The Chicago Cubs were embarrassed in their opener Tuesday against the Twins, and scored just one run. The lopsided loss by seven runs was their worst loss since June 22nd. Expect the Cubs bats to be ready in a favorable matchup against David Festa. Dansby Swanson has a hit every game in July, and a hit in 12 out of his last 13 games. He clears his total bases tonight.
Into last night's clash at Target Field, Craig Counsell's surging Cubs had won five of six to pull clear in the NL Central. There have also been some positive recent signs from rookie starter Cade Horton, such as his most-recent start last Thursday vs. the Guardians, allowing no runs and just five hits thru 7 IP. Meanwhile, Twins counterpart David Festa continues to perform erratically, as his 7.28 ERA in six starts since the beginning of June would suggest. Play Cubs on the Money Line.
Jeffers is not in the lineup for Wednesday's game in Detroit.
Gomez struck out one in a perfect ninth inning Tuesday to record his 22nd save of the season in a 3-2 win over the Tigers.
Kremer (3-5) picked up the win in Tuesday's 3-2 victory over the Tigers, giving up two runs on five hits and a walk over five innings. He struck out three.
Clemens went 1-for-3 with a walk and a two-run home run in Tuesday's 3-2 win over the Tigers.
Webb blew the save Tuesday against the Brewers, giving up two runs on two hits and no walks while striking out one over one inning.
Peterson allowed one run on six hits across 4.1 innings and did not factor into the decision in Tuesday's 4-3, 10-inning loss to the Brewers. He walked three and struck out four.
Ramirez is absent from the lineup for Tuesday's game in Milwaukee.
Conforto is not in the lineup for Tuesday's contest in Milwaukee.
Happ (knee) will start in left field and bat sixth in Tuesday's game against the Brewers.
Martin (hamstring) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Worcester on Tuesday, Aaron Gleeman of AaronGleeman.com reports.
