CI Recap (3/6/17) – Cubs 13, Angels 10: Cubs’ Bats Come Alive on Gusty Arizona Day
If anyone was concerned or even slightly miffed about Jason Heyward’s oh-fer spring start, I guess we should likewise be chanting “M-V-P, M-V-P” after Monday’s performance. His bat woke up in a big way, along with pretty much every other Cubs’ player.
Yes, the wind was gusting out, so I’m sure that factored heavily in the accumulation of 23 runs between the two teams. It’s not too often you see a game last three hours and 41 minutes in Spring Training, but with a high near 70 and plenty of blue skies and sunshine, no one was complaining about having to order an extra beer.
The Cubs scored all 13 of their runs between the 2nd and 5th innings, highlighted by a seven-run 4th. Needless to say, a lot happened in that stretch. Jason Heyward hit his home run and a double, Kyle Schwarber showed he looks pretty good running as he busted a triple off the wall, and Munenori Kawasaki led the way with four RBI (box score).
Jake Arrieta lasted two innings and gave up five hits and three runs, two earned. He looked relaxed and like he was playing in a practice game, so nothing to sweat. Here he is talking to reporters after the game:
Stats that matter
- J-Hey broke out big: 2-for-4, 2R, 3RBI, 2B, HR
- Ben Zobrist had a great day as well: 3-for-3, 1R, 3RBI, 1BB, 2B
- Kawasaki with the monster performance: 2-for-3, R, 4RBI, BB, 2B
- The Cubs (14) and Angels (15) combined for 29 hits
Bottom line
This is the type of game that serves as a nice confidence builder for the offense. It was good to see the runs pouring in today. Every single Cubs starter had at least one hit. The only exception was Albert Almora, who left the game early with some tightness in his left calf. Early indications are that it was a precautionary move and nothing too serious.
#Cubs Almora left the game because of left calf soreness. Fouled ball off his leg the other day
— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) March 6, 2017
On deck
The Cubs head home to Sloan Park tomorrow to play Team Italy at 1:05 PM MT. John Lackey will make his first start of the Spring.