Chicago Cubs: Team drops opener, Russell situation still unclear

The Chicago Cubs dropped their second-straight game Thursday in a 4-1 loss to the Colorado Rockies at Wrigley Field. Meanwhile, questions continue to swirl around shortstop Addison Russell.

Taking on the National League-leading Colorado Rockies, the Chicago Cubs’ bats fell flat, leaving Jon Lester hung out to dry, setting up his first regular-season loss at home since May 2016.

The Rockies’ four-run second was something of a joke. A swinging bunt was followed by a single. Charlie Blackmon blooped a ball down the left-field line and then former Cub D.J. LeMahieu cracked a three-run blast to seal the deal.

After the top of the second, neither team scored in the ballgame. Between Lester and the pen – the Cubs set down 22 of the last 23 Rockies hitters faced, per CSN Chicago.

Kris Bryant accounted for Chicago’s only run when he belted his 14th homer of the year – a solo shot to left-center in the bottom of the first.

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs bullpen was lights-out, tossing four scoreless frames in relief of Lester. The southpaw allowed four earned on six hits in five innings pitched. He walked one and struck out five.

Off the diamond, Addison Russell continues to battle domestic abuse allegations. His immediate future with the team remains in question, even after he denied claims made on a social media post Wednesday night.

Right-hander Kyle Hendricks, who was scheduled to take the ball Friday, was placed on the 10-day disabled list with tendonitis. Brett Anderson, meanwhile, was transferred to the 60-day disabled list, potentially spelling the end of his time with the team.

More from around the league

Cubs drop opener to Colorado, despite Bryant HR – Cubbies Crib

Breaking down Thames’ May slump in Milwaukee – Call to the Pen

Hendricks heads to DL; Anderson transferred to 60-day – Cubbies Crib

Pineda lights-out in win over rival Red Sox – MLB.com

Cubs’ Russell reportedly under MLB investigation – Cubbies Crib