Houston Astros' rookie Lucas Harrell to start Monday’s game against Chicago Cubs – MLB News
Houston Astros has slated rookie Lucas Harrell to start Monday’s opener against Chicago Cubs. The three-game series to be played at Wrigley Field will see Harrell make his last start of the season.
On Sunday, September 30, the Astros' Baseball Writers Association named Harrell the Rookie of the Year for his outstanding performance this season. Currently at the bottom of the National League Central, the Houston Astros have fortuitously found a strong starter in this rookie.
Harrell was ecstatic, vowing to end the season on a good note. "It's big for me. I want to end on a good note, I want to try to cap this year off going out on a high note," Harrell said. "I just want to go out there and give us a chance to win. That would be big for some momentum going into the offseason."
In his 31 appearances this season, Harrell has maintained 3.88 ERA with 10-11 record, having 133 strike-outs in his 187.2 innings with one complete game to his credit. He is currently leading all the Major League rookies with over 187 innings that he pitched.
Also, he now ranks second in the most wins among rookies, having had 10 wins to his credit.
Chicago Cubs, on the other hand, will send Jason Berken to start in Monday’s game. Cubs are currently trying to avoid the 100-loss record for the season.
"We've lost so many close games," said Cubs' manager Dale Sveum. "That's why the [James] Russells and [Shawn] Camps have pitched so many games because we were trying to stay in games and get back. We were in a lot of ballgames.”
Cubs, among other things, have struggled offensively. That is one department of the game that they want to address. On the other hand, the Houston Astros will have enough opportunity to capitalise on the weaknesses and vulnerabilities of the Cubs.
This will also be the last series for the Houston Astros in the current season as the member of the National League, they will try to end the season on a positive note.
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