Cubs' Clutch & Atlanta Challenge: A Critical Series Awaits!

The Leadoff Man

Kyle Hendricks Returns with a Vintage Performance; Patrick Wisdom - The Unexpected Three True Outcomes (TTO) Star; Cubs Prepare for Atlanta Showdown

As our Cubs sit just a half-game back from the top in the NL Central, the team's recent performances hint at a promising momentum. Kyle Hendricks' surprise return from rehab and a pivot to an old-school style delivered a much-needed boost, while Patrick Wisdom's alignment with a classic Cubs strategy—the Three True Outcomes—draws mixed feelings. As we look ahead, the Cubs are gearing up for a crucial series in Atlanta, where the team will face a formidable Braves squad. Get ready, fans, for an exciting week of baseball that keeps the heart of the Cubs beating strong!

Kyle Hendricks' Stellar Comeback

Despite topping out at just 90.2 mph, Kyle Hendricks turned heads with a strategic pitching gem, marking his best start of the season.

After the adrenaline rush of high-velocity showdowns against the Pirates, Kyle Hendricks dialed it back with precision and finesse, delivering what can only be described as a masterclass in pitching. With the Cubs in a tight spot due to injuries, Hendricks' return was nothing short of critical. Instead of another rehab start in Triple-A, he found himself on the mound for the big league team, facing the Pirates in a crucial series game. His ability to avoid the heart of the plate played a pivotal role, allowing him to limit hard hits and keep his composure even against the toughest hits, like Oneil Cruz's near-miss homer that just cleared the Clemente Wall. This outing wasn't just a win in the books; it was a significant step forward for Hendricks because I had all but written him off when he went on the Injured List last month. Craig Counsell's decision to bring him back proved that thankfully, they know something that we don’t. Hendricks may still have it!

Patrick Wisdom's Surprising Turnaround

Could Patrick Wisdom Fill An Unexpected Role We Need?

Let's talk about Patrick Wisdom. Yeah, the guy I was ready to write off. Turns out, we might need to hold the phone on that dismissal. This season, Wisdom's showing us some new tricks that could just make him a key player for the Cubs. Traditionally a "three true outcomes" kind of hitter, he's been mixing it up at the plate with some interesting results. His strikeout rate has dipped to a more palatable 24.1% from a towering 36.8%, bringing him closer to the MLB average. And walks? He’s walking so much he might need new shoes—his rate’s jumped to 17.2%!

Here's the kicker: Patrick was already known for hitting the ball hard—like, really hard. Last year, he was in the top 8% for exit velocity. If he keeps striking out less and taking more walks, we're looking at a player who's not just back in the game but could be a game-changer. It’s a bit like finding out the quiet guy at the party knows how to dance. Well.

So, maybe it’s time to stop the presses and give Patrick Wisdom a second chance at making a first impression. Who knows? He could be swinging his way into a vital role for the Cubs, much like Kyle Hendricks has with his pitching wizardry.

Cubs Head to Atlanta After Triumphant Series in Pittsburgh

Cubs Take On Elite Braves Amidst Injury Uncertainties

Fresh off clinching two out of three against the Pirates, our Cubs are heading south to face one of their toughest challenges yet—the Atlanta Braves. While the Braves' impressive 24-12 record paints the picture of a powerhouse, they're currently navigating some choppy waters. Key player Austin Riley might be sidelined after what looked like a painful swing and miss on Mother’s Day, and their star catcher Sean Murphy hasn’t caught a single game this season due to an Opening Day mishap.

However, don’t let the injury list fool you; the Braves remain an elite team with Marcell Ozuna having Triple Crown Numbers, the Braves are hot on the Phillies' heels in the NL East. This series at Truist Park is a crucial litmus test for our Cubs. With matchups that read like a who’s who of 2024 pitching prowess—Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon (hopefully!), and Javier Assad taking on Reynaldo Lopez (1.53 ERA), Chris Sale (11 K/9), and Charlie Morton—this is going to be a big test for the Cubs

The Braves have been dominating at home and have been winning. Can the Cubs outmaneuver an elite team and prove their mettle? If we can sneak out of ATL with 2 wins, that would be a huge victory for the Cubs

The Closer: Cubs Charge Into Braves Territory

What a ride it’s been, Cubs fans! Our boys have been dodging injuries like they’re in a game of laser tag—Suzuki, Bellinger, Swanson, Wisdom, you name a starter, and they've probably been knicked up this year. Same story on the pitcher's mound with Steele, Taillon, and Hendricks all having their share of bench time. But hey, guess what? We’re still standing strong, six games over .500!

Now, here comes the real litmus test. We’re packing up and heading to Atlanta to face those powerhouse Braves. It’s like showing up to a pop quiz and realizing it’s actually the final exam. Our younger Cubs have been stepping into the big shoes left by our starters, and let’s just say, MLB doesn’t hold back on the rookies. It’s been a mix of trial by fire and a crash course in Baseball 101.

Looking Ahead: Atlanta's got their own set of stats that could make any team sweat a bit. They’re tough at home(13-4), and they’re not in the business of handing out easy wins. For our Cubs, it’s time to roll up the sleeves and find out who we are.

Let’s Rally: So, what do you say, Cubs fans? Let’s get loud and proud, whether you’re in the stands, at the bar, or on your sofa. Throw on your lucky jersey, grab your favorite game-day snack, and let’s make some noise. Talk tactics, dissect plays, and keep the spirit sky-high!

Stay tuned, stay excited, and let’s keep those good vibes rolling. Go Cubs Go! Let’s take the fight to Atlanta and come back with more than just a couple of wins under our belt.