Smyly Struggles as Cubs Win Fifth in a Row

The Chicago Cubs keep on rolling after they secured their fifth win in a row when they downed the Colorado Rockies 6-5 in a comeback win. 

While results in the win-loss column don't matter much in Spring Training, the resiliency to battle back by the entire roster is exciting to see in terms of setting the culture and tone in the clubhouse.

Starter Drew Smyly once again got rocked, his second start in a row in which he had a less than stellar performance. The first start he solely threw fastballs. On Sunday, Smyly pitched 2.0 innings and gave up three earned runs on six hits. Two of those hits were home runs, one of which was allowed to Kris Bryant, the former Chicago icon. 

The alarms doesn't quite need to be sounded just yet as Smyly once again could have just been working on "something." It happens this time of year. However, if these same types of results continue to happen ahead of the season, it might become worrisome. 

One arm who did impress though was relief pitcher Michael Fulmer. He allowed just one hit and struck out two in 1.0 innings of work. He very well could slot into the closers role this season. 

On the other side of the house, Trey Mancini launched his first home run of the spring. It's good to see him get into the swing of things as his production will likely be the "base level" of what to expect from the Cubs lineup. 

Nick Madrigal also looked good in the comeback win. The third baseman led off and notched two hits on the afternoon. It is looking more and more like his position to lose as the competition for the hot corner narrows. 

The Cubs return to action on Monday against the Seattle Mariners at 2:10 p.m. EST.