Chicago Cubs News: Jose Quintana sparkling in Cubs debut

The Chicago Cubs debut from Jose Quintana was all they could ask for and more. The Cubs finished off a sweep of the Orioles as he struck out 12 on the way to an 8-0 victory.

For the Chicago Cubs, the impression that Jose Quintana left on most fans might have made them forget about what the team gave up to get him. Quintana dazzled, striking out 12 in seven innings while the offense remained hot. The Cubs outscored the O’s 27-11, something that’s encouraging–even if it’s just three games. Willson Contreras finished off a big offensive series as he went 4-for-5. The Cubs will now head to Atlanta to begin a series at the new Sun Trust Park.

Chatter continues around the Cubs as Sonny Gray still appears to be on the radar. With the Cubs farm system light at the higher levels now, it would likely be a player off the MLB roster. The Cubs are doing their due diligence, and Gray isn’t the only pitcher the Cubs have checked on. But he may be the only player that won’t cost too much to get as they look to improve the rotation beyond this season.

One pitcher on the Cubs’ staff that needed a big outing was Jake Arrieta. He got that, and it might be the start of a strong second half for Arrieta, as well as helping him earn some of that “lost” money he may have cost himself. After a Cy Young season in 2015 and a solid ’16, Arrieta has cost himself a lot of money in his potential deal after this season. Could he be on the upswing, which would bode well for the Cubs and himself?

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs roll to sweep behind Quintana’s gem’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Adding A’s Gray could be finishing touch’ – Cubbies Crib

‘What lies ahead for Arrieta and the Cubs?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Bradley Jr. robs Judge in Boston’ – MLB.com

‘A’s rebuilding with new stadium in mind’ – ESPN

#Cubs on Twitter

Be sure to check back later today for more Cubs news and analysis! And follow us on our Twitter @CubbiesCrib, like our Facebook page and follow us on G+!