Kris Bryant’s career-best on-base streak ends at 26 games, but the Cubs slugger is showing signs he’s returning to MVP form

Terrence Antonio James/Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant celebrates with teammates after scoring in the sixth inning against the Diamondbacks on April 19, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant bats in the seventh inning at Wrigley Field on Aug. 22, 2019.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs an autograph for a fan during the Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago hotel Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018, in Chicago.
Stacy Revere / Getty Images
Kris Bryant looks on before Game 4 of the NLCS against the Dodgers at Wrigley Field on Oct. 18, 2017.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant, listens to a reporter's question, at Progressive Field, in Cleveland, Ohio, on Oct. 24, 2016.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
A group of Chicago Cubs fans wearing Kris Bryant jerseys show off their support for Bryant as he warms up for an at-bat in the third inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field on July 23, 2021.
Harry How / Getty Images
Kris Bryant strikes out in the first inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game three of the National League Championship Series at Dodger Stadium on October 18, 2016.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs infielder Kris Bryant (17) warms up at first base before a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Wrigley Field on May 5, 2021.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant on Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016, before Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
Jamie Squire / Getty Images
Kris Bryant throws to first base in the 9th inning against the Dodgers during Game 3 of the NLCS at Wrigley Field on Oct. 17, 2017.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant does an interview in the dugout after hitting his home run in the All-Star Game at Petco Park on July 12, 2016.
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs autographs before a game against the Blue Jays on Aug. 18, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
Nam Y. Huh / AP
Bryant stretches on the field before a baseball game against the Pirates on Aug. 31, 2016.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant sits in the dugout Wednesday, July 25, 2018 at Wrigley Field.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant looks up after striking out during the third inning against the Twins on Sept. 20, 2020, at Wrigley Field.
Armando L. Sanchez/Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs autographs before a spring training game against the Brewers at Sloan Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Saturday Feb. 23, 2019.
Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images
Kris Bryant warms up before Game Three of the 2016 World Series against the Cleveland Indians at Wrigley Field on October 28, 2016.
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant signs autographs before playing the Dodgers on Wednesday, June 20, 2018, at Wrigley Field.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs infielder Kris Bryant signs autographs during spring training on Feb. 15, 2020 in Mesa, Ariz.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant signs autographs before a game against the Marlins at Wrigley Field on Wednesday, June 7, 2017, in Chicago.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant throws to first base during the second inning of the team's Cactus League home opener against the Royals on March 2, 2021, in Mesa, Ariz.
Jon Durr / Getty Images
Kris Bryant smiles as he talks with third base umpire Lance Barksdale before the game against the White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on July 26, 2017.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant tosses a ball to a fan before a game Wednesday, May 9, 2018 at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant after diving for a foul ball in the fourth inning Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo share a snack in the dugout before their workout Oct. 9, 2016 a day before Game 3 of their National League Division Series at AT&T Park.
John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant walks to the dugout after striking out against the Diamondbacks on April 21, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant checks out the new dugout and the snow on Monday, April 9, 2018 on opening day at Wrigley Field. The game was postponed.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant watches the flight of his home run to left field during the first inning of their game against the Pirates at Wrigley Field on Aug. 31, 2016.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs baserunner Kris Bryant slides in safely at third base while advancing on a single by teammate Anthony Rizzo in the first inning against the Rockies at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Saturday, June 10, 2017.
Elsa / Getty Images
Kris Bryant reacts after striking out during the third inning against the Cleveland Indians in Game One of the 2016 World Series at Progressive Field on October 25, 2016.
John J. Kim/Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant rests at second base in the sixth inning against the Pirates on April 11, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant prepares to face the Diamondbacks from the Wrigley Field dugout on Aug. 3, 2017.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tri / Chicago Tribune
The Cubs' Kris Bryant stands in the outfield during the first inning against the Royals on Aug. 3, 2020, at Wrigley Field.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant stand at the plate during the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field on July 26, 2021.
