the team on the opposite side of the field, and you don’t write the schedule.
Should the Cubs manage to replicate their recent success and finish 12-8, they would find themselves at 75-73 heading into the final 14 games. An additional 8-6 finish would bring them to 83 wins—not a groundbreaking achievement, yet it would match last year’s record, when they fell short of the playoffs by just one game. This morning, that 83-win season would position them as the eighth-best in the NL on Fangraphs, a mere four games short of the final wild card slot. This serves as a stark reminder of the extensive work ahead and the slim chances for a playoff run, as Fangraphs assigns a 2.9 percent likelihood.
This will undoubtedly be frustrating. Most of the remaining 34 games are against inferior teams. It’s easy to look back and identify several contests that should have been victories. As we move forward, expect that there will be games lost that seem favorable on paper. This team will likely land somewhere around those 83 wins, positioning themselves approximately 3-5 games away from playoff contention.
It’s a valid argument that assembling a team just good enough to get…
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Making it into the playoffs is a gamble. Close margins can lead to injuries and underperformance, which was notably the situation for this team in May and June. To succeed, this team requires more impactful talent. While some of that talent could emerge from within, it is likely that they will still need at least one or two significant external additions.
Now, let’s examine some standout performances from Thursday’s overwhelming victory over the Tigers.
- I typically begin with an outstanding performance from a starting pitcher, but when you throw in a grand slam along with three hits, I’m all in. When it’s a Cubs catcher doing this? Even better. Miguel Amaya has made impressive strides. While I struggle to see him as the primary catcher on a strong team, he remains more than capable as a solid starting option who won’t panic if your main catcher is sidelined due to injury.
- Justin Steele’s start will not be overlooked here. He pitched seven innings, allowing just four hits, no walks, and striking out ten. It amazes me that during Justin’s injury in April, the Cubs enjoyed their most successful stretch of baseball.
- With 13 hits, including three doubles, a grand slam, three walks, and three stolen bases, there were numerous candidates for recognition. A special mention goes to Dansby Swanson, who had two hits, two steals, two runs, and one run batted in. If we look back to July 10 (across 137 plate appearances), Dansby boasts a line of .298/.350/.411 (wRC+ 113). His greatest value lies in his defensive skills, followed by his leadership and then some contributions at the plate. He embodies what we hoped Jason Heyward would become: a blend of solid production paired with elite defensive abilities.
Game 128, August 22: Cubs 10, Tigers 2 (63-65)
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Please note: The evaluation of Heroes and Goats is based on WPA scores and is entirely objective.
THREE HEROES:
- Superhero: Miguel Amaya (.291). 3 hits in 4 at-bats, 1 home run, 5 RBIs, 1 run
- Hero: Justin Steele (.172). Pitched 7 innings, faced 24 batters, allowed 4 hits and 2 runs, struck out 10 (Win 4-5)
- Sidekick: Dansby Swanson (.057). 2 hits in 4 at-bats, 1 RBI, 2 runs, 2 stolen bases
THREE GOATS:
- Billy Goat: Pete Crow-Armstrong (-.081). 1 hit in 4 at-bats, 1 double, 2 RBIs, 1 run
- Goat: Isaac Paredes (-.032). 0-4
- Kid: Michael Busch (-.014). 1-3, BB, R
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WPA Play of the Game: Miguel Amaya’s grand slam in the second inning that allowed the Cubs to take an early four-run advantage. (.292)
*Tigers Play of the Game: A strikeout of PCA with the bases loaded occurred right before the grand slam. (.077)
Cubs Player of the Game:
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Who was the Cubs Player of the Game?
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48 votes total
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Yesterday’s Winner: Christian Bethancourt garnered 61 out of 80 votes.
Rizzo Award Cumulative Standings: (Top 5/Bottom 5)
This award is named in honor of Anthony Rizzo, who secured the top spot in this category three times during the first four years of its inception and four times in total. He also holds the record for the highest season total ever, at +65.5. The point system awards three points for a
Superhero down to negative three points for a Billy Goat.
- Shōta Imanaga +17.5
- Seiya Suzuki +12.5
- Ben Brown/Mark Leiter Jr. +11
- Porter Hodge/Justin Steele +10
- Isaac Paredes/Miles Mastrobuoni -9
- Adbert Alzolay -10
- Kyle Hendricks -11
- Pete Crow-Armstrong -13.5
- Christopher Morel -20.5
*Amaya has moved out of the bottom five (now at -8), Steele has entered the top five, while Swanson is now at -5. PCA has dropped to second to last, Paredes has fallen into the bottom five, and Busch continues to decline (currently at +2).
Up Next: If only I had extended my stay in Miami a bit longer! The Cubs are heading there to take on the 46-81 Marlins, with Kyle Hendricks (3-10, 6.35) starting the first game. If things are to get really exciting, the Cubs need to sweep at least one or two of these struggling teams. How about making it happen this weekend to get back over .500?
