CI Recap (3/24/18, SS Game 2) – Cubs 3, Rockies 0: Rizzo Goes Deep as Cubs Say Goodbye to Mesa
The Cubs played their final game of the year at Sloan Park Saturday night. Most of the regulars were on this side of the split squad, as Anthony Rizzo gave Chicago all the offense they needed. (Box score)
Why The Cubs Won
Starting with Mike Montgomery, Cubs pitching was outstanding against a tough Rockies lineup.
Key Moment
After Ben Zobrist reached on a Nolan Arenado misplay (it happened, I swear), Anthony Rizzo took Jake McGee very deep to right for a homer. The two-run bomb put the Cubs up 2-0 in the 4th inning.
Stats That (Don’t) Matter
- Montgomery got the start while Jon Lester threw a minor league game. Monty went four scoreless innings with two hits, two strikeouts, and two walks.
- Pedro Strop pitched another clean inning against the heart of the Rockies’ order. The Cubs wanted to see if he was ready before announcing their bullpen, and it appears he is.
- Rizzo had a walk to go along with his homer. I have a feeling we might see a real power surge from him this season.
Bottom Line
The Cubs have their team basically set with the decision to make Victor Caratini the backup catcher. So lets get the real thing going.
On Deck
The Cubs play their final spring game in Arizona against the Royals in Surprise Sunday afternoon. Kyle Hendricks makes his final tuneup start at 2pm CT, a game being shown on WGN.