Chicago Cubs News: Team ready for doubleheader in Colorado

May 8, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Chicago Cubs fans await out a weather delay before the game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Chicago Cubs fans await out a weather delay before the game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports /
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After hail and rain postponed the series opener, the Chicago Cubs and Colorado Rockies will play a day-night doubleheader at Coors Field Tuesday.

On Sunday, the Chicago Cubs and New York Yankees played into the early hours of the morning, going 18 innings before a winner was decided. The next day, Chicago headed west to Colorado, but lucked out when they earned a day off thanks to hail and rain in the Denver area.

The postponement set up Tuesday’s doubleheader at Coors Field, with the first game at 1:10 p.m. CT. Right-hander Jake Arrieta takes the ball, looking to lower his disappointing 4.63 ERA as he seeks his fifth win of the season.

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In his last starts, the 2015 NL Cy Young winner allowed three earned at home against the Phillies. He has allowed at least three earned in five-straight starts, dating all the way back to April 4.

The day off gave the overworked Chicago bullpen much-needed rest. Joe Maddon has options heading into today’s twin-bill, despite the 18-inning game on Sunday night.

With Arrieta on the mound, veteran Miguel Montero will catch in the opener. He’s been white-hot lately at the dish, carrying a .429 average over the last week into action.

Kris Bryant and Javier Baez have also been driving the ball regularly, batting well over .300 in their past seven games. Given the offensive ups and downs so far this season, hopefully Coors Field jump starts the bats behind Arrieta.

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What’s Next

Following this afternoon’s contest, Chicago (16-15) and Colorado (20-12) play a nightcap at 7:40 p.m. CT (weather permitting).

John Lackey takes the ball for the Cubs and is opposed by southpaw Kyle Freeland.