CHICAGO -- Here's a quick look at the Chicago Cubs' 4-2 loss to the New York Yankees in 13 innings on Wednesday afternoon:
How it happened: Jose Veras gave up two runs in the 13th inning as the winning run crossed after a wild pitch. Jeff Samardzija's winless streak continues after Hector Rondon squandered a 2-0 lead in the ninth following seven shutout innings by the Cubs ace. Samardzija, who surrendered just four hits and lowered his ERA to an MLB-best 1.46, has not won since Aug. 24, 2013, a span of 17 starts. Mike Olt put the Cubs on the board with a bases-loaded sacrifice fly in the fourth inning. The Cubs added to their 1-0 lead when Emilio Bonifacio put down a bunt to score Ryan Kalish from third after Kalish tripled pinch-hitting for Samardzija in the seventh. But the Yankees loaded the bases with no outs off Rondon in the ninth inning before Ichiro Suzuki grounded into a fielder's choice, but Darwin Barney's throw to first was wide, allowing the tying run to score from second base.
What it means: Heading into the ninth inning the Cubs had been playing their best baseball of the season, winning three straight games. They got situational hitting they weren't getting over the first six weeks, with Olt being the best example. He has driven in four runs over the past two days with a base hit, two sacrifice flies and a bases-loaded walk.
Samardzija: If it was closer to mid-July, Samardzija would be in line for a starting nod in the All-Star Game -- that's how good he has been. His ERA is easily the best in baseball, and he hasn't slowed down, going seven innings or more in seven of 10 starts.
What's next: The Cubs hit the road for 10 games starting with a four-game series in San Diego. Righty Jake Arrieta (0-0, 2.70) takes on Eric Stults (2-4, 4.50) in Game 1 at 9:10 p.m. CT on Thursday.
