The Los Angeles Dodgers dropped a 6-2 decision to the Chicago Cubs at Camelback Ranch on Saturday in spring training play. Despite Freddie Freeman's 1-for-3 effort at the plate, the Dodgers could not overcome a sizable deficit. Justin Wrobleski worked 2.0 innings on the mound, allowing 0 earned runs on 1 hit. The Cubs out-hit the Dodgers 10-4 on the day. Despite the result, the coaching staff gathered useful data on the current state of the roster. Spring training losses sting, but the information gained will inform decisions as Opening Day approaches.
Key Performers
Freddie Freeman was the top performer at the plate, going 1-for-3. His steady bat was exactly what the lineup needed. Performances like this give the Dodgers confidence that the lineup is rounding into form.
Logan Wagner provided support, going 1-for-2, Eliezer Alfonzo also contributed, going 1-for-2, and James Tibbs III chipped in, going 1-for-2. While there were individual bright spots, the lineup could not string hits together consistently.
On the other side of the diamond, Brett Bateman led the Cubs offense with a 1-for-1 with two RBI day. Kane Kepley also contributed, going 2-for-2 with a double, a triple, and an RBI. Pedro Ramirez added a 1-for-2 with an RBI effort as well. The Cubs offense proved to be too much for the Dodgers pitching staff to contain on this particular day.
On the Mound
Justin Wrobleski got the start, struggling with his command, working 2.0 innings while allowing 0 earned runs on 1 hit. He threw 24 pitches in the outing. It was a useful learning experience as the Dodgers evaluate their pitching depth heading into the regular season.
The bullpen combined for 7.0 innings of work, allowing 5 earned runs while striking out six. Spring training gives the coaching staff a chance to evaluate bullpen depth, and today provided useful information about the current state of the bullpen. Each reliever is auditioning for a roster spot, and innings like these factor into those decisions. Dawson Netz recorded the save to close out the game.
Among the relievers, Wyatt Mills stood out with 1.0 innings of 1-run work, striking out two. His performance was one of the day's bright spots from the bullpen.
How It Happened
Cubs got on the board first with a run in the fifth inning. Cubs pushed across a run in the seventh. Cubs plated two runs in the eighth. Cubs added two runs in the ninth. The Dodgers responded with two runs in the ninth. The Cubs were able to score in four separate innings, keeping the pressure on throughout the contest. Cubs out-hit the Dodgers 10-4, with 3 errors committed between the two clubs. A crowd of 11,208 was on hand to take in the action.
Looking Ahead
It was not the outcome the Dodgers were looking for, but spring training provides a forgiving environment to work through the rough patches. The focus remains on preparation and development, and the coaching staff will use today as a teaching opportunity. The regular season is right around the corner, and every game is a chance to improve.