Chicago Cubs begin 10-game homestand vs Cincinnati Reds

The Chicago Cubs hope that home is where the heart is as they begin a 10-game homestand against the Cincinnati Reds. After falling a game under .500 they’ll look to bounce back against a string of division rivals.

The Chicago Cubs look to turn around, well, everything. They’re sub .500 at home and overall, and this is their first extended stay at Wrigley Field this season. John Lackey gets the start for the Cubs as he comes off a stellar outing (10 K, 0 ER, 7 IP), but is looking for his first win at home this year. The Reds will send Bronson Arroyo to the hill as the 40-year old veteran comes off a no-decision in which he allowed two runs in six innings pitched.

The Cubs (18-19) snuck two away from the Reds (19-18) at the Great American Ballpark, but Cincinnati had their chances. The Reds have won the past five games with Arroyo (3-2, 5.94) on the hill and will look to keep pace in the NL Central with a win over the Cubs.

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For the Cubs, Lackey (3-3, 4.29) is coming off his best start of the season but needs to see that success carry over to Wrigley Field. He’s just 0-2 with a 4.49 ERA at home this year. The Cubs will get some support on offense as Kris Bryant returns from his stomach illness. Jeimer Candelario will get the start at third as Ben Zobrist is still out, and Javier Baez will get the start at second.

The Reds hitters have had good success against Lackey in their careers. Billy Hamilton (.346) and Scooter Gennett (.375, 1 HR, 5 RBI) have hit him well, as has Zack Cozart in just 15 at-bats (.400, 1 HR, 3 RBI.)

The Cubs will have a new hitter in the cleanup spot as Ian Happ will take over the role tonight. Happ is 3-for-7 with a home run and a double, and Joe Maddon hopes he can bring a different look to the spot.

Here are the lineups for tonight’s game:

First pitch is slated for 7:05 p.m. CT at beautiful Wrigley Field. CSN-C will have the television coverage while 670 The Score will have the radio broadcast. Be sure to check back during and after the game for more Cubs news!