Chicago Cubs done in by errors and walks against the Cincinnati Reds

Cubs scuffle in the field, on the mound as struggles continue

As the Chicago Cubs Starlin Castro came off a strong road trip, he looked to becoming acclimated to his new role with a new attitude. Unfortunately, some of the same problems cropped up again. After Travis Wood walked three batters in the ninth, a Castro error that would have ended the inning allowed the flood gated to open–turning a two-run deficit into eight, ending in a 13-6 loss to the Reds.

Castro will attract most of the attention in the loss for his defense, but Kyle Hendricks once again struggled, leaving questions about the Cubs fourth and fifth spots in the rotation. Anthony Rizzo was 0-for-3 with three strikeouts, and it’s no surprise that the offense tends to go as he does. Justin Grimm allowed two home runs after allowing just two ALL year. The Reds are always a tough match for the Cubs, but at this point in the season, these are games against a sub par opponent that they have to win.

The Cubs continued to make additions to their roster, acquiring Austin Jackson from the Seattle Mariners. Seems that the Cubs have a trade deal with Seattle, San Diego, and Boston, doesn’t it? The Cubs gave up a $211,000 international signing slot and a player to be named in the deal. They will also pick up about a million on his remaining contract this season.

The Cubs’ Joe Maddon seems to keep the team from falling into deep slumps through whatever route he can. Onesies on a flight home, magicians in the clubhouse. After dropping five out of six, he’ll need to do it again to help guide these kids down an unfamiliar road–a playoff hunt.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Justin Grimm struggles in loss to Reds’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs acquire Austin Jackson from the Mariners’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Five intriguing storylines for September’ – MLB.com

‘Cubs will be battle tested down the stretch’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Law on waiver deadline deals, more’ – ESPN

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