Former MLB pitcher CC Sabathia said the Chicago Cubs have a realistic chance to be contenders this October.
The assessment comes as the team pushes for a postseason spot, suggesting the roster possesses the specific blend of experience and athleticism required for October baseball.
Sabathia said the team is in a position to "make some noise in October" [1]. He said the team's strong veteran roster and solid defense are primary drivers of this potential success [3]. Specifically, the impact of center fielder Peter Crow-Armstrong has been highlighted as a key factor in the team's ability to compete at a high level [3].
Recent performances have reinforced this outlook. The Cubs defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks on Aug. 24, 2026 [4]. Bob Nightengale of USA Today said that this specific victory proved the team is a real threat heading into the postseason [4].
While offense often dominates the conversation, the team's fielding has become a defining characteristic of their current campaign. Sports Illustrated staff said the defense has been the pillar of the Cubs' success [5]. This defensive stability, combined with veteran leadership, creates a foundation that Sabathia believes can withstand the pressure of the playoffs.
The team continues to lean on this defensive identity to navigate the final stretch of the season. By pairing a reliable glove with the agility of players like Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs aim to translate their regular-season stability into postseason wins.
“"We have a chance to make some noise in October."”
The endorsement from a veteran like Sabathia underscores a shift in the Cubs' identity toward a defense-first strategy. In a playoff environment where single errors often decide games, the reliance on a 'pillar' defense and the emergence of Peter Crow-Armstrong suggests the team is prioritizing run prevention to compensate for any offensive volatility.
