Chicago Cubs News: Hendricks wins pitcher’s duel; Rotation off to a slow start

Chicago Cubs starter Kyle Hendricks hadn’t had the command he was looking for to start the season. The Pirates had their chance early on, but he settled in and won a tight 1-0 game with help from the bullpen.

The Chicago Cubs followed up their 14 run performance by scoring one run–on an error–and beating the Pittsburgh Pirates 1-0 because of it. The Cubs managed just two hit, but Kyle Hendricks was able to return the favor and shut down the Pirates for six innings. The bullpen took it over from there and closed out the game for Cubs’ second-consecutive win.

Before Hendricks strong outing, the Cubs’ rotation had been struggling, especially in the first innings. Many of the things they did well last year hadn’t been happening, but it doesn’t mean it won’t. The Cubs kept the Pirates off the board in the first and kept the ball in the yard. If the Cubs can do this, things are going to be just fine.

The youngest Cub still has some growing up to do–but he’s going to enjoy every bit of it until then. Addison Russell was looking for something to connect with his cousins with–and Pokémon was the way. Russell has quite the collection, but there’s a twist. He has opponents sign the cards.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Hendricks outduels Cole as Cubs win, 1-0 over Pirates’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs’ rotation among worst to start the season’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Coghlan leaps over Molina to score for Jays’ – MLB.com

‘Russell has an interesting hobby on the side’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Hendricks fastball velocity not there yet’ – Cubbies Crib

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