UPDATE: The Chicago Cubs are in a serious offensive slump, losing three consecutive series for the first time this season. Following a 2-1 defeat to the Toronto Blue Jays on August 10, 2023, manager Craig Counsell stressed the importance of focusing on the process rather than the results as the team prepares to face the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Cubs are currently ranked 28th in runs scored since the All-Star break, a dramatic decline from their earlier season performance. With key players like right fielder Kyle Tucker struggling at a batting average of just .195 since July 1, the urgency to turn things around has never been higher.
“Things not going right is not what’s happening,” Counsell said during a press conference. “You have to be tough enough to roll with that.” This sentiment echoes throughout the clubhouse as players battle self-inflicted pressure to contribute.
Tucker’s struggles include only one home run and four extra-base hits since early July. Despite jamming his right ring finger in June, he assured reporters that the injury is “fine.” The offensive woes extend to designated hitter Seiya Suzuki, who has seen a drastic drop in productivity, driving in just eight runs since the break, compared to 77 RBIs in the first half of the season.
Center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong expressed frustration over his own performance, noting he had just three hits and 15 strikeouts in August before finally hitting a double on Friday. “It becomes the self-inflicted pressure when you feel like you’re not playing your part in contributing,” he said.
Despite these challenges, the Cubs maintain a spot in the wild-card race, even as they trail the Milwaukee Brewers in the division standings. Crow-Armstrong remains optimistic, stating, “The Brewers are hot… We’re going to keep playing the same baseball we played all year.”
With this weekend’s matchup against the Pirates, the Cubs are looking to regain their offensive groove and cut into the Brewers’ lead. As the team prepares to face fierce competition, including the Cincinnati Reds, the focus remains on the process. Counsell emphasized, “Focusing on results is harmful, so you focus on things that contribute to us being good.”
As the Cubs navigate this challenging stretch, fans are left wondering if the team can rally and rediscover the potent offense that characterized the early part of their season. The clock is ticking as the playoff race heats up, and every game counts. Fans and followers will be eager to see if the Cubs can turn the tide in the coming days.