CI Recap (4/26/18) – Cubs 1, Brewers 0: Hendricks Pitches Gem as Schwarber Powers Cubs
For the second straight day, the Cubs scored a single run. For the second straight day, a Cubs starter went seven strong innings. For the second straight day, a solo home run won the game. Unlike last night, however, the Cubs were on the right side of things. This was the first time this season the Cubs won a game by one run and also the first time they scored a single run and did not lose (box score).
Why the Cubs Won
Kyle Hendricks was masterful tonight. He never ran into trouble and never allowed a Brewers baserunner to reach third base. The Brewers were only able to get men on base with two outs and were never able to string hits together. Hendricks went seven innings, allowing only four hits while striking out five in what was probably the best performance by a Cubs starting pitcher all season.
Key Moment
Kyle Schwarber came up to the plate in the bottom of the 6th and was tired of seeing zero runs on the scoreboard. So, naturally, he smashed a line drive home run to right. This would prove to be the only instance in which a man touched home plate on offense.
Stats that Matter
- Hendricks did not walk anybody for the second straight start
- The Cubs struck out only three times
- Only two Cubs, Albert Almora Jr. and Victor Caratini, reached base twice
Bottom Line
The Cubs were finally able to win a close, low-scoring game. Another important takeaway from this game was Hendricks’ performance. He pitched in the manner to which we’ve grown accustomed, so let’s hope this starts a trend and Hendricks continues to perform at a high level.
On Deck
Tomorrow at 1:20pm CT, Yu Darvish and Brent Suter will square off in the second game of this four-game series. The game will be broadcast on NBC Sports Chicago and MLB Network for those folks who aren’t in the Cubs television market.
