Chicago Cubs, Hendricks shutout Padres 3-0 for series win

Hendricks brilliant in 3-0 shutout win over Padres

The Chicago Cubs recently shuffled the rotation and their bullpen in an attempt to solidify both. If there was a question of

being the next to move, he answered that question tonight. He was masterful, tossing a five-hit, complete-game shutout to pick up his first win of the season. He didn’t get a lot of support, but it was more than enough tonight in the 3-0 win over the San Diego Padres.

Kris Bryant got things started for the Cubs (23-17) in the first inning, as he hit a two-run shot to center field following a Dexter Fowler lead-off walk. It was Bryant’s fifth of the season, and the only runs Padres starter Odrisamer Despaigne (2-3, 6.11) would allow on the evening.

But this game was all about Hendricks (1-1, 4.14), as he carved up Padres (20-22) hitters all night. Very little solid contact was made of Hendricks all evening, with one of the hardest shots of the night coming on a line-drive out in the ninth. He struck out seven while not walking anyone, finishing the game with 108 total pitches.

He got some insurance from another of the Cubs’ future stars as Addison Russel connected for his third of the season of San Diego reliever Dale Thayer to give the Cubs a 3-0 lead.

The game was brisk, as it finished in 2:08. The two teams combined to go just 0-for-5 with RISP, as the Padres had just one chance all night.

What Stood Out:

The Cubs future. Home runs from Bryant and Russell, and a complete-game shutout from Hendricks. While he hasn’t been as sharp this year, he also hasn’t deserved to be winless to this point. The team and their fans can look at this game and see why there are reasons to be excited about this season and years to come.

What’s Next:

The Cubs will hop on a late flight tonight and head into Arizona to take on the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Cubs will send the red-hot Jon Lester (4-2, 3.70) to the mound to face-off against the D-backs Josh Collmenter (3-5, 5.36). The game is scheduled for an 8:40 pm CT first pitch.

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