Faithful, Too: “Game 10 - Sho-Time” (Patreon)

The Padres came to Wrigley Field undefeated through their first seven games of the season. Their starter Randy Vásquez had pitched six scoreless innings in his only start of the season. None of this mattered on this chilly Chicago afternoon because of patience and Shota Imanaga, who led the Cubbies to a 3-1 victory.

I listened again on the radio whilst at work and was grateful to not be at the park today. I’ve gone to many an early-April game, but dear God are they often brutal. We get fake Spring in our fair city that lasts over a month before the 70’s start spinning our way.

Much like the Cubs keep spinning out walks (bows for the transition). Today’s stellar offense had nothing to do with their bats (only three of those, two by Happy). It was those patient at-bats leading to walks that decided this game. Five in total, including three in the opening frame that included an RBI (bases were loaded). That’s all Shota needed.

7 1/3 innings. A handful of strikeouts but zero walks (no need to mention that one solo homer). Just another stress-free game from Shota. Wish I could say the same for Pressly. Kept my heart racing before Cubs Hall of Fame radio man Pat Hughes let me know he struck out Cronenworth, leaving the tying run on second for his third stressful save of the season. Hope his luck doesn’t run out. Maybe take some notes from Hodge (another scoreless inning today).

Random notes:

• Great defensive plays by LF Happ and CF PCA in the first. Their presence out there is so crucial to this team’s potential.
• At the Drive-In’s “One-Armed Scissor” played during an ad read coming out of a commercial break. There are no more sell-outs. Get your money however you can in this crazy world.