Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (5/7/21): Cubs 3, Pirates 2 – Cubs Survive Late Pirate Rally, Extend Winning Streak to Four Games
The Cubs looked to extend their winning streak to four at a chilly and blustery Wrigley Field Friday. Zach Davies threw a gem and the offense did just enough to get the win.
Chicago took the lead in the 1st inning on a missed-catch error by right fielder Philip Evans which scored Joc Pederson. Pederson had a run-scoring single in the 2nd and Matt Duffy added a sacrifice fly the next inning to make it 3-0.
Davies got a ton of ground ball outs, a career-high 14 to be exact, and blew through the Pirates lineup. Pittsburgh loaded the bases in the 7th, but the diminutive Cubs starter got a double play off the bat of Ka’ai Tom to escape the jam.
The Cubs failed to add to their lead in the middle innings and that almost proved disastrous when the Pirates rallied for two in the 9th. Rex Brothers mercifully slammed the door on the bases-loaded threat to save the 3-2 Cubs win. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Won
A quality starting pitching effort was just enough to overcome a near bullpen meltdown.
Key Moment
With Craig Kimbrel inexplicably resting, things got pretty harried in the 9th. Bryan Reynolds flew out to right with the bases loaded to end the game, sealing the Cubs win.
Stats That Matter
- Davies had his best start as a Cub: 7 IP, 0 R, 5 H, 1 K, and 1 BB.
- Pederson had three hits and didn’t prematurely pimp any of them.
- David Bote had a pair of knocks as well.
Bottom Line
The Cubs are back to the .500 mark. If Zach Davies can pitch like this going forward the Cubs might be able to stabilize their season.
On Deck
Trevor Williams faces Wil Crowe in game two of the three-game series at Wrigley Field.
How To Watch
Game Time: Saturday, May 8, 1:20pm CT
TV/Radio: Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.
Live Stream (in-network): Watch live on fuboTV – sign up now for a free trial.