Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/25/23): Angels 8, Cubs 7 – Late Loss in Final Road Game of Spring

The Cubs made their final road trip of spring training on Saturday, traveling to Tempe Diablo Stadium to play the Los Angeles Angels. Chicago jumped out to a big lead before LA stormed back to walk it off in the 9th inning.

The Cubs scored five in the top of the 3rd inning, highlighted by a long two-run shot from Yan Gomes. Christopher Morel and Zach McKinstry hit a pair of RBI doubles to bring home two more runs.

An error and a wild pitch resulted in two a pair of Cubs tallies, while the Angels also scored twice to remain within striking distance. Patrick Wisdom blasted a solo dinger in the 6th inning to put the road team ahead 7-2.

The Angels scored three runs between the 6th and 8th to enter the final frame down 7-5. Cayne Ueckert failed to record an out in the for Chicago and the Angels surged back to win the game. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

This was a classic spring training game in which relievers from minor-league camp were unable to hold a lead late.

Stats That Matter

• Roenis Elías, who will probably begin the year in the Iowa rotation, was wild but mostly effective in his start on Saturday: 3.2 IP, 2 R, 6 H, 5 K, and 2 BB.
• Gomes had another hit in addition to his home run and has been very hot last two weeks.
• Morel had three base knocks, including two doubles on Saturday.

Bottom Line

These last few spring training games really feel like a chore as everyone is anxious to get to the games that actually count in five days. Morel’s fate is still up in the air at the moment. His versatility is very valuable but it might be better to give him consistent at bats in Triple-A. We will find out the answer in the next couple days.

On Deck

The. Kansas City Royals come to Sloan Park Sunday to take on the Cubs at 3:05pm CT. Justin Steele makes his final spring appearance and Marquee has the broadcast.