Cubs Insider · Mar 1, 2024
‘Stubborn’ Drew Smyly Feels Good About Outing Despite Results
AP Photo/Matt YorkDrew Smyly didn’t have the best outing of his career Thursday afternoon against a spotty Rockies lineup, giving up five earned runs on seven hits — two of which left the yard — over just two innings. He actually came out for a third frame, but was pulled after giving up three hits and a walk to open it. With an 11.25 ERA over two Cactus League appearances, both the box score and context-free eye test indicate the lefty has a steep uphill battle to earn a rotation spot.
But what if we try to add a little context back into the equation?
“The ball was coming out really well,” Smyly told reporters after he hit the showers. “My fastball seems really hoppy, especially.”