May 23--The Cubs hope to regain the dominance against the National League Central that isn't as overwhelming against opponents outside their division.
The Cubs open a three-game series Monday night at Busch Stadium against the St. Louis Cardinals after losing two of three games to the Giants after a 1-0 loss Sunday night.
"We've lost the last two series, but we haven't been playing as good as we can outside our division," catcher David Ross said. "I think we can get better at that. But we've been playing good inside our division and hopefully carry that over to St. Louis."
The Cubs are 16-5 against the NL Central, including a 2-1 mark against the Cardinals. They're a respectable 13-8 outside their division but are 2-4 against NL West foes San Diego and San Francisco.
"The guys are ready to play," manager Joe Maddon said. "We played well. We didn't play poorly. The time zone shifts does make it difficult on occasion. But I anticipate we'll be fine (Monday night)."
Much was made this weekend about the Giants series and the possibility of a rematch in the National League playoffs. But the Cubs aren't looking too far ahead.
"We feel all right about it," said Kyle Hendricks, who suffered the loss Sunday despite 5 1/3 innings of three-hit ball. "We're going game by game. It's early in the year. We did well in the first game with Jake (Arrieta). They got us Saturday, and (Sunday) was a tossup. It can go any way. We feel confident."
