Cubs, Russell Fall Hard to Houston 11-2

COMMENTARY | The Chicago Cubs did not have a good outing against the Houston Astros last night. They were destroyed by their opponents 11-2. While most lopsided losses early in a baseball season mean very little, this loss had some impact on a club that is battling early-schedule bad luck. The Cubs are finding that it's not just the other teams they are fighting to turn their poor baseball fortunes around.

I am using an article at the MLB.com website by Richard Dean titled "Russell's rough start sets tone."

The "Russell" Dean is referring to is James Russell. Russell is routinely a reliever working out of the Chicago Cubs' bullpen. However, quick injuries to starting rotation pitchers Andrew Cashner and Randy Wells have sent the Cubs scurrying in search of pitching replacements. Russell is one of the pitchers manager Mike Quade's eyes landed on.

Unfortunately, Russell's luck matched that of the Cubs' in his start. He only lasted for 1 2/3 innings (five outs) against Houston. Russell's statistics included five runs, seven hits and no walks. He snuck one strikeout in there. Russell had a win in relief; therefore, his record is 1-1.

This loss dropped the Cubs to 5-6, below .500. They have never gotten more than a game above the break-even point so far this season.

It is ironic that in facing Houston in the past, Russell had not allowed an earned run in 3 1/3 innings.

Russell was scheduled to throw 50 pitches. Unfortunately, he gave up the five runs after throwing just 55 pitches.

Why was this game such an important game for the Cubs, and why is Russell's lack of success a concern? The answer to both questions is the same. Russell is one of the pitchers the Cubs thought might fill in for their starters while they healed. He didn't do well, so, at least to some degree, the Cubs must continue to look for a replacement.

Quade did feel, despite the fact that Russell was shelled, the pitcher was the victim of some bad luck.

Russell will probably get another start at some point.

Reference:

MLB.com Website, Richard Dean, "Russell's rough start sets tone in loss"