Harry How / Getty Images
Kris Bryant looks on from the dugout against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game five of the National League Division Series at Dodger Stadium on October 20, 2016.
Alex Brandon / AP
Kris Bryant is doused by Henry Blanco as they celebrate after the Cubs defeated the Nationals 9-8 in Game 5 of the NLDS on Oct. 13, 2017.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant is congratulated by Cubs first base coach Brandon Hyde after his solo home run in the first inning Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016, in Game 6 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
Ezra Shaw / Getty Images
Kris Bryant rounds the bases after hitting a home run in the fourth inning against the Cleveland Indians in Game Five of the 2016 World Series at Wrigley Field on October 30, 2016.
Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images
Kris Bryant peeks out from under a towel thrown on his head by a teammate in the dugout before the Cubs take on the White Sox at Wrigley Field on July 28, 2016.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant celebrates after scoring against the Reds at Wrigley Field on Aug. 17, 2017.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs autographs before a game against the Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field on Aug. 1, 2017.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs autographs for fans before a game at Wrigley Field on April 19, 2017.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant grounds into a double play against the Brewers in the first inning at Wrigley Field on Thursday, July 6, 2017, in Chicago.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant celebrates with his fiancee Jessica Delp after the Cubs won the World Series at Progressive Field on Nov. 3, 2016.
Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant stretches before the start of a game against the Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field on Monday, July 23, 2018.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant leaves Wrigley Field dressed in an "Easy Rider"-themed outfit after the Cubs lost to the Nationals at Wrigley Field on Aug. 6, 2017.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant waves to someone in the stands as he by Anthony Rizzo's father, John, before the Home Run Derby on July 11, 2016.
Stacy Revere / Getty Images
Kris Bryant makes a throw to first base during the sixth inning against the Brewers at Miller Park on July 29, 2017 in Milwaukee.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant before a game Sept. 29, 2018, at Wrigley Field.
Erin Hooley / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant throws to first during the sixth inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Wrigley Field on April 4, 2021.
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant gestures to one of his coaches he is supposed to play catch with before the start of a Cactus League game on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2018.
Susan Walsh / AP
President Donald Trump holds a Cubs jersey as he meets with members of the 2016 World Series champions on Wednesday, June 28, 2017, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant flips his bat after striking out to end the fourth inning against the Cardinals at Wrigley Field on Sept. 21, 2019.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Anthony Rizzo, left, talks with Kris Bryant on the first day of full-squad workouts during Cubs spring training Feb. 22, 2021 in Mesa, Ariz.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant has a laugh while attending a team work out at Wrigley Field October 13, 2016 in advance of game 1 of the NLCS on Saturday.
Chris Sweda/Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant speaks to the media on the opening day of Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago on Friday, Jan. 18, 2019.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant warms up Sunday, May 21, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant prepares to take the field Sunday, June 10, 2018 at Wrigley Field.
Charles Rex Arbogast / AP
Kris Bryant, right, and Jason Heyward, second from right, celebrate in the dugout after they and Victor Caratini scored on Anthony Rizzo's double during the fifth inning against the White Sox on Wednesday, July 26, 2017.
Nam Y. Huh / AP
Third baseman Kris Bryant tosses a ball to a fan before Game 6 of the National League baseball championship series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Oct. 22, 2016, in Chicago.
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant poses in a Santa hat on the team's photo day at Sloan Park in Mesa, Ariz., on Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2019
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
A billboard showcases Kris Bryant before Game 1 of the NLDS at Wrigley Field Oct. 7, 2016.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant cheers as the Cubs defeated the Indians in the early hours of Nov. 3, 2016, in Game 7 to win the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Tommy La Stella, left, and Kris Bryant laugh in the dugout before the start of the game against the Reds at Wrigley Field on Saturday, July 7, 2018.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cubs left fielder Kris Bryant catches a fly to left field against the Rockies during the National League wild-card game Oct. 2, 2018, at Wrigley Field.
