Cubs looking for better start from Ben Brown against Reds

Ben Brown might look like a different pitcher when he takes the mound for the Chicago Cubs in the second game of their three-game series against the visiting Cincinnati Reds on Saturday afternoon.

For starters, the Cubs plan to use an opener before inserting Brown into the game.

That's because Brown has struggled in the first inning this season, most recently walking the first two batters against the Reds last Sunday before surrendering four runs in the first inning of the eventual 11-8 win by Chicago.

"I think there's things Ben can do better," Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. "I think when you use an opener for a starter you're trying to get a better solution in the first inning, and then you're trying to probably get a better solution as you get to the back end of the appearance, with hitters 19 to 25, or something like that."

Brown (3-3, 6.39 ERA) wasn't happy with his last performance, when he ended up allowing a career-high eight runs over 4 1/3 innings.

Brown wasn't much better in his start before that either, but the second-year right-hander began the month with three straight solid outings, including six shutout innings against the Milwaukee Brewers in a 10-0 win on May 2.

"I'm having periods of time where I'm the best pitcher I've ever been and then I'm having times where I'm obviously struggling," Brown said. "There's two directions you can go. I can just have the worst season of all-time, or I can fix my attitude and my effort and really lock into what needs to be done, and I'm going to choose that route."

Brown also faced the Reds in his final two starts last season and lost both before he went on the injured list with a left neck strain, which was later revealed to be a benign neck tumor.

Overall, he's 0-2 in the three starts against Cincinnati with a 10.80 ERA.

"There's definitely something I need to change," Brown added. "And I'm sure everyone here is aware that it's not a secret. So, whatever I have to do to do that, whatever the avenue is to do that, I'm willing to do it and just keep on going."

Nick Lodolo is scheduled to start on Saturday for the Reds, who won the series opener 6-2 on Friday afternoon behind seven shutout innings from fellow left-hander Andrew Abbott.

Lodolo (4-4, 3.39 ERA) and Brown matched up last Sunday, and Lodolo did not receive a decision after allowing three runs and six hits over five innings. He struck out six and walked two.

"They put up good at bats, one through nine," Lodolo said about the Cubs, who came into the series leading the MLB at 5.9 runs a game. "Every guy over there has a good idea of what they are going to do at the dish."

Lodolo and Brown also matched up last season on June 2 and Lodolo earned the win after allowing two runs and seven hits in six innings of the 5-2 victory. He then beat the Cubs again five days later.

Overall, Lodolo is 2-2 in six career starts against Chicago with a 5.29 ERA.