Chicago Cubs will get firsthand look at Hamels in game two versus Phillies

Arrieta faces Hamels in game two

The Chicago Cubs won’t have to go far to scout one of their potential deadline targets as the Philadelphia Phillies Cole Hamels takes the mound against the Cubs Jake Arrieta in the second game of the series after the Phillies got a comeback win in extras yesterday. They could also see Jonathan Papelbon again, who has become an unlikely target now, but yesterday’s blown save had people talking again. 

The Cubs (51-44) should feel very confident heading in, as Arrieta (11-5, 2.52) has turned into an ace of his own for them. Over the last month, he’s posted a 5-0 record with a 0.96 ERA in six starts. Many of the Cubs young hitters will be seeing Hamels for the first time, as he hasn’t faced the Cubs since 2013.

The Phillies (35-63), owner’s of the worst record in baseball need Hamels (5-7, 3.91) to look more like the ace he was instead of the pitcher he’s been over the last two games. He’s allowed 14 runs on 20 hits in 6 1/3 innings. That’s good for a 19.89 ERA over those two starts.

Jeff Francoeur was yesterday’s villain as his two-run home run in the 10th off Rafael Soriano was the difference in the 5-3 loss. With the comeback win the Phils improved to 6-1 since the All-Star break.

First pitch is scheduled for 3:05 p.m. CT at Wrigley field.

Here are the lineups for today’s contest:

Next: Making a casae for Hamels or Price