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs autographs before a game against the Brewers at Wrigley Field on Sunday, Sept. 10, 2017.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant warms up Oct. 10, 2016 before Game 3 of their National League Division Series at AT&T Park.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant takes a practice swing during batting practice for a game against the White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on July 6, 2019.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant is congratulated on a three-run home run against the Pirates in the first inning at Wrigley Field on Sept. 15, 2019.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant starts the celebration Oct. 22, 2016 in Game 6 of the National League Championship Series at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant strikes out in the seventh inning Oct. 1, 2018, at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant doubles in the third inning on April 8, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs infielder Kris Bryant adjusts his cap while watching the sixth inning against the Reds at Wrigley Field on Aug. 25, 2018.
Major League Baseball / AP
Kris Bryant, left, and Anthony Rizzo while shooting a commercial for the mock Bryzzo Souvenir Company in Mesa, Ariz., on Feb. 22 2017. Bryant and Rizzo had a big hit with their Bryzzo Souvenir Company commercials last season and are stepping up their game for this year's spots.
Alex Gallardo / AP
The Cubs' Kris Bryant, center, listens to the team group discussion before a game against the Padres in San Diego, Friday, July 13, 2018.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo embrace after the Cubs beat the Nationals to win Game 5 of the NLDS on Oct. 12, 2017.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (right) and first baseman Anthony Rizzo have a laugh before an interview on the first day of the annual Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago on Friday, January 12, 2018.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant fist-bumps young fans during the opening ceremony of the Cubs Convention at on Jan. 17, 2020, in Chicago.
Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant walks on stage after being introduced in Chicago on Friday, Nov. 4, 2016, during the Cubs' World Series rally.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant makes a great stop and throws out the Cleveland Indians right fielder Brandon Guyer in the 2nd inning Oct. 30, 2016 in Game 5 of the World Series at Wrigley Field.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant walks on the field while throwing the ball during the second day of Cubs spring training at Sloan Park Thursday Feb. 15, 2018, in Mesa, Ariz.
David Banks / Getty Images
Kris Bryant breaks his bat as he hits into a double play against the Marlins during the second inning on Aug. 1, 2016 at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant rounds the bases after a solo home run in the fourth inning Oct. 30, 2016 in Game 5 of the World Series at Wrigley Field.
Armando Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant picks up a ball hit by starting pitcher Madison Bumgarner and throws to first after Rizzo missed it to allow a single during the fifth inning of game 2 of the National League Division Series at Wrigley Field Oct. 8, 2016.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Cubs All-Stars Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo and Addison Russell before the game at Petco Park on July 12, 2016.
David Banks / Getty Images
Kris Bryant hits a two-run homer against the Braves during the sixth inning on Aug. 31, 2017 at Wrigley Field.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant slides in safely with the go-ahead run in the 8th inning against the Miami Marlins at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Tuesday, May 8, 2018.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant celebrates the 9-3 victory over the Indians on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016, in Game 6 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant walks off after being tagged out at second base in the ninth inning against the White Sox on July 25, 2016 at U.S. Cellular Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The ball hit by third baseman Kris Bryant sails over the wall in the ninth inning Oct. 11, 2016 in Game 3 of their National League Division Series at AT&T Park.
Charles Rex Arbogast / AP
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant prepares to field a ball during the sixth inning against the Phillies Tuesday, June 5, 2018, at Wrigley Field.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo during batting practice before the Home Run Derby at Petco Park in San Diego on Monday, July 11, 2016.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant takes a close look at the ivy on the left field wall as his team participates in a workout at Wrigley Field October 5, 2016.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant homers in the first inning off White Sox starting pitcher Chris Sale at the All-Star Game on July 12, 2016.
David J. Phillip / AP
Kris Bryant celebrates with the trophy after the Cubs won the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant heads out as storm clouds form in the fourth inning against the Braves at Wrigley Field on June 26, 2019.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant fields ground balls during Cubs spring training Feb. 25, 2021, in Mesa, Ariz.
Alyssa Pointer / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant smiles to the crowd during the Cubs' World Series parade down Michigan Ave. on Nov. 4, 2016.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant takes in the scene while attending Cubs manager Joe Maddon's annual charity boxing event called Respect 90 Main Event at the Wintrust Building in downtown Chicago on Friday, May 25, 2018.
