Chicago Cubs Seen Promising Despite Setback Against Toronto Blue Jays

The Chicago Cubs showed signs of their past winning form during a series against the Toronto Blue Jays at Wrigley Field. On Friday and Saturday, the Cubs outplayed the Blue Jays, scoring 21 to 2 in the first 15 innings. Fans packed Wrigley Field, celebrating as the team took a 5-0 lead through six innings on Saturday, following a 16-2 victory on Friday.

Despite this strong start, the Cubs faced disappointment when the bullpen failed and the team lost 8-6. Relief pitcher Jacob Webb expressed frustration over his performance. The team’s next game was postponed due to weather, rescheduled for August 6 at Wrigley Field. Fans missed out on a pitching matchup between Shota Imanaga and Dylan Cease.

The Cubs had a chance to win three series in a row but fell short. As they head to New York to play the Mets, here are three observations:

Pete Crow-Armstrong’s Stellar June Performance

Centerfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong is having an exceptional June. He overcame a slow start to perform at an impressive level. Across 17 games, Crow-Armstrong boasts a .437 batting average, .481 on-base percentage, .930 slugging rate, and an OPS of 1.411. He has hit nine home runs, collected 14 RBIs, and stolen six bases. He nearly hit for the cycle against the Giants and achieved it against the Rockies.

Manager Craig Counsell remarked on Crow-Armstrong’s growth, noting his significant contributions to the team’s success. In an 18-game stretch, he recorded 34 hits and increased his walk count. He is learning to balance aggression at bat with strategic patience.

Unexpected Off Day Impact on Rotation

The postponement of Sunday’s game altered the Cubs’ pitching schedule. Shota Imanaga will start against the Mets on Monday, followed by Edward Cabrera and Javier Assad in subsequent games. Cabrera recently dealt with a cramp, while Matthew Boyd returned from injury with a strong performance in a Single-A rehab assignment.

Boyd, recovering from a meniscus injury and shoulder issues, is close to returning, depending on continued progress.

Upcoming Schedule Challenges

The Cubs are nearing the end of a series of games against teams with losing records, starting June 2. Currently 8-9, with a rainout included, they will face the Mets before meeting the Milwaukee Brewers, leaders in the National League Central.

The Cubs were the top division team over their last ten games with six wins, despite other teams’ varying performances. Their ability to maintain momentum during this period will be tested.

Freelance reporter Jeff Vorva contributed to this article for the Chicago Tribune.