Chicago Cubs News: Yankees complete sweep as Cubs hit the road

The Chicago Cubs were swept at home for the first time in nearly a year, finishing up a forgettable home stand at the Friendly Confines.

For the first time since 2012, Aroldis Chapman was charged with a three-run blown save. The Chicago Cubs put up three runs in the bottom of the ninth against their former teammate, setting off a marathon chain of events.

The two teams set the big league record for most strikeouts in an 18-inning game that culminated with the New York Yankees completing the three-game sweep in the wee hours of the morning.

Despite allowing just one earned run, Chicago Cubs veteran Jon Lester left without a decision Sunday as the Yankees pulled it out.

The southpaw seems to be the only Cubs starter capable of eating innings consistently, as he was the last hurler on the staff who ate seven innings in a start – back in mid-April. Javier Baez put together an impressive game and Anthony Rizzo epitomized a leader in the loss for Chicago.

More from Cubbies Crib

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• 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

During his return to the Friendly Confines, former Cubs infielder Starlin Castro led the charge. Behind his offensive contributions, the Yankees became the third team in the AL to 20 wins this year.

Following his disappointing pair of starts, Brett Anderson is sidelined. We broke down what the rotation looks like in the short-term yesterday. One member of our staff also thinks the lefty deserves at least a little credit from fans.

Chicago’s offense has struggled. That’s putting it mildly. Despite Joe Maddon‘s insistence and repeated assurances, we believe there are some different alternatives.

The Cubs open a lengthy road trip on Monday against one of the best teams in the National League. Hopefully the Coors Field environment helps the struggling Chicago offense.

More from around the league

‘Castro’s return gives Cubs no warm feelings’ – Cubbies Crib

‘How aggressive will Cubs be at the deadline?’ – CSN Chicago

‘Give Anderson credit where credit is due’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Pirates lose a young arm to the disabled list’ – Call to the Pen

‘Is Edwards Jr. the closer of the future for Cubs?’ – Cubbies Crib

Next: Maddon thinks umpires played role in opener loss

What’s Next

Chicago (16-15) hits the road Monday to take on the Rockies.

Jake Arrieta (4-1, 4.63 ERA) takes the ball in the series opener and will be opposed by Antonio Senzatela (4-1, 2.84 ERA). First pitch is at 7:40 p.m. CT at Coors Field.