The Cubs have now lost three of their last four series and went just 5-4 across nine home games, and have seen their division lead trimmed to 3.5 games as a result. With four in St. Louis starting tonight, the race could really tighten up if their play doesn’t improve. The early part of the season was categorized by a potent offense, then things shifted to a strong pitching staff with a surprisingly competent bullpen. Lately, however, the good hasn’t outweighed the bad frequently enough.
Ben Brown has been part of that in both directions, allowing no more than two runs in four of his last seven appearances, with six or more runs in the other three.