Pitchers Key in Cubs-Astros Opener

The Chicago Cubs will start the final three-game series Monday of this home stand, hosting the Houston Astros. So far this season, the Astros are the only team in the National League Central behind the Cubs. Houston has a record of 19-34 and is in last place, while the Cubs remain a notch above them with a 23-28 record. The Cubs will be using a new pitcher.

Writing for MLB.com, Anthony Fenech has posted an article titled "Astros look to get on track against Cubs."

Chicago might like to reverse that sentiment. Earlier this season the Cubs took two out of three games from Houston; I'm sure they would like to get closer to a .500 record at the Astros' expense.

There is no doubt that the pitching is the center of attention for both teams.

The Cubs will be looking to Rodrigo Lopez for the first time this year. Because of continuing problem with pitcher injuries, Chicago has had to scurry to find starters. Lopez comes from the Atlanta Braves. While a journeyman pitcher, Lopez has shown signs at times in his career of being a dominant pitcher. He has recently been pitching in Triple-A, and has developed a record of 6-1 and an ERA of 2.59.

The Astros have had pitching woes as well; they will have Aneury Rodriguez (0-2, ERA 4.98) going for them. Rodriguez is a converted reliever who has yet to obtain a major league win.

On paper it looks like the Cubs should be victorious, but, as all serious sports fans know, nothing is guaranteed.

There are two other bright spots for the Cubs in addition to what appears to be a pitching edge. Geovany Soto, their starting catcher, is expected to return, and the weather is supposed to be extremely warm. The Cubs hit better in warm weather.

There are keys for teams every season, and one is they need to win the games they are supposed to win. This is a series the Cubs have to have. They will leave after these three games for St. Louis and then Cincinnati -- no easy road trip.

It wouldn't be wise to leave on a sour note.

References:

MLB.com Website, Anthony Fenech, "Astros look to get back on track against Cubs"

MLB.com Website, "Rodrigo Lopez Statistics"

MLB.com Website, "Aneury Rodriguez Statistics"