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Amidst Challenges, the Cubs Show Promise: A Look at Recent Performances and Future Prospects
Recent Performances: Turning the Tide for the Chicago Cubs
In the wake of a challenging season, the Chicago Cubs have begun to showcase a new level of performance that has fans excited for the future. From key player developments to strategic coaching decisions, the Cubs are demonstrating that they have the potential to rebound strongly in the coming seasons.
Highlights from Recent Games
Over the last few weeks, the Cubs have recorded some impressive victories that highlight their growing synergy as a team. Here are some standout moments:
- Pitching Excellence: The Cubs’ pitching staff, led by young talent and seasoned veterans, has significantly reduced the number of earned runs. Their recent outings have shown a marked improvement in strikeouts and innings pitched.
- Offensive Breakthroughs: Key players like Ian Happ and Patrick Wisdom have been contributing consistently to the scoreboard, helping the Cubs secure crucial wins.
- Defensive Resilience: The infield has tightened up, with numerous double plays and reduced errors, showcasing a commitment to defensive excellence.
Player Development: The Future Looks Bright
One of the most encouraging signs for the Cubs is the emergence of young talent from their farm system. Players such as Christopher Morel and Brailyn Marquez have begun to make their mark, providing both hope and excitement for Cubs fans.
| Player | Position | 2023 Stats (AVG/HR/RBI) |
|---|---|---|
| Ian Happ | Outfield | .275 / 25 / 75 |
| Patrick Wisdom | Third Base | .245 / 22 / 60 |
| Christopher Morel | Utility | .265 / 15 / 45 |
| Brailyn Marquez | Pitcher | 3.50 ERA / 120 IP |
Strategic Changes: Coaching and Management Impact
The Chicago Cubs’ management has made a series of strategic changes that are beginning to yield positive results. These adjustments are critical in navigating the challenges they have faced:
Coaching Strategies
The coaching staff has implemented innovative training routines focusing on agility and situational awareness, which has improved player performance on the field. The emphasis on analytics and data-driven decisions has also been a significant factor in the team’s recent successes.
Front Office Decisions
With a focus on long-term growth, the Cubs’ front office has made calculated trades and acquisitions. Investing in players with high potential rather than just established stars is a strategy that reflects their commitment to rebuilding.
Benefits of the Cubs’ Recent Changes
The positive changes within the Cubs’ organization not only promise to benefit the team but also provide several advantages for fans and the community:
- Increased Fan Engagement: A revitalized team brings back fans, increasing attendance and enthusiasm at Wrigley Field.
- Community Involvement: A focused effort on engaging with the community promotes goodwill and strengthens local support.
- Development of Homegrown Talent: Emphasizing player development leads to a stronger, more cohesive team in the long run.
Future Prospects: A Glimpse Ahead
Despite the struggles of recent seasons, the outlook for the Cubs remains optimistic. Here’s what fans can expect in the upcoming years:
2024 Season Predictions
As the Cubs continue to cultivate their young talent and refine their strategies, projections for the 2024 season are encouraging. Analysts suggest:
- Potential Playoff Contender: With their improving performance, the Cubs could find themselves vying for a playoff spot in the next season.
- Stronger Roster: Continued investment in player development will lead to a deeper and more versatile roster.
- Increased Financial Flexibility: A more balanced payroll allows for strategic acquisitions in free agency to fill any gaps.
Case Studies: Successful Rebuilds in Major League Baseball
History shows that teams can successfully navigate rebuilding phases. The Chicago Cubs are following paths similar to those of other franchises that have turned their fortunes around:
- Houston Astros: After several years of losing, the Astros focused on player development and analytics to ultimately win the World Series.
- Atlanta Braves: A commitment to young talent and smart trades helped the Braves become a consistent playoff contender.
First-Hand Experiences: What Cubs Fans Are Saying
The pulse of the fans is a critical indicator of the team’s progress. Here are a few thoughts shared by Cubs fans across social media:
“I’ve been following the Cubs for years, and I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. The young players are exciting!”
“The atmosphere at Wrigley has changed for the better. It’s great to see fans excited about the future!”
Practical Tips for Cubs Fans to Stay Engaged
As the Cubs continue on their journey to rebuild, fans can play an active role in supporting the team:
- Attend Games: Show your support by attending games and creating a vibrant home-field advantage.
- Engage on Social Media: Follow the Cubs on social media and participate in discussions to connect with fellow fans.
- Wear the Colors: Donning Cubs gear helps foster camaraderie among fans, showcasing team pride.
The Path Ahead: Commitment to Excellence
The Chicago Cubs are on a transformative journey. Through strategic changes, player development, and community engagement, the team is positioning itself for future successes that could rival its storied past. While challenges remain, the promise of a brighter future is within reach, and Cubs fans are ready to rally behind their team.
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