Hill needs to step it up today

April 10th, 2008 at 11:43am Wally Haas

Rich Hill needs to give the Cubs at least six solid innings today after seven pitchers were used in yesterday’s 15-inning marathon. That’s two marathon-length games in a row for the Cubs. Good thing they had an off day in there.

Not sure who could pitch long relief if Hill falters. Jon Lieber pitched three innings Monday. Not sure if he’d be available today. Michael Wuertz and Kevin Hart each pitched two innings yesterday so I doubt either of them will be available today. Carlos Marmol, Kerry Wood and Bob Howry could each probably pitch another inning today, but ideally you’d need Hill to go six before you start calling on those guys.

Pirates are in the same boat, but the Cubs go straight to Philadelphia after tonight’s game and could use some fresh arms there. The good news is that the Phillies are playing horribly right now. Originally I thought 4-2 would be a good road trip, but given the way the Pirates and Phillies are playing, 5-1 or 6-0 is a distinct possibility.

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