The Chicago Cubs: A Mid-Season Reality Check and a Look Ahead

Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, August 21st 2025 at 19:02 GMT by SB Nation
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The Chicago Cubs entered the 2024 season with considerable hype, fueled by a strong offseason bolstered by the acquisition of Shohei Ohtani. Expectations were high – playoff contention, even a potential World Series run – but reality has proven to be more complicated than many initially envisioned. As of mid-June, the team sits at a respectable, yet ultimately disappointing, 43-36 record, hovering just above .500 and facing some tough questions about their performance and trajectory.

The early season saw flashes of brilliance, particularly with Ohtani’s immediate impact both on the mound and at the plate. His presence alone elevates the entire team, drawing attention and providing a consistent offensive threat. However, the Cubs' struggles haven't been solely attributable to his absence when he’s resting or dealing with minor injuries; the supporting cast hasn't consistently performed up to par. While some players have stepped up – Ian Happ continues to be a reliable contributor, and Nico Hoerner has shown flashes of brilliance at shortstop – others have struggled to find their footing, leading to inconsistent offensive output as a whole.

One of the most pressing concerns is the team’s performance against quality opponents. While they've managed to secure wins against some strong teams, too often those victories are followed by frustrating losses against division rivals or teams with middling records. This inconsistency highlights a lack of mental toughness and an inability to close out games when facing pressure. The bullpen has also been a source of frustration for manager Craig Counsell, experiencing periods of instability that have cost the team valuable leads. While improvements have been made in addressing these issues, it remains a critical area needing consistent performance.

Looking at the schedule ahead, the Cubs face a challenging stretch. They'll be navigating a series against the Milwaukee Brewers, their division rivals and currently leading the NL Central, followed by a road trip that includes encounters with contenders like the Los Angeles Dodgers and San Francisco Giants. These upcoming games will serve as crucial tests for the team’s resilience and ability to compete at a high level. The performance in these series will likely dictate whether the Cubs can maintain their current position or begin to fall further behind in the playoff race.

Beyond immediate game outcomes, several underlying issues need addressing if the Cubs hope to truly contend this season. Defensive inconsistencies have plagued the team, leading to unearned runs and missed opportunities. While individual defensive metrics show improvement for some players, the overall unit needs to demonstrate greater reliability. Furthermore, the team’s approach at the plate has been criticized as being too reliant on home runs, making them vulnerable when facing pitchers who can effectively limit long balls. A more balanced offensive strategy that emphasizes contact and base running could prove beneficial in tightening up games and maximizing scoring opportunities.

The acquisition of Ohtani was intended to be a catalyst for sustained success, but the Cubs’ current record suggests that simply having one superstar player isn't enough. The team needs its entire roster to contribute consistently if they want to achieve their championship aspirations. This requires players stepping up, coaching staff making adjustments, and a collective commitment to improving in all facets of the game.

While the first half of the season hasn’t unfolded exactly as planned, it’s not time for panic. The Cubs still have ample opportunity to right the ship and position themselves for a strong second-half push. However, they must address their shortcomings with urgency and determination. The upcoming games will be pivotal in shaping the team's fate, and the fans are eagerly awaiting to see if the Cubs can rediscover the form that made them early season favorites. Ultimately, the true test of this team lies not just in their record but in their ability to learn from adversity and emerge stronger as a cohesive unit. The journey to October is long, and for the Chicago Cubs, it’s far from over.

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The Chicago Cubs: A Mid-Season Reality Check and a Look Ahead