Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (5/28/22): Cubs 5, White Sox 1 – Thompson Dominates, Moves to 5-0
White Sox starter Johnny Cueto hadn’t surrendered a run this season having pitched in two games so far coming into tonight, but the Cubs ended that in the first inning. Christopher Morel singled to lead off the game for the Cubs. He was driven in on a bloop double by Patrick Wisdom, who then scored on a line drive by Frank Schwindel. Just like that, the Cubs had a 2-0 lead.
Keegan Thompson has been the best pitcher for the Cubs all year, whether he’s starting or coming out of the bullpen. Today was no different. He dominated most of the five innings he pitched, giving up only a solo home run — just his third of the year — to Jake Burger in the 5th.
The Cubs added a run in the top of the 2nd inning after back-to-back singles to open the frame by Nico Hoerner and Rafael Ortega. A groundout by Andrelton Simmons would score Ortega. The Cubs would put up two more runs against Cueto in the 7th, just for good measure.
The Cubs bullpen locked the White Sox offense down after taking over in the 6th inning. Scott Effross, Rowan Wick, Mychal Givens, and David Robertson combined gave up only two hits. This was a much-needed win by the Cubs. (Box Score)
Why the Cubs Won
Solid pitching from top to bottom tonight went a long way for the Cubs. Add that to some timely hitting to squeeze out runs early against Cueto, and you’ve got the recipe for a W.
Key Moment
Morel stole second base just as Ian Happ struck out swinging for the second out in the top of the 1st inning. Wisdom hit a bloop double that fell in to give the Cubs the early lead. Schwindel then drove in the only other run the Cubs would need with a line-drive single to left.
Stats That Matter
- Thompson was very good (again): 5.0 IP, 1 R, 5 H, 1 BB, 1 K, 1 HR
- Hoerner went 3-for-4, scored a run, and stole third. He’s good.
- Morel was solid: 1-for-3, 1 R, 2 BB, SB
- Schwindel was been really good lately: 2-for-4, 2 RBI, 2B
Bottom Line
The Cubs looked really good tonight in all aspects of the game. Games like these give you belief in what this team can eventually become.
On Deck
The Cubs finish out the two-game series with a sweep against the White Sox on Sunday at 1:10pm CT. Marcus Stroman (2-4, 4.71 ERA) will go up against Dylan Cease (4-2, 4.24 ERA) and the Cubs’ broadcast will be on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.