1. It’s hard to hit good pitching.
The Cubs faced about the best pitching they’ll face in a single game this year between Brandon Woodruff and the best (well, would have been the best—see thought number two) of the Milwaukee bullpen. Was it disappointing to get shut out? Yes. But at the same time, this doesn’t mean the offense is terrible. It was frigid, the wind was blowing in, and they were up against a brutal task. Hard to be too upset about it, frustrating though it was. One of those that feels worse in context, with the context being that the Cubs are 3-6 against the Brewers, had a good chance to win yesterday, and had a good chance to win today despite facing one of the best pitchers in the National League.
2. It’s a shame Jason Adam didn’t keep it close.
If nothing else, the attrition effect of forcing Josh Hader to throw an inning could’ve made a difference down the line (say Hader’s not available tomorrow, the Brewers blow a lead, etc.—it’s always better to keep it close). But with Willson Contreras, Anthony Rizzo, and Kris Bryant due up in the ninth, that was especially disappointing.
3. Jake Arrieta pitched well.
After the first inning this was especially true, but even lumping the first inning in with the rest, it was Arrieta’s best start of the year.
4. That was a good week.
The Cubs took four of six from the Mets and the Brewers. They’re a game under .500 and three back in the division, but they took four of six from two of probably the four best teams in the NL, and they showed they can score runs.
5. Looking ahead.
Finding a way to take three of four in the front-end series in Atlanta would be amazing, but being reasonable for a second, winning four of seven on this road trip (which also includes three games in Cincinnati next weekend) would be a successful week, regardless of what anyone else does. It’s a long season. Split with Atlanta. Win the series in Cincinnati. Keep avoiding getting swept. Keep being competitive.
***
Around the Division:
The Cardinals finished a sweep of the Reds, winning 5-2. The Pirates finished a series win in Minneapolis, beating the Twins 6-2.
Standings:
1. Milwaukee (13-8)
2. St. Louis (11-10)
3. Pittsburgh (11-11)
4. Cubs (10-11)
5. Cincinnati (9-12)
This week:
The Brewers host the Marlins for three and the Dodgers for four.
The Cardinals host the Phillies for four before going to Pittsburgh for three.
The Reds go to Los Angeles for three before hosting the Cubs next weekend.
The Pirates host the Royals for two before the Cardinals series.
Up Next:
Looks like it’s Zach Davies vs. Charlie Morton for the opener in Atlanta. All night games the next five nights. 6 PM hour Chicago time for all of them.
