The Leadoff Man 

Surviving But Not Thriving: Cubs Edge Rays in Nail-Biting Victory!

The 2024 Chicago Cubs no longer “win” games—they survive them was beautifully stated by Bleacher Nation!

Last night’s heart-pounding 4-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Rays was another nailbiter that a better team would have finished early. Following a gut-wrenching 9th-inning loss to the Rays the night before, the Cubs found themselves in a familiar yet perilous situation. Hector Neris, once again flirting with disaster, was on the mound in the 9th, just a pitch away from blowing his second consecutive save. But, in true 2924 Cubs fashion, they held on, added extra drama, and secured the win.

Bellinger Blasts Cubs to Victory

Cody Bellinger’s three-run homer in the 7th sealed the deal.

The turning point of the game was undoubtedly Cody Bellinger’s two-out, two-strike, three-run homer in the 7th inning. With the Cubs trailing 2-1, Bellinger stepped up and delivered a game-changing blast to right-center field, driving in Christopher Morel and Patrick Wisdom. This clutch hit not only put the Cubs ahead but also significantly increased their win probability from a mere 32% to an impressive 80%. As Bellinger rounded the bases, the sense of relief and triumph was palpable. "Three-run homers change games," manager Craig Counsell aptly noted, and this one was no exception.

Seiya’s Sizzling Shot Keeps Cubs in the Game

Seiya Suzuki’s 4th-inning homer was the spark the Cubs needed.

Seiya Suzuki, always a reliable power hitter, came through in the clutch again last night. With the Cubs down 1-0 in the top of the 4th inning, Suzuki launched a solo homer to center field, tying the game and reigniting the Cubs’ fighting spirit. This was Suzuki’s 8th home run of the season, and it couldn’t have come at a better time. His performance continues to be a beacon of consistency for the Cubs, providing much-needed momentum shifts in tight situations.

Relievers Lock Down the Rays

Tyson Miller and Drew Smyly’s stellar relief pitching secured the win.

After a solid start from Javier Assad, who pitched 4.2 innings and allowed just 2 runs, the Cubs bullpen took over and shut down the Rays’ offense. Tyson Miller, earning his first win of the season, and Drew Smyly combined to retire 10 straight Rays batters, showcasing the depth and reliability of the Cubs’ relief corps. Despite a shaky 9th inning from Hector Neris, who allowed a solo homer and put runners on second and third, he managed to close the door, earning his 10th save. "Héctor's going to compete, and you can count on that," said Counsell. His resilience under pressure is a testament to the bullpen’s grit this season.

The Closer

The Cubs emerged victorious in a nail-biter, thanks to Suzuki’s early homer, Bellinger’s game-winning blast, and a solid bullpen performance.

Next Game Preview: The Cubs face off against the Rays again tonight at 5:50 PM CT. With Justin Steele (0-3, 3.65 ERA) on the mound, the Cubs will look to build on their momentum and clinch another win. Tune in on MARQ, BSSUN, or MLBN to catch all the action.

What did you think of last night’s game? Share your thoughts and join the discussion with fellow Cubs fans! Let’s keep the energy high and cheer on our team to another victory!