Reds vs. Cubs: Pitching preview, prediction, and more

You’ll need a scorecard to recognize this Cubs’ roster.

As the dust settled on the 2021 July trade deadline, Cubs fans must have felt like they were run over by a Mack truck. When the Cubbies opened their July 30th series in Washington DC against the Nationals, Javier Baez, Kris Bryant, Craig Kimbrel, and Anthony Rizzo were all wearing different uniforms.

Just five seasons removed from their first World Series victory since 1908, Wilson Contreras, Kyle Hendricks, and Jason Heyward remain the only connection to the 2016 championship team. It may not be 108 years until their next title, but a championship won’t arrive to the Friendly Confines anytime soon.

Currently, the aforementioned Contreras and Heyward are both on the IL with various injuries, along with other recognizable names such as Nico Hoerner. In their place are the likes of 37-year-old backstop Robinson Chirinos and rookies Sergio Alcantara and Frank Schwindel.

Talk about making a positive first impression Schwindel has done just that. A former 18th-round selection of the Kansas City Royals, the 29-year-old right-handed hitter has been on fire since joining the Cubs.

Playing for his third organization in three seasons following releases from the Royals and the Oakland A’s, Schwindel is slashing .381/.422./.714 with three homers and 12 RBI’s in 42 at-bats entering play yesterday. Is he a long-term answer for the Cubs? Chances are he’s not, but I’m sure they’ll ride his hot hand as long as possible.