(670 The Score) The Cubs boast one of the top offenses in MLB early this season, and that’s in large part due to their plate approach.
In their 7-4 start, the Cubs are averaging 6.5 runs per game, which ranks second in MLB behind only the Braves (6.9). The Cubs have the second-best walk rate of any team at 12.4%, and that compares to a 20.1% strikeout rate, which ranks seventh in the league.
Cubs left fielder Ian Happ believes that plate discipline is simply a byproduct of the lineup they put out each day.
“We’re just having really good team at-bats,” Happ told the Bernstein & Holmes Show on Wednesday. “I think we’re super prepared. I think we’re looking in the right spots as a group. Everybody is doing their part to really zone in on where you need that ball to start for you to have the best chance of hitting one or two of his pitches. I think that’s kind of been the difference.
“Our lineup is formed in a pretty patient way. I think a lot of the guys we have in the lineup on a daily basis kind of have that character trait.”
Happ has been a key part of the Cubs’ plate approach, posting a .318/.434/.432 slash line while primarily working out of the leadoff position. He has a 17% walk rate on the season, which has contributed to that high on-base percentage.
The Cubs take on the Padres on Wednesday, with first pitch set for 5:40 p.m. CT in the rubber match of their three-game series in San Diego.