As the Chicago Cubs keep an eye on their future, their past came back for a visit Tuesday. Javier Baez has struggled since signing with the Detroit Tigers, but he received a hero's welcome from his former team.
A 2016 World Series champion, Baez will always be remembered as an electrifying component of arguably the best era of Cubs' baseball. His presence at the Friendly Confines Tuesday served as a reminder of how good things once were for a team currently capable of so much more.
Tale of the Tape
Whenever Javier Assad takes the mound, the Cubs can't bank on a long night from their starter. His outings require multiple bullpen arms to get the job done, and that's exactly what played out in Tuesday's series opener.
After being held scoreless Sunday, the Cubs' bats came through when needed most.
Dillon Dingler's RBI single was the only damage against Assad across 5.2 innings . Thanks to a team effort, the Cubs threw their weight around against a lackluster opponent.
Cody Bellinger put the Cubs ahead with a fifth-inning two-RBI double. The lefty continues to provide a steady bat in an otherwise inconsistent lineup.
With the Cubs holding a 2-1 lead, this game was theirs for the taking if they could hold down the fort and get some more breathing room. Rebounding from the struggles showcased on Sunday is key for a team fighting for a postseason spot.
Dansby Swanson delivered an insurance run with a solo shot in the sixth inning, turning the Cubs' fate over to the bullpen.
Tyson Miller tossed 1.1 scoreless innings and Drew Smyly notched a clean frame of his own. Both hurlers are important members of a bullpen that's risen to the occasion as the season has progressed.
After parting ways with Hector Neris earlier Tuesday, the Cubs' closer's job is up for grabs. Porter Hodge received an audition and ran with it in the ninth inning.
After allowing a leadoff double, Hodge settled in and retired the next three batters. As fate would have it, he struck out Javier Baez for the game's final out. The rookie continues to impress as a key contributor in the bullpen.
Takeaways
Tuesday featured an all-around solid performance from the Cubs. The pitching continues to impress while the offense shows exactly what it can be when playing to its capabilities.
With the closer's role still up in the air, Porter Hodge figures to see some time when the game is on the line. Chicago needs to find consistency in the ninth inning if October baseball is in the cards.
Javier Baez's return came with memories of better times for the Cubs. The hope now is that the organization is heading toward its next era of glory days.
What's On Tap Next?
Looking to continue their momentum, the Cubs will call upon Jameson Taillon to tame the Tigers on Wednesday. Detroit's starter is unknown as of this writing. First pitch is at 7:05 PM CT and the game will air on Marquee Sports Network.
Subscribe to On Tap Sports Net on YouTube , and the Cubs On Tap podcast and Dingers: A Chicago Cubs Podcast for more Chicago Cubs content, updates, and hot takes!
Local Chicago, IL
Most Popular
Comments / 0