Chicago Cubs News: Hendricks, Cubs win fifth straight

The Chicago Cubs took care of the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday, pushing them five games back as the season winds down. Hendricks was magnificent, throwing 7 2/3 innings of one-run baseball to secure the win.

The Chicago Cubs‘ Kyle Hendricks might not ever have a season like he did in 2016. However, he’s proving that it wasn’t as fluky as some thought as he continues to pitch well since coming back from the DL. His 7 2/3 innings of one-run ball were more than enough as the Cubs took the series with a 4-1 win in Chicago. The Cubs will look for the sweep as Jose Quintana takes the mound on Sunday.

Carl Edwards was once thought to be the heir apparent to the closer’s role in Chicago. But is that still the case? After a strong start, things have cooled for Edwards, as walks have become a problem for him in the second half. Base on balls are bad for relievers as it is, even worse for a closer. Will the Cubs and Joe Maddon consider him for the role, or will he need some more work before claiming his spot?

Ben Zobrist is heating up at just the right time for the Cubs. Plagued by injuries for much of the year, a healthy Zobrist is looking like his younger self as he’s getting on base at an outstanding clip. Having a productive Zobrist will be critical to the Cubs chances as they move down the stretch.

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Hendricks leads Cubs to 4-1 victory’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Should Edwards close in 2018?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Zobrist heating up at right time’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Do the Cubs have any chance to get Otani?’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Indians win 2nd straight AL Central title’ – MLB.com

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