I was all set to send the Cubs on to a sweep of the Nationals and the NLCS before the 8th inning yesterday. I still like their chances. First off, the idea is to split the away games in a short series. The Cubs have done this. Second, it’s not the first time they have suffered a bullpen meltdown and bounced back.
Until that fateful inning, the Cubs had played nearly flawless baseball. They can probably bounce back Monday against Washington. Anyway, returning home for two games gives them a considerable advantage.
As to the roster moves and bullpen setup, I had a still have doubts. Picking Lackey over Rondon was a surprise. It can only mean that there is not absolute confidence in Arrieta. Picking Martin over the same choice is also odd. The Cubs have a lot of good defensive choices in the outfield andvthe likelihood of using Martin to steal a base late is pretty remote.
Not having that extra short reliever showed up a little bit last night. I was surprised to see Edwards trotted out again for the 8th. Sure, he gets lefties out when he is on, but starting the inning with a right-handder more or less means Lind will pinch hit. Starting with a left-hander, knowing Baker’s proclivities, means he is on the bench and probably means Harper bats with no one on base. Later on, not having Rondon to use for one out means you have to either stick with Montgomery or bring on Davis early.
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