The Cubs took it to the Indians in the Las Vegas nightcap, putting up nine runs through the first four innings.
Not only did the bats show up early, but starter Jose Quintana was at his best. This is the week that starting pitchers tend to pitch at their most “normal” – relative to their ability and what they’re willing to show in the spring – before taking it back down for their final spring start. And this week, the Cubs starters were freaking ridiculous. So that’s nice to see.
Quintana certainly was last night (via @Cubs):
6 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 BB, 8 K.
That’ll play, @jose_quintana24. #EverybodyOut pic.twitter.com/8VzDW5xJQD
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) March 18, 2018
No chance for the Indians. Through Quintana’s six innings, he struck out eight(!), and allowed one hit, no walks, and no runs.
Offensively, the Cubs took advantage of the friendly conditions in Las Vegas to go deep three times off Indians starter Ryan Merritt:
.@Addison_Russell launches his second home run of the spring. #EverybodyIn pic.twitter.com/JU88pbocUf
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) March 17, 2018
Hannemonster
Hannemachine
Hammermann
HomermannJust give us a minute. We'll get there. pic.twitter.com/zIqNj3GnCQ
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) March 17, 2018
https://twitter.com/cachorros/status/975161922252345344