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Bregman’s Jog to First Deepens Scrutiny of Cubs’ Big‑Ticket Signing

The June 28 play highlights effort questions for the Cubs’ $175 million third baseman, raising the prospect of lineup or playing-time changes.

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An image collage containing 2 images, Image 1 shows Alex Bregman wearing a Chicago Cubs uniform, Image 2 shows A baseball player in a blue helmet and gray uniform running, with a baseball bat lying on the ground behind him

Overview

  • A ground ball up the middle on Sunday that Brewers shortstop Cooper Pratt bobbled ended with Alex Bregman being thrown out at first after he did not run full speed, a play captured and widely shared on social media.
  • Cubs broadcast analyst Jim Deshaies and other on-air voices publicly criticized Bregman for not hustling, turning the single play into a broader conversation about effort and optics.
  • Through roughly 82 games this season Bregman has posted career-low offensive numbers, with a batting average around .236–.239, a roughly .671 OPS, and just six home runs, intensifying fan and media frustration.
  • Bregman said he regretted not running harder and pointed to a history of soft-tissue injuries as a reason for caution, while the team has not made an immediate roster move.
  • Writers and commentators have suggested short-term solutions such as giving Matt Shaw time at third base if Bregman’s struggles continue, a change that could alter lineup construction and playing time on the North Side.