Despite underachieving at halfway mark, Joe Maddon sees hope for Cubs

CINCINNATI -- Through the first 81 games of the Chicago Cubs season, there have been many moments which could define their first-half underachievement. Saturday's 5-3 loss to the Cincinnati Reds gave us several in itself.

Scoring in just one inning -- via only the home run -- is indicative of the Cubs on offense this season. Losing to a pitcher making his career debut -- while giving up a two-run single to him -- gives new meaning to #ThatsCub, one of the team's 2017 spring training mottos.

And though it was the right move this season, the idea of pinch hitting for Addison Russell, one season after he was so clutch in big moments by leading the team in RBIs (16) in situations deemed…