Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/24/24): Cubs 9, Mariners 9 – Cubs End Cactus League Schedule with High-Scoring Tie

Photo of Sean Holland Sean HollandMarch 25, 2024

The Cubs got another step closer to wrapping up their spring schedule against the Mariners in Peoria Sunday afternoon. It was a typical high-scoring spring training affair that would eventually end in a tie after both teams combined to score 10 runs in the final two innings.

Garrett Cooper celebrated officially making the roster by crushing a long solo home run in the top of the 3rd inning that evened the score at one. Kyle Hendricks got the start and pitched around some hits but Mitch Haniger took him deep to put Seattle ahead 2-1 in the 4th.

A Michael Busch dinger and an RBI single from David Peralta put Chicago up 3-2 in the top of the 5th. The Mariners answered immediately in the bottom of the frame when Luke Raley clubbed a three-run double to grab a 5-3 advantage.

The Cubs then erupted for six runs in the 8th, beginning with an RBI double by Miguel Amaya. The big blow came on a three-run bomb off the bat of Owen Caissie. The 9-5 lead did not last long as Seattle rallied for four runs to tie up the game in the bottom of the frame.

Chicago had an excellent chance to go ahead in the 9th but failed to cash in on a bases-loaded opportunity and the game ended in a 9-9 draw. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Tied

They had a bases-loaded, nobody-out opportunity in the final inning and could not score the go-ahead run.

Stats That Matter

  • Nick Madrigal was back in the lineup Sunday after missing most of the spring with a hamstring injury. It’s not clear if he will be ready to start the season or will need time to ramp up in Arizona.
  • Busch had a single in addition to his home run and should get a lot of playing time.
  • Cooper had two extra-base hits and has earned his way onto the roster this spring.

Bottom Line

Busch and Cooper could form a very nice platoon at first base if they can continue their exhibition success during the regular season. Hendricks is stretched out and ready to begin the season in the rotation after having to miss the start of 2023.

On Deck

The Cubs welcome the rival Cardinals to Sloan Park for the first of two exhibition contests beginning Monday at 3:05pm CT. Jordan Wicks has his final tuneup in a game available on Marquee.

Photo of Sean Holland Sean HollandMarch 25, 2024
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