Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman showcased his exceptional defensive skills during a crucial play, contributing to the team’s victory over the Atlanta Braves. As reliever Ryan Rolison delivered a pitch, Bregman prepared to respond. He expertly fielded a 66.2 mph groundball hit by Ozzie Albies, making a quick throw to Pedro Ramírez at second base. Ramírez completed the double play by throwing to first base, helping the Cubs escape an eighth-inning threat. This key defensive maneuver kept Atlanta from scoring, leading to a 7-3 win for the Cubs at Wrigley Field.
The Cubs, with an 84-67 record, currently hold a narrow lead over the Philadelphia Phillies for the top National League wild-card position. The team’s defensive strengths are well noted, especially their first-place rankings in Defensive Runs Saved, Outs Above Average, and Fielding Run Value. “Defense is our strong suit,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell commented before the game. “For us to succeed, we have to excel in what we do best. Every team has its strengths, and defense is ours.”
On the offensive side, standout player Pete Crow-Armstrong delivered an impressive performance. He went 4-for-5, hitting a home run, stealing a base, and driving in four runs. His two-run homer marked his 42nd of the season, tying Billy Williams’ 1970 record for most home runs in a single season by a left-handed Cubs hitter. Reflecting on Williams, Crow-Armstrong expressed admiration and a desire to surpass his records. “If that homer means anything, I’m glad it was for Billy,” he said.
Bregman’s defensive prowess encountered challenges earlier in the season, starting with a fielding run value of minus-1 through seven games. Cubs coach Jonathan Mota and the analytics team investigated his performance, comparing it to his 2024 Gold Glove-winning season with the Houston Astros. They noted his positioning was a factor, as he had played closer to the plate with the Boston Red Sox in 2025, affecting his effectiveness.
Mota and Bregman made adjustments to his positioning, moving him back toward the line for better ground ball coverage. This strategic change let Bregman capitalize on his strengths and improved the defensive setup for shortstop Dansby Swanson as well. “Maximizing Alex and Dansby’s potential meant playing to their strengths in different directions,” Mota explained.
Bregman also improved his mechanics, bending forward more before the pitch and enhancing his arm strength with long toss exercises. These changes helped Bregman return to his top defensive form. He now ranks second among third basemen in Outs Above Average and is among the leaders in Fielding Run Value. Bregman acknowledged the impact of these positional adjustments, praising the advance team and coaching for their critical support.
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