The Chicago Cubs are off to a scorching start in 2026, and as someone who’s watched this team closely for years, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and cautious optimism. Sure, the numbers are impressive—24-12 through their first 36 games—but what’s truly captivating is the why behind this success. Let’s dive in.
The Historical Context: A Rarefied Air
What makes this particularly fascinating is that only four other Cubs teams in franchise history have started better than this year’s squad. Personally, I think this stat alone should silence anyone doubting the Cubs’ potential. Three of those four teams made the World Series, and two won it all. That’s not just a coincidence—it’s a pattern. But here’s the kicker: the 2026 Cubs aren’t just riding on historical parallels; they’re carving their own path.
One thing that immediately stands out is how this team compares to the 1969 Cubs, another squad that started 24-12. That team famously collapsed, but this year’s roster feels different. From my perspective, the 2026 Cubs have a deeper bench, a more engaged manager, and a resilience that wasn’t there in ’69. What this really suggests is that history doesn’t have to repeat itself—especially when you’ve learned from it.
The Walk-Off Magic: More Than Just Luck
The Cubs already have five walk-off wins this season, two more than any other team. If you take a step back and think about it, walk-offs aren’t just about clutch hitting—they’re about a team’s ability to stay composed under pressure. This raises a deeper question: Is this team destined for greatness, or are they just riding a wave of momentum?
What many people don’t realize is that the franchise record for walk-offs in a season is 14, set in 1930. The 2026 Cubs are on pace to challenge that, and if they do, it’ll be a testament to their mental toughness. In my opinion, this isn’t just about winning games—it’s about building a culture of resilience that could carry them deep into October.
Overcoming Adversity: The ‘Next Man Up’ Mentality
A detail that I find especially interesting is how the Cubs have thrived despite significant injuries. Starting pitchers down? No problem. Key hitters struggling? Someone else steps up. This ‘next man up’ mentality is more than just a cliché—it’s the backbone of this team.
For instance, Michael Busch’s recent surge (.300/.400/.500 over his last 21 games) is a perfect example. When you’ve got players like him stepping into the spotlight, it’s hard not to feel like this team has something special brewing. What this really suggests is that the Cubs aren’t just relying on star power; they’re relying on each other.
The 2016 Echoes: A Blueprint, Not a Blueprint
I see echoes of the 2016 Cubs in this year’s team, but let’s be clear: this isn’t a carbon copy. The 2016 team had a certain magic, but the 2026 squad feels more gritty, more adaptable. One thing that immediately stands out is how this team has managed to stay consistent despite all the moving parts.
From my perspective, this isn’t just about talent—it’s about chemistry. The 2016 Cubs had a once-in-a-generation roster, but this team has something equally valuable: a collective belief that they can win no matter the circumstances. If you take a step back and think about it, that’s the kind of intangibility that championships are made of.
The Road Ahead: Cautious Optimism
With 126 games left, anything can happen. Personally, I think the Cubs have the pieces to make a deep postseason run, but it won’t be easy. The NL Central is no cakewalk, and injuries could still derail their momentum.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for this team to not just match but surpass the 2016 Cubs in terms of resilience. If everyone gets healthy and productive, just imagine how good they could be. In my opinion, this team has the makings of something legendary—but only if they can stay hungry.
Final Thoughts: A Season to Remember?
If you ask me, the 2026 Cubs are more than just a hot start—they’re a testament to what happens when talent, chemistry, and resilience collide. What this really suggests is that we might be witnessing the beginning of something special.
But here’s the thing: baseball is a game of unpredictability. As much as I want to crown this team already, I know better than to count my chickens before they hatch. What many people don’t realize is that the journey to October is just as important as the destination. And right now, the Cubs are making that journey look effortless.
So, here’s my takeaway: Enjoy the ride. This team has the potential to write their own chapter in Cubs history—and I, for one, can’t wait to see how it unfolds.
