The Chicago Cubs secured a narrow 4-3 victory over the Atlanta Braves at a sun-drenched Wrigley Field. This win elevated the Cubs’ record to 80-60, maintaining their second-place standing in the NL Central. Meanwhile, the Braves, struggling to find momentum, slipped to 63-77, holding onto fourth place in the NL East.
Cubs Build Early Lead
The Cubs made their mark in the third inning, putting up four runs that would prove decisive in this closely contested battle. Outfielder Kyle Tucker was the star of the inning, driving in three runs with his lone home run of the day. Ian Happ also contributed with an RBI, adding to the Cubs’ early lead.
On the mound, Cubs starter Shota Imanaga worked efficiently through six innings, conceding three runs on five hits. His performance earned him his ninth win of the season, bringing his ERA to a solid 3.15. Imanaga’s composed outing provided the stability the Cubs needed to fend off a late Braves surge.
Braves Fight Back
The Braves managed to chip away at the deficit with two runs in the fourth inning and another in the fifth. Ozzie Albies’ home run in the fourth and Eli White’s homer in the fifth highlighted Atlanta’s offensive efforts. However, it wasn’t enough to bridge the gap.
Braves starter Joey Wentz struggled in his four innings of work, allowing all four Cubs runs on seven hits. Despite striking out eight batters, Wentz was unable to contain the Cubs’ third-inning outburst, suffering his fifth loss of the season.
Strong Bullpen Support
The Cubs bullpen held the line after Imanaga exited, with Drew Pomeranz, Caleb Thielbar, and Daniel Palencia each pitching a scoreless inning. Thielbar and Palencia showcased their dominance by striking out a batter each, ensuring the Braves were kept at bay.
On the Braves side, their bullpen provided effective relief with Ramón Muñoz, Hayden Harris, and Dylan Dodd combining for four scoreless innings. This bullpen performance kept Atlanta within striking distance, though the offense could not capitalize.
Among the Braves hitters, Albies and Marcell Ozuna each collected two hits, contributing to Atlanta’s eight total hits on the night. Despite this, Ronald Acuña Jr. had a rare hitless outing, unable to spark a rally.
For the Cubs, Nico Hoerner and Kyle Tucker each recorded two hits, leading a seven-hit team effort. Seiya Suzuki and Jared Turner also found their way onto the basepaths, with Suzuki drawing a walk in addition to his hit.
Looking Forward
The Braves will aim to regroup as they prepare to host the Seattle Mariners for a three-game series at Truist Park. With the season winding down, the Braves hope to finish strong in their home stretch.
Meanwhile, the Cubs will continue their homestand with a series against the Washington Nationals. As they chase the division-leading Brewers, every game remains crucial in their postseason push.
