The Chicago Cubs are staring down a critical juncture in their season as they strive to fend off a four-game sweep by the San Francisco Giants on Thursday afternoon. The team has faced numerous challenges, not least of which is the unfortunate injury to pitcher Javier Assad, who has hit the injured list due to a forearm extensor strain. Assad has been a standout performer for the Cubs this season, boasting a 2.2 WAR— the highest on the team. With a 4-3 record and a 3.04 ERA over 83 innings, Assad's absence will undoubtedly be felt.
Despite his strong overall performance, May and June revealed a tale of two pitchers. In May, Assad was impressive, recording a 2.27 ERA. Yet June was less kind, with Assad posting a 0-2 record and a 5.49 ERA. His return will be eagerly anticipated as the Cubs look to stabilize their rotation.
Other pitchers have stepped up, bringing flashes of promise. Shota Imanaga, for instance, has been almost unhittable, sporting an incredible 0.84 ERA through nine starts. Similarly, Jameson Taillon has been a reliable figure on the mound with a 2.90 ERA, while Justin Steele has contributed commendably with a 3.08 ERA over 11 starts. Additionally, Ben Brown and Jordan Wicks have made positive contributions in their respective starts, providing hope for the future.
Offensive Struggles
While pitching has shown potential, the Cubs' offense has largely been underwhelming. Currently, the team ranks 11th in the National League in runs scored and 12th in batting average. Nevertheless, their on-base percentage ranks 8th, a glimmer of hope amid their offensive struggles. However, their slugging remains lackluster, placing them 12th in this crucial metric.
Bullpen Woes and Defensive Struggles
The bullpen has been a sore spot for the Cubs, responsible for 22 losses and blowing 17 saves this season. This unreliability has been detrimental to a team that desperately needs stability in its relief pitchers. Defensive efficiency has also been a significant issue, with the Cubs sitting in the bottom third in defensive runs saved and nearly at the bottom in total zone runs. Such lapses in defense only exacerbate the struggles faced by the pitching staff.
Season's Tale: Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
It's a troubling contrast when reflecting on the Cubs' season trajectory. They began the year with an encouraging 17-9 record, seemingly setting themselves up for a strong campaign. However, since that early surge, the team has faltered significantly, posting a 20-35 record with a dismal -58 run differential. This striking decline has firmly anchored the Cubs at 37-44, leaving them at the bottom of their division.
The Cubs must find a way to reclaim their early-season form if they wish to salvage their current campaign. With key players injured and both the batting lineup and bullpen failing to deliver consistently, the organization faces a formidable challenge. Still, the performances of individual standouts provide the framework for a potential turnaround.
The coming weeks will be crucial, as the Cubs seek to address their deficiencies and restore team morale. Their ability to adapt and overcome these adversities will ultimately determine their fate in this tumultuous season.