Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (4/4/21): Cubs 4, Pirates 3 – Cubs Survive Late, Take Series From Pirates
After beating the Pirates Saturday to wash away some of the stain from Thursday’s opener, the Cubs looked to take their first series win Easter Sunday. Zach Davies was sharp and the offense did just enough to hold off a late Pittsburgh push to get the W.
Kris Bryant kicked off the scoring with an RBI single off Mitch Keller in the 1st inning. Joc Pederson added a run-scoring grounder later in the frame and Ian Happ launched a solo homer in the 3rd to make it 3-0.
Davies breezed through his first five innings, leaning on his outstanding changeup. The Cubs failed to add to their lead, though, and Colin Moran jumped on Davies’ only big mistake for a two-run bomb in the 6th cutting the deficit to one. Bryant padded the slim lead when he doubled and scored on an error in the bottom of the frame to put his team up 4-2.
That run turned out to be big, as a Phillip Evans hit closed the gap to one again in the 8th. Craig Kimbrel was lights out for a second consecutive day to earn the save. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Won
The bullpen, while somewhat shaky, made the pitches they needed to preserve the lead.
Key Moment
Rex Brothers coaxed a double play from Gregory Polanco with men on first and third and one out in the 8th to preserve a 4-3 lead.
Stats That Matter
- Davies was good but looked tired late: 5.2 IP, 2 R, 4 H, 5 K, and 3 BB.
- Bryant had a BB in addition to his two hits.
- Happ drew two walks along with his dinger.
Bottom Line
To be a contender you have to win series and the Cubs did that this weekend. It was also good to see KB raking at the plate.
On Deck
The Cubs welcome the Brewers for three starting Monday at 6:40pm CT. Trevor Williams and Brett Anderson start the game which is available on Marquee and 670 The Score.