Key Moments
In a must-win Game 4 at Wrigley Field, the Chicago Cubs relied on two of their struggling players to step up and lead the team to a 6-0 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers, forcing a decisive Game 5 in the National League Division Series.
Veteran left-hander Matthew Boyd delivered a strong 4.2-inning start, allowing just two hits and three walks while striking out six Brewers batters. After a shaky start to the playoffs, Boyd settled in and kept the Cubs in the game.
Outfielder Ian Happ, who was just 2-for-21 with 11 strikeouts in the series, opened the scoring with a three-run homer in the first inning off Brewers ace Freddy Peralta. Happ's big hit set the tone early and sparked the Cubs' offense.
Player Impact
In addition to Happ's heroics, the Cubs got key contributions from several other players. Rookie first baseman Michael Busch launched a solo home run, his third of the series, to extend the lead. Veteran outfielder Kyle Tucker also hit a solo shot, his first of the playoffs.
On the mound, relievers Daniel Palencia, Drew Pomeranz, Brad Keller, and Caleb Thielbar combined for 4.1 scoreless innings to preserve the shutout. Palencia was particularly impressive, recording 1.1 innings of hitless relief.
Outlook
The series now shifts back to Milwaukee for a winner-take-all Game 5 on Saturday. The Brewers will look to bounce back after two straight losses, while the Cubs will aim to continue their momentum and advance to the National League Championship Series.
TL;DR
- Matthew Boyd and Ian Happ led the Cubs to a 6-0 win over the Brewers in Game 4, forcing a decisive Game 5
- Happ hit a 3-run homer in the 1st inning to spark the Cubs' offense
- Michael Busch and Kyle Tucker also homered for Chicago
- The Cubs' bullpen combined for 4.1 scoreless innings to preserve the shutout