Introduction to the Game
CHICAGO (AP) — Seiya Suzuki hit a three-run homer, and the Chicago Cubs stopped Boston’s 10-game win streak with a 4-1 victory over the Red Sox on Friday.
The Cubs’ Performance
Colin Rea pitched five effective innings for Chicago in the majors’ first game after the All-Star break. Working around a season-high four walks, the right-hander allowed one run and four hits in his fourth consecutive win.
The Red Sox’ Struggle
Boston had won 12 of 13 to surge into contention in the rugged AL East. But Lucas Giolito got off to shaky start and the Red Sox left eight runners on base in the opener of a challenging six-game trip.
Suzuki’s Home Run
Pitching for the first time since July 9, Giolito (6-2) walked his first two batters of the game. Suzuki then drove a four-seam fastball deep to center for his 26th homer, delighting the crowd of 41,011 on a picturesque afternoon at Wrigley Field.
Additional Runs
Nico Hoerner tacked on an RBI single for the NL Central leaders in the sixth.
Giolito’s Performance
Giolito was charged with four runs and five hits in 5 1/3 innings in his first loss since May 6. The right-hander went 5-0 with a sparkling 0.70 ERA in his previous six starts.
The Red Sox’ Only Run
Boston scored its only run on Roman Anthony’s two-out RBI double in the third. Anthony’s hit put runners on second and third, but Rea (8-3) escaped the jam by striking out Carlos Narváez.
The Cubs’ Bullpen
Brad Keller pitched a perfect eighth for Chicago before Daniel Palencia handled the ninth for his 13th save in 14 opportunities.
Key Moment
Key moment
Boston had a chance to rally in the fifth, but Abraham Toro committed a costly mistake. With two runners on and no outs, Toro was doubled off second on Alex Bregman’s liner to center.
Key Stat
Key stat
The Cubs improved to 40-7 when they score first.
Up Next
Up next
Brayan Bello (6-3, 3.14 ERA) pitches for Boston on Saturday, and left-hander Shota Imanaga (6-3, 2.65) takes the mound for Chicago.
Conclusion
The Chicago Cubs’ victory over the Boston Red Sox marked an end to the Red Sox’ 10-game winning streak. Seiya Suzuki’s three-run homer and Colin Rea’s effective pitching were key to the Cubs’ success. The Cubs will look to continue their winning ways as they face the Red Sox again on Saturday.
FAQs
Q: Who hit a three-run homer for the Chicago Cubs?
A: Seiya Suzuki hit a three-run homer for the Chicago Cubs.
Q: Who pitched five effective innings for the Chicago Cubs?
A: Colin Rea pitched five effective innings for the Chicago Cubs.
Q: What is the Cubs’ record when they score first?
A: The Cubs improved to 40-7 when they score first.
