Photo: David Banks/USA TODAY Sports
Pittsburgh Pirates' rookie phenom Paul Skenes put on an absolute show in his second career start on Friday. The right-hander dominated the Chicago Cubs and left their offense hitless for six innings. If not for a high pitch count, he would've had a shot at a complete game.
Kyle Hendricks' day on the mound was nothing special, and that's putting it lightly. Through 4.2 innings, he allowed seven earned runs on 11 hits. The veteran's time with the team should be in serious question. He's not what he once was, and the quicker the Cubs come to this realization, the better.
Tale of the Tape
Friday's game had the makings of a pitcher's duel until the Pirates' two-run third inning when Jared Triolo hit a solo shot off the struggling Kyle Hendricks. It was the start of an ugly showing from the Cubs' veteran.
The final dagger on Hendricks' day on the mound came from a two-out single off Yasmani Grandal's bat that put the Pirates up 8-0 in the fifth inning.
Grandal's best contributions came from behind the plate working with Skenes. The rookie's performance was bad news for a Cubs' offense that's searching for consistency.
Leading off the game with seven straight strikeouts, Skenes gave the Cubs fits. A walk to Michael Busch in the fifth inning came between the stud hurler and a perfect game.
It was also the only base runner the Cubs managed against Skenes in the game. Their three runs came against the Pirates bullpen in the bottom of the eighth inning as Miguel Amaya homered and Christopher Morel hit a two-run double.
At that point, the Cubs were already way too late in their comeback attempt.
With Hendricks departing early, the Cubs' bullpen won't be at full strength on Saturday. Having lost the first two games of the series, it'll be a challenge for the Cubs to salvage a split of the four-game set.
Takeaways
The Cubs can't continue to waste games, which they've already done far too frequently this season. Losses can add up and hinder their goal of postseason play. The team is digging themselves a hole by not addressing its issues quickly.
Tyson Miller is a nice addition to the bullpen, but one pitcher won't change the fortunes of an overall struggling group.
Kyle Hendricks' days on the roster should be numbered. The Cubs are at a disadvantage whenever he takes the mound. While his past contributions make him a franchise staple, he doesn't need to go out like this.
Changes need to be made if the Cubs have any hope of postseason contention. First place in the NL Central will continue to fade from their clutches if the problems persist.
What's On Tap Next?
The Cubs turn to Shota Imanaga on Saturday as he strives to continue his dominance on the mound. Lefty Bailey Falter will take the mound for the Pirates. First pitch is at 1:20 PM CDT and the game will air on Marquee Sports Network.
