Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (9/28/24): Cubs 3, Reds 0 – Hendricks Outstanding in Possible Cubs Farewell

Saturday afternoon at Wrigley Field was all about Kyle Hendricks, with the veteran changeup artist making what was likely his final start in a Cubs uniform. The Professor stepped up in a big moment, just like he has time and again in his illustrious career, pitching a shutout into the 8th inning and putting his team in position to win.

Weather conditions favored the pitchers again Saturday, with the wind blowing in hard from center field. Hendricks took full advantage, with a vintage aggressive and efficient outing that kept the Reds off the scoreboard. Unfortunately, Chicago could not figure out starter Rhett Lowder and there was no score through seven frames.

Hendricks’ afternoon came to an end after he retired the first hitter in the top of the 8th inning. In a very nice touch, pitching coach Tommy Hottovy was the one who removed his friend from the game as the crowd offered a standing ovation. The Professor shook hands with all of his teammates and took a well-deserved curtain call from the grateful fans.

The Cubs’ offense finally woke up against old friend Justin Wilson in the bottom of the inning with Isaac Paredes getting a pinch-hit RBI single with the bases loaded. A Pete Crow-Armstrong knock and a Mike Tauchman RBI walk against closer Alexis Díaz put the home team ahead 3-0. Porter Hodge earned the save in the 9th with the help of a spectacular play by Dansby Swanson at short to end it. (Box score)

Key Moment

Hendricks gave all his teammates a hug when they came off the field after the top of the 8th inning. It was truly a remarkable moment for everyone in attendance and all Cubs fans everywhere.

Why the Cubs Won

A great performance by Hendricks.

Stats That Matter

• • The Professor went out like the legend he is: 7.1 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 2 K, and 2 BB.
  • Seiya Suzuki had a perfect afternoon Saturday with two hits and two walks.
  • That was Paredes’ first career hit in the pinch, he had been 0-21.

Bottom Line

They say all good things must come to an end and it is probably time for Hendricks to move on from Chicago. Still, it has been heckuva ride for both him and the Cubs. The Professor made the two biggest starts in the last century for the North Siders and was absolutely brilliant in both. He will always be a legend at Wrigley Field no matter what he does from here on out. Thanks for everything, Kyle.

On Deck

The Cubs wrap up the 2024 season Sunday afternoon at 1:20pm CT. Chicago hasn’t named a starter to go against Hunter Greene in a contest available on Marquee and 670 The Score.