Reds vs. Cubs: Pitching preview, prediction, and more

The Cubs’ offense is blistering the ball to open the month.

The names of Schwindel and Alcantara probably won’t invoke memories of Bryant and Rizzo, but the numbers speak for themselves. Scoring runs have not been an issue for the North Siders throughout their six-game winning streak.

Chicago has dented the plate at least six times in four consecutive contests and exploded for 11 runs in yesterday’s come from behind victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. Interestingly, two of the players sparking the offense weren’t even on the team’s Opening Day roster.

Rookie first baseman Frank Schwindel has looked like Babe Ruth since donning a Cubs uniform on July 30th. Selected off waivers from the Oakland A’s on July 18th, the 29-year-old infielder has been devouring National League pitching.

In just 32 games with the Cubbies, Schwindel is slashing a ridiculous .370/.419/.706 with 10 homers and 29 RBIs in only 119 at-bats. Additionally, he has a flair for the dramatic. His two-out seventh-inning grand slam was the deciding blow in yesterday’s comeback victory.

Not to be outdone, shortstop Sergio Alcantara has made his presence felt as well. Entering play yesterday, he’s slashing .455/.625/.545 to begin the month of September. Selected off waivers from the Detroit Tigers in February, the 24-year-old Dominican is making a strong case to start the 2022 season on the big league roster.

Finally, the Cubs will be without their skipper David Ross, who tested positive for COVID-19 late last week, for this series. In his absence, bench coach Andy Greene will be handling the managerial duties for Chicago. Here’s to a speedy and safe recovery for the former Reds backstop and current Cubs manager.