Chicago Cubs: Offensive inconsistency a major concern for reigning champs

Inconsistent play after blow-outs has killed momentum

As stated above, the Cubs enjoyed a plus 252 run differential last season. That was by far the best in baseball, but this season has been a different story. Currently, the Cubs own a plus 42 run differential. That means the Cardinals, who trail the Cubs by one game in the division, have a better run differential.

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One of the reasons for the Cubs’ small run differential this season is their inability to score runs following a blow-out. A prime example of this occurred on May 21 and May 22. After scoring 13 runs and hitting .400 as a team against the Brewers, the Cubs were held to just four runs the following game by the Giants.

Even though the Cubs would go on to win the next three games against San Francisco, they would drop their next six, scoring just nine runs in the process.

This is not the only example of this problem. On June 22, the Cubs rattled off 11 runs against the Marlins, winning by ten. The next day, also against the Marlins, Chicago was held to just six hits and shutout by Miami’s pitching staff.

Following that loss to the Marlins, the Cubs would go 6-9 to end the first half.