Cubs' Randy Wells Bids for Spot in Starting Rotation Against Giants in 3-2 Win

Just after writing an article about the Chicago Cubs' pitching rotation not being set down and in place, Randy Wells does this: He struck out seven and got 18 Giants in a row out. As a result, the Cubs were able to beat the San Francisco Giants in 10 innings 3-2 in Mesa, Ariz.

Carrie Muskat has posted an article at the Chicago Cubs' website titled "Cubs ride Wells, walk-off hit over Giants."

To finish the game for the Cubs, Bobby Scales singled and then stole second. He was singled in, and that is what gave the Cubs the victory.

Here's the thing about Randy Wells: He came to training camp this year without a guaranteed job. He struggled last year, although all of it wasn't his fault. He wasn't given a lot of support with the Cubs' bats. Further, Lou Piniella wasn't managing very well. He was worried about his mom and ultimately gave up the managerial spot in favor of taking care of her. I certainly do not blame Piniella for doing that; it was the right thing to do. It would have been better for certain players, Wells being one of them, had Piniella owned up to the problem before the season started. However, we've learned through coaches, managers and players (Brett Favre for example) that it is hard to put the competitive sword down.

As mentioned, Wells struck out seven and put down 18 Giants over six innings-that's the most you can get out in six innings. And that drops Wells' ERA to 1.44. Actually, it brought his ERA up from 1.29. Of course, it should give him major consideration for a regular pitching spot in the Cubs rotation.

The question mark right now seems to be Carlos Silva. He did well last year and was part of the Cubs' future, it seemed. However, he is struggling this year with a 15.88 ERA and has already been in a clubhouse scuffle after the order of Carlos Zambrano, who also has been struggling and has an ERA over four points.

I would like to see the Cubs pay attention to current performance rather than contractual liability. In fact, if more teams did that, it would be a stronger league.

Randy Wells needs to be in the Cubs' future.

Reference:

Chicago Cubs Website, Carrie Muskat, "Cubs ride Wells, walk-off hit over Giants"