OSS: Schlitter and Motte implode, and the Cubs fail to convert on two bases-loaded situations.
Three Up
1. Dexter Fowler got things started in this game, singling and scoring in the first. Then, he bunted for a single in the 9th, getting the tying run to the plate. He has been an excellent addition to the team this year.
2. Edwin Jackson kept the Cubs in this game with 2 innings of no-nonsense relief work. Maddon doesn’t trust Jackson, clearly. However, in his weekly appearance, he’s been just fine.
3. David Ross had both of the Cubs’ walks today. He almost threw out a baserunner stealing 2nd, but Herrera couldn’t get the tag down.
Three Down
1. Jason Motte hadn’t allowed a run this year…until he let go of a meatball that was deposited into the bleachers for a 2-run HR. The relief corps has been used pretty heavily this season, and the results might start showing soon.
2. Brian Schlitter has been awful this year. He kept that up today, allowing the inherited runner to score.
3. It’s not Jon Lester’s fault that he can’t hit…but Jon Lester can’t hit. He stranded the maximum twice in this game, and didn’t have a handle on his pitches (for the 3rd consecutive game). Lester sure hasn’t looked right this season.
Next Game
7:05 PM CT, versus the Pirates.
Arrieta vs. Burnett
Will The Cubs Win?
Eh.