All the positive vibes and energy the Cubs (37-42) took with them to London last week are seemingly gone as a four-game losing streak has soured the mood on the North Side. The defending National League champion Philadelphia Phillies swept Chicago in three contests at Wrigley Field and they had just 12 hours to prepare for their next opponent, the Guardians, who are in for a series beginning Friday afternoon.
Cleveland (39-41) is tied for first in the mediocre American League Central despite having a losing record. Their strong suit is pitching, in particular a bullpen that is second-best in MLB with a 2.