As the 2024 MLB season progresses, the Chicago Cubs have become a team to keep an eye on. While early projections had them as a mediocre team, the Cubs have quietly emerged as serious playoff contenders. Here’s why their postseason hopes are higher than many expected.
The Cubs’ 2024 playoff chances may be better than you think
Return to competitive play
After a rocky 39-47 start, the Cubs lineup has finally found a perfect blend of veteran leadership and youthful energy, leading them to a 59-61 record and just four games out of a Wild Card spot. Key players like Michael Busch, Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki have been consistent at bat. At the same time, younger talent like Pete Crow-Armstrong have provided the momentum that has been missing in recent seasons. This blend has allowed the Cubs to score runs in different ways, making them a tough opponent for any pitching staff.
Bellinger, in particular, continues to be a fixture in the lineup, hitting for average and providing crucial hits at crucial moments. Meanwhile, Happ’s hitting power has returned in full force, helping the Cubs stay competitive in close games. Rising stars like Crow-Armstrong have brought speed, defense and timely hits, making the Cubs a versatile offensive team.
Start rotation resilience
Despite initial concerns, the Cubs’ starting lineup has held up remarkably well. Shota Imanaga has been the ace the Cubs needed, consistently shutting down the opposing offense. Jameson Taillon has returned to form after a slow start and provides stability in the middle of the lineup as a veteran player. Meanwhile, Justin Steele has bounced back from his early-season struggles and provides depth and reliability.
Imanaga’s ability to dominate games has been a revelation, and his performance has given the Cubs a true ace to rely on in critical matchups. Taillon’s experienced presence and Steele’s improvement have solidified the rotation and made it one of the most reliable units in the National League.
Important acquisitions during the season
The Cubs front office made some smart moves at the trade deadline, signing players who made an immediate impact. The signing of Isaac Paredes increased the depth of the infield, while Jorge Lopez added another quality pitcher to the bullpen. These moves filled gaps and gave the Cubs the depth needed for a playoff run.
Paredes’ versatility has been invaluable, allowing the Cubs to rotate players and keep the lineup fresh. Lopez’s signing has added depth to the bullpen, giving the Cubs more options down the stretch and in a potential postseason series.
Bullpen breakout
One of the biggest surprises of the season has been the Cubs’ bullpen. Over the past few months, Hector Neris has proven to be a reliable closer, while Porter Hodge and Jorge Lopez have excelled in high-pressure situations. The bullpen’s success has allowed the Cubs to win close games, a key factor in their push into the playoffs.
Neris’ dominance in the ninth inning was crucial, as he converted save opportunities with consistency and confidence. Hodge and Lopez provided the necessary bridge from the starters to Neris, giving the Cubs a formidable late-inning trio.
Favorable schedule for the home stretch
The Cubs’ remaining schedule is relatively favorable, with several matchups against teams currently under .500. While no game is a guaranteed win, the Cubs can pick up wins against weaker opponents to increase their playoff chances. Additionally, the Cubs have done well in their division and are in a position to capitalize on slip-ups by the Milwaukee Brewers or St. Louis Cardinals.
By finishing against teams with a losing record, the Cubs have a chance to improve their winning percentage, while their success within the division gives them a chance to compete for the division title or a wild card spot.
A hungry team that wants to prove something
This Cubs team plays with a chip on their shoulder. They are motivated to prove the doubters wrong after missing the playoffs by one game last year. Manager Craig Counsell has done a great job of keeping the team focused and motivated, and the players have responded by giving it their all on the field every night.
The Cubs’ desire to prove themselves as a legitimate playoff team was the driving force behind their success this season. Counsell’s leadership was critical in keeping the team focused, and the players’ determination was evident in their combative performances.
Conclusion: The Cubs could be contenders
While the Cubs haven’t been among the favorites over the past few months, they have all the ingredients of a team that can make a splash come October. A balanced lineup, a robust rotation, a game-changing bullpen, smart additions, a favorable schedule and a motivated roster all point to a team that could surprise in the postseason. Cubs fans have every reason to believe that this year’s team could go deep into the playoffs. The road won’t be easy, but the Cubs are up for the challenge.
Main photo credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports
