It's two years after the title, and the Chicago Cubs are still in first place. Now, granted, it's a lot closer than most people would like, but it's still a definite statistic. There they are, Cubs, first place, above the Brewers and Pirates.
But...I'm not exactly sure how concrete this 1st place status is. For a few reasons:
1. The Brewers, when they have momentum, are deadly. They've snatched first from the Cubs at pivotal moments all throughout the season. They have a ton of healthy players, and a lot more people doing 'WELL', rather than 'okay', than the Cubs. The Brewers do lack the pitching the Cubs have accumulated, but they arguably have the more consistent lineup. And if they get first, they could potentially build a stronghold.
2. The Brewers and Pirates are so close to the Cubs that it just could turn into a game of musical chairs in a week or two.
3. The Pirates lost last night for the first time in twelve games. That is the kind of momentum to be scared of. Things are suddenly clicking- the meek-looking lineup is beginning to take shape, and the back end of the pitching is beginning to come alive. The Pirates, like it or not, may be a playoff contender. And the Cubs may not be able to stop that.
It's a lot that's coming up behind Chicago to try and stop them. And also the Cardinals. Maybe?
The Cubs do have a strong lineup, with a ton of people, like Jason Heyward, Kyle Schwarber, Albert Almora, and, yes, Addison Russell, playing their hearts out. The pitching's improved greatly, with Mike Montgomery becoming a steady fifth, Jon Lester back on top, and Tyler Chatwood keeping things relatively constant. Jesse Chavez has been a great bullpen addition, and I'm guessing there will be at least one more high-profile acquisition soon.
The Cubs are in pretty good shape. I don't know if they'll keep the lead in the next week or so, but they're perfectly capable of regaining it.
Coming Tomorrow- Power hitter for the World Champs. Though, that could be half the team.
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