Overview
- The Cubs lost 2-1 in extra innings on Sunday and Alex Bregman went 0-for-5, made the final out and told reporters, “I’ve been terrible. I need to play better.”
- Bregman’s overall numbers this season are below expectations with a roughly .243 batting average, five home runs and 19 RBIs across about 65 games.
- His situational hitting has been a focal problem with a batting average near .173 with runners in scoring position and the majors-leading total of roughly 143 runners left on base.
- Chicago’s offense has cratered since early May, a stretch in which the team lost 19 of 25 games and dropped from first in the division to a 34-32 record and fourth place.
- Front office leaders have voiced faith that Bregman can rebound but fan and media criticism is growing and the Cubs must restore timely hitting to protect their playoff chances.