The Chicago Cubs have won six of their last seven games, and they'll try to make it seven of eight Saturday against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The Cubs will start right-handed pitcher Jason Berken in his first appearance since joining the Cubs and his first major-league start since his rookie season in 2009. Berken was claimed off waivers on Sept. 7 after the Baltimore Orioles designated him for assignment.
Berken's only appearance in the majors this season came on May 7 for the Orioles. He pitched one inning in relief and gave up six hits and seven runs, only two of which were earned. Berken is starting in place of Jeff Samardzija, who was shut down after his last start upon reaching his innings limit for the season.
Here are the lineups:
For the Cubs:
CF Joe Mather (R)
2B Darwin Barney (R)
1B Anthony Rizzo (L)
LF Alfonso Soriano (R)
SS Starlin Castro (R)
C Wellington Castillo (R)
3B Josh Vitters (R)
RF Dave Sappelt (R)
P Jason Berken (R)
For the Pirates:
LF Starling Marte (R)
RF Travis Snider (L)
CF Andrew McCutchen (R)
1B Garrett Jones (L)
2B Neil Walker (S)
3B Pedro Alvarez (L)
SS Clint Barmes (R)
C Rod Barajas (R)
P Wandy Rodriguez (S)
The game will start at 12:05 p.m. CT and will be broadcast on CSN.
For more on the Cubs, be sure to visit Bleed Cubbie Blue. For more on the Pirates, check out Bucs Dugout.