Only in Wrigleyville. A Cubs-Cardinals Fog Game, with neighborhood fireworks going off on the Fourth of July, became another chapter to this unpredictable season. The one constant, though, has been Pete Crow-Armstrong as the center of attention. There was no mystery or suspense around who would be the Cubs’ All-Star representative. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney explain how PCA got to this next level and why this performance is sustainable. Plus, a look at the state of the pitching staff with a much-needed All-Star break on the horizon.

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As a heat wave descended upon Chicago, the Cubs turned their games at Wrigley Field into batting practice, setting off some offensive fireworks before the Fourth of July. After questions about whether he should be benched, Swanson has responded with a red-hot stretch. Bregman hasn’t really heated up yet, but he’s in the news for a lack-of-hustle moment and a thumbs-down gesture. And oh by the way, Pete Crow-Armstrong just had one of the best months ever for a franchise marking its 150th anniversary. The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney break it all down.

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Big show announcement: Jon Lester, a three-time World Series champion, will be making regular appearances as a special guest analyst on North Side Territory. In his debut episode with The Athletic’s Sahadev Sharma and Patrick Mooney, Lester talks about the 10-year reunion tour for his 2016 teammates, what made that championship club so special and how it compares to this year’s squad. Lester also explains what Alex Bregman is going through as a big free agent in a new city, the importance of clubhouse chemistry and how to approach this roller-coaster season.

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