CHICAGO — The reigning World Series champion Chicago Cubs continue to seek consistency as they approach this week’s All-Star break.
The Cubs face the Pittsburgh Pirates in their first-half finale on Sunday afternoon at Wrigley Field. The Cubs won the series opener 6-1 before the Pirates took Saturday’s game 4-2.
Chicago is 13-13 since June 11, having won consecutive games just once during this period. The Cubs (43-44) are second behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central.
In contrast, the Cubs were 53-35 at the All-Star break last season.
“The defense is gradually ascending to the point I want to see it,” Cubs manager Joe Maddon said.