Chicago Cubs squeak past Miami Marlins on Kris Bryant’s wheels

It was a blistering quick Kris Bryant that scored for the Chicago Cubs–ahead of former teammate Starlin Castro’s throw–for the go-ahead run. But it kept Jen-Ho Tseng from taking a loss in his debut this season as the bullpen did an excellent job beating the Marlins, 4-3.

Infield in. The Miami Marlins ready to flag down and throw home any ball that came to them. Chicago Cubs‘ third baseman Kris Bryant ready to go. Sometimes, players just aren’t ready for the speed at which another player moves. That was the case for Castro and Bryant. Bryant was home in a heartbeat, beating the throw from Castro. Castro was a little late, and that was the difference in the ballgame. Well, one of the differences. The other was the Cubs’ bullpen.

After Tseng gave up three runs in the first inning, things weren’t looking so good for the Cubs. Tseng pitched one more, and the cavalcade of relievers was one the way. Other than when J.T. Realmuto faced Tseng twice? Not another reliever did so for the Cubs. It was one-and-done for the Cubs, and that was what they needed to get the job done.

One at a time

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After Tseng and Rob Zastryzny, the Cubs went one inning at a time to take care of the Marlins hitters. Steve Cishek came in for the first inning, followed by Justin Wilson and Pedro Strop.

Carl Edwards came in and walked one, but struck out the side in his inning. Brandon Morrow then came in for this eighth save to lock it down for the Cubs.

“I went as far as I could with the first two guys,” said Maddon, who was concerned about the Marlins’ bullpen. “It worked out as wonderfully as it did.” h/t Carrie Muskat, MLB.com

It was just enough as the seven pitchers were enough to get the job done. The bullpen has now combined for at least seven innings in a game three times this season and twice in the past three games. Point being made? They’re very good.

Next: A look at Jenkins in our way back machine

The Cubs will turn to Jose Quintana (3-2, 4.99) against Wei-Yin Chen (1-1, 4.82). The weather is supposed to be bad this afternoon, so we’ll keep you posted as we hear anything. There is an off day tomorrow, so we’ll see if the Cubs decide to cancel it sooner than later, reschedule it for tomorrow.