Chicago Cubs News: Bullpen blows late lead; Kris Bryant as potent as ever

The Chicago Cubs blew a late lead in the finale in Cincinnati to snap their losing streak, while Kris Bryant returned from his wrist injury.

The Chicago Cubs entered the series finale in Cincinnati with a chance to make it two-straight series sweeps and six consecutive victories. But after a Pedro Strop mishap, the club settled for two-of-three against the Reds and five of their last six.

Jake Arrieta, though, continued another impressive second-half tear. He did not allow an earned run, pitching into the sixth in Thursday’s loss. Javier Baez continued his strong play, throwing out a runner at the plate on a relay and collecting a pair of hits.

Baez will be put in an interesting position when his teammate Addison Russell returns from the disabled list. In coming weeks, the Chicago shortstop is expected to return to the lineup, likely shifting Baez to second on a regular basis.

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At the hot corner, Kris Bryant returned from his wrist injury yesterday. A critical error proved costly, but he also made an eye-popping snag early on, as well. All told, he’s in the middle of a mixed bag campaign. His RBI totals are down. But his slash-line remains roughly comparable to his MVP season from 2016.

Chicago now heads to Philadelphia to open a set against the Phillies. After starting the second-half nearly 10 games back in the wild card standings, the Cubs are now in-play there, as well as atop the National League Central.

More Cubs News

‘Cubs’ streak snapped at five games’ – Cubbies Crib

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‘Cubs inching their way up MLB.com Power Rankings’ – Cubbies Crib

Next: Lackey could be a deciding factor down the stretch for Cubs

What’s Next

Chicago heads to Philadelphia for a weekend set against the Phillies on Friday.

Left-hander Jose Quintana (8-10, 4.27) starts for the Cubs. Jerad Eickhoff (3-7, 4.46) takes the ball for the home team in the opener. First pitch is at 6:05 p.m. CT. from Citizens Bank Park.