Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (8/7/24): Cubs 8, Twins 2 – Walks Lead to Series Win

The Cubs won their second consecutive series with a victory over the Twins Wednesday afternoon. They took advantage of an injury to Minnesota starting pitcher Joe Ryan to build up a big lead in the middle innings and are playing some of their best baseball since April.

The Twinkies went ahead in the opening inning when DH Matt Wallner hit an RBI double against Javier Assad. The North Siders wasted no time responding when Michael Busch crushed a solo home run to right against Ryan in the bottom of the frame. Brooks Lee brought a run home with a groundout to give Minnesota a 2-1 advantage in the 2nd.

Ryan suffered a triceps injury on a pitch in the 3rd inning and had to be replaced by Trevor Richards. The reliever had major control problems, walking five batters and throwing two wild pitches as the Cubs scored three runs to go up 4-2.

Ian Happ doubled Chicago’s margin in the 4th with a two-run homer off of reliever Cole Sands. Dansby Swanson singled and Christian Bethancourt doubled to put a couple more on the board in the 8th and increase the lead to 8-2.

The bullpen was outstanding again with five scoreless frames as the home team rolled to an easy victory. (Box score)

Key Moment

The Ryan injury completely changed the game and the Cubs did a great job of showing patience at the plate to draw the walks that sparked the go-ahead rally.

Why the Cubs Won

The bullpen covered well for a short starting pitching effort and the offense did a nice job adding insurance runs.

Stats That Matter

• Assad continues to have shorter outings since returning from his arm injury: 4 IP, 2 R, 3 H, 1 K, and 2 BB.
• Bethancourt had a pair of doubles and a walk and has done a terrific job since coming to the Cubs.
• Busch singled and walked in addition to his home run and continues an excellent rookie season.

Bottom Line

Chicago had a 5-2 homestand against two decent teams, which is a good sign. They are definitely playing much better than they were during the big slump in May and June. The hole they dug for themselves is probably too deep, but they have a chance to at least get back in the race if they can keep winning. Getting above .500 would make things interesting, it’s still a lot to ask.

On Deck

After getting Thursday off, the Cubs head to the South Side for a two-game set with the White Sox starting Friday at 7:10pm CT. Jameson Taillon takes the mound against hard-throwing Garrett Crochet in a contest available on Marquee and 670 The Score.