Cubs Will Rely On Bullpen To Shut Down The Dodgers

The Cubs starters have gone an average of six innings this year, which means the bullpen will be key to victory in the playoffs. Jeff Samardzija, Carlos Marmol, and Kerry Wood will be key in the Cubs first playoff test against the Los Angeles Dodgers. Jeff Samardzija, a former Notre Dame wide receiver, was selected by the Cubs in the draft in 2007. He spent most of last year in the minor leagues. He made his major league debut July 7, 2008 and has been one of the Cubs most dependable middle relievers.  Samardzija's ERA is a clean 2.28, including a dirty 0.95 ERA at home this year. This is key as the Cubs have locked in home field advantage until the World Series. He has given up no home runs and 12 earned runs in 25 appearances. He has a 4 seam fastball mixed in with a slider in the mid 80s and changeup in the low 80s. He can also strike a batter out with a fastball that maxes out at 98 mph. Thriving on the packed house and 40,000 fans standing at every pitch is similar to his ... (link)