The Cubs split a double-header with the Pirates on Tuesday, avoiding a complete disaster and snapping a three game losing streak of games they possibly and probably could have won. The first game was a bit of a nightmare. The Cubs managed to work up the pitch count on Cole and give themselves a chance, tying the game at 4. Then they turned the ball over to Justin Grimm, which turned out to be a big mistake. Not that he was super-awful, but this guy has apparently taken a vow never to throw strikes. He walked the first batter, which is pretty much what he always does lately. The pinch runner promptly stole second base and, owing to Castro's failure to block the throw from Montero, wound up at third with nobody out. So much for that one.
The truth is there is very little difference between the top three teams in the NL Central in terms of talent and ability, so most of the contests from here on out are going to turn on breaks and mistakes as well as dominant or heroic performances. The Cubs salvaged the nightcap mainly on the strength of a superb complete game from Lester, who, I suppose, demonstrated why the team is paying him a gazillion dollars. Some guys are money players and Lester seems to be one for sure. I was glad to see Maddon forego the chance to call on the bullpen in yet another pressure spot. The Cubs did not cash in on a lot of scoring chances in Game 2, but they played stellar defense and that, coupled with Lester's dominance, won the day.
As an aside, everybody is talking about the question marks in terms of the fifth starter in the Cubs rotation, but the real problem since the All-Star Break has been Hammel, who, since his hamstring strain or for whatever reason, has been more than iffy as their #3. You can advance in post-season with two really good starters and a couple of reliable bullpen arms, but it is a lot easier with a third starter who can at least get you into the seventh inning. Right now, Hammel is not that guy by a long shot.
The Cubs have Arrieta going on Wednesday night, so the odds are they can at least split the Pirates series and come back with a winning road trip heading into their final homestand.
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