Entering the 2024 season, the Chicago Cubs felt like an exciting team, capped off once Cody Bellinger officially made his return in free agecny. Among the upgrades this offseason, the Cubs also added the likes of Shota Imanaga, Yency Almonte, Hector Neris, and a top-100 prospect in the form of Michael Busch. Expectations for Busch were all over the place. No one knew if he would stick at first base. Many were curious why the Dodgers would part ways with a good player unless something was wrong. There has been a lot of doubt cast on Busch to begin the 2024 campaign. So far, he's living up to the bill and then some.
Busch has started at first base in each of the team's first 15 games. So far, he's off to a hot start, posting a .327/.393/.694 slash line with five home runs, 11 RBI, three doubles, and eight runs scored. Its only 49 at-bats, but Busch has been sensational hitting in the six-spot in the Cubs' everyday lineup.
Not only has Busch been great, but he's also riding one of the best hot streaks in baseball. Now, in four consecutive games over five days entering play on Monday, Busch has smacked a home run. He hit one in the final game of the San Diego series on Wednesday and hit home runs in all three games of the Seattle series, including the game-winner on Sunday.
Understanding his numbers will likely come down to Earth a bit, Busch can still have an incredible season. Let's assume his average regresses to somewhere between .265 and .270. In addition, let's assume the OPS is closer to .800 in total than the current 1.087. Let's also assume he will sit out a few games, so we'll peg him at about 152 games to be safe.
With all the considerations in mind and applied to his current stats, he could end the season with 50 home runs (his crazy pace lends to that, but even 30 would be insanely good). He would also be on pace for 111 RBI, 81 runs scored, 30 doubles, and 162 total hits. Again, this is just his current pace, just showcasing how good Busch is playing if applied over a full season. He's doing more than just hitting home runs. Rather, he is contributing by getting on base and driving the big guns in when he comes up to bat.
Ultimately, Busch is contributing at a level that few expected from the former Dodgers prospect. However, with a new full-time opportunity in Chicago and a home at first base, Busch can continue to grow and excel with his new club. Many fans of Major League Baseball might not know who Busch is, but now is the time to know the name as he comes into his own with the Cubs.
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