Cubs at Dodgers
After getting embarrassed by a last-place team in their most recent series, the Chicago Cubs head west to face one of the National League’s hottest clubs. The suddenly-slumping Cubs have lost four straight heading into a four-game series against the surging Los Angeles Dodgers, who are opening a 10-game homestand.
The Cubs took two of three from the Dodgers last week in Chicago but are coming off a dismal weekend, as they allowed at least six runs in each game of a four-game sweep at Cincinnati - the first time Chicago has done so since a five-game sweep at the hands of the New York Mets 48 years ago this week. The Dodgers hammered seven homers - all solo shots - in an 8-7 win at the Mets on Sunday, completing a three-game sweep and improving to 25-9 since May 17. Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant has been held out of the lineup the past two games with a sore left shoulder, but he isn’t expected to need a trip to the disabled list. The Dodgers also could be a bit shorthanded, as shortstop Chris Taylor (hamstring) has been limited to pinch-hitting duties the past two games.
TV: 10:10 p.m. ET, ESPN, NBCS Chicago, SportsNet LA (Los Angeles)
PITCHING MATCHUP: Cubs RH Duane Underwood Jr. (NR) vs. Dodgers RH Kenta Maeda (4-4, 3.84 ERA)
Underwood will make his major-league debut in a spot start while fellow right-hander Tyler Chatwood is on paternity leave. The 23-year-old was a second-round draft pick in 2012 and enjoyed success at the lower levels in the minors before going 3-7 with a 4.27 ERA this season in his first stint at Triple-A Iowa. Underwood has struck out 60 batters, walked 20 and allowed three home runs in 71 2/3 innings for Iowa.
Maeda is taking his second consecutive turn against the Cubs after allowing three runs and five hits over 3 2/3 innings in a no-decision Tuesday. The 30-year-old is making his third start since coming off the disabled list with a hip strain. Maeda has been a much better pitcher at home throughout his career, going 17-9 with a 3.13 ERA at Dodger Stadium compared to 16-12 with a 4.50 ERA on the road.
WALK-OFFS1. Chicago CF Albert Almora Jr. is batting .350 with five multi-hit games in his past 13 contests.
2. The Dodgers have hit 46 home runs in June and lead the National League with 102 this season.
3. Cubs RHP Yu Darvish, on the disabled list since May 23 with right triceps tendinitis, will make a rehab start Monday for Class A South Bend.