Cubs Fall Behind Brewers in NL Central Amid Rotation Concerns

The Chicago Cubs have made significant roster moves, including acquiring Kyle Tucker and Michael Soroka, but concerns remain about their pitching depth as they contend in a competitive National League Central division. Soroka, expected to bolster the starting rotation, was sidelined early due to injury, increasing pressure on pitchers like Shota Imanaga, Matthew Boyd, and rising prospect Cade Horton, whose health and performance are critical for the Cubs' postseason hopes. Offensively, the Cubs have struggled since the All-Star break, with key hitters like Seiya Suzuki and Kyle Tucker in slumps, contributing to an 8-9 stretch record and diminishing their earlier offensive dominance. Despite these challenges, the Cubs hold the second-best record in the National League and remain four games behind the NL-leading Milwaukee Brewers, with a crucial five-game series against Milwaukee upcoming at Wrigley Field. Veteran Ian Happ has urged optimism, emphasizing that there is still ample time and opportunity for the Cubs to rebound and make a strong push in the division race. Overall, while offensive struggles and pitching concerns pose risks, the Cubs have shown resilience and remain a competitive force as the season progresses.