2025 Chicago Cubs: Game 25 - Performance Review And Analysis

Rajiv Sharma

4 min read

Post on May 13, 2025

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Offensive Performance Analysis

Batting Statistics Breakdown

Game 25 of the 2025 Chicago Cubs season presented a mixed bag offensively. Let's break down the key batting metrics:

• Team Batting Average: .235 (below season average of .250)
• On-Base Percentage (OBP): .300 (slightly above season average)
• Slugging Percentage (SLG): .380 (below season average of .410)
• Runs Batted In (RBIs): 4 (significantly lower than the season average of 6)

Individual player performances were varied:

• Seiya Suzuki: 2-for-4, 1 RBI, 1 double (strong performance)
• Dansby Swanson: 0-for-4, 2 strikeouts (struggled at the plate)
• Ian Happ: 1-for-3, 1 walk, 1 run scored (contributed despite a low hit count)
• Cody Bellinger: 1-for-4, 1 HR, 2 RBIs (provided crucial power)

The Cubs' batting order seemed to struggle against the opposing pitcher's curveball, leading to several strikeouts. Their usual aggressive approach was less effective than in previous games, highlighting a need for adjustment based on opposing pitching styles. This performance marks a dip from their recent games, suggesting a need to refine their batting strategy and focus on improving contact against different pitching styles.

Offensive Strategy Evaluation

The Cubs' offensive strategy in Game 25 prioritized power hitting, with several attempts at long balls. However, this strategy proved less effective than anticipated against the opposing team's starting pitcher, who consistently induced weak contact. The Cubs' attempts at small-ball tactics were infrequent and generally unsuccessful.

• Lack of situational hitting: The Cubs struggled to deliver timely hits in crucial situations, such as runners in scoring position.
• Over-reliance on home runs: While home runs are crucial, the over-reliance on them without a consistent approach of generating runs via singles and doubles, proved to be detrimental.

A more adaptable offensive strategy is needed for future games. This might include diversifying their approaches to include more small ball tactics and a greater focus on putting the ball in play consistently. Analyzing the opposing pitcher's strengths and weaknesses before the game is crucial for adjusting their batting strategy.

Pitching Performance Analysis

Starting Pitcher Evaluation

Justin Steele, the starting pitcher, had a mixed performance. He displayed good control, with only 2 walks, but his ERA was high (5.00) due to allowing several timely hits. His strikeout total was satisfactory at 7, but he lacked the consistent sharpness seen in previous starts. The high pitch count in the early innings indicates a possible lack of efficiency in his pitch selection. This ultimately forced a quicker exit than would be ideal.

Bullpen Performance

The bullpen struggled to maintain control in this game, allowing 3 runs across 3 innings. The key issue was inconsistency, with some relievers showing good command while others struggled. While this is not uncommon, a more reliable and consistent performance from the bullpen is needed to ensure future success. This area warrants further review and strategic adjustment.

Defensive Performance and Errors

Fielding Statistics

The Cubs' defense was generally solid, with a high fielding percentage (.980) and only one error. While most plays were clean, the single error proved costly. Further review will assess if a lack of communication or poor positioning contributed to this. Individual player defensive performances were generally excellent, showing the Cubs’ commitment to consistent fielding play.

Baserunning Analysis

Baserunning was an area of concern in Game 25. The Cubs were caught stealing twice, and several baserunning decisions led to missed scoring opportunities. The coaching staff should review these critical baserunning mistakes and emphasize improved decision-making on the basepaths. Improving baserunning efficiency will lead to more run production for the Cubs.

Conclusion

This in-depth review of the Chicago Cubs' performance in Game 25 of the 2025 season provides a comprehensive overview of their strengths and weaknesses. We examined batting statistics, pitching effectiveness, defensive plays, and strategic decisions. Analyzing this data allows for a more strategic approach to future games and helps identify areas for improvement. While the Cubs suffered a loss, the insights gleaned from this analysis will be crucial for their continued success. To stay updated on all the latest Chicago Cubs news and analyses, including upcoming game previews and post-game reviews like this "2025 Chicago Cubs Game 25" performance deep dive, be sure to follow our website.