Major League Baseball’s unpredictable season continues, according to The Athletic. The 2026 MLB season has crossed the two-month mark, showcasing surprising performances from the Chicago Cubs and Oakland Athletics. These teams highlight the contrasting dynamics within the league as of May 27, 2026.
What happened
The MLB’s season reached its two-month milestone on May 27, 2026. The Chicago Cubs, currently holding a record of 31-27, find themselves five games behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central. Despite having one of the best lineups in baseball and five Gold Glove defenders, the team’s pitching troubles have led to inconsistencies. They experienced two 10-game winning streaks juxtaposed with a notable 10-game losing streak, a rarity in league history.[1]
In the American League West, the Oakland Athletics stand at 27-30. They have led their division for much of the season but are now trailing the disappointing Seattle Mariners by one and a half games. The A’s have showcased talent in first baseman Nick Kurtz, who is on a promising career trajectory, and catcher Shea Langeliers, who is considered the most valuable player at his position. Recently, the team called up lefty Gage Jump to bolster their struggling pitching staff.
Why it matters
The performances of these two teams reflect broader trends within Major League Baseball. The Cubs, while talented, face a daunting challenge in the competitive National League, where playoff qualification is uncertain despite their skill. Conversely, the A’s find themselves in a unique position; despite being mediocre, their chances of making the postseason remain viable in a year filled with surprising outcomes.[2]
Background
On April 15, 2026, the MLB season commenced, bringing forth expectations and uncertainties for various teams. As the season progressed, many anticipated strong performances across the leagues, especially from teams like the Cubs who were projected as contenders. The unexpected struggles faced by the A’s and the wildly fluctuating performance of the Cubs have emerged as significant talking points.[3]
What’s next
The Cubs and Athletics will continue their seasons with upcoming games this week, as both teams aim to solidify their standings in their respective divisions. The Cubs’ need for pitching reinforcements will be critical to their playoff aspirations.
