Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (9/14/19): Cubs 14, Pirates 1 – Cubs Enter Marvel Universe, Scorch Pirates Again

The Cubs kept the offensive train rolling for a second consecutive game on Saturday. Pirates rookie starter James Marvel failed to live up to his Avengers-like name and the Cubs rolled to an exciting 14-1 victory.

The fun started in the 2nd inning when Nicholas Castellanos doubled home three runs following singles from Ben Zobrist and Nico Hoerner and a hit-by-pitch from Anthony Rizzo — Cubs up 3-0. Castellanos then scooted home to extend the lead to 4-0 thanks to a bloop Kris Bryant single.

Zobrist added his first home run of the season to make it 5-0 in the 3rd. It wasn’t long until Bryant powered a two-run shot to end Marvel’s day in the 4th — Cubs up 7-0. Seven runs was more than enough for Kyle Hendricks, who allowed just a single run in six innings.

Rizzo came through again with the bases loaded in the 5th when he hit a two-run single to right. Hoerner kept up his torrid opening week by hitting a three-run laser-beam dong to left in the 6th. Victor Caratini pinched-hit in the 7th and capped the Cubs 14 runs with on a solo homer.

Several players on both teams were hit by pitches in the late innings. Dillon Maples was ejected in the 9th after hitting two players in a row, but they appeared accidental since both were breaking balls. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Won

The offense overwhelmed a weak Pirates pitching staff again, as they should.

Key Moment

Nick Castellanos started the Cubs scoring once again with a three-run double in the second. His energy set the tone for the day and the Cubs continued to pour on runs all afternoon.

Stats That Matter

• Hendricks didn’t strike out many hitters, but he was very efficient: 6 IP, 1 R, 7 H, 2 K, and 0 BB.
• Zobrist was a perfect 2-2 with a walk in just five innings.
• Hoerner just keeps delivering with men on base. He is hitting .417 with a 209 wRC+ in the bigs.
• Bryant has hit three homers since getting the cortisone shot in his knee.

Bottom Line

The Cubs are doing just what they need to do so far this weekend: Beat an atrocious, annoying, and dirty Pittsburgh Pirates team led by king of the scumbags, Clint Hurdle. Sweep them tomorrow and continue to take care of business.

On Deck

The Cubs go for the sweep Sunday at 1:20pm CT with José Quintana battling Trevor Williams. WGN has the television broadcast and 670 The Score has the radio feed.