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As the playoffs quickly approach, the Chicago Cubs' focus in recent weeks has been on making sure the core of their roster is ready. When healthy and performing, the Cubs have a team, on paper, that could make an impact in October. Kyle Tucker, Seiya Suzuki, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Michael Busch were all All-Star-caliber talents during the first half of the season, and if they return to form, they could be the reason why the Cubs' playoff run is lengthy.
It's not just current Cubs who can make an impact; there is a handful of former Cubs that could be difference makers.
Kyle Schwarber, Philadelphia Phillies
Cubs fans don't need to be told about the magic that Kyle Schwarber can pull off in October. Schwarber's heroic return from a torn ACL in 2016 ignited the final push for the Cubs to end their World Series drought. Now with the Phillies, Schwarber is the thumper that can make all the difference.
Cody Bellinger, New York Yankees
It's been an up-and-down season for the New York Yankees, who haven't exactly been the powerhouse in the American League that they were last season. If the Yankees are going to have success in October, it will be due to their ability to hit home runs. Cody Bellinger certainly will be part of that success if it happens.
Isaac Paredes, Houston Astros
After a disappointing two-month run with the Chicago Cubs at the end of the 2024 season, Isaac Paredes was an All-Star with the Astros this season. A hamstring injury has kept Paredes sidelined since the middle of July, but he recently resumed baseball activities. If Paredes can get back in the lineup for the Astros, he can be a much-needed boost for their offense.
Aroldis Chapman, Boston Red Sox
The key to a deep run in October is a strong bullpen. Former Chicago Cubs' closer Aroldis Chapman has turned back the clock this season with the Boston Red Sox and was recently rewarded with a contract extension. The Red Sox have some questions at the backend of their rotation, but if a game is shortened, Chapman could be the reason why Boston is a threat in the American League.