The Cubs' First Half: A Tale of Superstars, Surprises, and Resilience
The Chicago Cubs’ first half of the 2026 season has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. And when I say rollercoaster, I mean the kind that leaves you breathless, questioning every twist and turn, yet somehow still eager for the next drop. From devastating injuries to jaw-dropping performances, this team has given us plenty to talk about. But what’s most fascinating is how they’ve managed to stay afloat—and even thrive—amidst the chaos. Let’s dive into what’s been a truly unforgettable first half.
Pete Crow-Armstrong: The MVP Who’s Redefining Greatness
If you’ve been following the Cubs this season, you know the name Pete Crow-Armstrong. But what many people don’t realize is just how historic his performance has been. Personally, I think we’re witnessing the birth of a legend. Crow-Armstrong isn’t just the Cubs’ MVP; he’s in the conversation for the National League MVP, and rightfully so.
What makes this particularly fascinating is his all-around dominance. He leads the Cubs—and all of Major League Baseball—in position-player WAR, trailing only Shohei Ohtani, who’s essentially playing two positions. Crow-Armstrong’s 6.0 fWAR is no fluke. He’s hitting for power, stealing bases, and playing defense that’s nothing short of elite. His Baseball Savant page is a sea of red, which, if you’re not familiar, means he’s off the charts in almost every metric.
But here’s the kicker: he’s just 24 years old, in his second full season. The $115 million extension the Cubs gave him? It might end up being the steal of the decade. If you take a step back and think about it, Crow-Armstrong isn’t just a superstar—he’s the kind of player who changes the trajectory of a franchise.
The Unsung Hero: Jacob Webb’s Bullpen Masterclass
While Crow-Armstrong is grabbing headlines, Jacob Webb has been the steady hand in a bullpen that’s been tested like never before. Relievers don’t typically get MVP nods, but in my opinion, Webb deserves every bit of recognition. He’s been the glue holding the pitching staff together, especially with injuries sidelining so many key players.
Webb’s journey this season is a story of resilience. He started slow, with a 5.06 ERA in April, but since then? He’s been lights out. A 2.35 ERA, 1.01 WHIP, and 5 saves in high-leverage situations? That’s not just good—it’s essential. What this really suggests is that the Cubs’ bullpen, despite its injuries, has found a way to stay competitive, and Webb is a huge reason why.
Ben Brown: The Cy Young Contender Who Could’ve Been
Ben Brown’s season is a classic case of what could’ve been. If not for his injury, he’d likely be an All-Star. His 1.85 ERA and 0.94 WHIP are Cy Young-worthy numbers, and his transition from reliever to starter has been seamless. What’s most impressive is how he’s stepped up in a rotation that’s been decimated by injuries.
One thing that immediately stands out is his versatility. Brown’s ability to excel in both roles speaks volumes about his talent. At 26, he’s still young and under team control for years. If he can stay healthy, he’s going to be a cornerstone of this pitching staff. Personally, I think his breakout season is just the beginning.
Ryan Rolison: The Newcomer Who Saved the Bullpen
When the Cubs picked up Ryan Rolison off waivers in January, I don’t think anyone expected him to become such a vital piece of the team. But here we are. Rolison has been a revelation, stepping up in a bullpen that’s been stretched thin. His 2.80 ERA and 1.30 WHIP are solid, but it’s his consistency that’s been a game-changer.
What many people don’t realize is that Rolison wasn’t even a regular in the bullpen until May. Yet he’s tied for third in appearances and has been clutch in high-pressure situations. His 5 wins out of the bullpen are a testament to his impact. If you take a step back and think about it, Rolison’s emergence is one of those under-the-radar stories that could define the Cubs’ season.
Nico Hoerner’s Slump: The Mystery That Needs Solving
Nico Hoerner’s season has been… perplexing. After signing a $141 million extension, he’s hitting just .233, a far cry from his career .285 average. What’s even more baffling is that his underlying metrics—strikeout rate, expected batting average—are all elite. So, what’s going on?
In my opinion, this is one of those cases where the numbers don’t tell the whole story. Hoerner’s slump isn’t for lack of effort or talent. It’s just one of those inexplicable stretches that even the best players go through. But here’s the thing: the Cubs need him to turn it around in the second half. If he does, that extension will look like a bargain.
The Week That Had It All: June 28 and Beyond
If you want to encapsulate the Cubs’ season in one week, look no further than the end of June. They demolished the Padres 23-3, only to get crushed by the Cardinals 17-1 two days later. But it’s the 4-3 win over the Brewers on June 28 that stands out.
That game had it all: extra innings, a bases-loaded double play, and Jordan Wicks coming through in the clutch. It was the kind of win that could define a season. If the Cubs end up chasing down the Brewers in the division, they’ll look back at that game as a turning point. What makes this particularly fascinating is how it showcased the team’s resilience—something they’ve had to rely on all season.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Cubs?
As we head into the second half, the Cubs are in prime playoff position. But the question is: can they sustain it? With 66 games left, there’s plenty of baseball to be played. Crow-Armstrong will continue to dominate, but the team’s success will hinge on how the rest of the roster performs.
Personally, I think the Cubs have what it takes. They’ve weathered the storm of injuries, and their depth has been tested like never before. If they can stay healthy and get contributions from players like Hoerner and Brown, they’re a legitimate threat.
One thing’s for sure: this season has been anything but boring. And if the first half is any indication, the best is yet to come.
