Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (4/7/21): Brewers 4, Cubs 2 F/10 – Offense Struggles Again in Loss
The Cubs were hoping to win their second consecutive series Wednesday at Wrigley Field, but the Brewers had other ideas. Brandon Woodruff completely handcuffed Chicago hitters through seven innings of one-hit ball, leading the Brewers to an extra-inning victory.
Kyle Hendricks was on his game as well, bouncing back from a rough Opening Day effort. Both starters spun shutouts through six innings and the Cubs were hitless into the 7th. Lorenzo Cain broke the impasse with a solo blast off of Alec Mills in the 8th.
Luckily for the Wrigley faithful, Joc Pederson was due for his first knock of the year. The powerful outfielder took the suddenly human Devin Williams deep for a game-tying homer in the bottom of the 8th.
Craig Kimbrel and Josh Hader got the game to the 10th when Cain struck again, smashing a three-run jack against Brandon Workman to give the Brewers a 4-1 lead. The Cubs loaded the bases in the last of the inning but Ian Happ flew out to end any hope of a rally. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Lost
The offense continues to struggle mightily in the early season. Two runs on three hits felt like an explosion after the 16 innings that preceded it.
Key Moment
Ian Happ flew out to left with the bases loaded in the 10th to strand the winning run on first.
Stats That Matter
- Hendricks deserved a better fate: 6 IP, 0 R, 4 H, 6 K, and 1 BB.
- Pederson had started off 0-for-14 before his dinger.
Bottom Line
It’s still early but the Cubs’ offensive issues are becoming old hat this point. If they want to compete this season the offense is going to need to start clicking, and soon.
On Deck
The Cubs head to Pittsburgh for the Pirates’ home opener Thursday at 12:35pm CT. Jake Arrieta faces Tyler Anderson in a rematch of last Saturday. The game airs on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.
