Pregame Notes: Chicago Cubs take on Texas Rangers split-squad

Mar 8, 2014; Goodyear, AZ, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher

(39) pitches in the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds at Goodyear Ballpark. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Cubs will be taking on a split squad Texas Rangers team later on this evening at 9:00 p.m. CT. Chicago (10-11) currently sits in sixth place in Cactus League action, while the Texas Rangers (5-12) sit at the very bottom of the standings.

Taking the mound today against the Texas Rangers will be right handed starting pitcher Jason Hammel. Hammel (1-0, 0.00 ERA) did pretty well in his only outing so far, recording four strike outs in just three innings pitched. Granted he’s only started one game during the Spring, but he’s showing signs of possibly becoming a solid lock in the rotation.

He picked up the victory against the Cincinnati Reds on March 8th.

Taking the mound for Texas will be right handed pitcher Alexi Ogando. Ogando (1-2, 8.46 ERA) is entering the game against the Cubs with eight earned runs coming off 14 hits through eight and one-third innings pitched.

Alexi only made it through three and one-third innings, being charged with six earned runs off five hits against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

Now here’s a look at the lineup for the visiting Chicago Cubs:

Here’s a look at the Texas Rangers split-squad:

Tonight’s lineup will surely be a challenge for Jason Hammel and the rest of the pitching staff. He’s currently the only starting pitcher for the Cubs who hasn’t pitched more than four innings so far this Spring. There’s a good chance he’ll try to make it through at least five innings tonight.