E. Jason Wambsgans / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant during batting practice before taking on the Cardinals at Busch Stadium in St. Louis on July 30, 2019.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant heads to the dugout after striking out to end the top of the fifth inning against the White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field on Sept. 21, 2018.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs autographs before a game against the Giants at Wrigley Field on Sept. 4, 2016.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant stands at second base in the fifth inning against the Pirates on July 31, 2020, at Wrigley Field.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant high-fives a group of children as members of the 2018 Cubs are introduced to fans on the first day of the annual Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago on Friday, January 12, 2018.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant walks on the field during the third inning against the Indians at Wrigley Field on Wednesday, May 23, 2018.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Former Cub Billy Williams talks to third baseman Kris Bryant on Oct. 7, 2016 before Game 1 of a National League Division Series at Wrigley Field.
Chris Sweda / TNS
Kris Bryant is forced out at second base by Cleveland Indians shortstop Francisco Lindor in the fourth inning during Game 3 of the World Series on Oct. 28, 2016, at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo celebrate after the Cubs won Game 7 to win the World Series on Nov. 2, 2016.
Armando Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant doubles in the 4th inning of Game 1 of a National League Division Series at Wrigley Field.
Nam Y. Huh / AP
Kris Bryant smiles as he looks to the field before a baseball game against the Pirates on Aug. 31, 2016.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
The Nationals' Bryce Harper and the Cubs' Kris Bryant talk before an NLCS game on Oct. 5, 2017.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant barehands a grounder to throw out the Mets' Jacob deGrom in the third inning on June 23, 2019.
Harry How / Getty Images
Kris Bryant rounds the bases after he hits a home run in the first inning of the All-Star Game at Petco Park on July 12, 2016.
David Banks / Getty Images
Kris Bryant wears a football jersey as the Cubs leave on their road trip on Sept. 3, 2017.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant hits a solo home run off Indians starting pitcher Josh Tomlin in the first inning during Game 6 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland on Tuesday, Nov. 1, 2016.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant on his way to scoring after a base hit by Anthony Rizzo in the fifth inning Wednesday, Nov. 2, 2016, in Game 7 of the World Series at Progressive Field in Cleveland.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant prepares to hit in an exhibition game against the White Sox on July 20, 2020, at Guaranteed Rate Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant dives to stop a ground ball by the Cardinals' Marcell Ozuna in the second inning on June 9, 2019.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant sits on the bench on July 24, 2018, at Wrigley Field.
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
The Cubs' Kris Bryant fields a line drive by the Rockies' Ian Desmond and throws him out in the first inning at Wrigley Field on Sunday, June 11, 2017.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant in the dugout prior to the game Oct. 19, 2016 in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series at Dodger Stadium.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant scores on an RBI double by first baseman Anthony Rizzo n the first inning Oct. 26, 2016 in Game 2 of the World Series at Progressive Field.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant and his wife Jessica Delp pose with Bryant's 2016 NL MVP award prior to a game against the Phillies at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Tuesday, May 2, 2017.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant runs to third base during the eighth inning against the Reds on Sept. 11, 2020, at Wrigley Field.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant advances to third base on a run-scoring single by Jason Heyward in the fifth inning against the Cardinals at Wrigley Field on Thursday, July 19, 2018.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs batter Kris Bryant reacts after being hit by a pitch in the fourth inning against the Pirates at Wrigley Field on Sept. 25, 2018.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant makes a diving grab on a sharp grounder in the ninth inning against the Pirates at Wrigley Field on Tuesday, August 29, 2017.
Charles Rex Arbogast / AP
Kris Bryant fields a ground ball against the Reds on Aug. 15, 2017.
Jonathan Daniel / Getty Images
Kris Bryant celebrates a win over the Angels with Anthony Rizzo at Wrigley Field on Aug. 9, 2016.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant looks out of the dugout before his at-bat in the third inning against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Saturday, April 28, 2018.
Charles Rex Arbogast / AP
Kris Bryant rounds first after hitting a home run off Cardinals starter Carlos Martinez during the fourth inning Friday, Sept. 15, 2017.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs infielder Kris Bryant walks to the locker room after batting practice on Feb. 17, 2020 in Mesa, Ariz.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs right fielder Kris Bryant slides while chasing a foul ball hit by Miami Marlins center fielder Starling Marte in the third inning at Wrigley Field on June 18, 2021.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant and the Cubs celebrate their National League Central division title on Sept. 16, 2016 at Wrigley Field.
Harry How / Getty Images
Kris Bryant speaks to the press before the All-Star Game at Petco Park on July 11, 2016.
Harry How / Getty Images
