Chicago Cubs: Is this offense really that bad?

Mar 9, 2015; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Chris Denorfia (15) grounds out in the fourth inning against the San Diego Padres during a spring training baseball game at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

Help from Within?

The Chicago Cubs may not have to look outside their clubhouse for a boost offensively. Underutilized commodity Chris Denorfia played in 54 of the Chicago Cubs 99 games this season. He is slashing .296/.333/.378 this season and has the best average among Cubs players with at least 100 at-bats. Denorfia splits time with left field counterpart Chris Coghlan, however; extending his duties to other outfield positions could increase his playing time. Dexter Fowler has struggled this season, so there really isn’t much sacrifice in giving Denorfia starts over Fowler. Given the struggles that the Cubs have had offensively, giving Denorfia more chances at the plate could only help this team out.

Youngster Kyle Schwarber continues to hit well. If there has been a bright spot in the Cubs lineup since the All-Star Break, it has been Schwarber. In limited opportunities this season, he is slashing .373/.439/.627 in 57 plate appearances.

Next: The fact of the matter is..