Chicago Cubs Take the Series, Defeat Los Angeles Dodgers in Extras 4-3

The Chicago Cubs were able to tie the game up in the ninth inning and they defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 4-3 in the 11th inning from a bases-loaded walk of David DeJesus despite leaving12 men left on base.

The Cubs took two of three from the Dodgers, bringing their record somewhat closer to .500 as they sit at 11-17.  

Here is what we learned and the questions we have after this Cubs victory.

 

Does Travis Wood's quality start spell the end for Chris Volstad?

Chris Volstad has struggled mightily this season and his problems date back as far to last year, when he is 0-9 in his last 17 starts.  After Travis Wood's decent start against the Dodgers, Volstad's spot in the rotation is in jeopardy.  In his first start of the season, Wood went six strong while allowing three runs, but on only three hits.  

Even if this may be a short stint for Wood because of Matt Garza coming down with the flu, he did open his manager's eyes for a consideration in the rotation.  The Cubs may give Volstad another shot to prove he belongs in the starting rotation; otherwise, Wood would be the next in line to replace him. 

 

Bryan LaHair continues his hot start

Bryan LaHair went 3-for-4, including a base on balls, and his batting average skyrocketed to an even .390.  He has been amazing this season, providing an offensive weapon in this weak hitting lineup.  He appears to mature every game he plays as he is letting the game come to him.  He has reached base safely in 24 straight games and he has shown excellent patience at the plate with 14 walks.  

The more LaHair does, the more you wonder what he could have done if former Cubs manager Mike Quade gave him an increase in playing time last season. 

 

Patience is a virtue

The Cubs exemplified great patience at the plate in this victory as they walked seven times, including a bases-loaded walk by David DeJesus to bring in the winning run.  

The Cubs tired out the Dodgers closer by forcing him to throw 23 pitches.  Their patience in the extra innings doomed Dodgers relief pitcher Jamey Wright as he had to labor through the 11th by issuing two walks and throwing 29 pitches.

Source: http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1174569-cubs-take-the-series-defeat-the-dodgers-in-extras-4-3

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