Chicago Cubs: Cubs must take advantage of soft schedule

Even if the Chicago Cubs are playing better in the 2nd half, they must use soft schedule to their advantage if they want to reach the playoffs.

Aaaaaaaand it’s gone.

The Chicago Cubs, who just last week were on a roll and looking to build their lead in the NL Central, have lost six of their last 10. It’s a microcosm of their season, inconsistency ruining any chance of steady momentum.

As mentioned previously, the Cubs’ second half schedule is pretty weak. The Blue Jays, D-backs, Rays and Brewers are the only teams who will probably give them fits. Of course, anybody can beat anybody on any given day, but the fact remains that the Cubs like their chances.

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Because they’re holding on to such a slim lead in the division (one game as of Wednesday afternoon), it’s imperative that they take advantage of their schedule and rattle off some wins.

The Cubs have had their struggles this season, but they’ve been presented a golden opportunity. With games against so many squads under .500, you’d think they have the division all but wrapped up. However, that’s simply not the case.

Too much inconsistency

Inconsistency has been the name of the game for the Cubs this season. They win four in a row, then lose seven of eleven. It’s becoming increasingly frustrating to hear pundits claim that the team is ‘back,’ only to have them lose momentum the next couple of games.

Of course, all will be forgiven if they reach the postseason. However, it’s not that simple. Not only do they have to perform well, but they also have to fend off the Brewers. While the latter is also in a funk of sorts, they’re a good team. The motivation of reaching the playoffs for the first time since 2011 will be big too. The point is, don’t count them out.

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While the Cubs may have taken back the division lead, there’s still work left to do. Their schedule is wrapped up in a bow, staring them pleasantly in the face. It’s up to them to take advantage.