CI Recap (3/2/18) – Cubs 6, Angels 4: Bryant is Back, Cubs Go to Court
The Cubs fielded a lineup that was close to regular season form against the Angels in Tempe Friday. Fourth starter Jose Quintana struggled a bit in his first outing of the spring, (Box Score)
Why the Cubs Won
They scored more fake runs than the Angels.
Key Moment
Little-known journeyman infielder — Elgin, IL product — Ryan Court came to bat with the bases loaded and two outs in the top of the 9th and lined a Noe Ramirez pitch to left center for a double that scored three runs and gave the Cubs a 6-3 lead.
Stats That (Don’t) Matter
- Kris Bryant was back after missing several days with the flu. He had a single and a strikeout in two plate appearances before exiting.
- Jose Quintana struggled somewhat in one-plus innings of work Friday, He allowed one run on three hits and a walk before hitting his pitch count.
- Javy Baez had a hit and was robbed of extra bases by Justin Upton earlier in the game. As per usual, Javy also made two excellent plays at second base to add to his highlight reel.
Bottom Line
It was good to see Bryant back on the field after his absence. The only Cubs starting pitcher yet to get into a game is Yu Darvish.
On Deck
The Cubs return to Sloan Park to face the Reds Saturday in a 2:05 pm CT start that is available on 670 The Score.
