Hammel Gets Hammered (Again), Cubs Lose to Brewers

Jason Hammel (14-8, 3.50 ERA) is developing a disturbing habit of getting hammered when he pitches away from Wrigley Field. For the third straight road game he’s pitched he gave up multiple hits and runs early. Tonight it was five runs on six hits in the bottom of the first inning. The Cubs managed only five runs all night and go on to drop tonight’s game 12-5 (Box Score).

The hole that Hammel dug was just too deep for the Cubs to rebound. He managed to settle down enough to get to the sixth inning, giving up only one more run along the way. The sixth inning was another story altogether. Jason gave up a two out, three-run home run to Ryan Braun, a double to Hernan Perez and, after 97 pitches, Joe Maddon finally showed some mercy and pulled Hammel.

Stats that matter

• Hammel got crushed and his performances lately are concerning – 5.2IP, 9R, 13H, 2BB, 5Ks, 2HR, 97 pitches
• The bullpen wasn’t much better – 2.1IP, 3R, 3H, 1BB, 2Ks
• Anthony Rizzo had a good game – 2-for-4, 2R, 3RBI, 2HR
• Miguel Montero was also good offensively – 2-for-4, 2R, 1RBI, 2B, HR

Bottom line

That was ugly. Ineffective pitching, rough defensive play, did I mention poor pitching? Definitely one of those games that you’d like to forget. And what makes it worse is the Cardinals won so the Cubs can’t even celebrate gaining ground in their magic number. Oh well, tomorrow.

Next up

The Cubs play the rubber match against the Brewers on Wednesday at 7:10 PM CT. Mike Montgomery (4-5, 2.80 ERA) will get the start for the Cubs.