In an exciting matchup of NL Central contenders, the Chicago Cubs emerged victorious against the Milwaukee Brewers with a score of 5-3 on Tuesday night. Key players Seiya Suzuki and Pete Crow-Armstrong both showcased their power, contributing significantly to the Cubs' performance. With this win, the Cubs improved their record to 4-1 during their ongoing 10-game homestand.
Kyle Tucker led the offensive charge for the Cubs, achieving three hits throughout the game. Additionally, rookie Matt Shaw made his mark with a pivotal run-scoring double. On the mound, Ben Brown (4-5) delivered a solid performance, pitching five innings and allowing only two runs. This win extended the Cubs' division lead to 6.5 games over the second-place Brewers, who have dominated the NL Central for the past two seasons.
The Brewers managed to put up a fight, highlighted by Isaac Collins’ impressive two-run homer. Collins also displayed his defensive skills with a spectacular diving catch on Michael Busch's liner in the second inning. Despite initially taking a 2-1 lead, the Brewers were unable to maintain their momentum as the Cubs rallied in the fifth inning.
In a crucial fifth inning, the Cubs capitalized on their opportunities. Ian Happ reached base on a one-out walk, setting the stage for Tucker’s double. Then, Seiya Suzuki stepped up, hitting his 18th homer of the season, sending a sinker deep into the left-center bleachers. This pivotal moment shifted the game's momentum back to the Cubs.
Ben Brown's performance was noteworthy, as he struck out five batters, walked two, and allowed just six hits. This victory marked his first win since May 2 and improved his record to 2-0 against the Brewers, with a stellar 1.00 ERA in three career starts against them, totaling 19 strikeouts over 18 innings.
The Brewers made a push to tie the game in the seventh inning, placing a runner on third base with two outs. However, Rhys Hoskins struck out swinging, preventing the Brewers from capitalizing on the opportunity. The Brewers later closed the gap to 4-3 with Joey Ortiz's single in the sixth, but the Cubs maintained their composure.
Chicago's bullpen played a crucial role in securing the victory, with Brad Keller and Caleb Thielbar each contributing an inning before Daniel Palencia closed the game, earning his seventh save. Crow-Armstrong further impressed fans with a diving catch in the eighth inning and then launched a remarkable 452-foot homer off the scoreboard in right field, marking his 19th homer of the season.
As the Cubs continue their homestand, they look forward to their next game against the Brewers. Jacob Misiorowski (1-0, 0.00 ERA) is set to make his second major league start for Milwaukee on Wednesday night, while Jameson Taillon (7-3, 3.48 ERA) aims for his sixth consecutive win for Chicago.
With this victory, the Cubs reinforce their position in the NL Central, demonstrating their determination to reclaim dominance in the division.
