UPDATE: The Chicago Cubs have delivered a commanding 6-0 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers, forcing a decisive Game 5 in their NL Division Series. This crucial win, achieved on the night of October 5, 2023, at Wrigley Field, has electrified the crowd of 41,770 fans, setting the stage for an intense finale.
Matthew Boyd pitched brilliantly, allowing only two hits through the fifth inning. His standout performance, supported by four relievers, came after a shaky start in the series opener. The Cubs had been on the brink of elimination, losing the first two games in Milwaukee. However, they rallied with a narrow 4-3 victory on Wednesday, and tonight, they capitalized on Boyd’s sharp outing.
The Cubs wasted no time in establishing control. Ian Happ blasted a three-run homer in the first inning, driving a 1-1 fastball from Freddy Peralta deep into right field. Happ’s momentum is significant as he overcame a rough start to the postseason, where he struggled with just two hits in his previous 21 at-bats, including 11 strikeouts.
Boyd exited the game to a roaring ovation after striking out six and walking three in his 4 2/3 innings of work. The Cubs maintained a 3-0 lead when he left, leaving runners on second and third. Daniel Palencia came in to close the inning, successfully retiring Jackson Chourio, ensuring the Cubs kept the momentum.
Despite a missed opportunity with bases loaded in the fifth, the Cubs extended their lead in the sixth. Rookie Matt Shaw hit an RBI single, marking a turnaround after going 0 for 12 in his first six postseason games. The Cubs continued to add to their score with Kyle Tucker and Michael Busch contributing late-game home runs, with Busch now hitting four homers this postseason.
The Brewers, despite their impressive regular-season record of 97-65, struggled offensively, finishing with only three hits and going 1 for 13 with runners in scoring position. They left a staggering 13 players on base during the two games at Wrigley Field.
The series now shifts back to Milwaukee for a decisive Game 5 on Saturday night. The winner will advance to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series. Fans and analysts alike are gearing up for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to this closely contested series.
Stay tuned for more updates as the anticipation builds ahead of Saturday’s showdown!
