Pitching matchups intrigue as Phillies head to Chicago

The upcoming series between the Phillies and Cubs boasts some extremely interesting pitching matchups.

That’s probably not something Phils fans are used to hearing, but the slate of game to be played at Wrigley this weekend could boast some pretty good baseball on both sides.

With Chicago fighting for a wild card spot in the jam-packed NL central (they trail the Pirates by four and the Cardinals by nine), the Phillies can be early spoilers for the Cubs as they try and keep pace.

They have, afterall, won five of six games after the All-Star break with a four-game win streak mixed in, and are playing arguably their best baseball of the year (best being a relative term for a 34-63 team)

After a much-needed off day Thursday that may allow Maikel Franco’s elbow to heal into playing shape, Jerome Williams will return to the mound for Philly after a stint on the disabled list. Williams hasn’t pitched since June 16, and prior to that he was not very impressive. But if Cole Hamels is on his way out he’ll be a much-needed arm. Jon Lester will counter for Chicago. Lester is 4-0 lifetime against Philly and is coming off a near-no hitter.

On Saturday, the first of two afternoon games, Cole Hamelswill return to the hill for the first time since his back-to-back atrocious outings lifted his ERA nearly an entire run.Jake Arrieta will pitch for Chicago seeking his sixth straight victory.

And then Sunday, fresh off his Major League debut (a six-inning, one-run outing), Aaron Nola makes start No. 2 against Jason Hammell.

The short road trip will continue Tuesday and Wednesday north of the border with two games against Tornoto.