The Pittsburgh Pirates will start Gerrit Cole (5-1, 2.32 ERA) against Jon Lester (3-2, 4.10 ERA) and the Chicago Cubs on Saturday.

Through his seven starts this season, Cole has totaled 45 strikeouts. Cole became the second Pirates pitcher in the modern era (since 1900) to have at least five wins in his first seven starts with at least 45 strikeouts, joining Francisco Liriano, who did it in 2013.

Cole has pitched well on the road, winning his last five decisions. Since May 18, 2014, Cole has an 8-1 record with a 3.09 ERA in 11 starts on the road.

Cole has won each of his last four starts at Wrigley Field without allowing a home run. According to Elias, the only other Major League pitchers to win each of their first four starts at Wrigley Field without allowing a long ball in any of the contests are Grover Alexander (1916-17), Vida Blue (1978-1986) and Mike Morgan (1989-1991).

Cole has a 6-0 record with a 2.92 in six career starts against the Cubs.

(Source: Elias Sports Bureau)