The Cubs bullpen gave up another lead on Thursday in Tampa and with it dropped yet another series. Justin Steele was victimized by a total lack of support from his teammates this time despite six shutout innings, and any kind of improved play feels miles away.
Steele and Rays starter Taj Bradley were very sharp from the beginning Thursday, giving up nothing through the first four frames. Michael Busch and Nico Hoerner hit back-to-back singles to open the top of the 5th, after which slugger Patrick Wisdom then surprisingly laid down a sacrifice bunt to advance both runners.