One of the big developments last season was the dramatic increase in stolen bases league-wide as the rules were adjusted to encourage teams to run more. How much more did teams run? A lot. In 2022 there were 2,486 stolen bases in MLB, up slightly from 2,213 from 2021. Under the new rules in 2023 there were 3,503 stolen bases. So far in 2024 the league has swiped 3,268 bags.
The 2023 Cubs were in on that action, stealing 140 bags last season. That was good for eighth in the league. The 2024 Cubs are on a roughly similar trajectory with 131 stolen bases so far this season, good for seventh in the league.