URGENT UPDATE: The Chicago Cubs delivered a stunning performance, blanking the Milwaukee Brewers 6-0 on Thursday night, securing a decisive Game 5 in the NL Division Series. With this victory, the Cubs have turned the series around after facing elimination just days ago.
In front of a roaring crowd of 41,770 at Wrigley Field, Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd showcased an impressive performance, allowing only two hits through 4 2/3 innings. The victory sets the stage for a thrilling Game 5 on Saturday night, where the winner will advance to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series.
The Cubs, who were on the brink of elimination after dropping the first two games of the series in Milwaukee, rallied back with a 4-3 victory on Wednesday before dominating Game 4. Boyd’s sharp outing, combined with contributions from four relievers, kept the Brewers at bay and allowed the Cubs to capitalize on their offensive momentum.
Key moments from the game included a powerful third-inning homer by Ian Happ, who hit a three-run blast off Brewers starter Freddy Peralta. Happ’s homer marked his third career postseason home run and was crucial in giving the Cubs an early lead. The Cubs have now scored 11 of their 16 runs in the series during the first inning, showcasing their ability to strike early.
“It was a big moment for Happ, who had struggled earlier in the postseason,” said Cubs manager David Ross. “His home run gave us the spark we needed.”
Despite the Brewers finishing the season with a remarkable 97-65 record—the best in the majors—they struggled offensively, managing only three hits and going 1 for 13 with runners in scoring position. They left a staggering 13 runners on base during their two games at Wrigley.
Boyd’s performance was a significant turnaround, having previously pitched poorly in Game 1. On Thursday, he struck out six batters and walked three, receiving a standing ovation as he exited the game with runners on second and third in the fifth inning. Reliever Daniel Palencia came in to retire the next batter, ending the threat and maintaining the Cubs’ lead.
After missing a bases-loaded opportunity in the fifth, rookie Matt Shaw became a key contributor, hitting an RBI single in the sixth. The Cubs continued their offensive onslaught with a leadoff homer by Kyle Tucker in the seventh and another from Michael Busch in the eighth, marking his fourth homer of the postseason.
As the series heads back to Milwaukee, the stakes are incredibly high. Fans are eagerly awaiting the thrilling conclusion of this best-of-five series. The Cubs have shown resilience and determination, and with their momentum, they are poised for an exciting showdown on Saturday night.
Stay tuned for the latest updates as we approach Game 5—this is a must-watch for baseball fans everywhere!
