Introduction to the Cubs’ Offensive Struggles
The Cubs’ offense has been struggling to find its footing, and their recent game against the Braves was no exception. The team’s inability to score runs has become a recurring issue, with the Cubs losing for the fourth time in five games. They have scored just six runs total in the four losses and 11 runs in the one win.
The Game Against the Braves
The Braves beat the Cubs 4-1, with Ozzie Albies and Matt Olson homering, and Bryce Elder having his fourth straight strong outing. The Cubs managed only five hits against Elder and four Atlanta relievers. Pete Crow-Armstrong, who returned to the lineup after missing Sunday’s game, bounced out to first to end the inning and keep the Braves’ 3-0 lead intact.
Cubs’ Postseason Chances
Despite their struggles, the Cubs still maintain the NL’s top wild-card position and have all but clinched a postseason berth. They lead the San Francisco Giants by eight games with just 18 to play entering Tuesday. However, they still trail the Milwaukee Brewers by 7 1/2 games for first place in the NL Central. The Cubs’ chances of winning the division are at just 0.6%, but their odds of clinching a playoff spot are at 99.6%.
Key Moments in the Game
Albies’ solo homer came with two outs in the first inning, then Ha-Seong Kim followed with a single and scored on rookie Drake Baldwin’s double. Ronald Acuña Jr. singled home Baldwin, giving the Braves a 3-0 lead and ending his career-worst 0-for-25 drought. The Cubs scored their lone run in the seventh when Matt Shaw’s sacrifice fly to center scored Nico Hoerner.
Pitching Performance
Cubs starter Shota Imanaga gave up three runs in the first inning before settling down. He retired 16 of the final 17 batters he faced and was lifted after six innings, giving up five hits and no walks with four strikeouts. Meanwhile, Elder pitched one-run ball for 6 1/3 innings, striking out six, walking one, and allowing five hits.
Injury Update: Palencia to IL, Taillon Back
Cubs closer Daniel Palencia went on the 15-day injured list Monday, a day after straining his right shoulder. Palencia was hurt in the ninth inning of Sunday’s 6-3 loss to Washington. Ethan Roberts was recalled from Triple-A Iowa in the corresponding move. On the other hand, the Cubs will get a big boost to their starting rotation with the return of right-hander Jameson Taillon, who will be activated from the 15-day IL to start Wednesday’s series finale in Atlanta.
Up Next
Cubs RHP Cade Horton will face Braves RHP Spencer Strider on Tuesday in the second game of the three-game series. Horton has been dominant after the All-Star break, allowing just four earned runs total since then, covering nine starts. He has a 0.77 ERA during that span, vaulting him into consideration for NL Rookie of the Year honors.
Conclusion
The Cubs’ offense remains a concern as they head into the final stretch of the season. Despite their struggles, they are still in a good position to make the playoffs. With the return of Jameson Taillon and the emergence of Cade Horton, the Cubs’ pitching rotation is looking stronger. However, they need to find a way to score more runs consistently if they want to make a deep run in the playoffs.
FAQs
- What is the Cubs’ current record?
The Cubs have lost for the fourth time in five games, scoring just six runs total in the four losses and 11 runs in the one win. - Who will start for the Cubs on Tuesday?
Cubs RHP Cade Horton will face Braves RHP Spencer Strider on Tuesday in the second game of the three-game series. - What is the status of Daniel Palencia?
Cubs closer Daniel Palencia went on the 15-day injured list Monday, a day after straining his right shoulder. - What are the Cubs’ chances of making the playoffs?
The Cubs have all but clinched a postseason berth, with their odds of clinching a playoff spot at 99.6%.
