ARLINGTON, Texas – The Chicago Cubs have reached a remarkable milestone, securing their second 10-game winning streak of the season with a decisive 7-1 victory over the Texas Rangers. This achievement marks the first time since 1935 that the Cubs have managed two such streaks in a single season, a feat only surpassed by their four streaks in 1906.
In this latest game, Ian Happ extended his impressive on-base streak to 29 games, while Michael Busch contributed significantly with a three-run double. The Cubs now stand with an outstanding record of 27-12, having won 20 of their last 23 games, with just three losses interrupting their recent success.
Manager Craig Counsell acknowledged the rarity of the accomplishment, stating, “That means you’re doing something that’s pretty rare, and I think we realize that.” This season, the Cubs have not only established a winning culture but have also showcased their ability to perform under pressure.
Historically, the Chicago Cubs’ 10-game winning streaks are a testament to their resilience and skill. The last team to have two winning streaks of this magnitude within the first 39 games of a season was the 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers, who accomplished it within their first 24 games. Nico Hoerner, the Cubs’ second baseman, reflected on the significance, saying, “Baseball is a game of a ridiculous amount of stats and things to look up, so anytime you have to go that far back, it is obviously a good sign.”
With two 10-game winning streaks already by May 8, the Cubs have demonstrated a level of performance that has not been seen in decades. Hoerner remarked on the peculiarity of such success, stating, “That’s a crazy sentence.” The Cubs’ recent form not only positions them as contenders in the National League but also sets a benchmark for their performance moving forward.
In contrast, last season, the Milwaukee Brewers had two winning streaks of at least 10 games, leading them to clinch the NL Central title, finishing ahead of the Cubs by five games. This context highlights the significance of the Cubs’ current performance, reinforcing their position as a formidable force in the league.
As the Cubs continue their winning ways, Counsell emphasized the importance of maintaining focus, saying, “If you break it to small things, it’s just come and play a good game today, and we played a really good game today.” The team has embraced a well-rounded approach, combining effective pitching with strategic offensive plays, a formula that has proven successful in their recent outings.
Reflecting on the historical nature of their current streaks, Ben Brown, who delivered four hitless innings in his first start of the season, noted the importance of teamwork. “That’s kudos to all the guys in the clubhouse, all the coaches, all the trainers, the sports staff,” he commented. “That is some goosebumps to think about how talented this team is. It’s special to be a part of, it’s special to witness, it’s special to watch.”
As the 2023 season unfolds, the Chicago Cubs are not just aiming for victories, but they are also making history. Their performance thus far has reignited hope and excitement among their fanbase, as they strive to build upon the momentum they have created in the early part of the season.
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