Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/11/20): Cubs 3, Padres 2 – Cubs Rally Late for Win

There was rain, but not enough to delay tonight’s game in Mesa, Arizona, against the San Diego Padres split squad. Yu Darvish started for the Cubs and struck out four while walking three batters over three innings.

Daniel Descalso got the Cubs’ first hit in the bottom of the 7th inning. He went on to score on a ground-rule double by P.J. Higgins. The wet conditions may have contributed to the Cubs’ second and third runs later that inning, as left fielder Jawuan Harris appeared to slip while fielding a routine fly ball that ultimately allowed Alfonso Rivas and Higgins to score. (Box Score)

Why the Cubs Won

The Padres only managed two runs off seven hits and five walks. The Cubs capitalized on their hits much more effectively and benefited from the error on Harris, scoring all three runs in the bottom of the 7th.

Key Moment

Yu Darvish started the second inning with two consecutive walks before baserunner Ty France got caught stealing third. After issuing another walk, Darvish managed to get out of the inning with no damage, striking out one and getting one fly out.

Stats that Matter

• Darvish was a bit wild tonight, walking three and hitting a batter. He managed to strike out three batters while surrendering just one run.
• Craig Kimbrel looked sharp, striking out two batters and utilizing offspeed pitches effectively through one inning pitched.
• Alec Mills continued his great spring, pitching one inning with one strikeout and no runs. He’s allowed only four hits this spring over 11.2 innings pitched.

Bottom Line

Solid outings by Darvish and Kimbrel are all you can ask for at this point in the spring. That and no injuries. The first-team offense didn’t do much, but you can bet they’re saving their energy for the start of the regular season.

On Deck

Assuming MLB doesn’t go the way of the NBA and suspend the season, the Cubs will host the Los Angeles Dodgers tomorrow in Mesa at Sloan Park. LHP Jon Lester faces off against RHP Ross Stripling at 3:05 CT on Marquee Sports Network.