There are several reasons for the Cubs’ current three game slide, losing again last night 6-1 to the Mets, but the biggest one may be hitting with runners in scoring position. Over the last three games the Cubs are just 4-24, good for a .167 average. The offense has been an issue throughout April scoring four runs or fewer in 8 of 13 games. They have won just two of those games. Then you combine that with a bullpen that has been extremely erratic and it is easy to see why the team is 5-8. The starting pitching has been tremendous, certainly better than it should be for a team that has struggled to win games. Cub starters have accounted for just two of the losses so far, the other six are on the bullpen. This is also why six games have been decided by just one run already. In these games the Cubs are 2-4.
I try not to read too much into what happens during the first month of a long season, however it is possible to spot some trends early on that can hint at what will happen later. The struggles with runners in scoring position are usually mental and can last throughout the course of a season. The Ricketts family has already stated that they are willing to spend big money to get this team to a World Series, but it is going to take more than just spending money to contend.
Ted Lilly looks ready to make his debut this weekend after a strong rehab start for Class A Peoria Monday night. Lilly went seven innings allowing one run on three hits and striking out nine. The left-hander threw 88 pitches on the night, 63 of them for strikes. Later this week I will discuss the upcoming decision for Lou Piniella as he decides which starter will move to the bullpen to clear a spot for Lilly.
The Cubs look to even up the series tonight as Carlos Zambrano (1-1, 9.45) will take on Mike Pelfrey (2-0, 1.29.)
