A series-opening win over the Pirates on Tuesday where the offense finally showed signs of life hopefully means brighter days (and some lengthy winning streaks) are on the horizon for the Chicago Cubs.
But a strong April followed by a disastrous May and a 5-6 start in June, consistency has been an issue for this team all season long and it's been difficult to get a read on where they'll end the year in the standings. If they can't capitalize in the six games against Pittsburgh (including Tuesday's win), Jed Hoyer and Carter Hawkins could end up selling - again.
If that's the case, very few members of this team would be 'safe' - so let's take a look at 8 Cubs who could be on the block if the team falls out of contention.
8 Cubs that could be available at the deadline if they fall out of contention - #8: Patrick Wisdom
With Nick Madrigal installed at third base after his return from Iowa, it's worth wondering if the Patrick Wisdom era might be drawing to a close, despite his impressive power output.
Wisdom got off to a scorching start at the dish, but has fallen off a cliff performance-wise since early May, slashing .148/.242/.284 since May 4. In June, he's struck out in 14 of his 25 plate appearances. His average on the year is down to .198 so the initial power display (10 homers in the first month) is no longer a factor.
Chicago needs power in its lineup, to be sure. But Wisdom's swing-and-miss tendencies are being picked apart by the opposition and it might be time to start looking beyond him as a third base answer. There could be a contender looking to add a power bat to the mix for the second half and if there's one thing he can do, it's drive the ball out of the yard.