CHICAGO -- When Cole Hamels joined the Chicago Cubs earlier this season, the veteran starter didn't expect he would take on such a vital role.
But as the Cubs close in on what they hope is their third straight National League Central Division title, Hamels could be a major reason why. Coming off his worst start joining the Cubs, Hamels will attempt to keep Chicago moving in the right direction when he takes the mound Monday against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Wrigley Field.
Hamels (9-10, 3.90 ERA) has not recorded a victory since Aug.