The Cubs are on a roll, and it's all thanks to their star players stepping up. Pete Crow-Armstrong (PCA) is on fire, extending his on-base streak to a career-high 22 games. His improved swing decisions and bat speed are a testament to his hard work, and it's paying off. With a .304/.423/.558 slash line, he's a force to be reckoned with. But it's not just PCA who's shining. Ben Brown is having a career-changing season, thanks to the addition of a sinker and the development of his changeup. His ERA is a mere 1.85, and he's under team control through 2030. However, there's a question mark hanging over Nico Hoerner's development plan. If the Cubs have indeed been working on pulling the ball more, how is the decision to abandon this plan made? Is it a case-by-case decision, or does it require higher-level intervention from Jed Hoyer? It's a delicate balance, and one that could impact a player's career trajectory. Moving on to the bench, Justin Dean's bases-clearing triple was a highlight, showcasing his speed and potential as a 'speed and defense' bench player. Carson Kelly, on the other hand, has been generally good this season, and if he rediscovers his power against right-handed pitchers, the 2025 version of him could be on the horizon. The farm system is also producing talent, with Josiah Hartshorn leading the way with 55 RBI and 13 home runs. Jonathon Long is also swinging it like he did in 2025, and Logan Poteet is putting together another great week at Low-A. The Cubs are in good hands, and it's exciting to see their progress. But it's not just about the players; it's also about the organization's ability to make tough decisions and adapt to changing circumstances. The future looks bright for the Cubs, and it's a pleasure to be a part of this journey.
