The 2017 Chicago Cubs (38-37) have been cursed by starters giving up early inning runs. The Cubs starters have given up multiple runs in the first inning 18 times this year. This issue combined with an inconsistent offensive punch has them 1.5 games behind the National League Central leading Milwaukee Brewers. For the second time in 2 weeks the Cubs failed to hold or gain ground on their Central Division foes from up north. The Cubs starting pitcher Mike Montgomery (1-4 2.03 ERA) was impressive through 6 innings but the first inning was derailed by an Addison Russell error which contributed to a 3 run inning. On top of that Russell had to leave the game early with apparent shoulder injury.
Russell out due to discomfort in right shoulder
— Mark Gonzales (@MDGonzales) June 25, 2017
The Cubs offense fought back to get them with in a run. Anthony Rizzo and Tommy La Stella both had sac flies in the fourth and fifth innings to drive in a run a piece for the Cubs. Unfortunately that was not enough thought. They stranded 11 base runners and could not take advantage of a bases loaded opportunity either. They split the four game series with the Marlins and head to Washington to face Bryce Harper and the Washington Nationals (45-30) tomorrow. Eddie Butler (3-2 4.19 ERA) versus Gio Gonzalez (7-1 2.96 ERA) 6:05 central start.
We left a few too many runners on base today. https://t.co/mqn5plsrtT pic.twitter.com/hkMTUNoUc2
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) June 25, 2017
