Chicago Cubs set for NLCS rematch against Dodgers on Opening Day

Last year, the Chicago Cubs made history when they erased 108-years of pain and suffering. By defying the odds and the help with a dominant lineup, the Commissioner’s Trophy made its way to the North Side.

Before the Chicago Cubs (4-2) reached the World Series, they had to get through Dave Roberts and the Los Angeles Dodgers. A team that easily has one of the greatest pitchers in professional baseball history, Clayton Kershaw.

Kershaw has been known to have trouble in the postseason but makes the regular season look easy. Although he missed some time due to a back injury, Kershaw dominated the Cubs in his first start.

However, it would be Kyle Hendricks leading his club to Chicago’s first pennant since 1945. A staggering 71-years in which the Cubbies failed to reach the World Series.

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Now, our defending champions will call upon southpaw Jon Lester to welcome in Alex Wood and the Dodgers. Not to mention, tonight is when the World Series banner will be raised — hopefully, the W will fly as well.

Emotions will be running high over the next couple of days with the ring ceremony happening on Wednesday evening. But for now, let’s focus on Game 1 of this LCS rematch.

Tale of the Tape

Lester (0-0, 1.80 ERA) made his first start against the St. Louis Cardinals on Opening Night last Sunday. In five innings of work, the 33-year-old southpaw gave up one earned run on seven hits while striking out seven and walking two.

Dating back to October, he was absolute lights out against Los Angeles. Earning himself co-MVP honors alongside Javier Baez, Lester yielded only two earned runs in 13 frames. His K/BB ratio sat at 9/2.

Opposing Joe Maddon‘s southpaw will be 26-year-old Alex Wood. Wood (0-0, 0.00 ERA) appeared in only one game for the Dodgers (4-3). He was placed in the starting rotation as both Rich Hill and Scott Kazmir made their way to the disabled list.

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Here is a look at Game 1’s starting lineup for both clubs.

The young lefty pitched only two innings against the Cubs during the LCS. In that lone relief spot, he gave up two hits and walked one. Chicago went on to win that game by the final score of 10-2, evening the series at two games apiece.

First pitch for tonight’s contest is set for 7:10 p.m. central and will air live on ESPN. Of course, Pat Hughes and Ron Coomer will have the call on 670 WSCR The Score.