Cubs’ Bullpen Day Yields Win in Nail-Biting Game Against Brewers
Milwaukee—Chicago Cubs fans may cringe at the words “Bullpen day,” but it delivered results on Sunday in a gripping 4-3 win over the Milwaukee Brewers in ten innings. Manager Craig Counsell had previously used this strategy in last October’s NL Division Series Game 5, opting for it again due to Ben Brown’s neck injury and a rainout in New York that led to a doubleheader against the Mets.
The bullpen, featuring seven relievers including recent addition Bryse Wilson, performed admirably. Despite being hindered by Brandon Woodruff and the Brewers’ bullpen, the Cubs managed to score through a wild pitch and a bases-loaded walk, ending their road trip with a 6-1 record.
“The guys are having fun and we’re playing good baseball,” Counsell reflected post-game. “We did very little offensively, but we got enough done because of great pitching performances.”
Seiya Suzuki contributed significantly by hitting a two-RBI single in the 10th inning, turning Counsell’s bullpen strategy into a winning one. The Cubs have improved to a 12-4 record in their last 16 games following a previous 7-22 stretch, showcasing their streaky nature.
Center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong acknowledged the team’s inconsistent journey: “A 6-1 trip against National League opponents is something to be proud of. We know who we are in this clubhouse, and that’s all that matters.”
In a tense 10th inning, Brewers’ reliever Joel Kuhnel struggled after issuing an intentional walk. Following a series of events, including stealing of bases and a walk that forced the go-ahead run, Suzuki’s single extended the lead to 4-1.
Cubs’ Ethan Roberts, despite earlier challenges, managed to contain damage with relief from Jordan Wicks, who induced critical outs to end the game with a double play.
Ryan Rolison opened the game with a solo home run conceded to Gary Sanchez, followed by Wilson’s extended innings shutting down the Brewers. Wilson, familiar with Counsell from Milwaukee, expressed confidence in managing extended innings.
Caleb Thielbar, Tyler Ferguson, and Jacob Webb played key roles in steering the team into extra innings, setting the platform for their 10th inning exploits.
The Cubs have utilized 13 different relievers across their six-game road trip, including Vince Velasquez, designated for assignment to make room for Wicks. Counsell mentioned the bullpen’s resilience as crucial post-doubleheader and rain delays.
The victory was marred by a minor wrist injury sustained by Matt Shaw, deemed precautionary. Counsell refrained from criticizing Bregman for his lackluster effort on a grounder that was ultimately out after Pratt’s fielding.
The strong bullpen performance reflects the Cubs’ hopes of overcoming pitching challenges to remain competitive. Crow-Armstrong highlighted their collective strength: “We trust our team and our defense.”
The Cubs aim to continuously win, distancing themselves from their earlier streakiness, and regain the confidence of their fans.