The Cubs lost again in a frustrating stretch, repeatedly leaving runners on base and failing to score with runners in scoring position. In the bottom of the third inning, Astros starter Spencer Arrighetti loaded the bases with a walk and back-to-back hit batters, yet the Cubs produced no runs as Ian Happ struck out, Seiya Suzuki popped up, and Michael Conforto hit a check-swing groundout. The middle of the order, described as the run producers, failed in the same way seen for weeks. The Cubs finished 0-9 with RISP and left 11 men on base. Jameson Taillon allowed the leadoff hitter to reach in all five innings, gave up eight hits, and allowed four runs, though the pitching was not viewed as the only issue. A two-run PCA homer and a standout defensive play by Dansby Swanson were among the few positives.
"The most offensive occurrence was in the bottom of the third inning, when Astros starter Spencer Arrighetti loaded the bases with a walk and back-to-back HBPs. But with nobody out and the 4-5-6 hitters up, Ian Happ struck out, Seiya Suzuki popped up on the infield, and Michael Conforto had a check-swing groundout. Yep. The Cubs left fielder, right fielder, and DH. The middle of the order. The "run producers.""
"It's the same thing we've seen for weeks now, and it's enough. I am aware (and agree) that changing up the batting order is mathematically not likely to change the Cubs' fate. But how can you not try SOMETHING at this point? Ian Happ, in particular, needs a day (or two) off. His strikeouts are reaching untenable levels for any spot in the order, let alone cleanup. But it's not like anyone else is contributing much, either. Even Nico Hoerner couldn't come through with the bases loaded."
"And at the end of the day, the Cubs finished 0-9 with RISP plus 11 men left on base. Jameson Taillon was not good at all today, allowing the leadoff hitter to reach in all five of his innings, giving up eight hits, while allowing four runs to score (and all that while getting two would-be homers knocked down by the wind. Not even close to fixed, not that he was the problem today."
"The only modest bright spots in this one were a two-run PCA homer (off a lefty), this beautiful play by Dansby Swanson ... what a play by dansby."
Read at Bleacher Nation
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