Report: Cubs have Arrieta down for 20 pitches in Game 7
Game 6 wasn't enough for Chicago Cubs right-hander Jake Arrieta.
After pitching 5 2/3 innings of solid work against the Cleveland Indians on Tuesday en route to a 9-3 victory, the 2015 National League Cy Young winner is ready to go in Game 7, if needed.
Tom Verducci told Colin Cowherd of The Herd on Wednesday that the Cubs have tabbed Arrieta for 20 pitches, if necessary, after the hurler approached Cubs pitching coach Chris Bosio and said he was good to pitch in the important contest.
Tom Verducci: Arrieta went to the pitching coach last night and said I'm good for tomorrow. They have him down for 20 pitches. #WorldSeries pic.twitter.com/kpmsPyCTES
— Herd w/Colin Cowherd (@TheHerd) November 2, 2016
Arrieta allowed two earned runs on three hits, walking three, and striking out nine in Game 6, tossing 102 pitches in the process.
After struggling during his one start in the NLCS against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Arrieta recovered well in the World Series, posting a 2.38 ERA to go along with 15 strikeouts during his two starts against Cleveland.
The Cubs will reportedly consider using starters Jon Lester and John Lackey in relief roles during Game 7, too.