Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (7/4/21): Reds 3, Cubs 2 – Cubs Misfire, Lose Ninth Straight

It was more of the same for the Cubs this Fourth of July Sunday in Cincinnati. An early lead not added to was followed by a Reds comeback and a one-run loss to complete a second consecutive sweep.

Javy Báez put his team ahead with a RBI single against Reds starter Wade Miley in the opening frame. Kyle Hendricks helped his own cause with a hit to plate Jake Marisnick in the 2nd.

Hendricks was good on the mound as well, giving up just a run-scoring double to Tucker Barnhart in six innings. Dan Winkler relieved him in the 7th and did not have it. Winkler loaded the bases and hit Jonathan India to force in the tying run.

A Jesse Winker force play chased in the go-ahead run later that inning. The Cubs had runners on late and again were unable to get the big hit, losing 3-2. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

At some point they have to realize that two runs are not enough to win most games. An inability to add to leads was a huge issue this series.

Key Moment

Willson Contreras grounded into a double play with two on and one out in the top of the 9th to end the game.

Stats That Matter

• Hendricks did all he could but it wasn’t enough: 6 IP, 1 R, 5 H, 5 K, and 0 BB.
• Marisnick had a triple and a single on Sunday.
• Nico Hoerner was in the lineup off the injured list and went 0-for-4 in his return.

Bottom Line

That was a devastating road trip for the Cubs, who have lost their last nine games since no-hitting the Dodgers to open the series in LA. It’s hard to be very optimistic about Chicago’s chances after this implosion.

On Deck

The Cubs limp back into Wrigley Field for a four-game series with the Philadelphia Phillies starting Monday at 7:10pm CT. Zach Davies takes on Matt Moore in a game available on Marquee Network and 670 The Score.