The Los Angeles Dodgers have had a strong start in 2026, supported by a dominant pitching rotation that boasts a 1.91 ERA from their top three starters. Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs have won their last ten games despite struggles from key hitters Michael Busch and Pete Crow-Armstrong. Both teams are currently competing in a series against each other, highlighting their contrasting trajectories. As the season progresses, the performance of underperforming players like Roki Sasaki for the Dodgers and the production challenges for the Cubs will be crucial to their playoff aspirations.

By the Numbers
  • Dodgers' top three pitchers: 1.91 combined ERA with 91 strikeouts and 18 walks this season.
  • Michael Busch's exit velocity has dropped from 92.2 mph last year to 83.4 mph in 2026.
Yes, But

While both teams enjoy early season success, concerns linger for the Cubs over Busch and Crow-Armstrong's ability to produce offensively. Busch's dramatic performance drop raises questions about potential injuries. Crow-Armstrong's struggles at the plate mirror last year's second-half slump, creating uncertainty about his long-term contributions.

State of Play
  • Dodgers leading with the best starters' ERA and WHIP in the National League.
  • Cubs have shown resilience, winning despite contributions from struggling key hitters.
What's Next

The Dodgers will continue to evaluate Roki Sasaki's role as he works through control issues, while the Cubs need to address their offensive challenges to maintain momentum. Both teams must manage potential injuries and performance slumps as they head towards the mid-season mark.

Bottom Line

The early successes of both teams highlight their strengths but also underscore the importance of addressing individual player issues. The Dodgers must stabilize their rotation, while the Cubs need to unlock their lineup's potential to remain competitive as the season progresses.