Final Score – Reds 7, Cubs 4: Cubs Pitching Has Tough Day, Bats Can’t Catch Up
Jon Lester (19-5, 2.44 ERA) wasn’t at his best today for the Chicago Cubs (102-58) and that’s the bottom line. He didn’t look comfortable from the very first inning when he pegged the Reds lead-off man Jose Peraza, who ended up scoring later in the inning. Lester had enough to last five innings, throwing 111 pitches while giving up five runs on six hits.
Hector Rondon added a shaky performance as well. He’s got an 8.53 ERA since returning from the DL on September 6 and, as weird as this seems to be saying, I’m starting to wonder if Rondon makes the playoff roster for the NLDS. His performances lately have been that concerning. In one inning today he gave up two runs on three hits and a walk.
The Cubs offense, while effective at times, couldn’t make up the difference and the Cubs drop game 161 to the Reds by the score of 7-3 (Box Score).
Stats that matter
- Lester has had much better days – 5.0IP, 5R, 6H, 3BB, 6Ks, 1HR
- Rondon has me quite concerned, and that sucks – 1.0IP, 2R, 3H, 1BB
- Ben Zobrist with his 3rd HR in two days
- Both Dexter Fowler and Anthony Rizzo had 2 hits
- Jason Heyward had some quality ABs and he’s looking good heading into the postseason – 1-for-3, 1R, 2RBI, 1BB, 2B
Bottom line
Is it the postseason yet? Seriously though, you do realize after tomorrow we have to wait five days until we see Cubs’ baseball again, right? Oh, but it’s playoff baseball and THAT is very exciting!
Next up
Game number 162. The Cubs close out the 2016 season tomorrow against the Reds. Kyle Hendricks (16-8, 1.99 ERA) will pitch for the Cubs and he’ll be making his final push towards a possible Cy Young award.