Chicago Cubs and Padres Series Preview: Pitching, Matchups And More
The Chicago Cubs’ schedule doesn’t get any easier.
The San Diego Padres, who advanced to the National League Championship Series last season, will visit Wrigley Field for a key three-game series.
This is where the Cubs’ depth will be clutch as they continue to face good teams.
Tuesday, April 25 at 6:40 CT
Blake Snell (0-3, 6.00 ERA) vs. Justin Steele (3-0, 1.44 ERA)
Steele has not only been one of the most pleasant surprises for the Cubs but the entire National League. No one could have predicted this much early success from Steele, who has been tremendous. With Nico Hoerner firmly entrenched in the leadoff role, the Cubs will enter this series with quite a bit of confidence.
Wednesday, April 26 at 6:40 CT
Michael Wacha (2-1, 7.08 ERA) vs. Drew Smyly (2-1, 3.13 ERA)
In Smyly’s last start, he nearly threw a perfect game. He tossed 7 2/3 innings and allowed just one hit to go along with 10 strikeouts. Smyly will be opposed by Wacha, who’s a much better pitcher than his ERA indicates. Wacha has struggled with command and this could be a golden opportunity for the Cubs’ offense to come through with some much-needed early runs to support Smyly.
Thursday, April 27 at 1:20 CT
Seth Lugo (2-1, 2.78 ERA) vs. Hayden Wesneski (1-1, 6.23 ERA)
This pitching matchup clearly favors the Padres. Wesneski pitched very well in spring training and impressed the Cubs’ staff. In his regular season starts, there has been a lack of execution. Wesneski’s location has been off. This is a great chance to show the Cubs what he’s capable of in a big game.
Series Prediction:
The Cubs need to win two of three to keep their positive momentum going. It won’t be easy against a potent lineup like the Padres possess. But if the Cubs want to prove they’re trending toward the postseason, this is exactly the type of series they need to win.
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