Pregame Notes: Chicago Cubs take on the Arizona Diamondbacks

Mar 20, 2014; Mesa, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher

(29) throws the ball against the Seattle Mariners at Cubs Park. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Cubs (12-17) will take a short bus trip to take on the Arizona Diamondbacks (11-9) as we approach the final couple games of Cactus League play. First pitch for this contest is scheduled for 3:10 p.m. CT.

Taking the mound for the Cubs today is right handed Opening Day starter Jeff Samardzija. Samardzija (0-1, 5.50 ERA), picked up his only loss of the Spring in his last outing back on March 20th against Robinson Cano and the Seattle Mariners. So far this Spring, Samardzija has given up 24 hits, two home runs, recorded 17 strike outs and has been charged with 11 earned runs through 18 innings pitched.

He should be looking to complete at least five-six innings in what should be his final start of the Spring as he prepares for the Opening Day gig.

Starting for the Arizona Diamondbacks today right handed pitcher Brandon McCarthy. McCarthy (1-0, 1.93 ERA), will be making his fourth start of the Spring today. He’s worked through 14 innings, given up 13 hits, charged with three earned runs and has six strike outs. His last outing was against the Chicago White Sox on March 8th, where he recorded made it through five innings. McCarthy was hit with two earned runs off six hits, enough to get himself his first win of the Spring but bumped his ERA from 1.00 to 1.93.

Now here’s a look at the lineup for the Chicago Cubs:

Here’s a look at the lineup for the Arizona Diamondbacks:

Diamondbacks are fancy.