Cubs Lead NL Central Amid Injuries, Pomeranz Comeback

The Chicago Cubs have started the 2025 MLB season with a league-leading offense, scoring an MLB-best 324 runs and emerging as a serious contender, fueled by standout players like MVP candidate Pete Crow-Armstrong. Despite their offensive dominance, the Cubs have struggled at third base, a weakness rookie Matt Shaw is working to fix after a demotion to Triple-A helped him regain confidence and improve his swing. On the pitching side, the Cubs have benefited greatly from the unexpected resurgence of left-hander Drew Pomeranz, who returned to the majors after nearly retiring and has posted a 0.00 ERA in his first 13 appearances, providing much-needed stability to the bullpen. Pomeranz's comeback story is notable, as he was out of professional baseball in 2022 and had contemplated retirement, but a trade to the Cubs reunited him with a manager who previously helped revive his career. While the Cubs' recent success contrasts with their historical struggles, including being excluded from an "All-Quarter Century Team" due to a lack of sustained individual achievements, their current roster and emerging talents suggest a promising future. Cincinnati Reds fans, meanwhile, are facing frustration after losing a critical series to the Cubs, highlighting the Cubs' ability to impact rival teams' seasons.