NEWSLETTER
The Cubs’ losing streak has reached eight, and Dale Sveum is getting the hell outta here. Actually, he’s just attending his son’s graduation, but I’m sure he won’t hate the day away from the tumult. Jamie Quirk will handle the managerial duties tonight, in the place where he most recently coached before coming to the Cubs (Houston, that is).
Jeff Samardzija will try to play stopper tonight, but no matter how well he pitches, he’s going to need at least one run of support. Two or three would be even better. Maybe even before the 9th inning!
The Astros counter with Wandy Rodriguez, who’s having himself a resurgent, excellent year. Maybe that means the Cubs will blast off, given the caliber of pitchers who’ve been dominating them lately.
Tonight’s lineup is a carbon copy of last night’s mostly-righty affair, with only Koyie Hill and Jeff Samardzija as changes.
Game Info
Chicago Cubs (15-28) at Houston Astros (20-23), 7:05pm CT on WGN.
Game Thread and Series Preview
The Game Thread lives here. You should participate in the madness. And, of course, for those who aren’t into message board-style game threads, please feel free to use the comments on this post for your in-game commentary/outbursts.
The Series Preview for this series lives here.
Starting Pitchers
Jeff Samardzija (4-2, 3.00 ERA, 2.96 FIP)
versus
Wandy Rodriguez (3-4, 2.24 ERA, 3.03 FIP)
Houston Astros Lineup
1. Jose Altuve, 2B
2. Jed Lowrie, SS
3. Travis Buck, RF
4. Carlos Lee, 1B
5. Brian Bogusevic, CF
6. Chris Johnson, 3B
7. J.D. Martinez, LF
8. Jason Castro, C
9. Wandy Rodriguez, P
Chicago Cubs Lineup
1. David DeJesus, RF
2. Reed Johnson, CF
3. Starlin Castro, SS
4. Alfonso Soriano, LF
5. Joe Mather, 3B
6. Jeff Baker, 1B
7. Darwin Barney, 2B
8. Koyie Hill, C
9. Jeff Samardzija, P
