The Cubs wrapped up a four game series in Cincinnati against the Reds. Well, make that a three game series after the finale was rained out. The Cubs took the first two, and put up some solid offense throughout. There were some decent starts, but the bullpen continued to struggle.
In terms of bingo, close but no cigar. Go get 'em next series boys.
July 27th:
Cubs win 8-7
Jon Lester had a solid start to the year, pitching 5 no hit innings. He struck out just one, but limited swings to soft contact in a very effective way. With 4 runs in the first and 2 in the second, the Cubs were up big. But things would get dicey as the bullpen allowed 7 runs to make this game a lot more interesting than it should have been. Craig Kimbrel particularly looked brutal, walking four batters and hitting one.
Impressively, the Cubs scored 8 runs with just one solo home run from Anthony Rizzo. As a team, they went 5-12 with runners in scoring position, leading to a big offensive day. Souza and Bote had two RBIs apiece, with Rizzo, Baez, and Contreras also driving in runs.
July 28th:
Cubs Win 8-5
Alec Mills pitched a gem for a 5th starter: 6 innings, 2 ER, 2 hits, and 2 walks. He struck out just three, but limited sharp contract and kept the Cubs in the game. That'll do. The bullpen was shaky once again, as Tepera and Sadler gave up runs.
Offensively, it was a good day. Even with Kris Bryant and Willson Contreras out, the Cubs still put up 8 runs. Javy Baez broke out big with two home runs. Bote also launched one. Nico Hoerner chipped in two RBIs as well, as he's been quietly impressive. The Cubs scored runs in each of the 3rd through 9th innings, leading to a consistent and dangerous attack. From top to bottom, the lineup was looking really good.
July 29th:
Cubs lose 12-7
Kyle Hendricks wasn't nearly as sharp this time around, giving up 7 runs in just 4.1 innings. The bullpen was a wild mess again, with Rex Brothers getting tagged for 3 runs, and Dillon Maples having a brutal 4 walk, 2 ER, 0 out outing.
Offensively, the Cubs scored 7 runs, with some timely hits from some important guys. Hoerner had 2 hits and 2 RBIs. Kris Bryant had a two run double. David Bote hit a two run homer. So it wasn't all bad.
July 30th:
The game was rained out. So Cubs win another series!
The Cubs are now 4-2, and in first place.
Pronk wearing Sparklespants record: 4-1