Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch understands that he should be prepared to bat in every game. Even if he’s not in the starting lineup due to the opposing team having a left-handed pitcher, he’s likely to get an at-bat. On the other hand, he’s also at risk of being pinch-hit for when a left-handed reliever comes in to replace a right-hander, especially in high-pressure situations. Both of these situations occurred last week in Cleveland.
The 26-year-old rookie, in his first full major league season, is learning how to manage this challenge. He praised teammate Mike Tauchman for his assistance earlier in the season, as both players were on similar platoon schedules, and Tauchman had experience in that role. Busch noted that adapting to this aspect of his role has been a gradual process over the past few months.
“Always staying mentally prepared is crucial because it’s a mental challenge,” Busch told the Tribune. “Being ready as if you’re about to take an at-bat is important. The advice he gave me was very helpful. It’s natural to have doubts, but maintaining readiness and preparing for each at-bat is key until you no longer need to.”
Busch has started just eight games against left-handed pitchers this season, with his most recent appearance coming on July 24 against Milwaukee Brewers opener Rob Zastryzny, and only three of these starts have occurred since June. Out of his 435 plate appearances this year, 62 have been against lefties. Busch has performed adequately in these starts, with a .256/.356/.359 batting line. Although his .715 OPS is nearly 100 points lower than his performance against right-handed pitchers, his 103 sOPS+ against left-handers suggests he is performing better than the league average for this split.
Manager Craig Counsell has generally used a platoon system at first base when facing a lefty, typically favoring slugger Patrick Wisdom, who has made 18 starts against left-handers. Wisdom has hit two home runs, one triple, and two doubles in these games, but with a .208 on-base percentage and .522 OPS. However, his performance against left-handed pitchers off the bench, often in pinch-hitting situations, has been notably better (.873 OPS).
“We’re trying to utilize our players in the most effective way possible,” Counsell said. “Game situations, like whether we’re winning or losing and the timing in the game, can influence our choices. I believe Michael has the potential to become an everyday first baseman in the future, and as an organization, we’re always working towards developing our regular players.”
“But platoon advantages are real, and Patrick has proven over a substantial part of his career that he excels in this role, which is why he’s on the team,” Counsell said.
General manager Carter Hawkins has been impressed by Busch’s consistent performance this year, particularly his plate discipline, commenting, “We couldn’t be more satisfied with his offensive contributions.” The Cubs see Busch as a potential key player for their lineup in 2025 and beyond.
“Hopefully, we’ll always seek to bring in players who push boundaries and challenge our current players,” Counsell added. “We’re always aiming to raise our players’ performance. Development occurs organically through the season, with daily play and experience.”
“Whether Michael gets 50 more plate appearances against lefties this season won’t impact our long term decisions about him.”
Cody Bellinger, who knows the challenges of being a young left-handed hitter in a key lineup role, recalled his experience during his rookie year with the Dodgers in 2017. He started regularly against left-handed pitchers that season, but those opportunities decreased the following year after the Dodgers added more right-handed hitters. Nonetheless, like Busch, he remained active in every game due to his role as a bench player.
“It was really about fouling off pitches and getting those reps and at-bats against left-handers in 2022. I focused on making the most of mistakes from right-handed pitchers, which helped me stay disciplined and avoid chasing pitches,” Busch explained.
Last year at Triple A, Busch demonstrated his ability to handle left-handers successfully, posting a .284 average, a .383 on base percentage, and a .795 OPS in 167 plate appearances. Although the major leagues present a different challenge, Busch is expected to eventually earn a spot in the Cubs’ daily lineup, regardless of the pitcher he faces.
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