The Chicago Cubs appeared to be regaining their winning form during a recent series against the Toronto Blue Jays at Wrigley Field. In the first 15 innings, they outscored their opponent 21-2, much to the delight of over 40,000 fans. Following a 16-2 victory on Friday and holding a 5-0 lead by the sixth inning on Saturday, the Cubs looked strong. Unfortunately, their bullpen could not maintain the momentum, leading to an 8-6 loss.
Saturday’s setback was compounded by a weather-related postponement on Sunday, delaying what was expected to be an intriguing pitching battle between Shota Imanaga and Dylan Cease. The game has been rescheduled for August 6. The postponement also denied the Cubs a chance to secure a third consecutive series win.
1. Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Impressive June
Pete Crow-Armstrong has been in exceptional form this June. In 17 games, the 24-year-old center fielder has achieved a .437 batting average, with an on-base percentage of .481 and a slugging percentage of .930. His OPS stands at 1.411 with nine home runs, 14 RBIs, and six stolen bases. Notably, he hit for the cycle against the Colorado Rockies.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell praised Crow-Armstrong’s enhanced production, highlighting its significance for the team. Crow-Armstrong’s performance includes an 18-game stretch where he tallied 34 hits, including nine home runs, alongside continued improvement in drawing walks, crucial for his role as a leadoff hitter.
“Getting to first base is priority one. If I can get on base any way I can to start the game off, that’s doing my job as a leadoff hitter,” Crow-Armstrong explained.
“The walks are a fun new thing that I’m learning how to take. I’m going to swing, but I’ll take the walks whenever they come.”
2. Postponement Shifts Pitching Plans
The unexpected off day caused by Sunday’s postponement affects the Cubs’ starting rotation. Shota Imanaga is set to pitch against the Mets on Monday. Edward Cabrera will start on Tuesday, followed by Javier Assad on Wednesday. Cabrera had experienced a cramp in his pitching hand during his last start. Matthew Boyd, the Cubs’ opening day starter, recently struck out seven in a rehab assignment, bringing him closer to a return following shoulder issues.
3. Challenging Schedule Awaits
Since June 2, the Cubs have faced a sequence of games against teams with losing records, achieving an 8-9 record with one rainout. They have four remaining games with the Mets before a challenging matchup with the division-leading Milwaukee Brewers. Yet, over the past 10 games, the Cubs have been the division’s top team, recording a 6-4 mark.
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