Cubs Aim for Series Win Against Tigers with Taillon on Mound

Chicago, IL – Jameson Taillon will look for his fourth consecutive victory when the Cubs take on the Tigers in the middle game of a three-game series on Saturday. Taillon has been a reliable presence on the mound, with a record of 5-3 and a 3.76 ERA this season.

In his last outing, Taillon held the Cincinnati Reds to two runs and three hits over 6 1/3 innings, leading the Cubs to a 7-3 victory. He is known for his consistent strong starts, having delivered six quality outings in his last seven chances. “His biggest strength is that he is an elite strike-thrower,” said Cubs manager Craig Counsell. “He is always among the league leaders in walk rates.” Taillon has faced the Tigers four times in his career, posting a 1-2 record with a 7.45 ERA against them.

On the opposite side, Keider Montero is expected to be the bulk reliever for the Tigers after Tyler Holton serves as the opener. Montero has shown promise, pitching 9 2/3 innings without allowing a run in his past two starts, although his last outing against the Kansas City Royals was less impressive, allowing seven hits in 4 2/3 innings. Montero said, “I was proud of what we did (Sunday)” as he navigated key moments with runners on base.

The Tigers won a tense opener on Friday night, thanks to a stellar performance by Tarik Skubal, who pitched 7 2/3 innings to secure a 3-1 victory. During that game, rookie Jahmai Jones, who was called up earlier that day, made an instant impact with a solo home run in the eighth inning. Tigers manager A.J. Hinch praised Jones for his hitting ability and potential contribution off the bench.

Despite facing the AL’s top team, Counsell stressed that the series is just one part of the long season. “It’s a series in June,” he noted. “There are going to be a lot of people here this weekend. That’s fun for our players. They love that. It’s a challenge against a good team. We love that. But other than that, it’s three games.”