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Chicago Tribune
a day ago
- Sport
- Chicago Tribune
3 takeaways as the Chicago Chicago reach the halfway mark of the 2025 season with a 48-33 record
ST. LOUIS — The Chicago Cubs, on pace for a 96-win season, almost couldn't script a better first-half performance than the one a playoffs-or-bust group delivered. Despite losing ace Justin Steele to a season-ending injury in April and then being without lefty Shota Imanaga for seven weeks until his return Thursday in St. Louis, the Cubs finished the first half in first place in the National League Central with a 48-33 record and three games up on the second-place Milwaukee Brewers. Their 48 wins halfway through the season are their most in a decade, dating back to the 2016 World Series championship season (51 wins). The Cubs were seven games under .500 last year through the first 81 games. They own a winning record at the midpoint for the first time since 2021 (42-39). The Cubs are in an unfamiliar position of not, at this point, needing to go on a run to prove to the front office they should add to the roster. Instead, they are positioned to be one of the best teams in baseball by the end of the year. 'You have to be pleased with how we've played the first half, but it's a looking-back thing, and so that doesn't guarantee you anything moving forward — it just showed you you can be a good baseball team, manager Craig Counsell said Thursday. 'It gives you confidence you can be a good baseball team. Now you have to do it for another 81 games. It's why the regular season in baseball is a great test that involves everything. It involves injuries, it involves struggles, it involves winning streaks, losing streaks.' As the Cubs look to deliver a strong second-half performance that leads them back to the postseason for the first time in a full season since 2018, there are three takeaways from their first-half effort. One of the biggest questions surrounding the Cubs coming into the year was who would step up in a largely unproven bullpen. Three months in, the group has collectively been one of the team's greatest strengths. Cubs relievers' 3.37 ERA is the fifth-lowest among big-league bullpens and they have been among the best in stranding runners on base with a 74.2% left on base percentage, which ranks sixth. 'I always sit at this time of year and talk about how we struggled early in the year in the bullpen and trying to find the path for everybody, and then got on a great run,' pitching coach Tommy Hottovy said Thursday. 'And to me, the stabilizing part of this team was when the bullpen became this really focused, important group that you could trust.' How the Cubs have built their bullpen has been equally impressive and done without a prototypical proven shutdown closer, as the role has vacillated from veteran Ryan Pressly to Porter Hodge and now to 25-year-old Daniel Palencia. The Cubs have brought out the best in a trio of relievers whose contributions have certainly exceeded projections. Drew Pomeranz's 24 consecutive appearances without an earned run allowed to begin the season was the team's longest since Andrew Chafin's 26 straight to open the 2021 season. Pomeranz, a 36-year-old lefty who had not pitched in the majors since 2021, has struck out 20 and walked six in 21 ⅔ innings. Chris Flexen didn't allow his first earned run until Sunday and has a 0.75 ERA in 24 innings (14 appearances). Brad Keller's stuff has boosted as a full-time reliever with a fastball up 3 mph from 2024, helping him post a 1.96 ERA over 36 ⅔ innings while producing the best strikeout-to-walk rate of his eight years in the majors. 'That group has really helped our team solidify what we do to win games,' Hottovy said. 'What we've proven as a team is we can score runs early, but we can definitely score runs late, too. And when your bullpen can hold you, that gives you the confidence as a team that you can score at any point in the game, which makes you pretty dangerous.' The Cubs expected the offseason addition of star Kyle Tucker to make the offense more dynamic, and he certainly has lived up to expectations. Paired with breakout offensive performances by Pete Crow-Armstrong, the first player to 20-20 in the majors this year, Seiya Suzuki, who has already matched last year's 21 home runs while his league-leading 67 RBIs are only seven shy of his career high, and Michael Busch's unheralded production (.273/.363/.506 slash line with 13 homers, 46 RBIs and a 148 OPS+), and the Cubs have been rolling offensively. The Cubs rank in the top five in most key offensive categories, including runs (second), home runs (third), batting average (third), doubles (fourth), slugging percentage (fourth), on-base percentage (fifth) and walks (seventh). 'We're sitting in a good spot, we've played a really good brand of baseball, I think that's the most impressive regardless of the record,' outfielder Ian Happ said Thursday. 'The most exciting thing about the first half is we've run the bases, played great defense, the offense has showed up, bullpen has been dominant, starting pitching has been really good. 'I think this group has a lot of belief in what we're doing on a day-to-day basis.' A six-month season inherently brings adversity. The Cubs have largely been able to navigate injuries through the first three months, though being without a starter of Steele's caliber will likely be felt in October if the Cubs get there. But even amid what was a challenging stretch that saw the Cubs lose five of six games and a three-game skid that was snapped with Wednesday's win, there hasn't been the type of calamity-esque stretches that defined the first half of their last two seasons. 81 down, 81 to go: What to watch for in the 2nd half of the season for Cubs and White SoxThe Cubs are only one of three teams — joining the Detroit Tigers and Houston Astros — who haven't endured a losing streak of more than three games. It's a testament to their offensive consistency, steady bullpen and key starters stepping up, like lefty Matthew Boyd, who has been stellar this year. 'It's just going out every day and expecting to win and feeling like you're in a really good place,' Happ said. 'We've put ourselves in that position from the April and May that we put together. It's been a little bit up and down here the last couple weeks, but a good couple of games put us in a position to keep rolling and just play that brand of baseball that we believe in.'
