CI Recap (5/30/18) – Cubs 1, Pirates 2: Cubs Can’t Get Big Hit as Hendricks Pitches Well

Kyle Hendricks did not have his best stuff tonight, but he did his best to keep the Cubs in the game. After allowing a leadoff home run to Josh Harrison, he limited the Pirates to only one additional run, which came across the plate in the 2nd inning.

That tally proved to be the game-winner, as the Cubs bats were largely silent with men on base throughout the game. They got seven hits and walked four times against Joe Musgrove in his seven innings of work, but Musgrove did a great job of bearing down when the pressure was high (Box score).

Why the Cubs Lost

The Cubs offense, after pounding the ball in the previous two games, were unable to do so tonight. They only got one extra-base hit, and it came on the first pitch of the game in the form of an Albert Almora Jr. double to left center.

They tried to make a late push against Pirates closer Felipe Vazquez in the top of the 9th, but Kris Bryant grounded out to third with men on first and second to end the game.

Key Moment

The Cubs had the bases loaded with one out and Kyle Schwarber at the plate. This was the time to do damage against a struggling Musgrove, but Schwarber struck out looking. Addison Russell followed that with a swinging strikeout.

Stats that Matter

• Hendricks allowed a leadoff hit in every inning he pitched.
• Jason Heyward reached base four times, walking once and collecting three hits (all singles). He’s looked great at the plate recently.
• Bryant struggled at the plate tonight, going 0-4 with a walk and a strikeout.
• The Cubs went 1-for-6 with runners in scoring position and left 11 men on base.

Bottom Line

The Cubs had their chances at the plate to win the game, but could not push any runs across after scoring one in the 1st inning. They won the series pretty handily, however, and are looking very good overall.

On Deck

The Cubs now head to New York for a four-game series against the Metropolitans. Jose Quintana will take the bump for the Cubs, while Seth Lugo is scheduled to start for the Mets. First pitch will be made at 6:10pm CT and the game will be broadcast on NBC Sports Chicago