Ross keeps preaching consistent approach at plate for Cubs
The Cubs' hitting slump has been a topic of conversation every day this season. Before Saturday's 13-4 breakout victory over Atlanta, manager David Ross had some insight into what the Cubs have been trying to accomplish.
"One of the things that's been on the radar the most is the in-zone, swing-and-miss on the fastball," Ross said. "I think we get spun as much as anybody in the game, so you can be caught in between at times.
"We see some of the least amount the strikes in the game as well, so being ready for that fastball in the zone is something we have to focus extremely hard on and be ready for that. These guys are training that way and we're trying to combat that with some of the intensity we're picking up in our workload."
Ross was able to watch Friday's game from a new perspective, his television, since he served a one-game suspension. He also talked about a strategy the Cubs have tried to use since spring training.
"I think having the same at-bat, whether there's nobody on and you're leading off the inning or there's bases loaded, two outs," he said. "We've had some moments where we continue to have our at-bat, regardless of the circumstances and there are times when we've had second and third, two outs and get into a fastball count and we try to hit the ball out of the ballpark.
"I think just continue to have your at-bat, take your A-swing, not try to do too much with the baseball. I think this is a group that everybody feels like they want to step up and get the big hit. I think sometimes that can be a detriment. If they continue to have their at-bats and work as a group to pass along to the next guy ...
"Take your base hit, take what the opponent is giving you as best you can and continue to work the at-bat. We talked about that in spring training: Have your at-bat, be yourself and don't let the situation dictate the intensity or the passiveness of your swing. I think that's the key. Focus on what helps you have success."
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