Kris Bryant celebrates in the dugout after a three-run double in the eighth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers in game five of the National League Division Series at Dodger Stadium on October 20, 2016.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant (17) with championship gear Monday, April 10, 2017 at Wrigley Field on opening night. (Brian Cassella/Chicago Tribune)
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant takes a photo with a fan before playing the Oakland Athletics in a spring training game at Sloan Park on Feb. 25, 2017, in Mesa, Ariz.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant warms up in the dugout before the first inning against the Phillies at Wrigley Field on May 22, 2019.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
8-year-old Kashton Miller shows off his Kris Bryant jersey to the Cubs third baseman as Kashton's father, former Bears tight end Zach Miller, looks on before a game at Wrigley Field on Sept. 2, 2019.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Pirates shortstop Jordy Mercer (10) tags Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant on a steal attempt to end the fourth inning at Wrigley Field on Friday, June 8, 2018.
Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune
Jason Heyward, left, and Kris Bryant, center, attend the third annual Respect 90 Main Event charity boxing fundraiser hosted by Cubs manager Joe Maddon and his wife Jaye Maddon (not shown) at the Wintrust Bank building on South LaSalle Street on Aug. 17, 2017.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant catches a ball hit by Giants right fielder Mike Yastrzemski during the first inning at Wrigley Field on Aug. 20, 2019.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant on May 9, 2019, at Wrigley Field.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant rubs his head before a spring training game against the White Sox at Sloan Park on Feb. 27, 2017, in Mesa, Ariz.
Antonio Perez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant jumps up after tagging home following an RBI against the Rangers during the 6th inning inning at Wrigley Field.
Sean M. Haffey / Getty Images
Kris Bryant is congratulated by his team after hitting a home run against the American League team in the first inning at Petco Park on July 12, 2016.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant departs for the team's Anchorman-themed road trip Thursday, May 25, 2017, at Wrigley Field.
Terrence Antonio James / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant watches the flight of his solo home run in the seventh inning against the Pirates at Wrigley Field on July 12, 2019.
Stacy Revere / Getty Images
Kris Bryant hits a home run in the fourth inning against the Dodgers during Game 5 of the NLCS at Wrigley Field on Oct. 19, 2017.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant gets hit by a pitch from Braves starting pitcher Julio Teheran during the first inning at Wrigley Field on June 24, 2019.
John J. Kim / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant is congratulated after hitting a home run against the Colorado Rockies in the 6th inning at Wrigley Field Wednesday, May 2, 2018, in Chicago.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant walks toward the Cubs offices on Oct. 3, 2018, in Chicago.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant covers his eyes while attending the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation's second annual "Laugh-Off for Cancer" event at Studio Paris on Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017, in Chicago.
Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant talks with his wife Jessica Delp during the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation's Cook-Off for Cancer on May 23, 2019.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Ben Zobrist, Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo before the Home Run Derby at Petco Park on July 11, 2016.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant after his triple against the Colorado Rockies during the sixth inning of their game at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Monday, April 30, 2018.
Nam Y. Huh / AP
Kris Bryant waits for a ball during the first inning against the Cardinals on Sept. 24, 2016.
Chris Sweda / Chicago Tribune
Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant comes out of the dugout to begin a game against the Cardinals at Wrigley Field in Chicago on Saturday, June 3, 2017.
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant signs autographs before a Cactus League game on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2018.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant warms up Oct. 15, 2016 before Game 1 of the National League Championship Series at Wrigley Field.
Jason Miller / Getty Images
Kris Bryant, Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Hank Aaron, Commissioner of Baseball Rob Manfred and David Ortiz of the Boston Red Sox pose during the Hank Aaron Award ceremony prior to Game Two of the 2016 World Series between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Indians at Progressive Field on October 26, 2016.
Jon Durr / Getty Images
The Giants' Hunter Pence reaches first base as Kris Bryant is unable to make a catch on a throwing error by Tommy La Stella during the first inning at Wrigley Field on Sept. 3, 2016.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant leaves the game with a trainer after being injured in a collision with Jason Heyward in the sixth inning at Wrigley Field.
Brian Cassella / Chicago Tribune
Third baseman Kris Bryant and Anthony Rizzo celebrate Oct. 22, 2016 in Game 6 of the National League Championship Series at Wrigley Field.
Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune
Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant celebrate scoring against the Reds on July 4, 2016, at Wrigley Field.
Nuccio DiNuzzo / Chicago Tribune
Kris Bryant scores past Cincinnati Reds catcher Devin Mesoraco on Aug. 14, 2017.

