April 19--Cubs 0, Cardinals 0 (third inning)
The Cubs missed a promising scoring opportunity in the first inning, but John Lackey has looked sharp in his return Monday night to Busch Stadium as the Cubs and Cardinals are in a scoreless tie entering the bottom of the third inning. Right fielder Jason Heyward, who was booed heavily after departing the Cardinals after one season, struck out in his first at-bat.
At the plate:
Dexter Fowler led off the game with a double off Cardinals starter Mike Leake but was left stranded. Miguel Montero drew a walk to start the second but was erased when Addison Russell grounded into a double play.
On the mound:
Lackey appeared to be upset at home plate umpire Carlos Torres on a 3-2 pitch that resulted in a walk. But Lackey retired the next six batters in succession, including consecutive strikeouts of Yadier Molina and Kolten Wong in the second.
In the field:
Heyward made a sliding catch in right center to rob Stephen Piscotty of a hit in the first.
Key number:
12 -- Consecutive games Cubs starters have pitched at least six innings
The quote:
"I don't apply any more weight. I think it's exciting to be here." -- Joe Maddon
Up next:
vs. Cardinals at Busch Stadium, Tuesday, 7:15, CSN+
