Chicago Cubs: Unusual suspects; The pitching nightmare

The Chicago Cubs pitching is, well, it just sucks right now. But the hitting has come along nicely after last season’s diagnosis of ‘broken.’ But it’s not the usual stars doing all the damage.

The Chicago Cubs pitching nightmare might not be as unexpected as you think. No, the Cubs didn’t add anyone of any real significance. But it’s the guys that were already here who were pitching above their metrics. And now, it’s coming down in a violent crash. It seems like regardless of the situation, 1-2-3 innings are out of the question–for anyone. Even Steve Cishek has had his issues. But one thing a start like this will do? It gives other pitchers an opportunity.

The collapse of the Cubs’ bullpen–notably Carl Edwards Jr.–has led to some changes. Mike Montgomery was sent to the IL (injured list, no longer disabled list) and Edwards was optioned to Triple-A. So the Cubs called up Kyle Ryan, who I had on my list of lefties to replace Brian Duensing. The other call-up is Allen Webster, a former top prospect turned injury prone, and now looking to make a comeback after a solid spring with the Cubs. How these two perform can’t be any worse than the rest of the pen. So it can’t hurt to try them out early.

When you read the paper or check the internet (do people still read the paper?), you’ll see the Cubs offense is having a resurgence this season. And while some of the bigger names like Kyle Schwarber and Willson Contreras have been a big part of it; it’s some smaller names doing the most damage. Now, I would necessarily call Jason Heyward a ‘smaller’ name. But so far in 2019, he’s living up to his contract. Early, I know. But a good start is better than a bad one.

Cubs on Twitter

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘How the Cubs bullpen came to this’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs pitching nightmare leads to opportunity for others’ – Cubbies Crib

The unusual suspect carrying the Cubs offense’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Two unforgettable Opening Days at Wrigley Field’ – Cubs Analyst

‘One revelation for all 30 teams’ – MLB.com

Be sure to check back later today for more Cubs news and analysis! And follow us on our Twitter @CubbiesCrib, like our Facebook page for more Cubs conversation! And be sure to check out our Climbing the Ivy Podcast each week as we cover even more Cubs baseball!