Cubs Face Missed Opportunities in Loss to Reds

The Chicago Cubs, vying for the National League’s top wild-card position, faced several missed chances on Friday at Great American Ball Park. Their 6-4 loss to the Cincinnati Reds highlighted issues across all aspects of the game.

Key Moments and Mistakes

One of the critical moments occurred in the ninth inning as the Cubs tried to rally. Michael Busch drew a one-out walk, bringing Alex Bregman to the plate. Bregman hit a 383-foot flyout to deep center. Ian Happ, who had homered earlier, hit a powerful foul ball. Busch attempted a steal, but Jose Trevino’s accurate throw caught him at second. Originally ruled safe, a review overturned this, ending the game.

“That was bad, that was a dumb play,” manager Craig Counsell noted regarding Busch’s mistake.

Busch accepted responsibility, stating, “Just pretty inexcusable on my part. Got to make sure if I’m taking that base that I make it 100%.”

Offensive Struggles

The Cubs (85-69) struggled with runners in scoring position, leaving nine on base and finishing 2-for-10 in such situations. The lower part of the lineup—Happ, Nico Hoerner, Michael Conforto, Carson Kelly, and Dansby Swanson—contributed significantly, with eight hits, two walks, and a hit by pitch. Swanson, returning from injury, was 1-for-3 with a walk and a run.

Pete Crow-Armstrong had a tough game, striking out three times in an 0-for-5 performance. Bregman was also hitless in his five at-bats.

Seiya Suzuki’s slump continued. With a .157 average this month, he managed a two-run single but also had three strikeouts, including a bases-loaded strikeout.

“We had the right guys up. We just didn’t get the hits tonight,” Counsell commented.

Pitching Challenges

Clay Holmes’ control issues were evident, walking five batters in 5 1/3 innings and allowing six runs. A throwing error by Holmes added to the problems in a decisive three-run sixth inning.

“I just couldn’t finish the outing,” Holmes said. “Can’t walk the leadoff guy there in the sixth inning.”

Looking Ahead

The Cubs’ magic number to secure a playoff spot dropped to three after the Arizona Diamondbacks lost. With eight games left, the Cubs aim for playoff momentum. The Phillies’ loss helped their chances, but the Padres’ win kept the three teams tied for the wild-card lead.

“Every team wants to feel strong and win going into the playoffs,” Kelly said. “Every day is a new day. We don’t look ahead. Everything feels magnified.”