Cubs Fans Voice Concerns Over Starting Pitching in Recent Survey

This week, Cubs fans shared their biggest concerns in an SB Nation Reacts survey, and a slight majority pointed to the starting rotation as their top worry. Despite the early stage of the season, the sentiment reflects ongoing anxieties about the team’s performance on the mound.

However, not everyone agrees with this assessment. While the starting pitching has drawn scrutiny, the Cubs’ bench has also been a topic of contention. On paper, the bench appears to be an improvement over last year’s roster, featuring players like Dylan Carlson, Michael Conforto, and Scott Kingery. Yet, manager Craig Counsell has limited their playing time significantly, with only Conforto having started a game—yet to record a hit. Kingery has made just one appearance as a pinch-runner, and Carlson has yet to see the field this season.

There’s a belief that Carlson could provide a stronger presence in right field than Conforto or Matt Shaw, but decisions ultimately rest with Counsell. As the season progresses, fans are eager to see how the manager will utilize the roster.

The survey results were collected before Edward Cabrera and Matthew Boyd delivered impressive performances in their respective outings earlier this week, which may have shifted some opinions regarding the rotation. After six games, the outlook on the starting lineup seems more optimistic, with four of the five starters delivering solid results. The only blemish came from Shōta Imanaga, who allowed a three-run homer on a poorly placed pitch.

With Justin Steele’s impending return, there is a growing confidence that the pitching staff will stabilize. Meanwhile, the survey also touched on other national questions, with some participants expressing interest in the implications of Konnor Griffin’s recent call-up by the Pirates. As MLB’s top prospect, Griffin is poised to become a strong candidate for Rookie of the Year, turning just 20 later this month.

In previous seasons, MLB emphasized the excitement of having all 30 teams play on Opening Day, and many fans would like to see a return to that tradition. Thanks to all who participated in this week’s survey, contributing to the ongoing dialogue about the Cubs’ season.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.