Base Running Takes Center Stage in Cubs’ Victory
PHOENIX — In a thrilling turn during the Chicago Cubs’ 10-6 win against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Thursday, Nico Hoerner raced to second base, narrowly beating a throw from third baseman Eugenio Suárez. This play allowed Matt Shaw to secure an infield single, showcasing the impressive base-running skills of the Cubs, a detail that caught the attention of a local reporter.
A Focus on Speed
Although speed may not have been the initial identity envisioned for the team, it became a key goal for manager Craig Counsell when he brought on base coaches Quintin Berry and Jose Javier. Berry, the Cubs’ third-base coach, previously excelled as a first-base coach for the Milwaukee Brewers, while Javier came from a coaching role with the New York Yankees’ Triple-A affiliate focusing on outfield defense and base running. They played crucial roles in emphasizing the importance of base running during spring training, which proved to be vital in the Cubs’ season-opening victory.
Impactful Plays in Critical Moments
During the fifth inning of Thursday’s game, with the Cubs barely ahead by one run, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s hustle helped him beat a throw to second on a ball that stayed within the infield, leading to the bases being loaded for Miguel Amaya. He responded with a timely double to center field, expanding their lead to four runs.
Balancing Aggression with Tactics
“They add up,” Counsell remarked on the significance of seemingly minor plays. “You’re not going to get the big hit every night, but when you execute plays like that leading to a three-run hit, you see the value.” However, Counsell also cautioned that this aggressive style might lead to additional outs, as seen in Friday’s 8-1 defeat to the Diamondbacks where Crow-Armstrong got picked off after drawing a walk.
Learning from Setbacks
This loss was marked by a disappointing performance from pitcher Jameson Taillon, who allowed six runs on nine hits, including two home runs from Suárez, while the batting lineup struggled, mustering only three hits and falling to 1-for-9 with runners in scoring position. “We’re gonna shake this one off and come back tomorrow,” catcher Carson Kelly noted.
Promising Signs for the Season Ahead
Despite the tough loss on Friday, the Cubs were encouraged by their earlier success, reinforcing the principles practiced throughout spring training. Berry highlighted that witnessing early results reinforces the team’s identity and emphasizes their approach to the game.
Building a Base Running Culture
With players like Hoerner, Shaw, and Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs boast significant speed, complemented by solid base runners like Tucker and Dansby Swanson. The team’s roster is designed to create chaos on the basepaths, which could lead to mistakes by opponents. Team president Jed Hoyer has underscored the importance of outpacing projections through meticulous attention to detail. By embracing a culture built around base running, the Cubs may find a pathway back to October.”Fight for every inch,” Berry concluded. “Our guys must stay engaged to recognize opportunities to win, whether it’s advancing bases or capitalizing on two-out situations. Our players are committed to embodying this mentality.”
