Brett and Michael are back for the sixty-seventh episode of the Bleacher Nation Cubs Podcast (Presented by Ankin Law)! And after weeks of frustration, the mood is noticeably better. The Cubs have won back-to-back series and five of their last seven games, creating at least some optimism that the worst stretch of the season may finally be behind them.

The offense remains a fascinating discussion point. The Cubs' struggles with runners in scoring position haven't disappeared, but the guys dig into why the issue feels so pronounced. The Cubs have actually done a great job creating offensive opportunities, which has only magnified their inability to cash them in consistently.

They also discuss why the trade deadline outlook remains complicated. If the Cubs want to address the offense, where exactly would a new bat play? Pitching, on the other hand, feels like a much cleaner problem to solve, making rotation help a natural focus as the deadline approaches.

Elsewhere, the guys examine encouraging signs from Matt Shaw, whose increased bat speed and improved play since returning may point to some early-season circumstances that held him back. They also discuss Craig Counsell's handling of Ben Brown, the importance of protecting an injury-thinned rotation, and where Moisés Ballesteros fits into the Cubs' plans moving forward.

A special thank you to Ankin Law for sponsoring this podcast!

Visit Ankin Law's Website ➡️ ankinlaw.com

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