Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (6/17/21): Cubs 2, Mets 0 – Hendricks Remains Hot, Cubs Avoid Sweep

Kyle Hendricks (8-4, 4.46 ERA) squared off against Marcus Stroman (6-4, 2.33 ERA) in the series finale, looking for both his seventh consecutive win and quality start. Dating back to May 16, Hendricks has gone 6-0 with a 2.93 ERA with two wins to salvage four-game series.

Javier Báez wasted no time, clobbering a hanging slider to dead center to give the Cubs an early 2-0 lead in the 1st. Those were the only runs scored tonight by either team.

Hendricks had yet another great outing, pitching six scoreless innings and allowing only two hits and two walks with seven strikeouts. The bullpen took it the rest of the way, completing the shutout with relative ease as the Cubs won 2-0. (Box Score)

Why the Cubs Won

A master class from The Professor, a home run from Báez, and stellar relief pitching resulted in tonight’s victory.

Key Moment

With the Cubs leading 2-0 in the 4th, Hendricks walked the first two batters he faced but escaped the jam by inducing a 6-4-3 double play followed by a dribbler in front of the plate for the third out. Not allowing the Mets to score in that situation was the difference tonight.

Stats That Matter

• The Cubs bullpen has a 2.55 ERA, best in MLB.
• Baez ranks 4th in the NL with 44 RBI.
• Neither team had a hit after the 4th inning.

Bottom Line

Hendricks has pitched like an ace since mid-May, proving once again he can handle the responsibility of being at the top of the rotation. Adbert Alzolay returning from the IL will be a big boost, but Jed Hoyer must go out and acquire another starter at the deadline as the Cubs vie for the NL Central crown.

On Deck

Zach Davies (4-3, 4.01 ERA) toes the rubber in the series opener against the Marlins, who have yet to announce their starter. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05pm CT on Marquee, MLB Network, 670 The Score, and WRTO for Spanish speakers.