The Cubs went up 7-0 and then …
They added a couple more and won 9-0. What, you expected another unbelievable implosion? Pfft, that only happens when the winning matters. And, well, not against the Pirates.
You can face only the opponent with which you’re presented on any given night, and when you face a crummy one, a good performance means mowing them down. That’s what Justin Steele did in his final start of the season – easily his best – just ruthlessly efficient in the zone, harnessing wipeout pitches when the opportunity arose, and keeping the ball constantly on the ground. Maybe the same performance doesn’t play quite as well against a stacked team, but I reckon it would’ve been pretty darn good.
Oh, and he had a hit, and turned a killer double-play, too.
Steele, the show. @J_Steele21 pic.twitter.com/60yO5q7dGo
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) October 1, 2021
Steele was as good doing his part as the bats were doing theirs. Good nights up and down the lineup, with Sergio Alcantara leading the way.