The Mets used Jacob deGrom as a pinch-hitter against the Cubs' catcher
Blowouts are no fun in any sport. The winning team doesn't play nearly as hard as they previously did, and the team on the losing end can't wait for the game to be over. And of course it's a drag for the fans in attendance.
But at least in MLB, we get entertainment from time to time. That entertainment comes in the form of position players pitching. That's what the Chicago Cubs did on Sunday when they were trailing 13-1 to the New York Mets in the eighth inning. Catcher Miguel Montego took the mound to pitch the seventh, and after retiring the side, he remained in the game to pitch the eighth.
After allowing a leadoff single, Jacob deGrom stepped to the plate ... as a pinch-hitter. That's right, the Mets used their star to pinch-hit for Antonio Bastardo, which made for an interesting pitcher-catcher matchup. Montero got deGrom to fly out to pop out to left field, ending any threat from the young pitcher.
Montero allowed one run on four hits in 1 1/3 innings, which isn't terrible for a guy who's typically behind the plate. It's not Cy Young-caliber stuff, but don't tell him that.
A few more innings and might have a chance at the CY Young #Cubs
— Miguel Montero (@miggymont26) July 3, 2016
