Cubs phenom already on the chopping block amid dreadful slide

The Chicago Cubs own a pair of 10-game winning streaks this season and have been one of the best teams in baseball for most of the year, but a recent skid in which they suddenly forgot how to hit has certainly caused a bit of a lull.

While starting pitching has been the Cubs’ primary bugaboo this year, mostly due to injuries, that hasn’t been the problem over the last week. Chicago has gone just 1-4 over its last five games, scoring a grand total of five runs in the process.

You certainly can’t point to one player in particular for the Cubs’ sudden offensive struggles, as there is plenty of blame to go around. But there is no question that Moises Ballesteros’ recent dropoff has played a significant role in the team’s slump.

Ballesteros has gone just 2-for-39 over his last 13 games, with both of his hits coming on May 3. He is currently mired in an 0-for-23 rut, and he hasn’t drawn a walk for seven straight contests. And just think: the 22-year-old was batting .400 less than a month ago.

So, is Ballesteros already in danger of losing his job?

Chicago Cubs could demote Moises Ballesteros

Ballesteros has been one of the top prospects in Chicago’s system for quite some time now, and seeing him break out in such a major way earlier this season was definitely rewarding.

However, it’s becoming abundantly clear that opposing pitchers have adjusted to Ballesteros, and the 22-year-old has not made his own proper adjustments to counter it. That could result in the Cubs ultimately sending him back to Triple-A Iowa before more damage is done.

As a whole, Ballesteros’ 2026 numbers look decent, as he is slashing .248/.308/.467 with six home runs and 20 RBI over 117 plate appearances. But he has homered just once since April 28, and his lack of walks is a problem.

While Chicago would absolutely love to keep Ballesteros in the lineup because of his potential, it’s also important to not risk ruining his confidence as a hitter. The youngster is officially in the danger zone with his current slump, and while a demotion is not what anyone would like, it might be for the best.

We’ll see if the Cubs allow Ballesteros to work his way out of this quagmire or if they simply decide a trip back to the minor leagues is best for all parties involved.

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