The Chicago Cubs (14-13) will be trying to avoid losing consecutive series when they face the Washington Nationals (9-17) in the first game of their four-game series on Monday night.
Drew Smyly, 2-1, 3.21 ERA, will get the start for the Cubs. The Nationals will counter with MacKenzie Gore, 3-1, 3.00 ERA.
Chicago is 6-4 in its last 10 games against Washington.
**This preview was written before Sunday’s game was played**
The Cubs followed up their series win over the Padres with a three-game sweep at the hands of the Marlins in their last series. They will try to snap their losing streak with a win over the Nationals, which will give them their second win in their last five games.
Chicago is averaging 5.50 runs per game. Their .276 batting average is second in the league. Their .348 on base percentage is also second, while their .448 slugging percentage is third.
Nico Hoerner leads the Cubs with a .333 batting average, while Patrick Wisdom leads the team with 10 home runs and 20 RBI.
Chicago’s pitching has been good, with the team giving up 3.81 runs per game. Opponents have a .221 batting average against the Cubs, which is third in the league. Their 3.65 ERA is 10th, while their 1.20 WHIP is sixth.
In his last start, Smyly gave u p four hits and two runs in five innings, but the bullpen blew the lead and they lost to San Diego 5-3. They will need another solid start from him if they want to get the win.
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