Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/1/19) – Cubs 10, Diamondbacks 2: Quintana Showcases Sharp Changeup, Chatwood Doesn’t Walk Anyone

The Cubs made the trek to Scottsdale to take on the D-Backs Friday afternoon. Today was all about Jose Quintana and Tyler Chatwood.

Quintana was good in his first appearance of the season, allowing just a single hit in two innings and showcasing 7 changeups in 29 pitches. Q’s changeup has been a hot topic this spring training,  and we here at Cubs Insider noted just how important Q’s changeup could be for 2019.

Tyler Chatwood, featuring his new delivery, pitched three scoreless of his own. While Chatwood gave up three hits, he didn’t walk a single hitter while striking out three. Yep, Tyler Chatwood did not walk a single batter.

Carl Edwards Jr. also pitched a perfect inning while displaying his Kenley Jansen inspired mechanics.

As for the offense, Kyle Schwarber put the road team on the board in the 1st inning with an opposite-field single past third base to score David Bote. Mark Zagunis padded the lead with a three-run homer to left in the 4th inning. The Cubs continued to add to their lead in the minor league portion of the game, including a three-run bomb by Jared Young. They would eventually take home a 10-2 win. (Box score).

Why the Cubs Won

Solid pitching allowed the Cubs to build up a lead on the offensive end. Also, anytime you hit a couple of three-run homers, it increases your odds to win, or so I’m told.

Key Moment

Zagunis hit his second homer of the spring to give the Cubs a comfortable lead.

Stats That Matter

• Schwarber also walked and flew out to the warning track. Kyle has looked very good for the first week of games.
• Victor Caratini had two hits in four at-bats, including a double in the 7th inning.
• Zagunis also singled in the game. He has a good approach at the plate. Man, if he can start to hit for power, then the Cubs might have a player.

Bottom Line

If Quintana can work in 25 percent changeups like he did today going forward, then we’re in for a treat. But look, how can you not highlight Tyler Chatwood’s no-walk, three-inning outing? That’s an incredible sign.

On Deck

The Cubs head back to Sloan Park to play the Brewers Saturday at 2:05 pm CT. Jon Lester makes his second start and WGN has the TV coverage.