2010 Chicago Cubs season in review
With a 75-87 record the Chicago Cubs finished in last place in the National League Central. That is an impressive feat since they do play in the same division as everyone’s favorite Triple A ball club the Pittsburgh Pirates. They spent no days in first place, and at one point this season where 21.5 games behind the divisional lead. The only month they had a winning record in was September, and they went just 34-45 against their five divisional opponents. They also only managed a 8-10 record in Interleague play.
Even though they scored just 685 runs, 10th best among the 16 NL clubs, I do not think the offense is the real problem here. Granted they hit just 149 home runs, but they did have 1,414 hits which was sixth best in the NL. Their team batting average was .257 which was seventh best. Cubs batters struck out 1,236 times which was the fourth highest number in the NL, and they drew just 479 walked the third fewest. So there are some issues with the offense.
In looking at their numbers the problems seems to lay with the pitching staff. Their staff ERA was 4.24 the 4th highest NL staff ERA. While they did strike out 1,268 batters, they also issued 605 walks the most on the senior circuit. While three of their starting five pitcher did rack up double digit victories, three more finished with a losing record.
So far this off season they have added Carlos Pena at 10 million a year, and may be looking to add Albert Pujols which is kind of curios since they need help on their pitching staff. Of course it is rumored they are after Matt Garza or the rehabbing Brandon Webb. They may be thinking that their pitching owes was a fluke, an it may have been, but they are adding pieces for 2011.
Related Links:
- Chicago Cubs news and notes
- The Business of Major League Baseball
- Joshua Lobdell.com
