Faithful, Too: “Game 60 W and Notes on Da’ Starters”

Leaving work yesterday after another long one, I listened to the radio call by Pat Hughes regaling the top of the 4th for the Cubs/Nationals first game of the series. PCA hit what would normally be a routine single and turned it into a double because of his incredible speed. He then stole third without a throw from the catcher because of his incredible speed. He then spooked the Nats’ third baseman into not throwing to first after a routine grounder because PCA convinced him that he would try for home. He didn’t, and slid back safely to 3rd. Runners at 1st and 3rd with no out instead of a runner on 3rd with one one. PCA changes games. Busch hit an RBI single to knock him in and cut the lead down to 3-2. Swanson’s second sac fly of the night tied things up.

Buschy had himself another game and was largely responsible for the Cubs eventual 8-3 victory. Scored a run shortly after hitting a triple in the 1st, hit the aforementioned RBI single in the 4th, walked with the bases loaded to “knock” in another run, then hit a homer to lead off the 7th. Alas, his chance to hit for the cycle ended in a fly out in the top of the 9th. With no King Tuck (still dealing with that jammed finger), the fellows needed to step it up and step it up they did. It was enough to garner Horton another win despite a so-so start and putting the rookie at 3-0 for the season. The Cubs have also won the other two games he’s appeared in.

So let’s talk about the current starting pitchers for this team, sans a still-injured Shota (3-2 with a beautiful 2.82 ERA, BTW):

Jameson Taillon: 5-3, 3.76 ERA

Good, but he’s given up twice as many homers as any other starter on this list (16).

Matthew Boyd: 5-2, 3.08 ERA

Low-key best pitcher on the team so far this season. Overshadowed by team offense, but wow.

Ben Brown: 3-3, 5.72 ERA

The Jekyll and Hyde of the Cubs. His power can be overwhelming, leading the club in K’s (71).

Colin Rea: 3-2, 3.96

As good as Boyd for much of the season, but he’s given up 12 runs in his last 11 innings.

Cade Horton: 3-0, 4.21 ERA

(see above write-up)

The team needs a healthy Shota to succeed, and I believe need someone acquired in a trade to relieve Mr. Brown of starting duty (at least for this season). A postseason starting staff of Shota/NEW GUY/Jamo/Boyd (only four starting pitchers needed in October) can get the job done behind a healthy offense. Time is ticking, Mr. Hoyer.*

* Cubs general manager