Streaking Cubs Clinch Postseason Berth for the First Time Since 2020
The Chicago Cubs secured their place in the postseason for the first time since 2020 with an 8-4 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday. Ian Happ led the charge with a home run and three RBIs, propelling the Cubs to an 88-64 record and the top spot in the National League wild-card standings.
Cubs' Offensive Outburst Secures the Win
The Cubs' offense came alive early and stayed strong throughout the game. Nico Hoerner contributed with two hits and three runs scored, while Justin Turner delivered a pair of RBI singles after entering the game in the sixth inning. A three-run sixth inning, aided by errors from Pirates' Yohan RamÃrez and Joey Bart, put the Cubs firmly in control.
Michael Busch drove in Dansby Swanson with a sacrifice fly to break the tie, followed by run-scoring singles from Happ and Turner, extending the Cubs' lead.
Early Home Runs Set the Tone
Chicago jumped out to an early 4-0 lead in the first inning before Pittsburgh even recorded an out. Busch walked and scored on a balk. Happ then blasted his 23rd home run of the season, a two-run shot off Johan Oviedo. Immediately after, Moises Ballesteros followed with his second career home run, hitting one over the wall in right field.
Pirates Respond Briefly, But Cubs Ultimately Prevail
Joey Bart responded with a three-run homer in the bottom of the first for Pittsburgh, and Andrew McCutchen's bases-loaded walk in the second inning tied the game at 4. However, the Cubs' pitching and offense proved too much for the Pirates to overcome.
Aaron Civale (4-9) earned the win after pitching three scoreless innings. Matthew Boyd struggled for Chicago, allowing seven hits and two walks in a season-low three innings.
Season Series Domination
The Cubs dominated the season series against the Pirates, finishing with a 10-3 record against their division rivals. This victory secures their long-awaited return to the postseason, giving Cubs fans something to celebrate.