Cubs rap Taillon 8-2

Jameson Taillon’s fastball was coming in at 97, but wasn’t missing many bats as he allowed 11 hits, including 6 doubles, which where good for 6 runs in only 4 2/3 innings. Even Cubs’ starting pitcher Jon Lester, who had begun his career 0-for-68 in the batter’s box, rapped a two-bagger off the right-center wall.

Meanwhile Lester was getting strike calls on any pitches near the outside edge and produced several tappers back to the mound that he was able to underhand to first base for the out.

Angel Sanchez relieved Taillon in the 5th and had retired the first four batter he faced, but in his third inning of work he allowed the inevitable line drive homer to Albert Almora Jr. Youngsters Joaquin Benoit and Dovydas Neveraskaus also got work later in the game.

Chris Bostick came on as a pinch-hitter and in his second time up double off the right field wall for his first major league hit.

After player through a downpour for an inning, the Bucs did load the bases in the bottom on the 9th, but Josh Bell grounded out softly to some Cubs minor league pitcher to end the game.

The Pirates will try to regroup on Friday evening when the Cardinals come to PNC Park.