The Cubs suffered a bit of a letdown on Wednesday, losing both ends of a split double-header to the lowly Padres after winning eight games in a row. The main culprit in the first game was the bullpen. Actually, the bullpen woes began on Tuesday night when the team almost blew a big lead in the late innings.
I have to say that sometimes managers lose games when they over-manage and this seemed to be the case in the afternoon game. Kyle Hendricks was sailing along with two outs in the seventh inning, in complete control and holding a 4-2 lead. Then the Padres got a bunt single. Maddon replaced Hendricks with Pedro Strop, who proceeded to blow the game.
In the evening rematch, Lackey pitched a superb game, allowing only a solo home run to to Bettancourt, the Padres reserve catcher. The Cubs showed a certain vulnerability to left-handers who rely on changing speeds and throwing big breaking balls. They had their chances, but could not cash in, falling 1-0. Well, they are still seven games up on the Pirates and playing better than .750 ball. The Pirates come in for a three game series beginning Friday.
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