The Chicago Cubs are poised to make a significant decision in next month’s MLB draft, holding the 17th overall pick. Speculation is rife as experts weigh in on potential selections. CBS Sports’ Mike Axisa has stirred excitement by suggesting the Cubs might choose Gavin Kilen, a standout second baseman from the University of Tennessee, as a future replacement for Nico Hoerner. Kilen has demonstrated exceptional hitting prowess, boasting a .357 batting average with 15 home runs and an impressive slugging percentage this season.

Hoerner, 28, who was drafted in 2018, has consistently been a key contributor to the Cubs’ lineup since 2021. If Kilen is drafted, it raises questions about his fit within the existing Cubs roster, especially with players like Michael Busch and Matt Shaw emerging as reliable corner infielders. Should Kilen’s hitting translate to the majors, it could lead to a reshuffling of the infield. Axisa notes that college infielders with Kilen’s track record rarely last long in the draft, heightening the anticipation around the Cubs’ selection.

The Chicago Cubs have established themselves as one of the premier baserunning teams in Major League Baseball, driven not just by speed but by a strategic mentality that emphasizes risk-taking and engagement. Pete Crow-Armstrong, with 21 stolen bases, exemplifies the team's aggressive approach, which is backed by a focus on collective awareness and situational awareness on the bases. This strategy has led to the Cubs boasting the highest run-scoring percentage in MLB at 36% and a stolen base success rate of 85%, well above the league average of 77%.

Manager Craig Counsell and third base coach Quintin Berry highlight the importance of team-wide engagement and attention to detail in executing baserunning plays. The Cubs have not only excelled in creating scoring opportunities but have also limited outs on the bases, ranking 19th in the majors with only 18 outs. Their impressive performance is a combination of speed from players like Crow-Armstrong and Kyle Tucker, alongside the savvy baserunning skills of veteran players. As they continue to lead the National League Central, the Cubs’ commitment to aggressive baserunning will be a key factor in their postseason aspirations.

The Chicago Cubs are currently leading the NL Central, holding a record of 40-25. However, their performance against the Detroit Tigers showcased a troubling trend as their offense faltered significantly. The series saw the Cubs lose 3-1, bounce back to win 6-1, and then collapse with a 4-0 defeat. In the final game, Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner was ejected for arguing a third strike call, which he believed was incorrect.

While Hoerner is having a solid season, currently slashing .286/.331/.357 with 28 RBIs, the team’s offensive inconsistency raises concerns. Starting pitcher Jack Flaherty shined for the Tigers, pitching six innings of shutout baseball, which added pressure on the Cubs’ lineup. Caleb Horton, the Cubs' pitcher, struggled, giving up four runs in five innings. As the Cubs prepare for a series against the Philadelphia Phillies, they must address their offensive woes to remain competitive in their division.

Voting for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game starting lineups has begun, with the Chicago Cubs showcasing a strong roster that could send multiple players to Atlanta, the host city, for the July 15 game. Notable candidates include outfielders Pete Crow-Armstrong and Kyle Tucker, with Crow-Armstrong leading the NL in WAR and defensive metrics, including outs above average. Tucker, while currently battling a jammed finger, is second in NL outfielders for on-base percentage and has a proven All-Star pedigree.

The Cubs also have strong candidates in Carson Kelly, who excels among catchers, and second baseman Nico Hoerner, who boasts an impressive batting average. Honorable mentions include Seiya Suzuki and Michael Busch, though they face stiff competition at their respective positions. With the Cubs' offense thriving, fans have the opportunity to shape the All-Star representation this season.

Michael Busch's standout performance helped the Chicago Cubs secure a solid 8-3 victory over the Washington Nationals, with Busch reaching base four times, hitting a home run, and driving in runs. In the absence of Kyle Tucker, Busch's steady batting—now boasting a .344 average—was pivotal, particularly in a four-run fifth inning that showcased the Cubs’ ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. The team thrived with runners in scoring positions, going 4-for-8, a testament to their offensive depth and strategic patience at the plate.

With strong contributions from players like Nico Hoerner and Cade Horton, who filled in for the injured Shota Imanaga, the Cubs continue to demonstrate their competitive edge in the league. Manager Craig Counsell praised Busch for his swing decisions and overall batting approach, which have remained consistent throughout the season. The Cubs are firmly in the mix for a strong postseason run, showing all the hallmarks of a championship contender.