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On April 7th, 2023, the Chicago Cubs faced off against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The game featured two National League Central teams that are looking to improve on their previous season’s records.
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The Cubs sent right-hander Kyle Hendricks to the mound, while the Pirates countered with right-hander Mitch Keller. Both pitchers had strong outings, but it was the Cubs’ offense that ultimately made the difference in the game.
The Cubs got on the board first in the top of the second inning, when left fielder Ian Happ hit an RBI single to score third baseman Kris Bryant. The Pirates tied the game in the bottom of the third inning, when center fielder Brian Reynolds hit an RBI single to score shortstop Kevin Newman.
The Cubs retook the lead in the top of the fourth inning, when right fielder Jason Heyward hit a two-run home run to right field. The Pirates cut into the Cubs’ lead in the bottom of the sixth inning, when third baseman Ke’Bryan Hayes hit a solo home run to left field.
The Cubs added an insurance run in the top of the ninth inning, when second baseman Nico Hoerner hit an RBI single to score center fielder Ian Happ. Cubs closer Craig Kimbrel closed out the game with a scoreless ninth inning, securing the Cubs’ victory over the Pirates.
One of the key factors in the Cubs’ victory was their offense’s ability to come up with timely hits. Jason Heyward’s two-run home run in the fourth inning provided the Cubs with the lead, while Nico Hoerner’s RBI single in the ninth inning provided some much-needed insurance.
Another key factor in the game was the Cubs’ bullpen’s ability to shut down the Pirates’ offense. After Kyle Hendricks’ solid outing, the Cubs’ bullpen of Andrew Chafin, Ryan Tepera, and Craig Kimbrel combined for three innings, allowing only one run on one hit and striking out four batters.
In contrast, the Pirates struggled to come up with timely hits throughout the game. Despite scoring two runs, they were only able to muster four hits off of the Cubs’ pitching staff. They will be looking to improve their offensive performance in their upcoming games.
Mitch Keller’s solid outing was a bright spot for the Pirates. He pitched five innings, allowing three runs on six hits and striking out five batters. However, the Pirates’ bullpen was not able to keep the game close, allowing one run in the final four innings of the game.
In conclusion, the Chicago Cubs’ victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates was a result of timely hitting and strong bullpen performance. The Cubs will be looking to continue their strong start to the season in their upcoming games, while the Pirates will be looking to bounce back and get their first win of the season.
