A recent first base ranking by YouTuber Foolish Baseball omitted Chicago Cubs’ Michael Busch, sparking frustration among fans who believe he deserves recognition. Despite Busch’s strong offensive and defensive performance last season, he was not included in the top 10 list, raising questions about the accuracy of these rankings.
Analyzing Busch’s Performance Against Listed Players
Michael Busch, now in his second full year as a starter, was arguably the Cubs’ most productive hitter last season. Leading the team with 34 home runs, a .523 slugging percentage, and an OPS of .866, he also posted a 141 wRC+, 90 RBIs, and a .343 on-base percentage. Additionally, Busch started 155 games and improved significantly when facing left-handed pitching.
Comparing him to others in the Foolish Baseball top 10 list, Busch outperformed players like Ben Rice and Andrew Vaughn in offensive metrics. Defensively, Busch consistently performed above league average, which is a notable edge over those two players. His contributions extended beyond offense, as he became a key figure in the Cubs’ lineup.
Busch’s Role in the Cubs’ Lineup and Key Moments
Busch earned a core spot in the Cubs’ batting order, spending much time in the middle of the lineup where he drove in many runs. One highlight was his exceptional three-home-run game on July 4 against the St. Louis Cardinals. Later, when manager Craig Counsell moved him to the leadoff position, Busch adapted effectively. During the playoffs, he led the Cubs with four home runs and a remarkable 1.128 OPS, underscoring his offensive impact when it mattered most.
Why Ignoring Busch Undermines the Cubs’ Strength
Overlooking Busch in first base rankings does a disservice not only to the player but also to the perception of the Cubs’ offensive capabilities. He is not just a placeholder but a legitimate middle-of-the-order threat who complicates pitchers’ strategies. When Busch is locked in, he is one of the toughest hitters to face in the Cubs’ lineup.
As the season progresses, there is strong reason to believe Busch will continue to build on his success. If he does, these pre-season lists that dismissed him will look increasingly misguided, much to the satisfaction of Cubs fans who have witnessed his growth firsthand.
.@FoolishBB's #Top10RightNow at 1B:
1. Vladimir Guerrero Jr.
2. Pete Alonso
3. Nick Kurtz
4. Matt Olson
5. Bryce Harper
6. Freddie Freeman
7. Rafael Devers
8. Ben Rice
9. Vinnie Pasquantino
10. Andrew Vaughn (WC) pic.twitter.com/a6icTVacqb— MLB Now (@MLBNow) February 10, 2026
