Chicago Cubs News: Just your typical Cubs vs. Cards game

No big deal. Just another Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals game. John Lackey and Willson Contreras got ejected, but the Cubs did end up winning the game, 8-2.

I’ve seen a lot of comments out there about the Chicago Cubs‘ John Lackey. How he’s a bad teammate, and how he has to use his head there and not get ejected. Look, you know what you were getting with him. That is EXACTLY the reaction I’d expect with a call like that. It could have cost the Cubs the game. Luckily, it didn’t as the bats once again came to play. A seven-run sixth inning was just what the doctor ordered as the Cubs took care of the Cards in the opener.

Last season, everything seemed to go the Cubs way. The staff stayed healthy. Several players gave us career years in production, culmination in winning the World Series. But expecting perfection like that is dangerous. This year has been a different story. Injuries to the rotation have plagued the Cubs. Injuries to Addison Russell and Willson Contreras, and a hot and cold bullpen. Still, the Cubs are in first in the middle of September, and that says a lot about this team whether you think so or not.

The Cubs’ Jason Heyward is a team guy. Whatever they need, he’ll do. As good as he’s been on defense, there’s still some inconsistencies at the plate. So that begs the question, should he be playing every day? Or is it time for Joe Maddon to give Albert Almora some more time out there? It’s a question we felt that needs to be looked at as the possibility of the playoffs grows near.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs extend lead over Cards to four games’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Fans, Cubs learning about the humbling nature of baseball’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Should Heyward be getting regular starts?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘From afterthought to offensive glory?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Royals end Tribe streak at 22’ – MLB.com

#Cubs on Twitter

Next: Quintana has been better than you think

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+!