What Is 2019 Chicago Cubs baseball team

Overview

The 2019 Chicago Cubs entered the season aiming to reclaim dominance in the National League Central after two consecutive division titles in 2016 and 2017. Despite high expectations, the team struggled with consistency and finished with an 84–78 record, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2014.

Under the leadership of manager Joe Maddon, who parted ways with the team after the season, the Cubs showed flashes of offensive strength but faltered in crucial stretches. The season marked the end of an era as key figures transitioned out, setting the stage for a roster overhaul.

• Kyle Schwarber hit 38 home runs, the most by a Cubs left-handed batter since 1998, showcasing his power despite a low batting average.
• Javier Báez recorded 87 RBIs and earned his second consecutive All-Star selection, solidifying his status as a fan favorite and team leader.
• The team hit 220 home runs, ranking fifth in Major League Baseball, led by Schwarber, Báez, and Anthony Rizzo.
• Kris Bryant played in only 102 games due to a shoulder injury, limiting his impact during a pivotal contract year.
• The Cubs’ starting rotation posted a collective 4.67 ERA, the highest among NL Central teams, highlighting pitching inconsistencies.

Performance & Roster Dynamics

The 2019 campaign was defined by offensive highs and defensive and pitching shortcomings. Injuries, managerial decisions, and underperformance from key players shaped a transitional season for the franchise.

• Yu Darvish improved significantly after 2018 struggles, finishing with a 6–7 record and a 4.95 ERA over 171 innings.
• Jon Lester started 32 games and led the rotation with 11 wins, though his 3.44 ERA was his highest since 2015.
• Willson Contreras batted .238 with 19 home runs but faced criticism for defensive lapses behind the plate.
• The bullpen’s 4.51 ERA ranked 22nd in MLB, with closer Craig Kimbrel struggling after signing late in the season.
• Anthony Rizzo provided stability with a .293 average, 27 homers, and 94 RBIs in 156 games played.
• The Cubs went 42–39 at home but underperformed on the road with a 42–39 record, showing no clear advantage in Wrigley Field conditions.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 2019 Cubs stacked up against key division rivals in the National League Central:

Despite ranking near the top in home runs, the Cubs’ pitching deficiencies—especially in the starting rotation—kept them from contending. Their 4.67 starting ERA was the worst among the top three teams in the division, exposing a critical weakness.

Why It Matters

The 2019 season served as a turning point for the Cubs, marking the end of the Joe Maddon era and prompting a shift in team strategy. The failure to reach the postseason prompted front-office changes and roster reevaluation, influencing the team’s trajectory into the 2020s.

• The Cubs’ decision to part ways with Joe Maddon after five seasons signaled a need for new leadership and culture reset.
• Contract decisions loomed large, especially for Kris Bryant, who filed a grievance over service time manipulation in 2020.
• The team’s reliance on home runs highlighted a modern MLB trend but also exposed vulnerabilities in small-ball and situational hitting.
• Underperformance in pitching led to a restructured rotation in 2020, including trades and free-agent signings.
• The season underscored the competitive balance in the NL Central, where small margins separated playoff teams from also-rans.
• Wrigley Field attendance remained strong at 3.3 million fans, reflecting enduring fan support despite on-field struggles.

Ultimately, the 2019 Chicago Cubs season was a bridge between championship contention and rebuilding. While not a disaster, it revealed systemic issues that required long-term solutions beyond quick fixes.