Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (9/29/22): Cubs 2, Phillies 0 – Shutout Caps Sweep of Philly

The Cubs won the first two games of this series and entered Thursday afternoon attempting to complete a three-game sweep of the Phillies at Wrigley Field . For the third consecutive game, Chicago’s pitchers completely shut down the Phils’ powerful lineup to complete the whitewash.

Patrick Wisdom gave the Cubs an early lead with a run-scoring double against left-hander Ranger Suárez in the bottom of the 1st inning, and that was all they would need. Javier Assad was on his game early and kept Philadelphia off the scoreboard through five.

Phillies centerfielder Brandon Marsh badly misplayed a Seiya Suzuki fly ball into a triple with two outs in the bottom of the 5th and Ian Happ brought him home with a single. Assad ran out of gas was two runners on and nobody out in the top of the 6th inning, but Michael Rucker took over and was able to preserve the 2-0 advantage.

Keegan Thompson pitched the final three innings to pick up the save in the shutout victory. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Won

They stuck to the formula that has contributed to their recent success: Outstanding pitching combined with just enough offense to win.

Eye on the Future

• Assad was much better than his last outing: 5 IP, 0 R, 5 H, 3 K, and 2 BB.
• Suzuki had a big return from the paternity/restricted list with two hits and a walk.

Taking Note

• Happ made two unbelievable catches in left field as he makes a case for a Gold Glove.
• This is the first time the Cubs have swept the season series from the Phillies ever in 139 years of playing them.

Bottom Line

Chicago certainly made the most out of playing spoiler during these games. It might not necessarily translate to 2023, but it is nice for the Cubs to end 2022 on a high note. It really feels like momentum is starting to build heading into the offseason, now they need to make some moves toward competitiveness.

On Deck

Chicago begins the final home series of the year against Cincinnati Friday at 1:20pm CT. Adrian Sampson is on the mound opposite Graham Ashcraft in a broadcast available on MLB Network (out-of-market only) and Marquee Sports Network.