X-Factors for each MLB playoff team

Sep 23, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Marcus Stroman (6) reacts to catcher Russell Martin (55) on his three run home run in the seventh inning against the New York Yankees at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 23, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Cubs right fielder Jorge Soler (68) hits a single during the second inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports /

Chicago Cubs: Jorge Soler

Even with a 89-62 record, the Cubs’ youthful lineup has had its fair share of ups and downs this season. That inconsistency has been fueled in part by Soler, who came into the season with lofty expectations but has largely disappointed.

Soler has posted a 92 wRC+ in 384 plate appearances so far per FanGraphs with a strikeout rate approaching 30 percent. With a crowded depth chart situation, those numbers would indicate Soler shouldn’t get a whole lot of playing time in the postseason.

Still, the Cubs know Soler can be much better than what he’s shown in 2015. Soler posted a 147 wRC+ in 24 games last season, and his tremendous raw power makes him one of the best young players in a loaded Cubs’ system.

There’s been flashes this season as well, as Soler was hitting well before suffering an oblique injury in late August. Soler rejoined the club last week and has already hit two home runs since returning.

If Soler can get at least part of the way back to his 2014 form, that would be a huge boost for the Cubs’ lineup, particularly with a tough matchup in the N.L. Wild Card Game looming. At the very least, Soler will provide another intriguing bench bat for Joe Madden to consider.

Next: Texas Rangers: Shawn Tolleson and Sam Dyson

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