Pregame Notes: Cubs look for a series win against Pirates Sunday

The Chicago Cubs (31-41) will look to make it three consecutive series wins with a victory Sunday afternoon against the Pittsburgh Pirates (36-38) at Wrigley Field.

Chicago will turn to right-hander Jason Hamel (6-4, 3.02 ERA) in the afternoon tilt. After a rock-solid start to the 2014 season, he’s allowed four runs in back-to-back starts for the Cubs. Against this Pirates team back on June 11, he lasted just five innings, allowing four earned on 11 hits in a loss. He worked through a long first inning in his last start against Miami to pitch six innings, but will look to be more efficient against the Bucs this afternoon.

He will be opposed by right-hander Brandon Cumpton (2-2, 5.82 ERA) who has pitched at least five innings and allowed four runs or fewer in five of his seven starts this season for the Pirates.

Despite the fact that Welington Castillo was activated from the disabled list prior to today’s game, John Baker will get the start behind the dish.

First baseman Anthony Rizzo has swung a hot bat lately, hitting .318 with seven home runs and 19 RBI in his last 23 games. He’ll be a key person to keep an eye on in today’s finale.

The game will be carried on both television and radio via WGN. First pitch is slated for 1:20 p.m. CT.

Here are today’s lineups: