Nico Hoerner’s Tying Dash and Go-Ahead Single Rally Cubs Past Diamondbacks 3-2 in 11 Innings
PHOENIX (AP) — Nico Hoerner scored the tying run from second base on a wild pitch in the ninth inning, then delivered the go-ahead single in the 11th as the Chicago Cubs rallied past the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-2 on Monday night.
Hoerner’s Hustle
In a dramatic ninth-inning rally, Hoerner took off from second base on a 3-2 pitch to Daulton Varsho and slid headfirst into home plate on a wild pitch from reliever Kevin Ginkel. The Diamondbacks’ catcher, Gabriel Moreno, was unable to field the ball cleanly, allowing Hoerner to score the tying run.
Go-Ahead Hit
In the 11th inning, Hoerner came up to bat with two outs and runners on first and second. He lined a single to center field off reliever Bryce Jarvis, driving in Patrick Wisdom with the go-ahead run.
Michael Busch’s Solo Homer
Earlier in the game, Michael Busch had given the Cubs an early lead with a solo homer off Arizona starter Merrill Kelly in the second inning. It was Busch’s fifth homer in the past five games, tying a franchise record.
Kelly’s Solid Outing
Despite allowing the early home run, Kelly pitched well for the Diamondbacks, lasting six innings and giving up just four hits and one run. He struck out seven batters and walked one.
Diamondbacks’ Missed Opportunities
Arizona had opportunities to win the game in the later innings but failed to capitalize. In the bottom of the ninth, with the bases loaded and one out, Ketel Marte grounded into a fielder’s choice to end the inning.
Bullpen Falters
The Diamondbacks’ bullpen struggled after Kelly’s departure. Ginkel allowed one run on two hits in his inning of work, and Jarvis surrendered the game-winning hit to Hoerner.
Cubs’ Comeback
The Cubs’ victory marked their third straight win and improved their record to 12-13. Hoerner’s heroics helped Chicago rally from a 1-0 deficit and secure the come-from-behind victory.
Impactful Plays
Tying Run on Wild Pitch: Hoerner’s aggressive baserunning and Moreno’s miscue resulted in the tying run in the ninth inning.
Go-Ahead Single: Hoerner’s clutch single in the 11th inning broke the tie and gave the Cubs the lead.
Busch’s Solo Homer: Busch’s early home run provided the Cubs with an early advantage.
Kelly’s Quality Start: Kelly’s six innings of solid pitching kept the Diamondbacks in the game.
Missed Opportunities: Arizona’s failure to convert runners in scoring position ultimately cost them the game.