Chicago Cubs News: Hammel struggles again in 12-5 loss to Brewers

The Chicago Cubs’ Jason Hammel has allowed six or more runs only three times this year. Unfortunately, they’ve all occurred since July. Are the potato chips not working? While not a must-win game, the Cubs need to figure out Hammel’s struggles.

Magic Number: Still 10 (Damn you Cardinals)

The Chicago Cubs‘ Jason Hammel didn’t enter last night’s game with strong numbers against the Milwaukee Brewers. And after last night, they don’t look any better. Hammel was forced to take his lumps, enduring one of his worst nights as he allowed 13 hits and 9 runs (8 earned) over 5 2/3 innings. Joe Maddon left him in to eat up innings with such a large lead in the division. Good for the bullpen, not so much for Hammel.

The Cubs did put up a fight, albeit a futile one. Anthony Rizzo homered twice while Miguel Montero continued to swing a hot stick with a home run and double. Hector Rondon also returned for the Cubs, allowing a run on two hits. Not the best results, but the velocity was good and Rondon was back on the mound.

More from Cubbies Crib

• Cubs should keep close eye on non-tender candidate Cody Bellinger
• Cubs starting pitching has been thriving on the North Side
• Make no mistake: the Cubs are very much about power hitters
• Cubs are giving pitcher Javier Assad a deserved shot
• Cubs: It’s time to start thinking about potential September call-ups

The Cubs have had their share of two-star athletes, although most were prior to being with the Cubs.

Jeff Samardzija

,

Mark DeRosa

and

Matt Szczur

all played football in college and had to make a choice at some point. If there’s anyone with the Cubs that has an opinion on the Tim Tebow situation it would be Sczcur. He gives his take on the newest Tebow saga.

These stories and more that you might have missed:

‘Hammel struggles in Cubs loss’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cardinals go boom to beat Pirates’ – Redbird Rants

‘Sczcur weighs in on the Tebow saga’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Prescription for a Cubs World Series’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Platoon splits make solid case for Wood as LOOGY’ – Cubs Insider

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