Chicago Cubs wrap up series against Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley

After Tuesday’s thrilling victory, the Chicago Cubs will look to take the rubber match of a three-game set against the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field.

Chicago (75-56) enters Wednesday afternoon’s finale at the Confines with a 6 1/2-game lead over the San Francisco Giants for the second NL wild card spot, but still trailing the Pittsburgh Pirates by 4 1/2 for the top spot.

On what is forecasted to be a hot day at Wrigley, the Cubs send right-hander Jason Hammel to the hill in the rubber match, looking for a series win after dropping their last two – to the Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers, respectively.

Hammel (7-6, 3.42), who turns 33 on Wednesday, is making his third start of the season against the Reds, against whom he’s pitched to a 2.70 ERA in his two previous outings. The right-hander was off to a hot start before suffering a hamstring injury in July. Since then, he has not been the same pitcher.

In both July and August, Hammel posted an earned run average north of 4.00 – peaking last month with a 4.88 clip in five outings.

He will be opposed by rookie Raisel Iglesias, who was roughed up by fellow newcomer Kyle Schwarber last time this matchup took place, with the Cubs’ youngster doubling as part of a 2-for-3 day at the dish.

Here are today’s starting lineups:

First pitch is set for 1:20 p.m. from the North Side of Chicago.

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