Chicago Cubs News: Clutch hitting leads Cubs to win over Rays

The Chicago Cubs got a pinch-hit three-run home run from Jon Jay, and later a two-run single by Ian Happ to complete the comeback against the Tampa Bay Rays with a 7-3 win.

It didn’t look like it was going to be a good start for the Chicago Cubs John Lackey. But he survived six innings allowing just three runs as the offense took him off the hook. Blake Snell pitched a strong game for the Rays, but the bullpen let him down, allowing a three-run pinch-hit home run to Jon Jay that tied the game. Ian Happ drove in two with a single while Anthony Rizzo tacked on some insurance runs late to lift the Cubs to a 7-3 victory.

The clutch hits were there for the Cubs on Wednesday, but it’s been missing most of this season. Last year, the team seemingly came up with big it that they needed. This season, they find themselves at the bottom of almost every statistical measure. One of the biggest culprits? Hitting with runners in scoring position. With only two players batting over .300 with RISP, the Cubs have work to do.

With the rumors everywhere, the Cubs are bound to be in the middle of a lot of them as the trade deadline approaches. One name that’s come up is that of Denard Span. His bat has heated up in June, but his glove is pretty much made of stone. When Kyle Schwarber returns, would it even make sense to have two below average outfielder, just to try and get the offense going?

These stories and more you might have missed:

‘Cubs overcome deficit for 7-3 win over Rays’ – Cubbies Crib

‘RISPy business for this team heading to the break’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Trading for Span might not be the answer’ – Cubbies Crib

‘All-Star Game Final Vote! Vote KB!’ – MLB.com

‘Judge slams 29th home run of season’ – ESPN

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