Warning: I am a huge Cubs fan and baseball is my go-to conversation starter. My apologies to people who hate sports. Naturally, my first article will be about my favorite team. Batter up!
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Well... thank goodness for the All-Star Break. Phew, I need a breather. Before I get to the current situation of the club, let me just brag for a minute. What a tremendous start for the Cubbies, pure talent across the diamond! People ask, "well, what makes this team so different?" Simple. The organization is actively using their farm system, which is where you go to achieve results in the long run (pun intended.) If you are having trouble following, let me just mention a few names: Rizzo, Bryant & Schwarber. Of course it is necessary to sign a superstar every now and then, but sometimes you do not get your money's worth ($100 million for 6 years! No thanks!) I will take my chances with the rookies. In some cases (most,) you have to re-build & have patience. Patience & loyalty are two things that come naturally if you truly bleed Cubby blue. Oh... and how could I forget about frustration? Currently, that would describe what Cubs fans are dealing with.
Do not hit the panic button yet.
This team had a crazy hot-streak, and at one point the best record in baseball. As of right now, well they are struggling. Cue the haters! "The Cubs are choking like always." No, far from it. Baseball season is long, 162 games to be exact. Guys get tired and they lose momentum. Relax! If you are a true Cubs fan, have faith in your team. All teams get stuck in a rut, especially when most of the players are younger than 27. Besides, please tell me one thing on Earth that is perfect. Nothing, right? Why would one expect a ball club to be any different? Life is full of bumps and hiccups, but they do not last forever. This too shall pass. The guys are still well over .500, 100+ wins would not be shocking. The game is a learning process, and believe me I see all the areas that need work.
Ways to improve:
1. Get a better bullpen. This problem has plagued them for years. Their starting rotation is intimidating and packs a mighty punch. However, when those men get worn out, they need proper relief. Start trading, now. Go after the Yankees bullpen. You're welcome.
2. If there are runners in scoring position, hit! Play small ball. Bunt to avoid a double play. Your approach doesn't have to be pretty, just get the job done. Another important thing to remember, insurance runs are your best friend. Do not get conceited and think four runs is enough to win a game. Hustle. Blown saves are all too real.
3. Regain confidence. It's not over til' the fat lady sings. As for Jake Arrieta... did everyone forget that this beast threw two no-hitters in the past year? Sit down and leave him alone, he is entitled to a few bad starts every now and then. Teams to beat and watch out for: Giants, Nationals, Rangers. Just beat all the teams, please. In order for them to own October, do not fall to teams like the Reds. That is just silly.
After writing this article, I feel the need to be the first female MLB manager. A girl can dream, right? Thanks for reading. Go Cubs!
