The Cubs can still win this four-game set in Washington, and the first step is another solid outing from Jason Hammel, who has arguably been the Cubs’ best pitcher this year.
It’s an early game today, with the Cubs facing rookie Joe Ross, who is making his big league debut straight from AA. He’s been quite good there and is a top 100 prospect type. Hopefully he’ll have the jitters, and the Cubs can take advantage early.
The lineup features a couple prominent differences from usual: Addison Russell is playing shortstop and Jonathan Herrera is at second base. Starlin Castro is getting the day off.
Game Info
Chicago Cubs (28-25) at Washington Nationals (30-25), 11:05 CT on CSN and MLB.tv.
Game Thread and Series Preview
Your game thread is down there in the comments, so have fun.
The Series Preview lives here.
Starting Pitchers
Jason Hammel (2.82 ERA, 2.67 FIP, 2.76 xFIP; 9.86 K/BB)
versus
Joe Ross (big league debut)
Washington Nationals Lineup
1. Denard Span, CF
2. Ryan Zimmerman, 1B
3. Bryce Harper, RF
4. Anthony Rendon, 3B
5. Wilson Ramos, C
6. Clint Robinson, LF
7. Ian Desmond, SS
8. Danny Espinosa, 2B
9. Joe Ross, P
Chicago Cubs Lineup
1. Dexter Fowler, CF
2. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
3. Kris Bryant, 3B
4. Miguel Montero, C
5. Junior Lake, RF
6. Chris Coghlan, LF
7. Jonathan Herrera, 2B
8. Jason Hammel, P
9. Addison Russell, SS