Chicago Cubs News: Three’s enough as Cubs top the Pirates

The Chicago Cubs weren’t able to get much done against the Pittsburgh Pirates’ Gerrit Cole. But they outlasted him and got a RBI triple from Alex Avila to score the games only run in the top of the 9th.

It’s not always the number of hits you have, but the importance of the ones you do. The Chicago Cubs couldn’t get the bats going against Gerrit Cole, but Jose Quintana was strong in his own right. He went six innings and then turned it over to the bullpen. Yikes, right? But this time they held, as Hector Rondon, Pedro Strop and Wade Davis did their part as Alex Avila got the game-winning hit in the ninth.

Each of the 30 MLB teams nominated one player for the Roberto Clemente Award, given to the play that“best exemplifies the game of baseball, sportsmanship, community involvement and the individual’s contribution to his team.” Anthony Rizzo earned the nomination this year, and with his generosity to the battle against pediatric cancer–he might just win it. The award won’t be given until the World Series, so Rizzo hopes to still be playing at that point.

With the Cubs’ Addison Russell still on the mend due to his foot, Javier Baez has shined once again. Baez has elevated his game, especially on the field as he’s filled in at shortstop for the Cubs while Russell has been out. It’s a logical question to ask, even if you don’t believe it. Is Baez a threat to Russell’s long-term job security?

These stories and more that you might have missed:

‘Cubs beat the Bucs in 1-0 pitchers duel’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs’ Rizzo nominated for Clemente Award’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Is Baez a threat to Russell’s long-term job security?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Cubs would have their hands full in matchup with Nats’ – Cubbies Crib

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Next: ICYMI Too early to name a winner in the Quintana deal

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