NLCS 2017: Five X-factors which will help Chicago Cubs defeat LA Dodgers

No. 5: KB must be MVP KB

Rookie of the year. Most Valuable Player. Not to mention NCAA and MiLB awards the years before. Capable of launching a ball 450ft, or finding a hole to drop in an RBI single. But, Kris Bryant has not been that player this year.

Sure, his stats are solid. Good average, high on-base percentage. Bryant accumulated 38 doubles, 29 home runs and 95 walks. However, he knocked in 73 runners. Not all of that is on him. Or is it?

During the season, Bryant came to the plate 153 times with runners in scoring position. Of those times, he walked 26 times, three hit by pitches, and five intentional walks. So, that leave 118 at-bats, during which he hit for a slash line of .237/.373/.458. Seven of his home runs came with RISP. He also struck out 30 times in these situations.

The Kris Bryant of the NLDS was not any better. Though the Cubs won the series, Bryant failed to perform up to expectations. His .200 average and 10 strikeouts in 20 at-bats did little to help the team.

The Cubs beed Bryant to play in the NLCS this year as he did last year. Versus the Dodgers, Bryant hit .304 and lashed three doubles that were key in Cubs rallies. If he gets on, Anthony Rizzo can knock him over or in. He need to get the line moving.

If he does, the Dodgers are in trouble.