Chicago Cubs: Good things are coming in the second half

The Cubs could use a solid second half from Jake Arrieta, who has a record of good stretches post-All-Star Break.

The Chicago right-hander continues to battle. But, to mixed results. The Arrieta of 2015 seems to have gone into hiding. After winning the Cy Young award in 2015 and finishing ninth in the voting last season, Arrieta’s numbers have taken a turn for the worst.

In 17 starts, Arrieta has an ERA north of four, and a WHIP of 1.30. While Arrieta does have a better strikeout-to-walk ratio this year compared to last, he is allowing an average of two hits more per nine innings in 2017.

Chicago Cubs

Despite Arrieta’s struggles this season, there is cause to believe he can turn it around.

Arrieta’s Cy Young season of 2015 was full of masterful performances. Those performances culminated into a 10-5 first half for Arrieta. In addition to his winning record, Arrieta logged a 2.66 ERA and struck out 123 batters in 121 2/3 innings pitched. While many would have been happy with that level of play for the remainder of the season, Arrieta decided to step up his game in the second half of 2015.

In 15 starts, Arrieta posted a 12-1 record, a 0.75 ERA and 113 strikeouts in 107 1/3 innings pitched. It was that fantastic second half performance that won Arrieta the Cy Young award two years ago.

While no one expects a sub-one ERA for Arrieta in the second half of 2017, a solid showing would go a long way in helping the Cubs get back on their feet.