The Chicago Cubs' recent slump continued with a 5-2 loss to the Brewers on May 19, 2026. The game was a stark contrast to their previous dominance, with the Cubs' offense struggling and their starting pitcher, Ben Brown, facing challenges. The author expresses frustration over the team's performance, particularly their inability to capitalize on opportunities and the recent drop out of first place.
One of the key issues highlighted is the Cubs' offense, which has been inconsistent and ineffective. The author criticizes the team's lack of clutch hitting, citing the strikeout of Michael Busch and Luis Rengifo's misplay of a ball at third base as examples of missed chances. The Cubs' struggles against right-handed pitchers are also noted, with the Brewers' offense proving too strong.
Despite the team's overall performance, the author finds a silver lining in Ben Brown's performance. Brown allowed three earned runs on seven hits and two walks, but his ability to record 15 outs through groundouts and strikeouts is praised. The author suggests that Brown's performance could be a sign of progress, especially with his pitch count reaching 82, indicating a full stretch-out for his next start.
The article concludes by emphasizing the team's need for improvement and the author's growing impatience. The Cubs' recent losses and their inability to maintain a lead have raised concerns, and the author questions whether the team's current form is a sign of a deeper issue. The article ends on a critical note, suggesting that the Cubs' struggles may be more than just a temporary slump.
