Thursday MLB: Chicago Cubs (26-25) at Atlanta Braves (26-26)
The Chicago Cubs, by all rights, should be going for a sweep of the Atlanta Braves tonight. But the Chicago bullpen blew a five-run eighth-inning lead on Tuesday to cost the Cubs Game 1. That same bullpen pitched four scoreless innings on Wednesday as the Cubs took Game 2, setting up the rubber match tonight.
But the big news here is that it should be the debut of Nate McLouth for Atlanta. The outfielder was acquired from the Pirates on Wednesday for prospects.
McLouth, an All-Star and Gold Glove winner in 2008 with the Pirates, adds a consistent bat, stellar defense and stolen-base capability to a lineup that needed all three. He is expected in Atlanta before batting practice today and is likely to play if not start.
“He’s definitely an upgrade,” said Braves closer Mike Gonzalez, who played with McLouth in Pittsburgh in 2005 and ‘06.
McLouth hit 26 home runs and stole 23 bases last season, had an NL-leading 46 doubles and led NL center fielders with a .997 fielding percentage. This season, he is hitting .256 with nine homers and 34 RBIs. His nine home runs are more than fellow outfielders Garret Anderson and Jeff Francoeur combined.
“He gives us everything we’re looking for,” Atlanta general manager Frank Wren said. “He gives us an extra outfield bat. He gives us speed. He gives us defense. He brings a lot to the table.”
Atlanta starts right-hander Jair Jurrjens (5-2, 2.59) tonight. He has the NL’s sixth-best ERA but did allow a season-high five runs and eight hits in five innings in Friday’s 10-6 win at Arizona. Jurrjens had allowed two runs or fewer in each of his previous eight starts, going 2-2 with a 1.98 ERA. The Braves are -142 WagerWeb.com favorites behind Jurrjens.
The Cubs start Carlos Zambrano (3-2, 4.22) as his six-game suspension has ended. He hasn’t earned a victory since May 3 and hasn’t defeated the Braves since July 15, 2002.
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