Cubs Pour on the Offense, Win Big Over Seattle
The Chicago Cubs (62-40) opened up an early five run lead, scoring three in the second inning and two in the third. Chris Coghlan, who was activated earlier today, drove in the first two runs with a single and advanced to second base on the throw. Kris Bryant singled in Coghlan making it 3-0.
Jason Heyward hit his fifth home run of the year, driving in Ben Zobrist in the bottom of the third inning, and the rout was on. The Cubs go on to win big by the score of 12-1 (Box Score).
Jon Lester (11-4, 2.95 ERA) was firmly in control from the start of this one. He scattered four hits over six fairly easy innings, throwing 95 total pitches.
In the sixth inning David Ross opened things up even more for the Cubs with a lead-off solo home run, his seventh of the year. Seattle pitcher Nathan Karns then proceeded to walk Lester, Coghlan and Bryant to load the bases for Anthony Rizzo, who knocked a bases-clearing double down the left field line and it was 9-0.
The Cubs would add two more runs in the inning on their way to the blow out win.
Stats that mattered
- Lester had it going today – 6.0IP, 4H, 2BB, 7Ks
- Kris Bryant was on fire – 3-for-3, 1R, 1RBI, 2BB, 2B
- Javier Baez had another solid game and shows why he’s staying in the lineup – 3-for-5, 1R, 1RBI
- How about grandpa Rossy – 2-for-4, 2R, 1RBI, HR
- Mike Montgomery struggled (again) – 2.0IP, 1R, 3H, 2BB
Bottom line
The Cubs are winners of three in a row. Ever since Aroldis Chapman made his debut the energy level of the Cubs has been fantastic, a lot more like things were the first two months of the season. Things feel lose and free again. Hallelujah!
Next up
The Cubs will play the Mariners on Saturday at 1:20 PM CDT with Jake Arrieta (12-4, 2.76 ERA) taking the mound.