There’s no avoiding it right now: Edwin Jackson is really struggling. The Pirates’ lineup is pretty strong these days, particularly with Gregory Polanco up and Josh Harrison hitting like a quality regular.
The Cubs face Charlie Morton for the third time this year, and they load up on lefties against the sinkerballer once again. The notable exception is Mike Olt, who gets a rare starting shot. Sure would like to see him turn things around.
The Cubs got to Morton the first time around, but were dominated last time out. That was barely a week ago, though, so maybe they’ll be ready.
It’s weird to see, by the way, that the Cubs are still just three games back of the Pirates in the loss column.
Game Info
Pittsburgh Pirates (35-37) at Chicago Cubs (30-40), 3:05 CT on WGN.
Game Thread and Series Preview
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The Series Preview lives here.
Starting Pitchers
Charlie Morton (3.09 ERA, 3.73 FIP, 3.98 xFIP; 2.09 K/BB)
versus
Edwin Jackson (5.11 ERA, 3.87 FIP, 3.78 xFIP; 2.27 K/BB)
Pittsburgh Pirates Lineup
1. Gregory Polanco, RF
2. Starling Marte, LF
3. Andrew McCutchen, CF
4. Ike Davis, 1B
5. Russell Martin, C
6. Josh Harrison, 2B
7. Pedro Alvarez, 3B
8. Jordy Mercer, SS
9. Charlie Morton, P
Chicago Cubs Lineup
1. Luis Valbuena, 2B
2. Chris Coghlan, LF
3. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
4. Starlin Castro, SS
5. Ryan Sweeney, CF
6. Nate Schierholtz, RF
7. Mike Olt, 3B
8. John Baker, C
9. Edwin Jackson, P