Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/2/26): Reds 17, Cubs 9 – Jamo Pummeled in Loss
The Cubs made a trip to Goodyear for a contest against the Reds on a bright and sunny Monday afternoon that proved difficult for the outfielders. Things started well as the road team took an early lead, but the fun would be short-lived as the home side went off for 17 runs in a blowout victory.
Cincinnati had some adventures in the outfield in the top of the 1st inning, which led to a crooked number on the scoreboard for the Cubs. Moisés Ballesteros hit a two-run “double” that should have been caught, and Chas McCormick singled home another to help give Chicago a 4-0 advantage.
It was another rough start for Jameson Taillon, who got rocked for six runs before recording as many outs. The Reds hit two home runs, including a three-run shot by Matt McLain, to go on top 6-4 in the bottom of the 2nd.
The North Siders scored twice in the top of the 3rd to even the score, with Pedro Ramirez picking up an RBI single. Cincinnati busted the game wide open with six runs in the bottom of the frame. Ryan Rolison was the victim, giving up a bases-clearing double to Ke’Bryan Hayes and a second three-run blast to McLain.
The Cubs never really got close again and eventually they were beaten by a 17-9 score. (Box score)
Key Moment
The Reds’ 3rd inning outburst removed most of the drama from the outcome of the game.
Why the Cubs Lost
It’s pretty hard to win any game where you give up 17 runs.
Stats That Matter
- Taillon has given up two home runs in all three spring appearances.
- Ballesteros had two hits and a walk while doing the catching.
- Dylan Carlson also had a single and a “double.”
Bottom Line
The Cubs have a lot of starting pitching options in 2026, so even veterans like Taillon aren’t going to be guaranteed a spot in the rotation if they struggle. This is only spring training, but he is going to have to do much better than this once the games begin to count.
On Deck
Chicago faces off against Team Italy on Tuesday at 2:05pm CT as they prepare for the World Baseball Classic that starts at the end of the week. Cade Horton takes the mound in a game that won’t be broadcast.
