Chicago Cubs drop series finale to Dodgers; Lester struggles again

Lester struggles as Cubs settle for series split

The Chicago Cubs splitting a four-game series with the Los Angeles Dodgers would have sounded great a week ago, but after winning the first two a split will leave a bitter taste in their mouth. Jon Lester (4-6, 4.03) just didn’t have it today as the Dodgers got to him early as the Cubs were shutout 4-0.

The Dodgers took advantage of Lester’s control issues early, as a two-run double by Howie Kendrick scored the first two, and would turn out to be all they would need as Carlos Frias (5-5, 4.31) and the Dodgers’ pen was in control all day. Things appeared to go from bad to worse when Kris Bryant left the game. It was reported to be flu-like symptoms, and hopefully that’s all it is.

The Cubs (39-32) bullpen was once again a positive as they allowed just two hits in five scoreless innings. Yoervis Medina was sharp in his two innings striking out two while allowing just one hit.

They outhit the Dodgers (41-33) eight to six, but couldn’t cash in on any opportunities. They were 1-for-6 with RISP, leaving eight stranded. Starlin Castro, who was a late scratch entered the game in the sixth inning.

What’s Next:

The Cubs will look to regroup and put this game behind them as they travel to St. Louis to take on the first-place Cardinals. This is a prime opportunity for them to cut into that lead and make some headway entering July.

Jake Arrieta (7-5, 3.07) will face off against the Cards’ John Lackey (6-4, 3.41) in the opener tomorrow night. First pitch is scheduled for 7:15 pm CT.