MILWAUKEE — The Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers are closely matched teams, particularly in terms of offensive performance. While the Brewers lead in on-base percentage due to their strong batting average, both teams have similar strikeout and walk rates, ranking high in making contact and avoiding pitches outside the strike zone.
The main distinction lies in the Cubs’ aggressive approach to hitting. Chicago swings at pitches in the strike zone 66.2% of the time, ranking seventh in Major League Baseball, while the Brewers are at the bottom with 62%. This offensive aggressiveness has resulted in the Cubs outperforming the Brewers in power, hitting 57 more home runs and boasting significantly higher isolated power (.181 compared to .145). The Cubs excel in both metrics, where the Brewers fall into the lower third.
“This is why we aim to construct teams that excel in multiple facets,” remarked Cubs manager Craig Counsell. “While I’m not certain how many home runs we’ll hit, we strive to be proficient offensively in various aspects. We have managed to hit home runs, but it’s essential to cultivate a range of capabilities to rely on any moment’s strength.”
For the Cubs to succeed in this series, leaning into their power advantage is crucial. Counsell is eager for more slugging while emphasizing the need for increased runners in scoring positions.
“We need to apply more offensive pressure,” he stated. “Home runs are fantastic. We had only six or seven runners on base (on Saturday), which isn’t sufficient. Getting runners on the bases and slugging? I’d love that.”
The Cubs recorded six hits, including three solo home runs, along with three walks on Saturday but went 0-for-2 with runners in scoring position, failing to exert much pressure on Milwaukee during the first game.
They must improve in this area to take advantage of their power. In the postseason thus far, they have hit six home runs, all being solo shots. With heightened pitching quality in the playoffs, the best teams rely on their top pitchers, resulting in increased strikeouts and fewer walks. While the Cubs won the power battle on Saturday, they struggled in other areas—ultimately, the final score is what truly matters.
“They executed their strength (on Saturday),” Counsell commented. “That secured the win for them. Historically, it’s rare for a team to outhomer their opponent three to zero and end up losing. Until Saturday.”
