There's been no shortage of dynamic sluggers through the history of the Chicago Cubs' organization. Sammy Sosa's recent return to the team has led to memories of the mammoth home runs he used to hit at Wrigley Field. In recent years, Javier Baez, Kyle Schwarber, Anthony Rizzo, and Kris Bryant all had the most seasons years of their career with the Cubs.
Given the history, it's no surprise that the Cubs have a rich history of having Silver Sluggers on their roster. The Louisville Silver Slugger Award honors the best offensive player at their respect position each season, and the most recent Cubs' player to win the award was Cody Bellinger in 2023.
Whether it was Bellinger or the core from 2016, there have been some usual suspects when it comes to Cubs players who have won the award, but there are several Cubs icons who took home the honor that fans probably forgot about
Jake Arrieta, 2016
Yes, there was a time when pitchers actually were hitters, and Jake Arrieta was one of the best of a dying breed. Arrieta earned his reputation as being one of the aces of the Cubs' World Series run, but the offensive numbers he put up in 2016 was nothing short of impressive. Arrieta slashed .262/.304/.415 in 70 plate appearances with a wRC+ of 90.
Michael Barrett, 2005
Michael Barrett likely isn't the first name that comes to mind when thinking about famous Cubs' catchers, but his 2005 season certainly impressed. Barrett slashed .276/.345/.479 with a wRC+ of 111 and 16 home runs. No real surprise to see him take him the Silver Slugger honors in 2005 but the crazy part was his 2006 season was actually better. 2006 marking his final season with the Cubs, Barrett hit .301 with a 122 wRC+ and 16 home runs. However, that was Brian McCann's rookie season with the Atlanta Braves and he was the clear choice, 142 wRC+ with 24 home runs.
Aramis Ramirez, 2011
As more time has passed, it feels like there's been renewed appreciation for Aramis Ramirez's run as the Cubs' third baseman. Ramirez's 2011 season, ironically his last season with the Cubs, was one of his best. Ramirez slashed .306/.361/.510 with a wRC+ of 134 and 26 home runs.
