In a thrilling display of resilience and offensive prowess, the Chicago Cubs mounted one of the most remarkable comebacks in recent baseball history on Wednesday, securing a 14-10 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates. The Cubs, trailing 10-3 through the first six innings, conjured an extraordinary surge to score 11 unanswered runs, propelling them to a memorable win.
The turning point for Chicago came after Pirates starter Paul Skenes, who had been pitching dominantly in his third career game against the Cubs, was pulled at the start of the sixth inning. Skenes stifled the Cubs' lineup early on, but it was the Pittsburgh bullpen that proved incapable of maintaining the lead. Relievers Aroldis Chapman and David Bednar crumbled under the pressure, combining to surrender eight earned runs on six hits and five walks while recording just five outs between them.
Christian Bethancourt emerged as the Cubs' hero of the night with an electrifying performance at the plate. Joining the organization only on July 5, Bethancourt went 3-for-5, driving in seven runs and narrowly missing out on hitting for the cycle. His extraordinary effort saw him become the sixth Cubs catcher since 1901 to plate seven or more runs in a single game, etching his name into the storied history of the franchise.
Bethancourt's contributions were instrumental, but the comeback was a team effort. The Cubs, showing tremendous grit and determination, chipped away at the deficit inning by inning. The offensive explosion that propelled them to victory mirrored the dramatic flair that has become a hallmark of this year's squad. In overcoming the Pirates, the Cubs became the first team since the 2019 San Diego Padres to erase a seven-plus-run deficit in the seventh inning or later.
Wednesday's game marked the Cubs' fifth instance in the last 50 years of securing a win when facing a seven-plus-run deficit in the late stages of the game. No other Major League Baseball team boasts as many such comebacks over the same period, highlighting the Cubs' unique capability for staging dramatic turnarounds under pressure. This victory extends an impressive historical trend for the Cubs, showcasing their indomitable will and never-say-die attitude.
The Cubs' momentum will be tested again soon, as they are set to face the Pirates in a three-game series next week. If Wednesday’s game is any indication, fans can expect more fireworks and unforgettable moments. With Bethancourt’s sensational debut as a symbol of their potential, the Cubs are primed to build on this historic win and continue their push in the standings.
This latest chapter in Cubs history will undoubtedly be remembered for its sheer improbability and the collective effort that made it possible. As the season progresses, the Cubs will look to draw inspiration from this victory, knowing they have the resilience and firepower to prevail against the odds. For now, the fans at Wrigley Field can bask in the afterglow of one of the most exhilarating comebacks the game has seen in years.