Chicago Cubs offense leads MLB as pitching struggles persist

The Chicago Cubs enter September holding the league lead in several offensive categories, including runs, home runs, and on-base percentage. Despite this production, the team’s pitching staff ranks as one of the lowest in MLB by fWAR. Multiple pitchers currently have a bWAR of 0.0 or lower, and internal depth options remain limited due to roster constraints and recovery timelines. Javier Assad cannot be recalled to the major league roster until September 5, while pitchers Justin Steele, Shelby Miller, and Edward Cabrera are currently working through rehab assignments. The team recently experienced a bullpen decline in a game against the Milwaukee Brewers. Management faces a decision regarding Shōta Imanaga’s next scheduled start on Friday in Miami as the club looks to secure a position beyond the wild card round.

• 5:00 PMYahoo Sports — Cubs pitching is even worse than you think it is