Here are the facts as we know them, Your Honor.
First, the Chicago Cubs (3-2) are still above .500 and have a shot at winning their second consecutive series to start the year this afternoon. Although there have been clear and often painfully familiar offensive struggles already this season, a series win is a series win. And the Cubs need to bank as many as they can against the Brewers early on.
Second, the Milwaukee Brewers (2-3) are a game below .500 and on the brink of dropping their second consecutive series to open the season. Thus, the pressure they’re likely feeling today is probably a little greater than it is for the Cubs.
Third, while both teams are sending out their best starting pitchers for the rubber match, neither Kyle Hendricks (3.0 IP, 4H, 3ER, 3BB, 4Ks) nor Brandon Woodruff (4.0 IP, 6H, 3ER, 2BB, 5Ks) had particularly strong 2021 debuts.
And finally, the Cubs have home field advantage and are generally better suited to face right-handed pitchers (even tough ones like Woodruff) than lefties.
So with all of that in mind, I ask the court to please award the Cubs a W today, as it is their rightful reward.
Thank you, and I rest my case.
Game Info
Milwaukee Brewers (2-3) at Chicago Cubs (3-2) – Wednesday, April 7th at 1:20 CT on Marquee Sports Network, 670 The Score
Starting Pitchers
Brewers: Brandon Woodruff (R)
versus
Cubs: Kyle Hendricks (R)
Chicago Cubs (Lineup Discussion):
1. Ian Happ, CF
2. Eric Sogard, 2B
3. Anthony Rizzo, 1B
4. Kris Bryant, 3B
5. Joc Pederson, LF
6. Javy Baez, SS
7. Jason Heyward, RF
8. Tony Wolters, C
9. Kyle Hendricks, P
Milwaukee Brewers:
1. Kolten Wong, 2B
2. Keston Hiura, 1B
3. Christian Yelich, LF
4. Avisail Garcia, RF
5. Travis Shaw, 3B
6. Lorenzo Cain, CF
7. Manny Pina, C
8. Luis Urias, SS
9. Brandon Woodruff, P