Cubs' bats and the weather both cold in Pittsburgh as they lose 3-0 to Pirates

In what looked like a promising start to the game for the Cubs and newly acquired starting pitcher Edwin Jackson, turned out with the Cubs getting their first loss of the 2013 season.  Jackson struck out the side in the first inning, but the Cubs' bats were as cold as the 35-degree weather in Pittsburgh, as they were only able to get two hits during the entire game off Wandy Rodriguez.

Jackson allowed two runs on three hits over five innings and was pulled from the game for a pinch-hitter in the sixth inning.

Edwin Jackson made his Cubs debut against the Pirates (USA Today photo)

The Cubs had a chance to score in the seventh inning when they loaded the bases with one out.  But Brent Lillibridge was called out on strikes after a long at-bat and Alberto Gonzalez popped out to end the inning.

Needless to say, the Cubs lost 3-0 to the Pirates.  The good news is that they are even with all four other teams in the NL Central, with each team winning one game and losing one.

There was a panic moment in the seventh inning when Wandy Rodriguez's pitch drilled Anthony Rizzo and he fell to the ground, losing his helmet.  I think everyone watching the game thought the Cubs' first baseman might have been seriously hurt.  But thankfully the ball hit Rizzo's arm and not his head and he was able to get up on his own and continue playing.

Anthony Rizzo after being hit by a pitch in the seventh inning against the Pirates (USA Today photo)

In other Cubs news, pitching prospect Robert Whitenack, who was designated for assignment by the Cubs, was claimed by the Indians on waivers today.  Whitenack tweeted, "Thank you @Cubs for the excellent 4 years!!! Excited to start a new journey with the @Indians" earlier today.  The Cubs also signed infielder Donnie Murphy and outfielder Ryan Sweeney to minor league deals today.

Tomorrow the Cubs and Pirates will play the rubber game of the series at 11:35am CT.  Travis Wood will make the start for the Cubs.

After that, the Cubs will head to Atlanta to play a three-game series against the Braves before heading home to Chicago to get ready for the Home Opener at Wrigley Field on Monday at 1:20pm CT.  Five more days!