Newsweek
a day ago
- Sport
- Newsweek
Cubs Would 'Love to Get Their Hands On' Rival Mitch Keller at Deadline
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. The Chicago Cubs know they have a great opportunity to win the National League Central this year. However, they'll have to get some reinforcements next month to help make that possible. Currently, Chicago has just a three-game lead over the St. Louis Cardinals. Starting pitching is an area of need for the Cubs, and MLB insider Bob Nightengale noted they are keeping an eye on Pittsburgh Pirates starter Mitch Keller. PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 21: Mitch Keller #23 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches in the first inning during the game against the Texas Rangers at PNC Park on June 21, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - JUNE 21: Mitch Keller #23 of the Pittsburgh Pirates pitches in the first inning during the game against the Texas Rangers at PNC Park on June 21, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania."The Chicago Cubs, who have dominated the NL Central but have seen their lead getting a little too close for comfort, are one of the teams who would love to get their hands on (Mitch) Keller and (David) Bednar," Nightengale wrote. 'They are scouring the market for a starter, keeping a close eye on Alcantara (2 1/2 years remaining on his five-year, $56 million contract), Keller (3 1/2 years remaining on his five-year, $70 million deal) and Luis Severino of the Athletics (2 1/2 years remaining on his three-year, $67 million contract)." Keller has been one of the most unlucky pitchers this season as his run support has been minimal at best. The Pirates have scored three runs or fewer in his last nine starts as the offense hasn't done much of anything for him. His ERA this season is just a touch over four, so there's certainly room for improvement. The Cubs believe they can get Keller to the level they need him to be for a World Series run like they saw many times in 2023 when he was an All-Star. However, there are two factors that complicate any potential deal. First and foremost, the Pirates are going to be very reluctant to trade Keller to a division rival. Trading him will be a difficult decision itself much less strengthening a team they play 13 times per year. The other factor is the team control. Given Keller has 3 1/2 years left before becoming a free agent, the demand from the Pirates is going to be very high -- essentially a king's ransom. It's hard to see the Cubs being willing to pay that price. Keller would be a good fit for the Cubs, but a deal at this point in time seems more like a dream than something that would actually happen. More MLB: Tigers Could Be 'All In' on $120 Million Third Baseman If Red Sox Sell
Newsweek
a day ago
- Sport
- Newsweek
Cubs May Already Have Justin Steele Replacement In Mind
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Chicago Cubs' pitching rotation has been crushed with injuries this season. The biggest loss was Justin Steele, who underwent elbow surgery earlier this year that ended his season before he could really get going. The Cubs will need to hit the trade market in the coming weeks, and it's likely they hit it hard to find the best solution in their rotation. Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel of ESPN recently suggested the Cubs could be one of the best fits in a trade for Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zac Gallen. DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JUNE 08: A detail of a Chicago Cubs logo on a helmet against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on June 08, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. DETROIT, MICHIGAN - JUNE 08: A detail of a Chicago Cubs logo on a helmet against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park on June 08, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan."Gallen was excellent for the past three seasons, but now, in a contract year, is posting career-worst numbers in almost every category. His stuff looks pretty similar, but he's allowing much more damage when hitters make contact," they wrote. "Diamondbacks general manager Mike Hazen said the team does not plan to deal away players at the deadline, but if Arizona doesn't make a run, it could reap a huge return with all of its impending free agents." Gallen is the perfect buy-low candidate if the Cubs believe they can help him return to his old form. The Diamondbacks righty has been excellent for nearly all of his big league career, but during a contract season, he's been a bottom-of-the-barrel pitcher. With that in mind, the Cubs could buy low on him, likely acquiring him for much less than many expect, in a deal that would boost the Cubs' pitching staff. If Chicago can help Gallen return to his old form, the righty would be the boost Chicago needs to clinch the National League Central. More MLB: Astros Listed Among 'Best Fits' In Trade For $45 Million AL Ace
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Cubs Trade Idea Sends Kevin Alcántara, Jack Neely for Seth Lugo
