NEW YORK — As the Cubs cruised through May, many were beginning to point to a daunting June as the real test of whether this team is for real or not. Part of getting through tough stretches is just trying to survive and not fall too far behind.
Entering four in Queens, the Cubs had more than held their own against baseball’s best. They’d gone 8-4 to start the month, including 5-0 at home and eking out a respectable 3-4 record on a tough West Coast trip.
But Monday’s 5-2 loss is another reminder of how difficult this month is going to be. Outside of a pair of solo homers, the Cubs’ bats were largely silent. Starter Jake Arrieta battled his command and ended up allowing four runs in five innings, walking four (one intentional) and striking out just three.
