Weekend Catch-Up: Beating the Cardinals, Reliever Rumors, Darvish, Lucroy, More

Hey, I’d say that was another pretty great weekend in the Cubs’ world, eh?

It wasn’t a sweep of the Orioles to kick off the second half, as last weekend was, but it was a series win over the Cardinals, which came despite a bullpen implosion in one of the games. I will totally take that.

If you missed anything …

Friday, July 21

• Our Friday got quite a jumpstart with a surprising new rumor: the Cubs have reached out to the Rangers on Yu Darvish.
• Friday’s Bullets included hype for the Cardinals series (and some trolling).
• The latest from the Lukewarm Stove, including bits on Britton and Gray.
• The qualifying offer value is going up, and what that means for the league and the Cubs.
• Controllable lefty relievers are on the Cubs’ trade radar.
• An utter implosion in the 8th inning doomed the Cubs against the Cardinals.
• Although there have been talks, there has reportedly not been progress between the Cubs and Rangers on Yu Darvish.

Saturday, July 22

• Rumors have the Cubs connected to many, many more relief targets.
• And Luke reminded folks that Hug Watch continues in the minor leagues.
• Saturday’s Bullets include thoughts on a disaster inning, Carl Edwards Jr.’s control problems, and more.
• His miracle healing powers continue, as Kris Bryant missed only one game with his finger injury.
• Tommy La Stella returns to Iowa, as Felix Pena comes up.
• The Cubs fell behind 2-0 in the 8th inning … and then scored three in the bottom of the frame to win.
• The game-winning run came when Kris Bryant scored from first base on what was essentially a single by Anthony Rizzo.

Sunday, July 23

• The Rangers reportedly had a key talent evaluator watching the Iowa Cubs, and it may be related to a pursuit of Jonathan Lucroy (if not Yu Darvish).
• Lester’s dominance and tribute, as well as a six degrees of Juan Pierre in the Sunday Bullets.
• The Cubs made it official on the return of Kyle Hendricks, and he’s set to start today.
• Thanks to a sixth inning Willson Contreras homer, the Cubs beat the Cardinals 5-3 to pull off the series win.
• And coupled with another Brewers loss, that means the Cubs finished the weekend tied for first place.