Marcus Stroman dazzles for the Chicago Cubs in Opening Day victory
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Marcus Stroman tossed a gem against the Milwaukee Brewers on Opening Day Thursday. The sinkers were sankin as Stroman set down 8 batters via strikeout and gave up just 3 hits in 6 shutout innings. Things were shaky at times, as the 31-year-old also walked three batters, but he was able to pitch out of a couple of sticky situations thanks to some outstanding Cubs defense.
Stroman's outing got the team off to a great start and was encouraging as he will be the number-one starter on the staff this season. After Stroman's quality start, Cub relievers Keegan Thompson, Brad Boxberger, and Michael Fulmer each tossed scoreless innings to give the Cubs their first win of the season with a final score of 4-0.
Milwaukee ace and former Cy Young award winner Corbin Burnes took the loss after giving up all four runs on RBIs by catcher Yan Gomes, designated hitter Trey Mancini and shortstop Dansby Swanson. The new Cubs shortstop had himself an all around stellar day with a couple of slick plays on defense as well as three hits in his first game at Wrigley Field as a Cub.
The Cubs will be back in action against the Brewers on Saturday at 1:20 central time, where Brandon Woodruff will duel Cubs southpaw Justin Steele.