Shields, Hammel Dominate Early Innings As Padres Top Cubs
MESA, Ariz. (AP) — James Shields pitched five no-hit innings and Tommy Medica hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the eighth as the San Diego Padres defeated the Chicago Cubs, 6-1, on Sunday.
It was Medica's fourth home run of the spring and came in a pinch hit appearance in the eighth off Chicago reliever Francisley Bueno.
Shields and Cubs starting pitcher Jason Hammel, who played together on the Rays under current Cubs manager Joe Maddon, dominated the game.
Shields allowed two baserunners, both on two-out walks in the second, and threw 68 pitches. He struck out six.
Hammel also went five innings, striking out nine with five caught looking.
The Cubs' only run came in the sixth inning, when Arismendy Alcantara hit a home run on the first pitch from reliever Jose Valverde.
(© 2015 by STATS LLC and Associated Press. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of STATS LLC and Associated Press is strictly prohibited.)