Chicago Cubs open second half against the Baltimore Orioles

The Chicago Cubs open up the second half of the season against the American League East Baltimore Orioles. The two teams find themselves in similar situations as they hope to right the ship in the second half.

The Chicago Cubs don’t believe they’re out of this NL Central race. Adding Jose Quintana from the White Sox showed that. The Cubs might not be done adding pieces, but they’re set for now as they begin their series with the Baltimore Orioles tonight at Camden Yards.

The Cubs (43-45) open up with Mike Montgomery (1-6, 3.75) whose ERA isn’t bad but his luck as a starter hasn’t been good. If the Cubs do add another starter, Montgomery could find his way back to the bullpen where he’s better suited–at least at this point.

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The O’s (42-46) will send Kevin Gausman (5-7, 5.85) to the bump to face the Cubs. Gausman has faced the Cubs just one, taking the loss while allowing three runs on seven hits back in 2014 in Chicago. Chris Davis will return to the Orioles lineup as he returns from a right oblique injury.

The Cubs will run out a lineup that is similar to last years, but with Ben Zobrist at the top. Ian Happ continues to be one of the biggest surprises for the Cubs. This after being talked about as one of their “biggest trade chips” along with recently dealt Eloy Jimenez. Happ has hit 13 home runs in just 51 games this year.

Here are the lineups for tonight’s action:

First pitch is set for 6:05 p.m. CT at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. CSN Chicago will have the television coverage while 670 The Score will carry the radio broadcast. We’ll have more throughout the evening as the Cubs begin the second half.