The Chicago Cubs are making a change to their lineup as they prepare to face the Seattle Mariners in the second game of the series at Wrigley Field. Matt Shaw, who has struggled offensively with just one hit over his last seven games, is sitting out today. Manager Craig Counsell has activated Vidal Brujan in Shaw’s place to try and boost the offense.
Shaw’s recent slump has seen limited success at the plate, registering only three hits and one walk in his past ten games. His return to the lineup is set for tomorrow, but he will face a challenging pitcher in Logan Gilbert.
Seattle Mariners Set to Counter with Emerson Hancock
On the mound for the Mariners today is right-hander Emerson Hancock, who has posted a 4.48 ERA over the season. Despite overall unimpressive season numbers, Hancock has raised his performance recently, holding a 2.48 ERA in his last five starts. His previous outing against the Cubs in Seattle demonstrated controlled pitching, allowing two earned runs on four hits without issuing a walk over six innings.
Still, Hancock is not considered among the elite starting pitchers the Cubs have faced recently, and the lineup will need to capitalize on this opportunity.
Pitching Matchup: Cade Horton Takes the Mound for Cubs
For Chicago, Cade Horton will start as the right-handed pitcher. Through seven starts this season, Horton has maintained a solid 3.47 ERA and a 3.73 FIP. While his strikeout rate is modest at 19%, Horton’s ability to limit walks and generate ground balls has allowed him to avoid major innings. In his most recent start against the Pittsburgh Pirates, he delivered his best performance yet, pitching 5.2 innings while allowing just three hits and no runs, striking out four.
Horton’s transition to the major leagues has been smooth, showing growth in developing secondary pitches without sacrificing effectiveness. However, the Cubs lineup might want to exercise caution against power hitter Cal Raleigh.
Injuries Affect Both Cubs and Mariners
Both teams have notable absences due to injury. The Cubs are missing catcher Miguel Amaya, starting pitchers Shota Imanaga and Javier Assad, relievers Porter Hodge and Eli Morgan, and starting pitcher Justin Steele. Meanwhile, the Mariners are without first baseman/outfielder Luke Raley, reliever Collin Snider, starter Bryce Miller, outfielder Victor Robles, second baseman Ryan Bliss, and reliever Gregory Santos.
Broadcast Schedule and Weather Conditions at Wrigley Field
The Cubs and Mariners will begin play at 1:20 p.m. Central Time, with broadcasts available on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score. The weather at Wrigley Field in Chicago is notably hot and windy, factors that could influence game play and pitching performance.
Outlook as Cubs Face Challenging Mariners Rotation
Following a loss in the series opener, the Cubs face an uphill battle against strong Mariners pitching. With Matt Shaw sidelined today and a tough matchup against Logan Gilbert looming, the team’s ability to adjust offensively will be critical. Cade Horton’s promising early-season form provides hope, but the Cubs will need consistent production to compete in this difficult series at Wrigley Field.