Chicago Cubs News: Third loss in a row has fans in a panic…again

A strong start to the second half for the Chicago Cubs hasn’t stopped some from being concern about three losses in a row. A few missteps from the bullpen has been part of that, and they’ve been good overall.

The Chicago Cubs came out of the gate in the second half on fire. They made up a 5 1/2 game deficit in no time, taking back first place in the NL Central. A three game skid has people in panic mode–again–and it’s gotten a bit old. We’re all very aware that this team has issues. Inconsistent at the plate, in the pen and at times in the rotation.

Nobody here is claiming that this team doesn’t have a problem–we just aren’t nitpicking with each mistake and every loss. It’s a long season, and you simply can’t do that. It’s maddening if you do. The Cubs’ number one goal is to make the playoffs. Once you’re there, it is anyone’s game.

More from Cubbies Crib

• Cubs should keep close eye on non-tender candidate Cody Bellinger
• Cubs starting pitching has been thriving on the North Side
• Make no mistake: the Cubs are very much about power hitters
• Cubs are giving pitcher Javier Assad a deserved shot
• Cubs: It’s time to start thinking about potential September call-ups

Some of the travails of the team can be attributed to the bullpen. While it’s been good overall, there’s been some slippage out there. Carl Edwards has hit a rough stretch, while Wade Davis has as well. He hasn’t blown a save, but the loss to the D-backs was still disheartening. And newly acquired Justin Wilson has given up some hard contact in his first few of appearances. The Cubs still have one of the better bullpens in the NL, and you can’t panic over a stretch of games like this.

Before this weekend, the Cubs released Brett Anderson. This without a doubt should go down as the worst “plan” the team had this season. The Cubs hoped that Anderson would be able to stay healthy and pitch well from the fifth spot in the rotation. That was a fail on both aspects. The Cubs are finally rid of him altogether as he was officially released after making it through waivers.

These stories and more that you might have missed:

‘Cubs struggles have people in panic–again’ – Cubbies Crib

‘The bullpen has been solid, most of the time’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs release LHP Anderson’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Giants’ Belt takes curveball to the helmet’ – ESPN

‘Colon becomes oldest AL pitcher to throw CG’ – Cut4

#Cubs on Twitter

Next: Best of Theo's deadline moves

Be sure to check back later today for more Cubs news and analysis! And follow us on our Twitter @CubbiesCrib, like our Facebook page and follow us on G+!