Cubs off to Best Start Since 2016, but Superstar Struggles Cast a Shadow

The Chicago Cubs are enjoying their strongest start since their unforgettable 2016 World Series championship season. With elite defense, a deep rotation, and the emergence of promising young talents like Pete Crow-Armstrong, there’s a renewed sense of hope on the North Side. But while the team is flying high in the standings, there’s a storm cloud hovering above Wrigley Field — and it centers on one of their biggest names.

The Cubs’ superstar — a player expected to anchor the offense and lead both on and off the field — is struggling mightily, and the ripple effects are starting to show.

A Balanced Machine — Almost

On paper, the Cubs look like one of the most balanced teams in baseball. Their defense ranks among the league’s best, thanks in large part to the athleticism of Crow-Armstrong in center field and the sure-handedness of Dansby Swanson at shortstop. Their pitching staff, both starting and relief, has exceeded expectations. Veterans are holding steady, and newcomers are making a case for long-term roles.

Manager Craig Counsell has found the right mix early in the season, using matchups and platoons to great effect. The offense is doing enough to win games, particularly with contributions from young players like Michael Busch, Christopher Morel, and the aforementioned Crow-Armstrong.

Yet for all the collective success, the spotlight is glaring on one man: the superstar who was expected to carry the offensive load — and who, so far, hasn’t delivered.

A Cold Bat, Mounting Pressure

The player in question — once viewed as an MVP candidate and a cornerstone of the Cubs’ new era — is mired in a prolonged slump. His batting average sits below .200, with only a handful of extra-base hits on the season. Once known for his patience and power, he’s now chasing pitches out of the zone and looking visibly frustrated at the plate.

“It’s been tough,” he admitted in a recent postgame interview. “I’m working hard, trying to get back to who I am. But yeah, I know I’ve got to be better — and I will.”

For a team that’s aiming to compete deep into October, the Cubs know that to reach their full potential, their superstar has to find his rhythm. The team has been cautious not to pile on publicly, offering support and emphasizing process over panic. Still, behind closed doors, it’s clear the front office and coaching staff are searching for answers.

“We believe in his talent. Everyone goes through stretches like this,” Counsell said last week. “But we also know he sets a tone for us. Getting him going is a priority.”

Rising Stars and Roster Balance

The silver lining is that the Cubs aren’t solely reliant on their star slugger. Pete Crow-Armstrong has been a revelation — not just with his glove, but also with timely hitting and electric base running. The 22-year-old has quickly become a fan favorite, and his presence in the lineup is giving the Cubs a jolt of energy.

Likewise, Christopher Morel continues to be a spark plug, showing growth in his plate discipline and continuing to flash power. The pitching staff — from ace Justin Steele to reliever Adbert Alzolay — has been a strength, keeping the Cubs in nearly every game.

It’s that balance that has kept the Cubs winning even with their marquee player slumping. But fans know that to chase another championship, they’ll need all cylinders firing.

Trade Rumors or Turnaround?

Naturally, the rumors have started. Could the Cubs explore a trade? Would a short-term benching or lineup change help their star reset? For now, the answer appears to be patience — but the clock is ticking.

Baseball is a game of streaks, and players with proven track records often bounce back. The Cubs are banking on that happening soon. The team is still winning, but the pressure is building — both from the media and the fans — for the superstar to deliver.

“The fans in Chicago are incredible. They support you, but they also expect you to perform,” said former Cub Anthony Rizzo in a recent interview. “Wrigley’s a great place to play — when you’re rolling. When you’re not, you hear about it.”

Eyes on October

The Cubs are contenders. That much is clear. They’re playing inspired baseball, blending youth and experience in a way that feels eerily similar to 2016. But the ceiling of this team will depend on whether their superstar finds his swing.

If he does, this team could be dangerous. If he doesn’t, the front office might be forced to make difficult decisions as the trade deadline approaches.

For now, hope remains high in Wrigleyville. But eyes are on the batter’s box — waiting for the Cubs’ biggest name to rise to the occasion.