One positive is that they have been extremely competitive with the Cubs, having won four of six against them, with one of the two losses being a tight 1-0 game.
Starting pitching is the most important component of winning baseball, and the way Cole, Taillon and Nova have been pitching gives them a chance. With that being said, they need Glasnow to become more efficient with his great arm talent.
Offensively, they really need to get Freese back, and Polanco needs to start doing something.
I'm unsure whether Polanco is still hurt of not, but it's obvious that Hurdle cannot continue hitting him in the four spot every day until he starts hitting. We're getting to the point where it's looking less likely that he'll become the player he was projected to be, though there's still time.
There's reasons for hope, as Bell is progressing nicely, and McCutchen and Cervelli seem to be coming around. Cervelli is actually hitting a lot harder than his numbers suggest. Also, Harrison has quietly gotten off to a great start.
Losing Marte definitely hurts, though.
