In a thrilling twist on Wednesday, the Chicago Cubs authored one of the most dramatic comebacks in recent baseball memory, sealing a 14-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. The postseason aspirations of the Cubs got a significant boost as they showcased both resilience and a potent offense.
Initially, things looked bleak for Chicago. Through the first six innings, the Cubs trailed 10-3, seemingly in a dire situation. However, what transpired next was nothing short of extraordinary. The Cubs exploded for 11 consecutive unanswered runs, turning a seven-run deficit into a decisive win. This incredible turnaround marked them as the first team since the 2019 San Diego Padres to overcome such a substantial deficit in the seventh inning or later.
Bethancourt's Stellar Debut
Key to this offensive barrage was Christian Bethancourt, who had only joined the Cubs organization on July 5. In what will surely go down as one of the most memorable debuts in recent team history, Bethancourt put on a clinic at the plate. Going 3-for-5, he drove in seven runs and came tantalizingly close to hitting for the cycle, missing only a triple. With this performance, Bethancourt became just the sixth Cubs catcher since 1901 to amass seven or more RBIs in a single game.
Taking Advantage of Pitching Changes
The Cubs' rally largely materialized following the departure of Pirates starter Paul Skenes, who was pulled at the start of the sixth inning. Making only his third major league appearance against the Cubs, Skenes had kept Chicago’s offense relatively subdued. However, the Pirates' bullpen could not withstand the Cubs' onslaught. Relievers Aroldis Chapman and David Bednar struggled mightily, combining to surrender eight earned runs on six hits and five walks while managing to record just five outs. The collapse of Pittsburgh’s bullpen only fueled Chicago’s relentless pursuit which led to their historical victory.
A Historic Comeback
The comeback was not only a season highlight but also a historical feat for the franchise. Wednesday’s triumph marked the fifth instance in the last 50 years that Chicago has managed to secure a win after facing a seven-plus-run deficit in the seventh inning or later. Remarkably, no other Major League Baseball team has matched the Cubs' number of such comebacks over the same period. This statistic underscores the grit and determination that the team has exhibited in crucial moments over the decades.
The Cubs’ fans, who had endured the early struggles of the game, were rewarded with a spectacle that will be remembered for years to come. As the Cubs look forward to their next encounter with the Pirates in a three-game set next week, Wednesday's victory will undoubtedly serve as a source of confidence and momentum.
The narrative of the Cubs' season is far from complete, but night like these, characterized by resilient comebacks and unlikely heroes, hint at the potential for even more remarkable achievements as the season progresses.