Cubs @ Dodgers May 27, 2017: McCarthy vs. Lackey, round 2

For the second time this season, Brandon McCarthy (3.76 ERA, 3.07 FIP, 1.180 WHIP) will face John Lackey (4.82 ERA, 4.93 FIP, 1.395 WHIP). The first time, things worked out in the Dodgers’ favor, albeit more because of McCarthy’s efforts than because of any kind of inspiring offensive display in the 2-0 win.

On April 12, McCarthy pitched six shutout innings at Wrigley Field, working around four hits and three walks while striking out four. After a couple of rough outings, McCarthy posted an encouraging start earlier this week against the Marlins, delivering six innings of one-run ball. He’ll be up against a Cubs lineup today in which six of the nine starters bat left-handed. It should be noted that McCarthy has allowed a .653 OPS to lefties and a .620 OPS to righties, so the difference has not been substantial.

Lackey, the 38-year-old veteran, was actually quite good when he faced the Dodgers earlier this season, as he struck out ten batters in six innings. He allowed just one run — a leadoff dinger by Andrew Toles — although that ended up being all the Dodgers needed. Lackey has mostly struggled since, save for one excellent start in, of all places, Colorado. His main problem is that he’s been giving up home runs at an alarming rate. Lackey’s 2.06 HR/9 is easily the highest of all qualified National League starters.

A Dodger win today would secure the series victory, and would guarantee at least a split of the season series with the Cubs. Today’s game is being broadcast on FOX.

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A look ahead at the rotation for the upcoming series at Busch Stadium:

Hill, Maeda, Wood and McCarthy start in St. Louis.

— Ken Gurnick (@kengurnick) May 27, 2017