Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (7/22/24): Cubs 3, Brewers 1 – Bullpen Shines in Win Over Brewers
The Cubs got their series against the Brewers started on a positive note, winning a low-scoring game at Wrigley Field Monday night. Chicago’s bullpen did an excellent job overcoming a short starting pitching effort and the lineup manufactured the three runs they needed to emerge victorious.
Javier Assad made the start and it’s clear he’s still rusty from his stint on the injured list. The bespectacled righty issued six walks to Milwaukee hitters, but the road team stranded the bases loaded in the 3rd and 4th innings.
Meanwhile, the Cubs took full advantage of their chances against Brewers hurler Tobias Myers in the same two frames. Michael Busch singled home Miguel Amaya in the 3rd and Mike Tauchman scored on a wild pitch in the 4th to make it 2-0.
The North Siders got more outstanding work from their relievers to retain the lead from the 4th inning on. Ian Happ increased the margin to 3-0 with a solo shot to right field off Myers in the 6th.
Exit velocity: 110.9 mph 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/uTPOYt13Qg
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) July 23, 2024
The only blemish against the Chicago ‘pen came when Willy Adames homered off of Porter Hodge in the top of the 8th to cut the Brew Crew’s deficit to 3-1. Héctor Neris pitched around a one-out double in the 9th to earn the save. (Box score)
Key Moment
Drew Smyly came on in relief with the bases loaded and one out in the top of the 4th and the Cubs ahead 1-0. Brice Turang grounded to Busch, who fired to the plate for a force out, and then William Contreras hit a hard ground ball that was handled by Miles Mastrobuoni at third to end the threat.
Why the Cubs Won
The bullpen has quietly turned a corner and is doing a very good job recently. They also were able to get a couple runners in from scoring position with some help from the Brewers.
Stats That Matter
- Assad was very sharp in the first two innings but appeared to lose steam and control in a big way after that: 3.1 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 2K, and 6 BB.
- Amaya had a hit and two walks on Monday and looks way better at the plate since he adjusted his swing a couple weeks ago.
- Busch singled twice and his defense has drastically improved at first base as the season has progressed.
- Neris has been a lot easier on the blood pressure of late with a string of good outings.
Bottom Line
It would’ve been very nice if the Cubs bullpen had pitched like this in May and June but they will take it now. The offense still is the biggest issue going forward and it just doesn’t seem like it will be consistent enough for a real run. I would not mind if they proved me wrong on that front.
On Deck
Game two of the series is Tuesday night at 7:05pm CT. Jameson Taillon takes the hill against Colin Rea in a contest available on Marquee and 670 The Score.