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Cubs Lean on Aggressive Baserunning to Spark Offense

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Alvin Garcia | Last updated Apr 4, 2025 4:00 PM ET

The Cubs are turning speed and smarts into one of their most potent offensive weapons.

While the wind at Wrigley Field might shift daily, manager Craig Counsell’s aggressive baserunning strategy has become a steady part of Chicago’s identity early in 2025.

From rookies like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Matt Shaw to veterans like Nico Hoerner and Dansby Swanson, the Cubs challenge defenses with every opportunity.

During Spring Training, new third base coach Quintin Berry led efforts to emphasize taking the extra base — not just stealing, but stretching singles into doubles, scoring from first on doubles, and staying alert for defensive lapses. That work has paid off.

Six different Cubs had already stolen a base through the first eight games, and the team turned aggressive base running into big innings in both the season opener and their 18-3 blowout over the Athletics.

Crow-Armstrong's hustle down the line to beat a double-play ball extended a rally that led to a three-run double from Miguel Amaya.

Shaw, meanwhile, scored from first on a double three times in the first week of the season. These plays reflect the team's focus on maximizing every opportunity to gain an edge on the bases.

The Cubs were already a top-five baserunning team in 2024, but this year’s group is looking to be even sharper. While they ranked second in MLB in outs on the bases last year, the Cubs are betting that calculated aggression will pay off more often than not.

Instead of waiting on homers, especially on days when Wrigley plays pitcher-friendly due to heavy winds, Chicago is leaning into athleticism, pressure, and relentless effort.

Their brand of baseball is fast, opportunistic, and designed to grind opponents down. For a team with playoff hopes, it’s a way to win on the margins — and a clear reflection of this club’s identity.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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