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The Cubs Need Answers — And Fast

 

As a lifelong baseball fan, I've seen plenty of ups and downs, but what's happening with the Chicago Cubs right now is becoming increasingly difficult to watch.

In this episode of The Shawn Mackey Show, I break down the Cubs' recent struggles following what looked like one of the most promising starts in baseball. After sitting at 27-12 on May 8th, the Cubs have gone into a tailspin, posting a shocking 5-17 record since then.

The latest frustration came in a painful 2-1 loss to the Athletics. With runners on base in the ninth inning and the heart of the lineup due up, the Cubs once again failed to execute in a clutch situation. It's becoming a recurring theme that has many fans, myself included, asking serious questions about the team's approach.

I discuss why I believe the Cubs are struggling with situational baseball, why I would have played for the tie in the ninth inning, and why manufacturing runs has become a lost art in today's game. Sometimes a bunt, a productive out, or simply advancing runners can be the difference between extending a game and heading home with another loss.

I also dive into the continued lineup shuffling by Craig Counsell. Pete Crow-Armstrong has shown flashes of becoming an ideal leadoff hitter, yet the lineup seems to change constantly. Ian Happ remains one of the most polarizing players on the roster, and the Cubs continue searching for consistency from key veterans like Dansby Swanson and Alex Bregman.

The pitching situation isn't much better. With injuries piling up and questionable roster decisions being made, the Cubs are relying on unproven arms while veterans struggle to find consistency. The organization continues to make moves around the margins, but are they actually improving the team?

As the trade deadline approaches, Jed Hoyer faces perhaps the biggest decision of his tenure. Will the Cubs be buyers, sellers, or simply stand pat? The answer could determine whether this season ends in October baseball or another disappointing finish.

If you're a Cubs fan, I'd love to hear your thoughts. Am I being too critical? What changes would you make? Let's talk baseball.

Be sure to subscribe to The Shawn Mackey Show on YouTube for more baseball, football, basketball, and sports commentary.

👉 Follow The Shawn Mackey Show on YouTube: @ShawnMackey96

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