The Cubs’ Biggest Weaknesses Are Colliding At The Worst Time

Andrew Kittredge was used as an opener earlier in the Wild Card series against the Padres, a tactic that allowed Shōta Imanaga to avoid the toughest part of that lineup early. That prior usage gives a template for how the Cubs might mix openers and multi-inning relievers depending on matchups in this series.

Counsell and pitching coach Tommy Hottovy have leaned on versatility from the bullpen, which is something that’s been both a strength and a necessity. The Cubs’ staff has tried to preserve leads through strategic sequencing, often asking relievers to stretch beyond their traditional roles.

Still, without early run support, even these tactical adjustments have limited effect. The bullpen can only cover so much ground when the lineup can’t manufacture runs or sustain pressure through the middle innings.

Why Offense + Rotation Problems Compound Each Other

If the lineup can’t put together multi-run innings, the margin for error for starters vanishes. Chicago’s rotation is capable on its best nights, but without runs the luxury of a lengthier leeway disappears, and the bullpen ends up in high-leverage work sooner and more often.

That combination, a sputtering offense and a rotation that’s been inconsistent, explains why Counsell and the coaching staff are juggling matchups and bullpen sequencing more than usual in a short series.

Veteran right-hander Jameson Taillon will take the mound for Game 3, marking his second postseason start of 2025. Taillon’s ability to command the strike zone early and work efficiently through the Brewers’ lineup could be crucial if the Cubs’ offense continues to falter. His playoff experience also offers some stability to a rotation that’s been searching for consistency, but without run support, even a quality start might not be enough to keep Chicago’s season alive.

As the series shifts to Wrigley, the Cubs need both immediate offense and clean starts. If Chicago can’t crack the lineup problem, starters and relievers will be asked to deliver near-perfect outings, and that’s a tall ask in October.

The Cubs have shown flashes of what they’re capable of all season, but playoff time magnifies every missed opportunity. Finding a way to translate those moments into sustained offense could be the difference between extending their run or watching it end too soon.