As the Chicago Cubs aim to avoid a four-game sweep by the San Francisco Giants Thursday afternoon, the team finds itself at a critical juncture in the season. A promising start has given way to a mid-season slump, leaving the Cubs grasping for momentum.
Javier Assad Hits the Injured List
The recent injury to Javier Assad has certainly not helped matters. Assad, who has been placed on the injured list due to a forearm extensor strain, has been one of the few bright spots for the Cubs this season. His statistics reflect his significant contribution—boasting a WAR of 2.2, the highest on the team. Over 83 innings, he has managed a 4-3 record with a commendable 3.04 ERA.
In May, Assad was particularly impressive, posting a 2.27 ERA, providing hope for a more dominant stretch. However, June proved to be more challenging as his numbers dipped to a 0-2 record with a 5.49 ERA. The Cubs will sorely miss his arm as they try to navigate the rest of the season.
Pitching Woes and Bright Spots
Even with Assad sidelined, there are other names worth mentioning on the Cubs' roster. Shota Imanaga has been nothing short of stellar, recording an exceptional 0.84 ERA through nine starts. Meanwhile, Jameson Taillon and Justin Steele have ERAs of 2.90 and 3.08 respectively. These performances provide a glimmer of hope amid a turbulent season.
Additionally, pitchers Ben Brown and Jordan Wicks have delivered positive contributions during their starts, helping keep the team competitive. However, the bullpen has struggled mightily, which is a significant cause for concern. With 22 losses and 17 blown saves this season, the bullpen’s inefficiency has been one of the main contributors to the Cubs' woes.
Offensive and Defensive Struggles
Offensively, the Cubs are middling at best. They rank 11th in the National League in runs scored and 12th in batting average and slugging, though they do show some proficiency by ranking 8th in on-base percentage. This inconsistent performance at the plate has made it difficult for the Cubs to sustain any winning momentum.
Their defensive metrics aren’t much better. With overall defensive efficiency below average, the Cubs find themselves in the bottom third in defensive runs saved and close to the bottom in total zone runs. It's a situation that highlights just how multi-faceted the team’s struggles are.
A Season of Two Halves
The most glaring aspect of the Cubs' season is their change in form. They began the season strongly, achieving a 17-9 record that sparked hope among fans. But since that early surge, the Cubs have fallen off significantly, with a 20-35 record and a -58 run differential. Now standing at 37-44, they sit at the bottom of their division.
The challenges facing the Cubs are extensive. Injuries, inconsistent offense, and a leaky bullpen have all conspired to stifle their season. As they face the Giants, they must find a way to rekindle the spark that saw them start the season with such promise. The road ahead is fraught with obstacles, but with key players stepping up and the bullpen finding its footing, there remains hope for a turnaround.
In a sport where fortunes can change quickly, the Cubs' effort this afternoon will be instrumental in determining whether they can reverse their current trajectory or continue their slide.