Cubs Explode in the Sixth, Top Rangers Behind Solid Hendricks Outing
The Chicago Cubs (54-35) came out today and played extremely well in their first game since the all-star break. They hit four of their seven total hits in the bottom of the sixth inning. Addison Russell and Matt Sczcur each drove in two runs on clutch base hits and Jason Heyward added a run when his batted ball turned into a throwing error by Prince Fielder. Fielder was attempting to throw out Willson Contreras at third base. It didn’t work and the Cubs beat the Rangers 6-0 (Box Score).
Slide to the left, slide to the right. ??? pic.twitter.com/G3CdrmFY2d
— MLB GIFS (@MLBGIFs) July 15, 2016
Kyle Hendricks was as good as you could ever ask. Can you believe that he’s slowly turning into an ace for the Cubs? He continues to lead all Cubs’ starting pitchers with a 2.41 ERA. That is mighty, mighty impressive. And today was no exception. He allowed no runs and scattered three hits over six innings.
When Kyle turned things over to the bullpen in the seventh inning it was tantamount to handing them a wrapped gift only in need of a bow. Carl Edwards, Jr., Travis Wood, Pedro Strop and Justin Grimm, all combined to secure the shut out for the Cubs.
Stats that mattered
- Hendricks is really cruising along well this season – 6.0IP, 0R, 3H, 2BB, 3Ks
- Bullpen was very good and worked well together as a team today – 3.0IP, 0R, 2H, 3Ks
- Addison Russell was involved a lot today and that’s great to see – 2-for-4, 2R, 2RBIs, 2B
Bottom line
I have to admit, I’m a little relieved to see the Cubs come out of the break and put together such a solid outing. Not that I was worried, it’s just that it totally sucks watching the Cubs play several levels below where they’re capable. The stretch before the all-star break seemed a little surreal. It happened, but it didn’t feel like it should have.
Next up
The Cubs will go up against the Rangers again tomorrow afternoon at Wrigley Field starting at 1:20 PM CDT. Jason Hammel (7-5, 3.46 ERA) will take the ball for the Cubs.
