The Chicago Cubs rallied to a 9-3 victory against the Colorado Rockies on Thursday at Coors Field in Denver, sidestepping a series sweep. An impressive display of power saw four extra-base hits, including a pivotal two-run home run by Alex Bregman in the seventh inning.
Earlier, Seiya Suzuki set the pace with a grand slam that pushed the Cubs into a 4-1 lead in the fourth inning. Ryan Feltner, the Rockies’ starter, pitched an 0-1 slider that Suzuki expertly connected with. The Cubs extended their lead with two runs in the fifth. Catcher Carson Kelly added a solo homer in the eighth to finish their scoring for the day.
Bregman, despite his homer, expressed dissatisfaction. He felt he missed earlier chances, especially during his second at-bat, which ended in a popout. His two-run homer was his sixth this season, yet it marked his first with a runner on base. “The whole series was better, still missed too many pitches in the heart of the plate,” said Bregman. He remarked on his typical success in the middle of the plate, aiming for improvement in his OPS performance.
The Cubs had not achieved three home runs in a single game since April 25. The win halted a five-game streak of scoring three or fewer runs, tying for their longest such streak this season. Pitcher Edward Cabrera played a critical role, allowing only two runs over 5 1/3 innings.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell highlighted the potential of the team’s offensive players. “We’re all trying to do our best to put it in the right direction. Our players are the source of the optimism.” He emphasized the challenge of tapping into the talent they possess.
Bregman and Suzuki both sought home runs to alleviate personal slumps. Bregman felt he contributed to the team’s success and aimed for further improvement. With a .327 on-base percentage, he remains a crucial player.
Suzuki showcased his talent with his third career grand slam, stretching his hitting streak to eight games. Over this period, he maintained a .308 batting average and added three home runs. “I felt like I haven’t been able to help out our pitchers,” Suzuki acknowledged, expressing relief at capitalizing on the opportunity.