Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (4/19/25): Cubs 6, D-Backs 2 – Back-to-Back Homers Lead to Win
The Cubs and Diamondbacks renewed hostilities on Saturday one day after a crazy afternoon that saw 21 runs scored in two innings. Chicago got more explosive offense early and this time they pitched well to clinch a series victory.
Corbin Carroll greeted Ben Brown rather rudely to begin the game Saturday, popping a solo home run that gave Arizona a 1-0 lead. The North Siders bounced back immediately against Zac Gallen in the bottom of the frame, beginning with an RBI triple from Kyle Tucker. The RBI machine then came home on a single by Michael Busch to give the home team a 2-1 advantage.
The Cubs had an even bigger rally in the bottom of the 2nd inning to give themselves a little cushion. An RBI groundout by Tucker was followed by a two-run homer off the bat of Seiya Suzuki. Busch made it back-to-back dingers with a solo shot the opposite way to bring the score to 6-1.
Brown needed a lot a pitches to get through four innings, but he was able to keep the Snakes off the board. Chicago’s bullpen was much better than Friday, with Caleb Thielbar, Brad Keller, and Daniel Palencia tossing five frames of one-run baseball to close out the 6-2 win. (Box score)
Key Moment
Gallen bobbled Tucker’s comebacker in the 2nd that could have gone for a double play. Instead, Arizona only got one out and a run scored while keeping the door open for those two home runs to put the game out of reach.
Why the Cubs Won
The lineup produced again and it was a much better performance from the bullpen.
Stats That Matter
- Brown needs to be more efficient, but he did keep the opposition off the scoreboard after the opening inning: 4 IP, 1 R, 3 H, 6 K, 4 BB.
- Busch has been great so far in 2025 and fits nicely in the clean up spot.
- It was nice to see the ice-cold Dansby Swanson pick up a pair of hits, including a double.
Bottom Line
The Cubs showed how great they can be if they get decent pitching from their relief corps. The offense looks like the real deal so far this season and just getting average pitching could make this a special summer. They are now 14-9 and have almost gotten through the most difficult stretch of the schedule. I don’t think anyone anticipated them being in this position at this point in the calendar. Each win for the next week will feel like gravy.
On Deck
The Cubs go for a sweep Sunday afternoon at 1:20pm CT. Jameson Taillon starts against Merrill Kelly in a game available on Marquee and 670 The Score.
