Cubs Fall to Mariners Despite Strong Start

The Chicago Cubs were off to a promising start Friday night with a three-run lead. Pete Crow-Armstrong hit a homer off Emerson Hancock, marking his third leadoff home run in four games. Alex Bregman followed suit with a two-run blast, boosting the Cubs’ early advantage.

Matthew Boyd, however, struggled to maintain the lead. He gave up a crucial three-run homer to Cal Raleigh in the second inning. Brendan Donovan’s RBI single, following a contentious balk call, put the Mariners ahead.

The Cubs fought back to tie the game late. Ian Happ and Alex Bregman each hit solo home runs in the eighth and ninth innings. Yet, the Mariners managed a walk-off win with Leo Rivas’ single in the tenth.

The Cubs had difficulty with runners in scoring position, finishing 1-for-16 and leaving 11 on base. Despite hitting four home runs, their efforts were not enough. This marked their first loss under such circumstances since June 2025, also against the Mariners.

Boyd’s pitching has faltered this month. He gave up eight home runs across four starts, including two three-run homers. Boyd’s balk call in the fifth led to his frustration. It was only his first balk since 2019. The call facilitated an RBI single by Randy Arozarena, extending the Mariners’ lead.

Cal was ready for the pitch and took advantage,” Boyd acknowledged.

Bregman had a standout game with multiple homers but highlighted missed opportunities. Seiya Suzuki struck out three times, notably with the bases loaded in the eighth inning.

Manager Craig Counsell was ejected for protesting the balk ruling. It tied his record for most ejections in a season.

Despite the setback, Bregman remained optimistic about upcoming games.