Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (6/4/23): Cubs 7, Padres 1 – Amaya Amazing in Win
The Cubs came into the third of four games in this series looking to shake off a bad performance Saturday night against Ryan Weathers and the Padres Sunday afternoon. Chicago’s offense finally came to life and they took home a lopsided victory behind a lineup that made way more sense than many others of late.
Nico Hoerner opened the game with a double and came in to score on a throwing error from third baseman Manny Machado. The Cubs exploded in the 2nd inning to knock Weathers out of the game, highlighted by Yan Gomes and Trey Mancini hitting back-to-back home runs to begin the onslaught.
Dansby Swanson followed with a two-run double and Chicago was ahead 5-0 at the end of the frame. Miguel Amaya was huge in his return to the majors Sunday, hitting his first career home run in the 3rd inning to put the Cubs up 7-0.
.@mamaya_9's first major league home run is a no-doubter! 💥 pic.twitter.com/4sSnE7IUiP
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) June 4, 2023
That was more than enough cushion for Marcus Stroman, who only allowed a single unearned run in six innings. Chicago controlled the contest throughout and took home their second win of the series. (Box score)
Key Moment
With all the trouble the Cubs hitters have had lately, putting up a big crooked number early was huge.
Why the Cubs Won
They finally gave Stroman some run support and he took care of the rest for a relatively stress-free triumph.
Stats That Matter
- Stroman was a bit shakier with his command, but was still very good Sunday: 6 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 4 H, 6 K, and 3 BB.
- Amaya reached base four times and had two singles in addition to his home run.
- Gomes continued his excellent season at the plate with his seventh dinger.
Bottom Line
What a difference a lineup with competitive hitters can make for a team. Amaya needs to keep getting playing time because he can be a difference-maker. It’s starting to look like Stroman is having a magical season as he keeps dominating.
On Deck
The Cubs go for the series win Monday at 8:10pm CT. Kyle Hendricks squares off with veteran lefty Blake Snell with broadcasts on MLB Network (out of market only), Marquee, and 670 The Score.