Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (8/31/21): Cubs 3, Twins 1 – Duffy Webgem Helps Lead Cubs to Win
The Cubs traveled to Minneapolis for a quick two-game set with the Twins starting Tuesday. Chicago relied on their bullpen, in a throwback to the first half of the season, to take a narrow victory.
The Cubs took the lead in the 1st inning when Frank Schwindel hit a solo homer against starter John Gant. Zach Davies allowed his only run on a Jorge Polanco sacrifice fly in the bottom of the frame.
An unlikely Robinson Chirinos RBI-triple in the second inning put Chicago ahead for good. Ian Happ crushed a long home run off of lefty Caleb Thielbar in the 8th inning to make it a 3-1 game.
The Cubs bullpen made that advantage stand up by going almost five innings allowing no runs. The defense turned four double plays to help secure the win. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Won
The bullpen did an excellent job keeping the Twins’ talented offense in check. Manny Rodriguez, Codi Heuer, and Adam Morgan kept the game in control before Rowan Wick was able to close it out.
Key Moment
Minnesota had the bases loaded with one out and Morgan on the mound in the bottom of the 8th inning. Max Kepler hit a high pop-up behind first base that Matt Duffy made a running backhand catch on. Duffy then wheeled and fired towards the plate where he nailed Luis Arraez trying to score for an inning-ending double play.
.@mm_duffy turns a beautiful double play! pic.twitter.com/JbpD6emeSf
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) September 1, 2021
Stats That Matter
- Davies got the quick hook again after the second time through the order: 4.1 IP, 1 R, 6 H, 3 K, and 0 BB.
- Happ hit just his third home run from the right side of the plate this season.
- Duffy also had a hit and a walk at the dish, in addition to his terrific defensive play.
Bottom Line
Duffy continues to show that he could be a valuable bench piece in 2022. Other than that, it was good to see young pitchers like Wick and Rodriquez pitch well.
On Deck
The series wraps up Wednesday night at 7:10pm CT at Target Field. Justin Steele takes on rookie Joe Ryan, who makes his MLB debut in a game available on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.
If you’re looking to cut the cord, be sure to check out fuboTV’s free trial subscription right here. They offer Marquee Sports Network for those of you living in the local Chicago viewing area.