A Defensive Masterclass in 2026
The 2026 season has already etched the Chicago Cubs’ defense into baseball lore, as their combined Defensive Runs Saved, Outs Above Average and Fielding Run Value outpace every other club. This statistical supremacy signals a unit that is not merely good but historically outstanding.
At the heart of that reputation is Pete Crow‑Armstrong, whose 23 Outs Above Average place him second only to Bobby Witt Jr. among all outfielders. His reputation is further cemented by a league‑leading tally of five‑star catches, turning routine plays into highlight‑reel moments.
Third base presents another cornerstone in Alex Bregman, who tops the hot corner with seven Outs Above Average and a 6.0 Fielding Run Value. He trails only Matt Chapman’s 16 Defensive Runs Saved, yet his all‑around metrics keep him firmly in the conversation for the league’s most reliable defender.
The middle‑infield pairing of Nico Hoerner and Dansby Swanson further stabilizes the unit, each featuring in the top tier of infielders for Outs Above Average and Fielding Run Value. Their performance is matched only by the St. Louis Cardinals, underscoring the rarity of such cohesion.
Outfield contributions extend beyond Crow‑Armstrong; Ian Happ delivers above‑average Fielding Run Value in left field, while Michael Busch shines at first base with elite Outs Above Average. Seiya Suzuki posts near‑elite numbers across the board, rounding out a defensively versatile roster.
Even the catching corps, traditionally a weaker link, hovers around league average, allowing the team’s overall defensive metrics to remain unassailable. The result is a gap that not only separates the Cubs from their NL Central rivals but also positions them as the benchmark for defensive excellence in the modern game.