PUBLISHED: May 19, 2019 at 8:00 a.m. | UPDATED: May 31, 2019 at 9:12 p.m.

Kris Bryant popped out to first base Saturday night for the final out of the Cubs’ 5-2 loss to the Nationals, capping an 0-for-4 night that snapped his career-best on-base streak at 26 games.

But a night earlier at Nationals Park, Bryant brought back visions of his 2016 National League Most Valuable Player season. He made a convincing statement that he is returning to his elite level, hitting three home runs in the final three innings Friday in the Cubs’ 14-6 victory.

“Early in the season my timing was off,” Bryant said Friday. “Now I feel like I’m right where I need to be. That’s always a good thing: knowing your timing is there, and all you got to do is see the ball and hit it.”

Bryant’s three home runs tied a his career high from June 27, 2016, in Cincinnati. More impressive is the manner in which Bryant is displaying all facets of his offensive game during his monthlong surge. During his 26-game streak, he hit .316 with seven doubles, 10 home runs, 25 RBIs and 22 walks.

“He doesn’t give up and has high expectations,” Cole Hamels, Friday’s starting and winning pitcher, said. “He’s finally getting around to what everyone else sees what they’re used to seeing of him.

“He’s just getting to a level I think he’s comfortable being at. And I know there’s probably more he’s trying to reach for, bigger and brighter things in a season.”

Bryant’s three homers Friday gave him eight in 12 games, and he gradually has quelled questions about his health. He missed 50 games last season because of a bone bruise in his left shoulder and in April he went 21 consecutive games without a home run.

His injury helped limit him to 13 homers in 2018, but self-doubt never crossed his mind.

“It wasn’t an injury that required surgery or something like that,” Bryant said. “It just (needed) a rehab and getting it strong.

“As an athlete, you can’t let those thoughts creep in because it just paralyzes you, and it’s not something we think about.”

Bryant admits to feeling a little extra pleasure after hearing some people doubt him when he was struggling.

“Maybe from some of the stuff I heard, read or saw, it gives me a little extra satisfaction,” Bryant said. “But inside, I always had that confidence, and I’ll continue to have that until I’m done playing.”

Each of Bryant’s three home runs Friday landed in the Cubs’ bullpen, but each had a different trajectory as he displayed the ability to adjust to various pitches. Bryant said his last two home runs came on sliders.

“They were all not fastballs,” Bryant said. “That’s good. I’m seeing it well and on time.”

Bryant’s homers Friday caught the attention of Hamels, who played with sluggers Ryan Howard and Pat Burrell with the Phillies and Joey Gallo and Adrian Beltre with the Rangers.

“(Bryant) has power to the gaps,” Hamels said. “Gap power is something you don’t see as much anymore. Most of the time it’s pull power. He’s got the gap power, and that gives him the timing to do what he needs to do with that kind of pitch, because he’s not going to have just one grooved swing. He’s going to be putting a ball out of the yard.

“He’s got multiple layers to his swing. That’s why he’s pretty dangerous: He can hit them to all parts of the field. And it doesn’t matter with the velocity, and that right there is a true definition of a good power hitter.”

Bryant has been careful not to draw comparisons between his impressive month and his 2016 season, when his power helped lead the Cubs to their first World Series title since 1908 and helped him win the MVP award with a .292 batting average, 39 home runs and 102 RBIs.

“I can’t really remember those feelings because I’m too caught up in this feeling of the season,” Bryant said. “But I guess from the numbers standpoint, maybe a little bit.

“But if there are a lot of similarities to 2016 that ended up really well, let’s compare it to that.”

mgonzales@chicagotribune.com

Twitter @MDGonzales

Cubs fans

Public group * 605 members

Join Group

Welcome! Join Tribune sportswriters and Cubs fans here for the latest news and analysis from the beat.

Chicago Cubs |
Kris Bryant’s career-best on-base streak ends…

Chicago Cubs |
Kris Bryant’s career-best on-base streak ends at 26 games, but the Cubs slugger is showing signs he’s returning to MVP form

More in Chicago Cubs

Chicago Cubs |
Photos: Chicago Cubs 8, Miami Marlins 3

Chicago Cubs |
As Jameson Taillon delivers a win in his season debut, Chicago Cubs rely on resiliency during challenging start

MLB |
Chicago baseball report: Cubs’ Jordan Wicks shows swing-and-miss stuff, while White Sox match franchise’s worst 18-game start

Chicago Cubs |
Chicago Cubs notes: A rainout, Patrick Wisdom’s return from injury rehab and Kyle Hendricks’ next test

Trending Nationally

Share this:

More in Chicago Cubs

Trending Nationally