Cubs Showcase Their Defense Against the Padres: Can They Outperform the Brewers in the NLDS?

Continue to tune into the postseason clash between the NL Central rivals, the Milwaukee Brewers and the Chicago Cubs. This will be the first postseason face-off between these two teams after their division title tie in 2018, which was a regular season event. While the Brewers enjoyed some rest during their bye, the Cubs had to battle it out against the Padres.

Defensive Mastery

The Cubs put on a defensive display highlighted by exceptional craftsmanship from their middle infielders: Nico Hoerner, Dansby Swanson, and center fielder Nico Hoerner. This familiar prowess is expected in the series against a Brewers team known for their strong defense as well.

In terms of overall defensive efficiency, the Cubs ranked second in the league, managing a 71.9% conversion of balls into outs, and the Brewers are not far behind at fifth with 70.9% despite a consistent fielding percentage above average for both teams.

Looking at Defensive Runs Saved (DRS), the Cubs are second in the league at +83, while the Brewers stand respectably at +31, placing them 11th.

Individual Stars

On the defensive side for the Brewers, William Contreras has made himself known as a valuable player, earning high praise for his ability to thwart base stealers. Meanwhile, Brice Turang sits second in DRS for his position. Cubs’ standout, Hoerner, has outperformed his competitors and rated as the best second baseman in the league.

Watch for key players like PCA, Hoerner, Swanson, and Ortiz to shine with highlight-reel performances throughout this glove-ripe matchup. The Cubs versus Brewers duel in the NLDS is set to be a display of defensive excellence.