Chicago Cubs have their backs to the wall down 3-0

Mets on the brink of World Series; Cubs still have fight left

It wasn’t the prettiest of displays the Chicago Cubs have put on this season. It honestly may have been one of the more frustrating. The Cubs played their way into the 3-0 hole that they’re in with sloppy play against the New York Mets and Jacob deGrom. Defensive missteps led to runs for the Mets, and if not for the ivy, it could have been much worse.

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The Cubs once again used the long ball to drive their offense, but it came in the form of solo shots from Kyle Schwarber and Jorge Soler as the team once again struggled to get the leadoff man on base. Anthony Rizzo and Kris Bryant remain absent from the series, and the bullpen was called upon early as Kyle Hendricks lasted just four innings. It’s been done before–just once–but the 3-0 deficit for the Cubs to overcome isn’t going to be easy.

Miguel Montero‘s postseason hasn’t been all he would have hoped. His struggles at the plate are just one of many for the Cubs, and the strikeout pitch that got away from him by Trevor Cahill allowing the go-ahead run to score didn’t make him any new friends either. Game 4 could be his last chance to make a difference in this postseason.

Sure enough, the Cubs bullpen was asked to carry them in Game 3. Unfortunately, they were unable to hold the Mets in the 5-2 loss. Entering tomorrow’s elimination game, Jason Hammel was the last name mentioned to start, but this could be a Jon Lester game now in this situation.

These and other stories from yesterday’s action:

‘Cubs sloppy play costly in Game 3 loss’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Mets roll into Wrigley; take 3-0 lead’ – MLB.com

‘Montero’s bat needs to come alive’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Jays crushed by Royals; trail series 3-1’ – Jays Journal

‘Cubs bullpen to play key role in coming games’ – Cubbies Crib