GOODYEAR, Ariz. — The Cubs scored twice in the ninth, including an unearned run on an infield throwing error, to come from behind and forge a 6-6 Cactus League tie with the Reds at Goodyear Ballpark on Wednesday. The Cubs are 5-7-1 this spring.
Kimbrel debut: Closer Craig Kimbrel struck out Joey Votto swinging at a curveball and Phillip Ervin swinging at a 96-mph fastball during a one-inning, much-anticipated Cactus League debut in which his only mistake was a middle-of-the-plate fastball that Derek Dietrich hit over the centerfield wall. “Felt good. Felt like it was a productive inning,” said Kimbrel, who dealt with knee and forearm issues late last season after signing with the Cubs. “I was able to throw the ball for the most part where I wanted to, ball was coming out good. Overall, it felt like it was a good day.” He’s scheduled to pitch again Sunday against the Diamondbacks.
In command: Presumptive fifth starter Tyler Chatwood struck out five without a walk in three innings, giving up only a home run on a heater to (Josh) VanMeter. “Felt good,” Chatwood said. “Today my big thing was making sure I pitched. Last outing I got in fastball-happy mode. So today I wanted to go throw everything. I was able to do that and get good swings and misses.”
New leadoff look: The Cubs’ new leadoff hitter, Kris Bryant, led off the game with a double just inside the bag at third, moved up a base on Anthony Rizzo’s grounder to first and scored on Javy Baez’ opposite-field single. Bryant reached again during a two-run second when hit by a pitch.
On deck: Rangers at Cubs, Sloan Park, 2:05 p.m., Thursday, MSN, Jonathan Hernandez vs. Yu Darvish.
