The Chicago Cubs are facing a critical juncture as they strive to fend off a four-game series sweep by the San Francisco Giants this Thursday afternoon. Amidst this uphill battle, the team has been hit with a significant setback: pitcher Javier Assad has landed on the injured list due to a forearm extensor strain.
Assad has been a standout performer for the Cubs, boasting a WAR (Wins Above Replacement) of 2.2, the highest on the team. His season's stats further underscore his value, flaunting a 4-3 record with a 3.04 ERA over 83 innings. Assad's performance earlier in the year was particularly impressive, as evidenced by his 2.27 ERA in May. However, June has been less kind, with the pitcher struggling to a 0-2 record and a 5.49 ERA in the month.
Pitching Woes and Highlights
While Assad's absence looms large, the Cubs have seen some promising performances on the mound from other players. Shota Imanaga has been nothing short of spectacular, posting a minuscule 0.84 ERA through his nine starts. Jameson Taillon has also shone brightly with a 2.90 ERA, and Justin Steele has been consistently reliable, sporting a 3.08 ERA over 11 starts. Rookies Ben Brown and Jordan Wicks have also contributed positively in their respective starts, offering a glimpse of potential stability for the Cubs' pitching future.
Offensive Struggles
However, pitching alone hasn't been sufficient to steady the ship for the Cubs. Currently, the team ranks 11th in the National League in runs scored and 12th in batting average, reflecting a struggle to consistently generate offense. Their on-base percentage is somewhat better, ranking 8th, but this hasn’t translated into slugging power, where they also rank 12th.
The bullpen's struggles have compounded the problem. They have absorbed 22 losses and blown 17 saves this season, making it a significant area of concern.
Defensive Deficiencies
Another aspect hindering the Cubs' performance is their overall defensive efficiency, which is described as below average. They reside in the bottom third of the league in defensive runs saved and are near the bottom in total zone runs—a clear indication that their defensive mishaps are costing them crucial games.
Early Promise Fizzles Out
The season started on a hopeful note with the Cubs posting a commendable 17-9 record. However, this early promise has fizzled out dramatically. Since that impressive start, they’ve slumped to a 20-35 record, coupled with a disheartening -58 run differential, ultimately bringing their current record to 37-44—a position that sees them anchored at the bottom of their division.
As the Cubs look to salvage their season, the immediate hurdle will be overcoming the Giants and avoiding the sweep. With key players like Assad sidelined and ongoing issues in multiple facets of their game, the road ahead appears fraught with challenges. Yet, as baseball often shows, momentum can change swiftly, and the Cubs will be hoping for a turn in their fortunes as they move deeper into the season.