Wrap-Up: Chicago Cubs at Washington Nationals (9/5/12)

On Wednesday night, the Cubs continued their series against the best team in baseball, the Washington Nationals.

What Went Right: With a final score of 9-1, there is not much to discuss here. The long term glass half full viewpoint? The Cubs committed no errors and Anthony Rizzo hit his 11^th home run of the season. Rookie pitcher Jaye Chapman, who made his MLB debut on Tuesday, tossed another scoreless inning that featured two strike outs, although the game was decided before his ninth inning appearance. Regardless, it is nice to see a positive start to his career, one that will be measured up against the fact that he was part of the return from Atlanta for starter Paul Maholm and outfielder Reed Johnson.

What Went Wrong: The Cubs pitching staff as a whole, from the starters to the pen. For the second night in a row a Cubs starter was hit hard and the bullpen was no better. Over the last two nights the Cubs have given up 20 runs. Yes, to be fair the North Siders have been trotting out young arms to get through the last month of the season. But 20 runs? I want to put more exclamation and question marks after that, but the writer in me is restraining the chat/message board/social media person in me.

What Was Interesting: To pile onto the What Went Wrong department, the Cubs staff gave up six home runs for the second game in a row. Yes, this may be the best team in the Majors right now at 84-52, but 12 homers given up in 48 hours is embarrassing. I am not saying hit someone, but the Cubs pitchers better hurl a couple high and tight ones in the series finale tonight to keep the Nationals sluggers honest and prevent them from leaning over the plate.