Analyzing The Cubs' Performance: Game 25 (2025) - Heroes & Goats

Aria Freeman

5 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

4.8

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Offensive Breakdown: Analyzing the Cubs' Bats

The Cubs' offense in Game 25 was a mixed bag. While there were moments of brilliance, inconsistencies hampered their overall run production. Let's examine the key aspects of their batting performance:

• Individual hitter performances: Seiya Suzuki continued his hot streak, going 3-for-4 with a double and an RBI, showcasing his consistent batting average. However, Ian Happ struggled, going 0-for-4 with three strikeouts, impacting the overall Cubs batting average. Cody Bellinger contributed a crucial two-run home run in the 6th, significantly boosting the Cubs' run production.

• Key offensive moments: Bellinger's home run was undoubtedly the game's turning point, shifting the momentum in the Cubs' favor. A crucial stolen base by Nico Hoerner in the 8th inning also put runners in scoring position, leading to an insurance run. These pivotal plays significantly contributed to the Cubs' scoring opportunities.

• Strategic approaches: Manager David Ross opted for a more aggressive approach at the plate in the later innings, ordering more swings at first pitches, a noticeable shift from their previous, more patient strategy. The success of this change is debatable and requires further analysis.

• Overall offensive efficiency: While the Cubs managed to score 5 runs, it was below their season average of 6 runs per game. This suggests that despite key moments of offensive brilliance, consistent run production remains an area for improvement in the 2025 Cubs season.

Defensive Highlights and Lowlights: A Look at the Cubs' Fielding

The Cubs' defense in Game 25 was a story of two halves. While there were spectacular defensive plays, costly errors also contributed to the opposing team's scoring opportunities.

• Outstanding defensive plays: Dansby Swanson made a highlight-reel diving stop at shortstop to prevent a potential extra-base hit, showcasing excellent Cubs infield play. In the outfield, Christopher Morel displayed a fantastic running catch to rob an extra-base hit. These plays highlighted the defensive prowess within the team.

• Costly errors: A throwing error by Patrick Wisdom in the 5th inning led to an unearned run for the opposing team, highlighting the importance of minimizing errors for strong Cubs pitching support. This error proved to be a critical turning point in the game.

• Pitching support: The Cubs' defense generally provided adequate support to their pitching staff, limiting the number of inherited runners and preventing extra base hits. However, the error by Wisdom, and a missed cutoff throw, impacted the overall defensive efficiency.

• Overall defensive efficiency: While the defense displayed moments of brilliance, the costly errors suggest a need for improved consistency. This aspect of Cubs performance will need continued focus to support the pitching staff effectively.

Pitching Performance: Deconstructing the Cubs' Mound

The Cubs' pitching performance in Game 25 was a blend of strengths and weaknesses. Let's break down the contributions of the starting pitcher and the bullpen:

• Starting pitcher analysis: Justin Steele had a solid outing, pitching 6 innings, allowing 3 earned runs, and striking out 7 batters. His ERA remained consistent with his season average. This solid performance laid the groundwork for the Cubs' victory.

• Relief pitching analysis: The bullpen, however, was less consistent. While Michael Fulmer pitched a scoreless 7th inning, the 8th inning saw some shaky relief pitching, increasing pressure on the team. This inconsistency needs to be addressed for future games.

• Pitching strategy: Manager David Ross made several strategic pitching changes, bringing in relievers based on the game situation and the opposing hitters. The decision to go with Fulmer proved to be a good choice, but there was room for improvement in later innings. The strategy needs further analysis for future game planning.

• Overall pitching efficiency: The Cubs' pitching staff managed to keep the opposing team's offense in check for most of the game. Their overall performance was reasonably efficient, but the inconsistencies in the bullpen require attention.

Identifying the Heroes and Goats

Based on their contributions to Game 25, we can identify the heroes and goats of the game:

• Hero: Cody Bellinger's two-run home run was a game-changer, and he was arguably the Cubs' MVP for this game. His timely hitting and positive impact on the game’s trajectory deserve recognition.

• Goat: Patrick Wisdom's throwing error proved costly and directly contributed to an opposing team run. His defensive miscue, despite his offensive contributions, significantly impacts his performance rating in this game. It needs to be added to the analysis of Cubs underperformers.

Conclusion

Game 25 of the 2025 Cubs season provided a compelling narrative, highlighting both exceptional individual performances and areas needing improvement. By analyzing the Cubs' offense, defense, and pitching, we've identified both the heroes and goats of the game, offering valuable insights into the team’s strengths and weaknesses. To stay updated on further Cubs game analyses and in-depth performance reviews, continue checking back for more detailed coverage on the 2025 season and future Cubs game recaps. Keep following our analyses of Cubs performance to stay informed!