Changes in Cubs’ Lineup Spark Defensive and Offensive Shifts

Major-league coach Jonathan Mota took a moment to support Moisés Ballesteros after the Chicago Cubs announced roster changes. The Cubs optioned 22-year-old Ballesteros while recalling outfielder Justin Dean. Mota sat with Ballesteros to ease the news, emphasizing that this decision was to ensure he gets more playing time, not due to performance issues.

Ballesteros had a promising start to the season, batting .400 after a game on April 24 in Los Angeles, contributing significantly in the lineup. However, his performance dipped, hitting only .139 over 114 plate appearances in 36 games. The Cubs saw greater benefit in Ballesteros playing daily in the minors to regain his form.

Matt Shaw’s return from the injured list on June 9 added further changes to the lineup, as he played in right field after Seiya Suzuki moved into the designated hitter role due to a knee tweak. This left Ballesteros as an expendable player on the active roster.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell explained the decision, pointing out that Ballesteros needed more regular opportunities to catch, which Triple A can provide. The Cubs’ offense provided ample evidence of their capability during their 16-2 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays, with a particularly strong outing by Carson Kelly hitting a grand slam.

Counsell noted, “Gausman’s not easy — he’s one of the better guys at avoiding the walk, so we did a good job against him to get the rally moving.”

The Cubs’ recent performance indicates a shift from their previous struggles. Averaging 6.5 runs in their last eight games, they posted a 6-2 record, recovering from a bleak stretch where they had managed only 3.21 runs per game.

Pete Crow-Armstrong commented on their return to form, stressing the importance of consistent performance rather than viewing their offensive output as a singular success. His consistent on-base streak now spans 22 games.

Strong starting pitching from Ben Brown added to the successful performance. Despite allowing a home run to George Springer, Brown’s season ERA stands at 1.85 over 68 innings, boding well for a pitching staff dealing with injuries.

Dean’s call-up gave him the opportunity to contribute offensively, delivering his first major-league hit with a three-run triple. His journey through previous stints as a pinch hitter and defensive fixture in MLB highlights the significance of this achievement.

Reflecting on his first hit, Dean said, “I’m going to watch the video a couple of times and just feel the moment. Once I saw it land, I’m like, ‘Oh, there it is. That’s the first hit.’” His enthusiasm is emblematic of the broader team spirit as the Cubs navigate these lineup changes.

Reporter Andy Martinez covers this story for the Chicago Tribune, offering insights into team dynamics following the roster adjustments.