Relive the Chicago Cubs’ epic 14-10 comeback against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Discover how Christian Bethancourt’s career night and a late-game rally kept the Cubs’ playoff hopes alive in this thrilling breakdown.
Date: August 28, 2024
Final Score: Cubs 14, Pirates 10 (68-66)
The Chicago Cubs pulled off an incredible comeback victory against the Pittsburgh Pirates in what will surely be remembered as one of the most thrilling games of the season. After trailing 10-3 by the sixth inning, the Cubs defied all odds to secure a 14-10 win, keeping their playoff hopes alive.
Table of Contents
Early Struggles and Skenes’ Dominance
The game started on a promising note for the Cubs, who jumped out to an early lead with three runs over the first two innings against Pirates rookie sensation Paul Skenes. However, Skenes quickly found his rhythm, shutting down the Cubs’ offense for the next four innings. This resilience is what separates great pitchers from the rest, and Skenes demonstrated that he has the potential to be a star.
Kyle Hendricks’ Off Day
Unfortunately for the Cubs, veteran pitcher Kyle Hendricks had a rough outing. After surrendering a home run in the first inning, Hendricks was unable to recover and was shelled in the second inning, allowing six runs in total. His final line was grim: 1⅔ innings pitched, 8 hits, 3 walks, and 6 runs allowed. Hendricks’ struggles raise concerns about his ability to retire major league hitters effectively, and the Cubs may need to reconsider his role in the rotation moving forward.
The Unlikely Comeback
The Cubs’ bullpen has been a bright spot all season, and they once again delivered in this game. Daniel Palencia managed to escape a bases-loaded jam in the seventh inning, which proved crucial in keeping the Cubs within striking distance. The Pirates’ bullpen, on the other hand, collapsed spectacularly, allowing 11 Cubs runs over the final three innings.
Key Moments of the Comeback
The ninth inning was nothing short of miraculous. Down 10-5, the Cubs’ chances of winning stood at just 7.9% according to Win Probability Added (WPA). Here’s a breakdown of the pivotal moments:
| Inning | Action | WPA Shift | Cubs’ Win Probability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9th | Seiya Suzuki singled | +7.7% | 15.6% |
| 9th | Isaac Paredes single | +8.5% | 31.3% |
| 9th | Nico Hoerner walk | +11.5% | 43.1% |
| 9th | Dansby Swanson fielder’s choice (1 run scored) | +4.7% | 47.8% |
| 9th | Christian Bethancourt single (2 runs scored) | +35.8% | 83.6% |
| 9th | Ian Happ singled | +8.8% | 92.4% |
| 9th | Mike Tauchman singled | +6.3% | 98.7% |
Bethancourt’s Career Night
Christian Bethancourt was the hero of the game, going 3-for-5 with a home run, a double, and seven RBIs. His performance was nothing short of spectacular, and it marked the highest WPA score by a Cubs player this season. Bethancourt’s two-run single in the ninth inning, which turned a one-run deficit into a one-run lead, was the play of the game.
Post-Game Analysis
This victory was a true team effort, with contributions from nearly every player. Pete Crow-Armstrong, who was intentionally walked in the ninth inning, had four hits and four runs in the game. His speed and timely hitting have made him a key player for the Cubs, and his development over the season has been remarkable.
Historical Perspective
According to MLB stats, teams leading by 7+ runs after six innings were 1,192-0 over the last seven seasons. The Cubs’ comeback is not only rare but also one for the history books. The last time the Cubs pulled off such a comeback was nearly 35 years ago, making this win even more special for the fans.
Player Ratings: Heroes and Goats
| Player | Performance | WPA |
|---|---|---|
| Christian Bethancourt | 3-5, HR, 2B, 7 RBI, 3 R, SB | +66.7% |
| Ian Happ | 3-4, 2B, 2 BB, 2 RBI, 2 R | +24.3% |
| Pete Crow-Armstrong | 4-4, BB, RBI, 4 R | +19.6% |
| Kyle Hendricks | 1⅔ IP, 8 H, 3 BB, 6 R, 2 K | -53.1% |
| Dansby Swanson | 0-4, BB, RBI, 2 R, SB | -11.8% |
Final Thoughts
This game was a microcosm of the Cubs’ season—filled with highs and lows, but ultimately showing the heart and resilience of a team that refuses to quit. With their playoff hopes still alive, the Cubs will need to build on this momentum as they head into the final stretch of the season.
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