Inconsistency Rears Its Head Once Again as Cubs Lose Series to Rockies
I have to say that I am very impressed with the manners displayed by the teams in the National League Central this season. It seems that no one wants to take control of the division, and different teams at the table are getting something to eat. Whether it be the surprise guest Milwaukee Brewers or the host Chicago Cubs, no one wants to take control. As Chicago hosted the National League West leading Colorado Rockies over the weekend, it was clear that the visitors were very hungry.
Even though the Cubs were able to wrap up the series with a win and have gone 6–4 over their last ten, there are still question marks. Major league baseball is investigating the Addison Russell domestic violence situation, the Cubs’ offense is still experiencing its’ inconsistencies and the starting pitching hasn’t hit their stride yet.
On Sunday, the bats were able to break out, as Chicago hit four home runs and securing a win by the score of 7–5. Russell and Kyle Schwarber both connected, and were able to put the Cubs back up front in the sixth inning. It’s particularly important that both of these young bats are able to string good games together. Sunday afternoon was hopefully a start for the duo that has received their fair share of criticism.
The other three games of this series were controlled by the Rockies. This season the Cubs have a record of 2–5 against Colorado. You have to give credit when credit is due, and Bud Black’s team certainly has a 2016 Cubs vibe to them. They have been extremely fun to watch, and the offensive firepower is reminiscent of the Cubs of last year.
That offensive artillery was very present throughout this past series. DJ LeMahieu, Charlie Blackmon and Ian Desmond all had an impressive weekend. At the beginning of the series, the Rockies’ bats got hot — while the Cubs’ bats went cold.
Jake Arrieta and Jon Lester both struggled in this series. The Cubs’ starting pitchers are still trying to figure things out and as a whole have a FIP of 4.08. That is still good for 12th in baseball, but compared to last years numbers, Chicago is still trying to find their way.
Up next, the Cubs head to New York to take on the Mets. Chicago currently sits one game behind the Milwaukee Brewers for first place in the NL Central. The time is now to try and create some sort of momentum, and for the best team in the division to start acting like it.
