Pregame Chatter: Cubs v Padres; Arrieta Starting

For the second time this spring we get to see Jake Arrieta on the mound as the Cubs take on the Padres today at Sloan Park at 3:05 CST. It may be wishful thinking, but I’m hoping Arrieta will pitch for more than two innings, unlike last Wednesday  when he threw two innings, striking out four, and allowing no hits. In an interview (below) after that game he described the outing, saying:

Body control is incredible, ball is coming out of my had really good with really low effort, velocity is great and all signs are pointing in a really good direction

Here’s video of the interview:

It’s encouraging to hear Jake this positive and upbeat after only one outing. It should be an fun and interesting day today at Sloan Park.

Here’s today’s lineup: