ST. LOUIS -- The Chicago Cubs lost 8-1 to the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday night. Here's a quick look at the game.
How it happened: The Cubs scored first but that's all they would manage as the Cardinals tallied four in the fourth and four more in the fifth. There was no big blow as St. Louis managed nine hits in the two innings but none left the ballpark. Kolten Wong, Matt Carpenter and Xavier Scruggs had two RBIs each. The Cubs lone run was scored on a bases loaded single by starter Donn Roach who lasted just 3 1/3 innings. He pitched to contact, giving up a bunch of ground balls but eight of them got through for hits. Reliever Travis Wood also struggled, giving up four hits, four walks and four runs in 2 2/3 innings.
What it means: The Cubs lost for a fourth consecutive time, tying a season high. Since beating the Dodgers in games started by Clayton Kershaw and Zack Greinke they've dropped every one since.
It's clear they need help in their starting rotation. The front office has said as much over the past week including before Saturday's game when general manger Jed Hoyer said they'll leave “no stone unturned.” Roach didn't miss enough bats as the Cardinals seemed ready for his sinker, hitting balls hard up the middle in their big inning off him. The Cubs say Tsuyoshi Wada is doing better but still aren't sure if he can make his next start. Either way, they need help in the rotation -- and fast.
Meanwhile, the offense has dried up as well, but there is less that can be done there other than giving a struggling player a day off here or there. Kris Bryant hasn't looked the same since leaving Thursday's game with flu-like symptoms. Addison Russell struggled on Saturday as well, hitting into a double play and striking out twice while leaving five men on-base.
What's next: The Cubs will try to avoid a sweep on Sunday night when Jason Hammel (5-2, 2.65) takes on Carlos Martinez (8-3, 2.89).