Cubs Trade Idea Sends Kevin Alcántara, Jack Neely for Seth Lugo originally appeared on Athlon Sports. The Chicago Cubs should find themselves in the market for a starting pitcher at the trade deadline. Advertisement An impressive start to the season has them at 46-32 and atop the National League Central. The Cubs have dealt with Justin Steele's absence swimmingly and have navigated this stretch with Shota Imanaga. But, even with Jameson Taillon (3.84 ERA, 4.82 FIP), Matthew Boyd (2.84 ERA, 3.66 FIP), Colin Rea (4.42 ERA, 4.77 FIP), and Cade Horton (3.73 ERA, 3.78 FIP) holding down the fort, another top arm would propel this team into the upper echelon of contenders. According to Kiley McDaniel and Jeff Passan of ESPN, Kansas City Royals righty Seth Lugo is a top trade deadline candidate and a natural fit in Chicago. Here is what that trade could look like: Advertisement Cubs receive: RHP Seth Lugo Royals receive: OF Kevin Alcántara (No. 4), RHP Jack Neely (No. 15) Kansas City Royals pitcher Seth Lugo (67) delivers during the first inning against the San Diego Padres at Petco Poroy-Imagn Images Lugo, who is set to make $15 million this season and next, has a player option for 2026. This deal would likely require a contingency plan for Chicago to proceed. Alcántara and Neely are too much to give up for a rental. But, a year-and-a-half of Lugo could be worth diminishing some of the farm system. Lugo has been excellent in his 10th MLB season, going 4-5 with a 2.93 ERA, a 4.26 FIP, and 68 strikeouts to 23 walks over 83 innings for Kansas City. He is 35 years old, and this would be a risky, all-in move for the Cubs, but he could also be the key piece to this puzzle. Advertisement The Royals are hanging around at 38-40, but ace Cole Ragans is out with a left rotator cuff strain, and should he remain sidelined for an extended period, they could punt on the campaign. Related: Cubs Announce Pitching Roster Moves Ahead of Huge Cardinals Series Related: Cubs Urged to Solve 'Desperate' Need By Trading For Marlins' Cy Young Starter This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 24, 2025, where it first appeared.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Sport
- Time of India
Milwaukee Brewers vs Pittsburgh Pirates: Predicted lineup, venue, where to watch and odds (24 June, 2025)
Milwaukee Brewers vs Pittsburgh Pirates (Image Source: Getty) Tonight, the Milwaukee Brewers will host the Pittsburgh Pirates in one of the more highly popularized National League Central matchups of the season thus far at American Family Field. First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET. Both clubs will have a little something extra to play for, too, with the Brewers out in front of the division and the Pirates picking up steam after winning the series between the two teams earlier this week. This venue also comes equipped with a retractable roof, which can make holding a play on a troublesome day easier, so it should be a close, competitive night. Predicted lineup and key players of Milwaukee Brewers and Pittsburgh Pirates The Brewers will go with ace Freddy Peralta. Peralta is 7–4 with a 2.76 ERA in a season that finds him breaking out as the single biggest arm the Brewers have in their rotation. His last time out it was 6K and just 2 earned runs allowed. Christian Yelich has remained the mainstay of the Brewers' offense with 15 home runs and 56 RBIs on the season. Nick Gonzales w/ Career-High 5 Hits in Win | Pirates vs. Brewers Game Highlights (6/23/25) Rookie Jackson Chourio (MJ Melendez campaign) is bursting onto the scene with 12 HR, 22 2B, and 15 SB with speed and power. That is before we even get them adding even more thump to the middle of the order, like in the case of Rhys Hoskins and William Contreras. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 6 måder du kan stoppe med at arbejde med 2,5 mio. kr. Fisher Invest. Norden Undo Veteran left-hander Andrew Heaney will get the start for the Pirates. He has a 3–6 record and a 3.94 ERA, but hasn't pitched well lately, giving up seven earned runs in four innings in his last start. Defensively, Oneil Cruz will be a big threat at the top of the lineup with 13 dingers this year. Andrew McCutchen has turned into a dependable veteran who has broken 2,200 career hits. Bryan Reynolds, Tommy Pham, and Nick Gonzales complete the nucleus of the Pittsburgh order, which saw Gonzales come up with a career-high five hits in the series earlier this week. Predicted lineups: Milwaukee Brewers: Orlando Arcia – SS Christian Yelich – LF Jackson Chourio – CF Rhys Hoskins – 1B William Contreras – C Brice Turang – 3B Isaac Collins – RF Sal Frelick – RF Freddy Peralta – P Pittsburgh Pirates: Oneil Cruz – CF Andrew McCutchen – RF Bryan Reynolds – 1B Tommy Pham – DH Nick Gonzales – 2B Isiah Kiner-Falefa – SS Joey Bart – C Spencer Horwitz – 3B Andrew Heaney – P Odds, predictions and where to watch the match With moneyline odds sitting near –200 heading into tonight, the Brewers should be considered the favorite. The Pirates enter as underdogs, around +170. Analysts predict a final score that favors Milwaukee, and given the total is set in the low single digits, many are taking the under, and all signs point to a score of 4–3 in the direction of Milwaukee. Also Read: Christian Yelich breaks down after final goodbye to Bob Uecker Even with plenty of value in the Pirates covering the +1.5 spread, the betters have a distinct edge on the Brewers, fueled by Peralta's elite pitching and the Brewers' deep lineup. The action will be available to Brewers fans on Bally Sports Wisconsin, and the team will also be able to be caught by SportsNet Pittsburgh. The game will also be available to stream on FuboTV, but you may need a subscription to watch the game blackout-free. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here . Game On Season 1 kicks off with Sakshi Malik's inspiring story. Watch Episode 1 here
