Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (10/1/22): Cubs 2, Reds 1 – Suzuki Solo Shot Leads Cubs to Win
The Chicago Cubs looked to keep their winning streak rolling Saturday afternoon against the Reds at Wrigley Field. The bullpen was exceptional and the Cubs were able to win another one-run game.
The Cubs took the lead in the bottom of the 2nd inning when Nelson Velázquez tripled to right center field to score David Bote. Cincinnati tied the score in the 3rd when Kyle Farmer singled home a run off of Drew Smyly.
Adbert Alzolay came on in relief and dominated in three perfect innings of work. Seiya Suzuki put Chicago ahead with a solo home run off Derek Law in the bottom of the 7th.
Seiya smashes the go-ahead home run! pic.twitter.com/3XwqV7aVpS
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) October 1, 2022
Wade Miley made a rare appearance out of the bullpen and threw a couple of scoreless frames. Manny Rodríguez recorded the first two outs in the 9th inning and then was pulled for Brandon Hughes who got the final out to pick up the save. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Won
The pitching was good, as it has been most of the second half, allowing just a single run on Saturday.
Eye on the Future
- Alzolay was very sharp, striking out four hitters in his three perfect innings.
- Suzuki has been very good since returning from paternity leave.
- It was fun to see Velázquez get a big time hit Saturday.
Taking Note
- Smyly was solid in a short start returning from a minor injury: 3 IP, 1 R, 4 H, 2 K, and 0 BB.
- The bullpen gave up no hits in six innings of work Saturday.
Bottom Line
The Cubs have won 10 of their last 11 games and they’re playing their best baseball this season. It doesn’t mean much since the season was, from a competitive standpoint anyway, over a couple months ago, but it definitely makes you feel better going into a big off-season.
On Deck
Chicago goes for a second consecutive sweep in their Wrigley Field finale Sunday at 1:20pm CT. Marcus Stroman takes the mound against Chase Anderson in a contest airing on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.
