It was not the way the Cubs wanted to start their 2nd half of the 2011 season – with 3 losses in 4 games to the Marlins at Wrigley Field.  In Sunday’s 7-5 loss, Kerry Wood was the goat – giving up 3 ER on 2 hits and 2 walks in the 8th inning with the game tied at 4.  Just like that, the Cubs were on their way to another loss.

Randy Wells had pitched OK in his 6 innings – 4 ER on 8 hits and 3 walks with 4 K’s.  On a humid, steamy day, Wells gave the bullpen a much-needed break with his 102-pitch effort.  His 1.74 WHIP and 6.71 ERA are well above his career averages.  Coming off of a solid spring, Wells was injured in his 1st start and has struggled mightily since he returned to the Cubs starting rotation back on May 28th.

Aramis Ramirez had 2 hits, 2 RBI’s and a run scored in the loss.  He is now hitting .300 on the season.  Reed Johnson and Starlin Castro each had a hit, an RBI and a run scored in the game.

The Cubs host the Phillies at Wrigley Field for a 3-game set this week.  They get to face Roy Halladay tonight, Cliff Lee on Tuesday and rookie stud Vance Worley (5-1, 2.15 ERA) on Wednesday. Can you say sweep?!?!