If Craig Counsell’s blunt assessment of the Cubs’ performance this year shocked some, the players in the clubhouse didn’t seem rattled. Two leaders of the group, Jameson Taillon and Dansby Swanson, summed it up succinctly: “He’s right.

With nine days remaining in the regular season, the Chicago Cubs aren’t officially eliminated from postseason contention, but that is merely a formality at this point. It’s a disappointing position for the organization to be in,

The Cubs were supposed to set the pace in the NL Central but instead they're watching the Brewers celebrate a division title.

Kyle Hendricks #28 of the Chicago Cubs throws a pitch during the third inning of a game against the Washington Nationals at Wrigley Field on September 21, 2024 in Chicago, Illinois. Nuccio DiNuzzo/Getty Share Starter Kyle Hendricks received a roaring applause as he exited Saturday’s 5-1 loss against the Nationals.