Cubs vs. Angels: Hamels vs. Skaggs (Game 13)
CHC (4-8): LHP Cole Hamels (1-0)
LAA (7-6): LHP Tyler Skaggs (1-1)
First pitch 1:20pmCDT
The Cubs take on the Angels in a weekday matinee attended, presumably, by truants and the unemployed. There’s no rain in the forecast for these rapscallions.
The Angels come into town in third pace, shocked by Seattle’s hot start (13-2). What remains of future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols gets the start at 1B. Mike Trout is out with a groin injury, unfortunately for fans and fortunately for Cubs’ pitchers.
Cole Hamels takes the mound for his third start of 2019. Three walks issued in the latter start have been the difference between good and bad. He’s defied his age so far with the Cubs, looking like an ace at times and maintaining his velocity surprisingly well for someone beginning his 14th major-league season. The Cubs have returned to normalcy lately, and Hamels needs to keep that going. Jonathan Lucroy is 8-21 against him with 2 HR (1.242 OPS). Simmons is 5-35 against the lefty.
Tyler Skaggs made a career high 24 starts in 2018 and is in search of his first MLB season not limited by injury. Every Cub but Rizzo (0-3) will be facing him for the first time. Lineups are already posted, and Heyward takes the day off while Schwarber gets a start in the 8-spot against the lefty. Zagunis gets a rare start.
Caratini, one of last night’s offensive heroes, is going to hit the IL with an injury to his left hand.
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