Chicago Cubs News: Bats quiet as Cubs lose to Phillies, 7-1

The Chicago Cubs started the game with a thunderous home run from Kyle Schwarber–and that was it for the rest of the game. Jose Quintana settled down after a rough start, but the lack of offense was the concern.

The Chicago Cubs got a long home run from Kyle Schwarber in the first inning but then went scoreless for the rest of the game as they lost to the Philadelphia Phillies, 7-1. Jose Quintana had a rough couple of innings but settled in after that to finish five innings. The Phillies Rhys Hoskins hit his ninth home run in his first 16 games to set an ML record, and Cesar Hernandez added a base clearing triple as the Phillies dispatched the Cubs.

The Cubs’ Hector Rondon had been a successful closer, but the team needed that “lockdown” guy they could count on. Enter Aroldis Chapman. And exit Rondon’s confidence. Rondon has had success mixed in with his struggles, but it’s lasted for a very short time. Rondon still has solid strikeout numbers, but an increasing walk rate has been what’s causing the issue. For a Rule 5 pick, the Cubs have more than got their worth out of him.

Quintana has been a mixed bag since coming to Chicago. But even after acquiring him, the Cubs will need to go after another young starter. Chris Archer‘s name keeps coming up, and it will continue over the winter as they Cubs try to add another arm to the rotation. Archer would be an interesting addition, but do they have the talent left in the system to get him?

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs bats do little in loss to Phils’ – Cubbies Crib

‘What’s up with Rondon?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs need to go after Archer this offseason’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Puig reveals baby gender before game’ – Cut4

‘Zimmerman injury latest setback for Nats’ – ESPN

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