Introduction to the Cubs’ Recent Win
The Cubs’ recent 7-6 win in 10 innings against the Braves was a thrilling matchup, with several key players contributing to the team’s comeback. Right-hander Aaron Civale, who was claimed off waivers from the White Sox on Sunday, made his Cubs debut in the game, playing a crucial role in securing the win.
Civale’s Cubs Debut
Civale’s performance was impressive, as he held the Braves to one hit through three scoreless innings, giving the Cubs enough time to wipe away a four-run deficit and tie the game. His ability to pitch in relief, combined with his experience as a starter, made him an attractive addition to the team. "I think we’re in good position," said president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer, "But I also feel like adding innings is always valuable when you know you’re getting into this position where guys have a tendency to get tired, and you may want to give guys a little bit of rest."
The Game’s Turning Point
The turning point in the game came when catcher Carson Kelly hit a two-run homer in the eighth inning, his first home run since July 21. Kelly then put the game away in the 10th inning with a walk-off RBI single. Civale praised Kelly’s performance, saying, "From a behind the plate perspective, I thought he led me pretty well. Kept the whole team in the game catching those extra innings, those tight situations at the end of the game … Just to have competitive at-bats out of your catcher is great, and then to do what he did is icing on the cake."
Civale’s Background
Civale is expected to pitch in relief down the stretch, but the fact that he was stretched out to a starter’s workload attracted the Cubs. He began the year with Milwaukee but was traded to the White Sox after the Brewers decided to move him to the bullpen. Civale has a 5.26 ERA this season, including five scoreless innings in the crosstown series in late July. When asked about switching organizations twice in a season, Civale said, "There’s definitely both [challenges and advantages]. First one is meeting so many different people trying to remember names, different places that you’re preparing for the game, and different thought processes."
Alcántara’s Potential Impact
In addition to adding Civale to the roster, the Cubs also recalled rookie outfielder Kevin Alcántara from Triple-A and optioned rookie outfielder Owen Caissie. Alcántara could get playing time at center field against left-handed pitchers, giving Pete Crow-Armstrong some rest. Hoyer said, "You want him fresh and playing well, So that was the mindset." Crow-Armstrong has played in 135 of the Cubs’ 138 games, already surpassing his previous season high by a dozen contests.
Conclusion
The Cubs’ win against the Braves was a thrilling matchup, with Civale’s debut and Kelly’s walk-off RBI single being key factors in the team’s comeback. The addition of Civale and Alcántara to the roster could have a significant impact on the team’s performance down the stretch. As the season comes to a close, the Cubs will look to build on this momentum and make a push for the playoffs.
FAQs
- Who made his Cubs debut in the recent game against the Braves?
Aaron Civale made his Cubs debut in the recent game against the Braves. - What was the score of the game?
The Cubs won 7-6 in 10 innings. - Who hit the walk-off RBI single?
Carson Kelly hit the walk-off RBI single. - What is Civale’s expected role with the Cubs?
Civale is expected to pitch in relief down the stretch. - Who was recalled from Triple-A and added to the roster?
Kevin Alcántara was recalled from Triple-A and added to the roster.
