Results for: Chicago Cubs

Grae Kessinger, a 26-year-old infielder for the Houston Astros, is carrying on a family legacy in baseball. His grandfather, Don Kessinger, was a shortstop for the Chicago Cubs for 11 seasons before becoming the baseball coach at Ole Miss. Grae’s father, Kevin, also played baseball for his father at Ole Miss and was drafted by the Cubs in the 22nd round in 1992. Grae was drafted by the Astros in the second round in 2019 and made his Major League debut in 2022. Despite facing limited playing time with the Astros, Grae remains focused on improving his defense and learning from his grandfather, who he calls his mentor and role model.

The Houston Astros are facing their worst start in seven years with a 7-16 record after losing nine of their last 12 games. They will look to turn things around in a three-game series against the Chicago Cubs, who are coming off a split with the Miami Marlins. The Astros have been held under four hits in two of their last three games, leading to concerns about their offense. First baseman Jose Abreu has struggled with a 59-at-bat hitless streak. The Cubs are expected to start left-hander Jordan Wicks, while the Astros will counter with right-hander J.P. France.

Chicago Cubs pitcher Jake Junis was hit in the neck by a ball during batting practice at Pittsburgh’s PNC Park. He was treated on the field for 20 minutes before being taken to the hospital, where he is conscious and responsive. Junis is currently on the injured list with a shoulder impingement, so this incident will prolong his return to the field.