Two spring games, and two victories for the Cubs as they wiped the floor with the Giants today. Now I’m sure the Cubs will lose at some point this year (maybe?), and spring doesn’t mean much of anything but it’s nice to see two wins on the board early.
The second inning told the story in this one as the Cubs exploded for eight runs, six of those runs off postseason world beater Madison Bumgarner. The Cubs implemented the death by a thousand cuts attack as only two of their thirteen hits were of the extra base variety. Albert Almora had a good day out of the lead-off spot going 1-for-3 with an RBI and a run scored. Anthony Rizzo and Kyle Schwarber also made their 2019 debut today and were effective at the plate. Schwarber looked particularly good going 1-for-1 with two walks, and an RBI double off Bumgarner.
Tyler Chatwood got the start today, and only managed to walk one batter. That number is a bit deceiving as Chatwood worked behind in the count repeatedly, hit a batter, and gave up a two run shot to Brandon Belt. At this point the results mean little for Chatwood, it’s more about finding the strike zone, and today would have to be summed up as… meh. Two intriguing arms that could factor into the Cubs 2019 bullpen tossed scoreless innings today. James Norwood worked his way out of some trouble after giving up two hits, and walking one in his inning of work. Meanwhile, Dillon Maples was spitting hot fire, he struck out two without allowing a base-runner in the victory.
Next up for the Cubs, split squad action in the desert. Christian Bergman will get the start against the Dodgers while Jon Lester gets his first crack at spring action against Manny Machado’s Padres.
