Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/9/23): Cubs 8, Reds 6 – Homers Power 9th Straight Win
The Cubs took on the Cincinnati Reds on a sun-splashed Thursday at Sloan Park looking for their ninth consecutive win. After falling behind early, a sudden power surge catapulted the Cubs to yet another victory.
The Reds rudely greeted Cubs starter Jameson Taillon by scoring three runs in the 1st inning. Luke Maile hit a two-run homer that frame and former Cubs prospect Jason Vosler added a solo shot in the 2nd.
Chicago was trailing 5-0 in the bottom of the 6th when the offense erupted on reliever Levi Stoudt. Trey Mancini boomed a two-run home run and three batters later, Patrick Wisdom hit a majestic three-run dong to tie it. Christopher Morel, always anxious to get in on the fun, smoked a laser beam that got over the fence in a blink to give his team the lead.
Luis Torrens doubled in a run and Sergio Alcántara chased him home with a single to expand the Cubs’ advantage in the 7th. They held on at the end, giving them yet another comeback win and extending their streak. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Won
Three big swings in the 6th completely turned the contest around.
Stats That Matter
- Taillon gave up some pretty hard contact Thursday: 3.2 IP, 4 R, 4 H, 3 K, and 0 BB.
- Mancini had a hit in addition to his homer as he keeps rolling.
- With a lot of interesting infield options, Wisdom will need more swings like Thursday if he wants steady playing time.
Bottom Line
The Cubs suffered from an acute lack of power in 2022 and Thursday showed how much a little pop can help. Now it just needs to travel with them when they leave Arizona.
On Deck
The White Sox come to Sloan Park Friday at 2:05pm CT as Lucas Giolito and Drew Smyly face off on Marquee Sports Network.