Cubs Remain Optimistic Fortunes Will Change as Offensive Slide Continues

Though they remain in a virtual tie for the National League’s top Wild Card spot, the Cubs have lost ground to both the Brewers at the top of the division and the Reds below them. Even the Cardinals are still lurking back in fourth place, just four games out of a postseason berth. And while things could be worse — just look at the Mets and Yankees — it’s tough to watch a team that scored seemingly at will in the early going lose its offensive identity.

Or maybe it’s better to say the Cubs have simply misplaced their bats, kind of like me with my wallet or keys. I’m reminded of rap icon Eminem, who, following an overdose on sleeping pills and painkillers several years ago, awoke in a hospital…