Reliever Lee Smith`s string of misfortune (0-3 with a 17.34 earned-run average in his last four appearances) is perplexing to Cubs management.
”Smitty is going through a tough time, no question about it,” said interim manager Frank Lucchesi. ”It`s puzzling at times. He`s done so well over the last few years.”
Rookie right-hander Les Lancaster, who was lifted in the seventh inning of Wednesday night`s game because of a stiff right shoulder, pronounced himself healthy Thursday and ready for his next start.
”My confidence is built up, and now they`re sticking me out there and giving me a chance to pitch,” said Lancaster. ”It`s working out for the best.
”Last night was the first time I even had an ice bag on my shoulder after a game. I`ve really been fortunate not to have any arm problems. I don`t think this is any big concern.”
Scott Sanderson, who left Monday`s game in New York with a sore shoulder in the fifth inning, threw on the side before Thursday`s game. ”I threw as hard as I could. I`m planning on starting,” he said.
Switch-hitting rookie catcher Damon Berryhill logged impressive statistics this season at Triple-A Iowa, hitting .287 with 18 homers and 67 RBIs in 121 games. But is he ready to challenge veteran Jody Davis for a starting job?
”Naturally, I would like to see him more,” Lucchesi said. ”At the end of this year and in the spring, we can evaluate him more. People right off the bat say, `Hey, he`s going to be a star, a big leaguer.` You have to take a little time to evaluate some of these kids.”
Probables for the St. Louis series: Friday, Rick Sutcliffe (16-8) vs. Danny Cox (9-7); Saturday, Sanderson (7-7) vs. Greg Mathews (10-9); Sunday, Greg Maddux (6-12) vs. Bob Forsch (10-5).
