The Cubs are going for the series win today – why wouldn’t they win a four-game set against the Nationals after dropping a three-game set against the Marlins? – with Kyle Hendricks on the mound, and Jordan Zimmermann opposing.
Last time out, Zimmermann rocked the Cubs to sleep – he didn’t look particularly dominant, but they couldn’t seem to get solid swings in on him. For his part, Hendricks gave up just one earned run over seven innings against the Nationals, but it came primarily from a whole lot of groundballs that found gloves. That’s Hendricks’ primary style, of course, but we always have to be aware that sometimes, when you allow a lot of balls into play, they will find grass rather than glove.
Addison Russell gets the day off today, and Jonathan Herrera starts again at second base after a nice game on Saturday.
Chris Denorfia is back, and he gets right back on the horse, slotting into right field.
Game Info
Chicago Cubs (29-25) at Washington Nationals (30-26), 3:05 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
Kyle Hendricks (3.99 ERA, 3.46 FIP, 3.66 xFIP; 3.69 K/BB)
versus
Jordan Zimmermann (2.88 ERA, 3.12 FIP, 4.18 xFIP; 3.00 K/BB)
Washington Nationals Lineup
1. Denard Span, CF
2. Danny Espinosa, 3B
3. Bryce Harper, RF
4. Anthony Rendon, 2B
5. Wilson Ramos, C
6. Ian Desmond, SS
7. Tyler Moore, 1B
8. Michael Taylor, LF
9. Jordan Zimmermann, P
Chicago Cubs Lineup
1. Dexter Fowler, CF
2. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
3. Kris Bryant, 3B
4. Miguel Montero, C
5. Chris Coghlan, LF
6. Starlin Castro, SS
7. Chris Denorfia, RF
8. Kyle Hendricks, P
9. Jonathan Herrera, 2B