Extra Innings
What is it about the Cincinnati Reds that gives the Chicago Cubs such a hard time? It’s not like they’re that good…
The weekend didn’t go as we might have hoped, but it’s behind us, now. In fact, the whole month of June is behind us and we’re heading into a great month. We’ve got the 4th of July coming up as well as the All-Star break, but more on that later.
Cubs vs. Braves
The week started off a little tense when the Atlanta Braves came into town on Monday, June 24. Both teams are chasing down the same dream as National League division leaders: a post-season appearance and a run at a World Series. So naturally, this game quickly took on an October-like atmosphere when Willson Contreras sent a 1–2 pitch sailing into the basket of Wrigley Field and then proceeded to exchange words with the Braves catcher Tyler Flowers. Contreras rounded the bases, but both dugouts soon emptied in attempts to separate the two. It was then business as usual and the Cubs walked away with a 8–3 victory.
The Braves were victorious in game two, winning 3–2. And again in game three, by a score of 5–3.
The Cubs managed to take game four, 9–7, coming back from a five-run deficit. But that wasn’t the only exciting thing that happened. Closer Craig Kimbrel made his debut and it was something special. Just take a look…
Kimbrel earned the save and the Cookie Monster sang the seventh inning stretch. Cubs fans sure are spoiled!
Cubs vs. Reds
After 10 days at home, it was time to hit the road, again. This time the Cubs headed to Cincinnati for a three-day weekend. For whatever reason, the Cubs seem to struggle against the Reds, whether it’s at Wrigley or at Great American Ball Park.
On Friday, June 28, the Reds handed the Cubs a 6–3 loss, which was crucial for the Reds as the game kicked off their longest homestand of the season. The Reds jumped out early 1–0 in the first 1 1/2 innings after Cole Hamels exited the game with an oblique injury. Rattled by their starting pitcher’s exit, the Cubs struggled to put runs on the board.
Saturday’s mid-afternoon game was much better and the Cubs looked a lot like the team we’re used to seeing. Jason Heyward put the Cubs up 1–0 with solo HR in the second inning and then provided numerous saves in the outfield the rest of the afternoon. Javier Báez busted it wide open with a grand slam in the eighth, putting the Cubs up 5–0. All of this backed by a stellar performance from Jose Quintana on the mound. Quintana, who has struggled with his last couple of starts, managed six shoutout innings with zero walks. The Cubs added one more run in the ninth, calling it a day with a 6–0 win.
Unfortunately, the hype didn’t carry over into Sunday’s game and the Cubs struggled with contact and defense. Jon Lester gave up a three-run homer in the bottom of the first, which certainly didn’t help matters. In both the seventh and ninth innings the Cubs managed three runs, but it wasn’t enough, and the Reds took a 8–6 victory.
Injury Report
Injuries have been plaguing this year’s starting rotation and bullpen, with Hamels being the most recent. He’s scheduled to have an MRI on Monday in Pittsburgh ahead of the Cubs game against the Pirates. It’s uncertain when the veteran pitcher will be back, but we’re hoping he makes a speedy recovery. His presence will be missed.
Kyle Hendricks has been out since mid-June with an impingement in his shoulder. He’s been monitored closely and is expected to be back to make the start on Tuesday, according to the Cubs’ injury report.
Carl Edwards, Jr. is still out, dealing with a back injury and he’s not expected back until July 6.
All-Stars
In our book, everyone deserves to be an All-Star, but we can’t always get what we want. Still, we’re excited to announce that three Cubs will be attending the All-Star break in Cleveland, Ohio starting July 8th.
A Look Ahead
The Cubs continue their road trip through the end of the All-Star break. Here’s a look at this next week’s schedule as they prepare for the much needed rest.
- Mon, 7/1 Chicago Cubs @ Pittsburgh Pirates, 7:05 p.m. ET
- Tues, 7/2 Chicago Cubs @ Pittsburgh Pirates, 7:05 p.m. ET
- Wed, 7/3 Chicago Cubs @ Pittsburgh Pirates, 7:05 p.m. ET
- Thurs, 7/4 Chicago Cubs @ Pittsburgh Pirates, 4:05 p.m. ET
- Fri, 7/5 OFF DAY
- Sat, 7/6 Chicago Cubs @ Chicago White Sox, 7:15 p.m. ET
- Sun, 7/7 Chicago Cubs @ Chicago White Sox, 2:10 p.m. ET
Jennifer Brugh is a freelance writer, content creator and social media specialist with a Masters in sports journalism. Born and raised in northern Indiana, Jennifer enjoys following the Chicago Cubs through all the ups and downs. She low-key wants to live in a van and travel South America. You can follow her on Twitter here.
