The Cubs' recent success can be attributed to their patient approach at the plate, a strategy that has paid off in a big way. While Pete Crow-Armstrong's home runs and clutch hits have certainly been exciting, it's his newfound discipline in taking walks that has truly impressed the team and fans alike. With an outrageous 1.243 June OPS, Crow-Armstrong's ability to draw walks has become a talking point, as the Cubs have made a staple of their identity out of walking. This is particularly fascinating given the team's extended period of offensive malaise early in the summer. The Cubs' success in walking is not just a fluke, as they rank near the top of the sport in on-base percentage and walk rate. This team-wide approach has fueled an offensive rebirth in the middle of the season, with players like Crow-Armstrong and Michael Busch receiving shoutouts for improving plate discipline. The Cubs' ability to get on base and draw walks has been a key factor in their 13-win streak, and it's this pedestrian base on balls that will likely be key to their championship-level goals. However, the team is not without its challenges, as they deal with an ever-increasing mountain of injuries. The Cubs' success in walking has been a refreshing change, and it will be interesting to see if they can maintain this momentum as they head into the break. In my opinion, the Cubs' patient approach at the plate is a testament to their strategic mindset and a refreshing change from the high-risk, high-reward approach that many teams take. It's a strategy that has paid off, and it will be interesting to see if other teams follow suit.
