Cubs Turn to Best Players for Upcoming Crucial Series

As the MLB season nears its pivotal stretch, the Chicago Cubs are gearing up for one of their most important series of the year. With postseason hopes still alive but increasingly fragile, the team is turning to its top players to deliver clutch performances and keep playoff dreams within reach.

Cody Bellinger: The Offensive Anchor

Leading the charge is outfielder and former MVP Cody Bellinger, who has been one of the Cubs’ most consistent offensive threats throughout the season. After signing a one-year “prove-it” deal, Bellinger has bounced back in a big way, providing a mix of power, contact, and veteran poise.

In his last 10 games, Bellinger is batting over .300 with multiple extra-base hits and timely RBIs. His ability to perform under pressure will be crucial in the upcoming series, especially as the Cubs face top-tier pitching and tight playoff races. Manager Craig Counsell has leaned heavily on Bellinger in the heart of the lineup, and that strategy is unlikely to change now.

Seiya Suzuki Heating Up at the Right Time

Another player who has stepped up lately is Seiya Suzuki. After a somewhat inconsistent first half of the season, Suzuki has found his rhythm at the plate. His plate discipline has improved, and he’s seeing the ball better, which has translated into more walks, fewer strikeouts, and higher quality at-bats.

Suzuki’s resurgence couldn’t come at a better time. His ability to get on base and drive in runs will be vital as the Cubs try to manufacture offense against playoff-caliber opponents. Look for Suzuki to continue batting in the middle of the order, possibly in a protection role behind Bellinger or as a setup man for the cleanup hitter.

Dansby Swanson: Defensive Stability and Veteran Leadership

While offense is always a focus, the Cubs also know the value of strong defense, particularly in close games. Dansby Swanson, the team’s starting shortstop, remains a cornerstone of the infield defense. His Gold Glove-caliber play and leadership in the clubhouse have been instrumental all season.

Swanson may not be lighting up the stat sheet with his bat, but his defensive prowess, steady glove, and ability to turn double plays under pressure will be essential in a series where every out matters. His leadership, both on and off the field, also sets the tone for the rest of the team.

Pitching Rotation Anchored by Shōta Imanaga and Justin Steele

On the mound, Shōta Imanaga and Justin Steele are the pitchers the Cubs are counting on most. Imanaga, the left-hander from Japan, has impressed in his rookie season with his command and poise. With a sub-3.00 ERA and one of the best strikeout-to-walk ratios on the team, he’s earned the trust to start high-pressure games.

Justin Steele, meanwhile, has regained his 2023 form after a rocky start to the season. His recent outings have shown increased velocity and sharper breaking pitches — signs that he’s ready to lead the rotation into this must-win series. Together, they form a 1-2 punch the Cubs hope will neutralize opposing offenses.

Bullpen Depth and Key Arms

The bullpen remains a question mark, but there are a few arms the Cubs will likely rely on heavily. Adbert Alzolay, Julian Merryweather, and Mark Leiter Jr. have all shown flashes of dominance, though consistency remains a concern. Counsell may need to manage innings carefully, especially in back-to-back games.

In close contests, late-inning execution becomes the difference-maker. If the Cubs’ bullpen can hold leads or keep deficits small, it could give their offense a chance to come through late — something that has defined several of their wins this season.

A Defining Moment for the 2025 Cubs

This upcoming series isn’t just another chapter in a long season — it could be the turning point that defines the Cubs’ 2025 campaign. With several teams jockeying for Wild Card spots and division titles, every game, inning, and at-bat counts.

The Cubs’ strategy is clear: rely on their stars, stick to their strengths, and trust the process that’s brought them this far. If players like Bellinger, Suzuki, Swanson, Imanaga, and Steele rise to the occasion, Chicago could very well emerge from this stretch with renewed momentum — and a stronger grip on a postseason berth.