Chicago Cubs: Joe Maddon’s ‘big-boy time’ strategy producing wins

Chicago Cubs: Finding the fun in the game again

What seems to be happening in the Cubs latest games is that they are beginning to believe in themselves again. Maybe it would have happened anyway but Maddon’s emphasis on being a pro or sit – has had undeniable results.

Now that they are playing professional baseball again, they are having fun doing it. The antics, laughs and abundant hi-fives during the slaughter of the Reds, prove the spark has been rekindled and the fun and excitement the team had been missing all season have finally arrived. The Chicago Cubs for the first time this season look ready to take on anyone.

When the Cubs added powerhouse hitters like outfielder Nicholas Castellanos and second baseman Tony Kemp, there was some pressure on the Cubs familiar horses to come out swinging equally hard, and for the most part, they have. Infielders Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo and Javier Baez, have met the new offensive power and added their own to the mix, just as Maddon ordered.

With good reason, Maddon is making sure hitting-machine Castellanos is in the lineup and getting some well-deserved playing time for sparking the Cubs and bringing back that almost child-like enthusiasm for the game with the team. Not since former catcher David Ross, has that kind of karma been alive on the team.

After winning two of three against the Oakland Athletics and then beating the Cincinnati Reds convincingly with offensive power, the Cubs have taken the largest lead in the National League Central this season. While there is still some 50 days left in the season, there is no doubt that ‘big-boy time’ has had a positive effect on this winning Cubs team. Big-time!