Game Recap: Chicago Cubs vs. Milwaukee Brewers

Final Score: Chicago Cubs 6, Milwaukee Brewers 3

In a thrilling matchup that saw the Chicago Cubs face off against the Milwaukee Brewers at Miller Park, the Cubs fought hard to secure a 6-3 victory. This outcome means that the Cubs have now taken the series 2-1, giving them a much-needed boost as they fight for a playoff spot in the tightly contested NL Central. The Cubs continue to showcase their resilience, something that will be crucial as the season approaches the home stretch.

How the Game Unfolded

The game kicked off with both teams exchanging threats in the early innings. The Cubs drew first blood in the top of the second, when third baseman Patrick Wisdom launched a solo homer off Brewers’ starter Corbin Burnes. This blast ignited the Cubs’ dugout and set the tone for their offensive approach.

However, the Brewers quickly responded. In the bottom of the third, Milwaukee’s Rowdy Tellez hammered a two-run shot to left field, putting the Brewers ahead 2-1 and sending the crowd into a frenzy. Just when it seemed like the momentum was swinging towards Milwaukee, Cubs’ shortstop Dansby Swanson answered back in the top of the fourth with a two-run double, reclaiming the lead for Chicago at 3-2.

Key Innings

The fifth inning turned out to be a pivotal moment for the Cubs. A combination of hits from Ian Happ and Willson Contreras allowed Chicago to extend their lead to 5-2. The Cubs’ infielder Nico Hoerner also made a crucial diving stop to silence a potential scoring inning for the Brewers, turning the tide yet again.

In the latter stages of the game, both teams went silent until the eighth inning. The Brewers managed to get a run back, making it 5-3, but a ninth-inning insurance run from the Cubs, courtesy of another Wisdom hit, sealed the deal.

Turning Points

The Cubs’ victory hinged on a few significant moments throughout the game.

Big Hits:
Patrick Wisdom’s early home run not only set the tone but also demonstrated the Cubs’ ability to play aggressively. Wisely, the Cubs capitalized on their scoring chances—Swanson’s double was particularly critical, effectively changing the game’s momentum.

Pitching Changes:
The strategic deployment of Cubs’ relievers also played a key role. After starting pitcher Justin Steele pitched five solid innings, the Cubs leaned into their strong bullpen. Keegan Thompson and Adbert Alzolay were instrumental in stifling the Brewers’ offensive attempts in the sixth through eighth innings, allowing only one run during that stretch.

Defensive Moments:
Nico Hoerner’s diving stop was another turning point that cannot go unnoticed. By robbing Tyrone Taylor of a potential hit, he not only preserved the lead but also galvanized his teammates when they needed it most.

Standout Performances

Starting Pitchers

Justin Steele (Cubs): Steele showed poise throughout his five innings, striking out four and allowing only two runs. His ability to limit damage in crucial situations was a testament to his maturity on the mound.

Corbin Burnes (Brewers): Despite suffering the loss, Burnes recorded six strikeouts and limited the Cubs to seven hits. There were flashes of brilliance from the former Cy Young winner, but the occasional hiccup in control ultimately cost him.

Key Hitters

Patrick Wisdom (Cubs): With a home run and three total RBIs, Wisdom was undoubtedly the star of the night, coming through when it mattered most and causing problems for Milwaukee’s pitching staff.

Rowdy Tellez (Brewers): Tellez maintained his strong finishing touch at the plate with a homer and provided some hope for the Brewers in a generally quiet offensive night.

Bullpen Usage

Cubs’ manager David Ross made excellent decisions regarding bullpen usage. With Thompsons’ and Alzolay’s strong performances, the bullpen held firm under pressure, amalgamating with Steele’s strong start to keep the game under control.

Standings Context

As the dust settles, this win positions the Cubs in a stronger spot within the NL Central. With the Cardinals continuing to slip, the Cubs now find themselves just a few games back of a Wild Card spot. The Brewers, too, are fighting for playoff positioning, making this matchup particularly significant as the season winds down.

The Cubs now sit within striking distance of postseason play, while the Brewers must regroup and find consistency if they want to remain in the playoff conversation.

What Comes Next

Looking ahead, the Cubs will take on the Atlanta Braves in a four-game series starting this Friday, with Marcus Stroman set to take the mound for Chicago. The Braves are not only in contention for a playoff push but are also the current leaders in the NL East, so this series should be electric.

Probable starter for the Braves is the hard-throwing Spencer Strider, who has been stellar this season, meaning the Cubs will need their bats to stay hot if they hope to keep the momentum rolling.

As we wrap up this recap, what are your thoughts on Patrick Wisdom’s performance? Can he keep up this level of play for the remainder of the season? Let’s hear from you in the comments!