Chicago Cubs: Lackey, Cubs go for series win versus Phillies

John Lackey takes the ball for the Chicago Cubs in the series finale versus the Philadelphia Phillies Sunday afternoon from Citizen Bank Park.

A day after the Chicago Cubs had an offensive power display to the tune of six home runs and 17 runs, the Cubs now turn to John Lackey (10-9, 4.90 ERA) as they look to take the series against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Nick Pivetta (4-9, 6.73 ERA) will start for the Phillies.

Lackey looks to rebound

After a dismal start to the season, Lackey goes for his sixth straight win Sunday. The Cubs have won his last eight starts. Lackey has not made it past six innings since June 2 and has not lost since June 28 against the Nationals.

In a no-decision his last time out against the Reds, Lackey allowed six ER, breaking a string of seven consecutive outings in which he did not allow more than three ER.

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Against the Phillies May 4, Lackey went five innings giving up three ER, striking out six and walking none. He did not record a decision as the Cubs beat the Phillies 5-4.

Lackey is 5-4 with a 2.77 ERA in 10 career starts against Philadelphia.

As for the Phillies starter, Pivetta lasted only 1 1/3 innings last time out against the Marlins. He allowed six ER and for the month is 0-3, 14.49 ERA. He has an ERA north of 5 1/2 for every month, save for April in which he only made one start.

He was recalled to make the start Sunday after being sent down to Lehigh Valley Wednesday. Sunday will be his 20th career start, up against Lackey making his 440th.

Historic offensive damage

We’ve talked about how Rhys Hoskins continues to make things difficult for opposing pitchers and he enters Sunday with 10 home runs in his last eight games.

Saturday he became the first player to hit 10 home runs in his first 20 ML games; He’s just played 17 games.

Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Tommy La Stella are all back in the lineup Sunday after posting a combined 8-for-13 with 5 homers and 10 RBI between them.

Next: Even now, should the team trade for Justin Verlander?

What’s next

The Chicago Cubs return home for a 3-game set with the Pittsburgh Pirates Monday at Wrigley Field. Mike Montgomery (4-6, 3.43 ERA) opposes Trevor Williams (5-6, 4.40 ERA) on the mound.

First pitch will be at 7:05 pm C.T.