Opinion
4 min read

Can the Cubs Overcome Recent Struggles to Defeat Angels?

In the world of baseball, every game is a new chapter, and for the Chicago Cubs, their upcoming matchup against the Los Angeles Angels at Wrigley Field presents an opportunity to turn a new leaf. The Cubs' recent performances have been less than stellar, with notable struggles both on the mound and at bat. However, baseball is a game of unpredictability and resilience, and this next game could very well be where the tide starts to turn for CHC.


Mar 16, 2024; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs pitcher Thomas Pannone (46) pitches in the ninth inning during a spring training game against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Allan Henry-USA TODAY Sports

Looking back at their last few games provides insight into what challenges lie ahead for the Cubs. On July 3rd against the Philadelphia Phillies, despite a valiant effort in a late-game rally that saw them scoring three runs in the ninth inning, it wasn't enough to overcome earlier deficits. The final score was 6-4 in favor of PHI. This loss highlighted some of CHC's ongoing issues: an inability to capitalize on run-scoring opportunities and pitching that couldn't keep opponents' bats quiet.


The offensive stats from that game paint a grim picture; with an overall batting average of .156 and leaving six runners on base (LOB), it's clear where improvements are needed. Their pitching didn't fare much better; while their bullpen managed an ERA of 2.25 over four innings pitched (IP), it was their starters who struggled significantly, ending with an ERA of 9 over five IP.


Mar 6, 2024; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Angels catcher Chad Wallach (35) scores a run against the Chicago Cubs in the third inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

However, not all is doom and gloom for CHC as they prepare to face LAA. In another recent outing against Milwaukee Brewers on June 29th, despite losing 3-5, there were signs of life from both their offense and defense. They managed eight hits leading to five runs scored - showing they can put numbers up when things click.


What stands out most heading into this matchup with LAA is CHC's need for consistency across all nine innings - both offensively and defensively. The Angels are no pushovers; any lapses will be capitalized upon by their hitters or exploited by their pitchers.


Mar 6, 2024; Mesa, Arizona, USA; Chicago Cubs third baseman Christopher Morel (5) tries tagging oput Los Angeles Angels second baseman Kyren Paris (19) in the third inning at Sloan Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-USA TODAY Sports

For fans looking forward to this encounter between CHC and LAA at Wrigley Field on July 7th at 2:20 PM EDT, there's more than just hope riding on this game; it's about witnessing whether or not this team can start correcting course mid-season. It will require every player stepping up - from starters throwing strikes consistently to hitters finding gaps in defenses rather than swinging for fences every time.


This upcoming battle isn’t just another day on the calendar; it’s a chance for redemption after recent setbacks have left many questioning if this squad has what it takes to compete seriously down the stretch towards playoffs contention.


Fans eager not only witness but also support CHC through thick or thin can catch all action live broadcasted MARQ network – ensuring no pivotal moment missed during what promises be thrilling showdown filled potential turning points season’s narrative thus far.

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