Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (9/3/20): Pirates 6, Cubs 2- Happ Leaves Early in Sloppy Loss

The Cubs had a chance to sweep in Pittsburgh Thursday, but instead they got a sloppy loss and an injury scare from their MVP candidate.

They jumped out to a quick lead on rookie JT Brubaker when Victor Caratini singled home a run in the 2nd. Another scored on an error in the 3rd, then Chicago’s offense dried up despite numerous chances with men on.

The Pirates tagged Alec Mills for a four-run inning in the bottom of the 3rd, with the big blow coming in the form of a three-run homer from new dad Bryan Reynolds. Mills calmed down after that, but the damage was done.

There was a scary moment in the 4th when Ian Happ fouled a ball in the dirt that came up and hit near his right eye. Though he had to leave the game, x-rays were negative and the Cubs are calling it a bruise.

Cole Tucker singled home a pair of Pirates insurance runs in the 6th as Pittsburgh won the game 6-2. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

They were very sloppy, making errors and running into outs on the bases. Perhaps a 10-game road trip has worn them down.

Key Moment

The Cubs had runners on the corners with nobody out in the 3rd up 2-0. Anthony Rizzo grounded out while Javy Báez and Kyle Schwarber struck out to strand the runners.

Stats That Matter

• The regression monster is all over Alec Mills: 5 IP, 4 R, 7 H, 2 K, and 1 BB. His ERA now sits at 5.50.
• Brubaker got his first win in the majors.
• Caratini had two hits and one inexplicable caught stealing.

Bottom Line

Bad games happen, and this is one that needs to be forgotten about quickly. The Cubs can go a long way to clinching the division if they win the Cardinals series at Wrigley this weekend.

On Deck

The key five-game series starts Friday at 7:15pm CT with a battle of aces between Yu Darvish and Jack Flaherty that is available on Marquee and 670 The Score.