Slumping Cubs need to find way to grind out wins in St. Louis

2:29 PM ET

ST. LOUIS — The Chicago Cubs will need to work extra hard the next couple of days to live up to manager Joe Maddon’s favorite T-shirt — which incidentally is now allowed at Busch Stadium, if you were planning on being in attendance.

After taking an overnight flight after a 1-0 loss to the San Francisco Giants on Sunday, they’ll need to “Try Not To Suck” against the St. Louis Cardinals, who are well rested going into Monday’s game after spending the weekend at home. While the Cubs still have the best record in baseball, they aren’t playing like the best team right now. Their good start has given way to a more normal stretch. The question is: How long does it last?

“I am pragmatic,” Maddon said Sunday of the Cubs’ 4-7 record over their last 11 games. “I understand how that plays.”

Yes, Maddon knows a historic start like the one he just experienced is bound to be followed by a tough stretch. This one has come in the middle of a rough road trip, in which the Cubs now have to grind out three games while fatigued. For now, Maddon is OK with letting things play out, but a longer slump might need addressing. The last thing you want to do after establishing such a big lead is to open the door for the Cardinals or Pittsburgh Pirates.

“If you get into a little bit of a rut it’s easier to absorb like we are doing right now,” Maddon said. “I’ll so take that. It’s only acceptable because you got off to a good start.”

Cubs shortstop Addison Russell has been struggling at the …

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