The Chicago Cubs, standing at 52–35, are currently leading the NL Central division as they prepare to face the St. Louis Cardinals this weekend. Their impressive offensive lineup ranks second in the league for runs scored, averaging 5.3 runs per game and accumulating a total of 125 home runs this season. The standout performer this year has been Pete Crow-Armstrong, who recently garnered his first All-Star selection as the NL's center fielder. With a .265 batting average, 21 home runs, and 26 stolen bases, his combination of power and speed has been pivotal to the team's success.

The Cubs recently made history during a Fourth of July game at Wrigley Field, where they hit six home runs within the first three innings, a franchise record. Notably, both Crow-Armstrong and Michael Busch homered twice in that span, marking a significant achievement. With four teams in the division currently above .500, the Cubs aim to solidify their lead as the All-Star break approaches. Winning the division title would mark their first since the shortened 2020 season.

Jordan Walker, a promising talent for the St. Louis Cardinals, has struggled to meet expectations after three seasons in the Major Leagues. While he boasts impressive scouting grades, including a 70-grade arm and 65-grade power, Walker has underperformed, hitting just .210 this season and .245 over his career. With Clay Snowden of Just Baseball suggesting he could be a 'change of scenery' trade candidate, the Cardinals may look to move him to capitalize on his potential before it's too late. The Cardinals have a deep outfield, making Walker's loss less impactful, but his upside could entice other teams seeking outfield help.

A fresh start could rejuvenate Walker's career, as history shows many players thrive after changing teams. With the trade deadline approaching, it may be time for the Cardinals to consider ending the Walker experiment and seek value in return while they still can.

The Chicago Cubs celebrated Independence Day in style, breaking a franchise record by hitting eight home runs in a single game against the St. Louis Cardinals, winning 11-3 at Wrigley Field. Michael Busch led the charge, hitting three home runs, marking the first time a Cubs player has achieved this feat since 2021. He became the third player in Cubs history to hit three homers in a game against the Cardinals, joining Moises Alou and Hank Leiber, both doing so on the Fourth of July.

Other contributors included Pete Crow-Armstrong, who had two homers and made a diving catch, highlighting the Cubs' dominant offensive performance. Busch's five RBIs and Crow-Armstrong's four hits helped extend the Cubs' lead over the Cardinals to 6.5 games in the standings. The Cubs have been one of the top offenses in the league this season, and this historic day exemplified their prowess. Manager Craig Counsell reflected on the emotional rollercoaster of baseball, recalling the team's struggles just the day before.

The Chicago Cubs dominated the St. Louis Cardinals in a fireworks-filled game on the 4th of July, winning 11-3. The highlight was pitcher Miles Mikolas, who allowed a franchise-record six home runs, contributing to the Cubs' fourth consecutive victory. Seiya Suzuki opened the scoring with his 24th homer, and Michael Busch shined with three home runs, leading to a historic eighth home run game for the Cubs. While the Cubs celebrate, the Cardinals face their fourth straight loss.

The Chicago Cubs showcased a historic offensive performance on Independence Day, defeating the St. Louis Cardinals 11-3 at Wrigley Field. With eight home runs, the Cubs not only set a franchise record but also tied the MLB record for the most home runs hit on July 4. Seiya Suzuki, Pete Crow-Armstrong, Michael Busch, Carson Kelly, and Dansby Swanson all contributed to the home run tally, with Crow-Armstrong hitting two and Busch hitting three.

This victory improves the Cubs' standing in the division as they now hold a 4.5 game lead, but the threat of the Milwaukee Brewers looms large as they compete closely. Although the Cubs’ offense has been on fire, their pitching staff remains a concern, having one of the weakest ERAs, which they need to address if they aim for a World Series run.