The Chicago Cubs face a crucial juncture as they attempt to stave off a four-game sweep by the San Francisco Giants on Thursday afternoon. As the team grapples with various challenges, the loss of key pitcher Javier Assad to a forearm extensor strain compounds their struggles.
Impact of Javier Assad's Injury
Assad has been a cornerstone for the Cubs this season, boasting a team-high WAR of 2.2. His record stands at 4-3 with a commendable 3.04 ERA across 83 innings. Assad's early-season performance was particularly stellar, posting a 2.27 ERA in May. However, June has been less kind, reflected in his 0-2 record and an inflated 5.49 ERA. Despite the recent downturn, his absence is a significant blow to a team desperately seeking stability.
Pitching Staff and Bullpen Woes
The pressure now falls on other members of the Cubs' pitching staff to fill the void left by Assad. Shota Imanaga stands out with an impressive 0.84 ERA through nine starts, while Jameson Taillon has kept a solid 2.90 ERA. Justin Steele, contributing over 11 starts, holds a 3.08 ERA. Additionally, Ben Brown and Jordan Wicks have chipped in positively in their respective starts, providing glimpses of promise.
Yet, the bullpen remains a glaring vulnerability, having recorded 22 losses and blown 17 saves this season. Such inconsistencies have frequently undermined the team's efforts, further exacerbating their standings in a tightly contested division. The bullpen's struggles underscore broader issues within the team, compelling the coaching staff to explore potential solutions to stabilize late-inning performances.
Offensive and Defensive Struggles
Offensively, the Cubs have struggled to find their rhythm. They rank 11th in the National League in runs scored, 12th in batting average, and 8th in on-base percentage. Their slugging percentage also languishes at 12th. These middling stats reflect the broader offensive inconsistencies that have plagued the team throughout the season.
Defensively, the Cubs' performances have been equally lackluster. The team sits in the bottom third for defensive runs saved and near the bottom in total zone runs. Overall, their defensive efficiency is below average, further contributing to their sub-par league position.
A Season of Two Halves
The Cubs' season can be distinctly divided into two parts. They began with an optimistic surge, amassing a 17-9 record. However, the subsequent slide has been pronounced, as the Cubs have posted a 20-35 record since their initial burst, accompanied by a -58 run differential. This precipitous drop in form has them anchored at 37-44, securing the last place in their division.
As they head into the upcoming game against the Giants, the Cubs must confront these multifaceted issues head-on. The loss of Javier Assad sharpens the focus on the rest of the pitching rotation, while the entire team must strive to elevate both offensive and defensive performances to remain competitive. The Cubs' ability to adapt and respond to these challenges could define the remainder of their season.
The next few games will be crucial, not just to avoid a sweep but to inject some much-needed positivity and momentum. While the task is daunting, it's not insurmountable, and the enduring support of their fan base will be pivotal as the team navigates these critical moments.