CI Recap (8/21/18) – Cubs 1, Tigers 2: Offensive Slump Continues, Hendricks Shines in Loss

Wow, this is getting outrageous. The Cubs were poor at the plate yet again Tuesday as the bats collected eight hits, all but one of which were singles. There was only one point during the game when they had two men on base at the same time, and that was because of an error.

Kyle Hendricks pitched well aside from a rocky 1st inning, which has essentially the story of his season. He went seven strong innings, allowing two runs on 10 hits and one walk, while striking out three and primarily allowing soft contact that found gaps. Jesse Chavez pitched well in relief to solidify the excellent pitching performance. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

The offense was anemic yet again, scoring a single run on an Anthony Rizzo solo home run in the top of the 6th. This was the fifth straight game in which the Cubs offense was able to muster a mere run on a solo homer.

Key Moment

Hendricks induced a weak pop fly to center from the first batter he faced. It dropped right in front of Albert Almora Jr., but the ball it bounced past him and allowed Jeimer Candelario to reach second base. If that play does not happen, Candelario is not get moved over to third on a single, and is not subsequently driven in on a sacrifice fly to right.

Stats that Matter

• The last five home runs the Cubs have hit are of the solo variety.
• David Bote went 0-for-4 with two strikeouts. He has not reached base in his last five games, going 0-for-16 in that span.
• The Cubs left 10 men on base and went 0-for-5 with runners in scoring position.

Bottom Line

The Cubs are struggling offensively, and that is an understatement. Never fear, fellow fans, for the offense will break out of this slump soon enough! It’s really easy to get down about how they have been doing at the plate, but you just have to believe the Cubs will eventually start stringing hits together and pounding the opposition into submission.

On Deck

Jon Lester will look to keep the Tigers at bay with a second consecutive great start. Francisco Liriano will take the mound for the Tigers. The 6:10pm CT game will be broadcast on WGN.