Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (8/14/19): Phillies 11, Cubs 1 – Hamels Implodes, Philly Explodes
The Cubs were looking to rebound from a rough loss Wednesday night in Philadelphia, but it didn’t work out too well for them. The home team quickly extinguished any hopes of an equalizer, scoring 10 runs in the first three innings en route to a rout.
There’s no reason to go into detail on the carnage that took place at Citizens Bank Park because it’s just not worth it. Bryce Harper hit his first of two home runs in the 1st inning to give his team a 2-0 lead and it was over from there.
The Phillies put the game to bed in the 3rd inning with a six spot, but Cole Hamels was knocked out after even before that frame finished. Alec Mills took over and gave up a grand slam to J.T. Realmuto to make it a 10-0 beatdown, then stayed in to throw six innings in relief.
When the smoke cleared, the Phillies had won the game 11-1. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Lost
The Phils blasted Hamels and ended the game before it really began. This is the second straight rough effort for the veteran lefty after his return from injury.
Key Moment
Harper’s blast gave his team an immediate lead and they would never look back.
Stats That Matter
- The numbers for Hamels were ugly: 2 IP, 8 R, 9 H, 2 K, and 2 BB. He has allowed 12 runs in his last five innings pitched.
- Mills settled down and did yeoman’s work to eat the final six innings, allowing three runs.
- Kris Bryant gave the only offensive highlight of the game with a long solo homer in the 7th.
Bottom Line
This is the third blowout loss for the Cubs in the last week and it has to be a cause of concern. Joe Maddon mentioned the need for his players to match the hunger shown by new addition Nicholas Castellanos, which is not something you like to hear as the playoff push begins.
On Deck
The Cubs look to salvage the final game of the series Thursday at 6:05pm CT as Kyle Hendricks takes on Drew Smyly in a game available on WGN and MLB Network (out of market). The radio call is on 670 The Score.
