McClung might not even make his next start....
July 2, 2009
Chicago – It was a question on the minds of many as the Milwaukee Brewers and Chicago Cubs began a four-game series Thursday night at Wrigley Field.
Which was the bigger liability: The Cubs’ underachieving offense or the Brewers’ paper-thin starting rotation?
For one game, at least, the answer was clear-cut. The Brewers might want to accelerate their pursuit of a starting pitcher.
With Derrek Lee leading the charge with a three-run home run and grand slam, the Cubs pummeled fill-in starter Seth McClung and rolled to a 9-5 victory that was easier than the final score might indicate.
Making his second start in place of injured right-hander Dave Bush, McClung was tagged for seven runs in 3 1/3 innings, surrendering seven hits –- including three home runs – and two walks. He put the Brewers in a 4-0 hole after one inning and it only got worse.
In his two starts since moving from the bullpen, McClung has pitched only 7 1/3 innings, allowing 13 hits, four walks, four homers and 10 earned runs (12.28 ERA).
“I know I’m better than the stats show the last two starts,” said McClung. “When you put your heart and soul into it and get results like these, it’s disappointing.
“I know I can pitch and I know I can start. If I get another opportunity, I know I can do it.”
Perhaps, but it’s unlikely McClung will get another chance. Manager Ken Macha said that spot would come up once more before the all-star break, a week from Saturday. Asked if McClung would take that turn, Macha wouldn’t commit.
“I don’t know that,” said Macha. “(General manager) Doug (Melvin) and I have spoke. A lot of things going into what he’s doing. We’re going to try to make it work.”
I will be very surprised if Macha gives the ball again to McClung for that Saturday start before the break.