Cubs Win Fourth Straight As Garza Blanks Pirates

Are the Pittsburgh Pirates finally turning back into a pumpkin? It's certainly seemed that way as, after an abysmal 2-5 road trip to Philadelphia and Atlanta, they've dropped two straight at home to the struggling Chicago Cubs. The Cubs, for their part, are going to try to go for just their first four game win streak of the season.

They'll send Matt Garza, 4-8 with a 3.99 ERA and 1.23 WHIP, to the hill to try to keep the streak alive. Garza is coming off a start against St. Louis in which he gave up six runs over just 5.2 innings pitched. In his last game against the Pirates, Garza earned a no decision after giving up three runs on twelve hits over seven innings, while striking out twelve. This year, Pedro Alvarez is 2-for-4 against Garza.

Pitching for the Pirates will be Charlie Morton, 8-6 with a 4.04 ERA and 1.56 WHIP. Morton's last start, against Philadelphia was a disaster. He gave up eight runs (six earned) on just nine hits and four walks over 4.0 innings pitched. In his career against the Cubs, Morton is 2-2 with a 7.85 ERA and 1.64 WHIP. Aramis Ramirez is 2-for-4 against Morton in his career.

The weather in Pittsburgh is forecast to be stormy and warm, with a game time temperature in the upper 70's. Weather permitting, first pitch is at 6:05 P.M., CDT, and the game will be televised on CSN+ and ROOT Sports.