The Chicago Cubs have emerged as one of the most formidable offensive teams in Major League Baseball this season. With an average of 6.3 runs per game, they join a select group of only seven teams in the past 70 years to achieve such dominance over a full campaign. Their prowess extends beyond mere numbers, excelling in crucial situations and base-running exploits. This analysis delves into their standout performances, key contributors, and how these elements contribute to their overall success.
From the onset, the Cubs have demonstrated an extraordinary ability to score consistently. They lead the league with 14 games featuring six or more runs and seven instances where they've scored in double digits. In high-pressure scenarios, defined by FanGraphs' metrics, their weighted Runs Created Plus (wRC+) of 116 places them eighth overall, while their .788 On-Base Plus Slugging Percentage (OPS) ranks sixth. These figures highlight their effectiveness in converting opportunities when it matters most.
In situations with runners in scoring position, the Cubs shine even brighter. Their wRC+ of 137 and .858 OPS place second in the league, accompanied by the highest run total (125). When adding the challenge of two outs, their performance remains at the pinnacle, boasting a wRC+ of 141 and a .836 OPS, resulting in 56 runs—another league-leading mark.
Beyond batting, the Cubs wreak havoc on the bases. Leading MLB with 40 stolen bases while being caught only six times, their Base Running Runs Above Average metric from FanGraphs underscores their superiority (4.2). This combination of power hitting and aggressive base running has propelled them to the second-highest Wins Above Replacement (WAR) among all teams at 7.1.
Key figures like Kyle Tucker, acquired in a significant offseason trade, have been instrumental in this transformation. His impressive wRC+ of 187 ranks ninth in baseball, complemented by a fifth-place finish in fWAR (1.6). Players such as Seiya Suzuki also bolster the lineup, contributing significantly to its depth and versatility.
This multifaceted approach to offense exemplifies the Cubs' strategic brilliance. By maintaining high output in various game contexts and capitalizing on every opportunity, they continue to set benchmarks for offensive excellence in MLB.