Game Chicago Cubs @ Tampa Bay Rays (June 13th, 2024)

[Ludan]

Tough Loss in Tampa Bay ​

Fellow Cubs fans, last night's game against the Tampa Bay Rays was an emotional rollercoaster and unfortunately, it ended in a tough 3-2 loss. The starting pitching from both teams was solid, and it wasn't until the late innings that we saw the decisive runs cross the plate.

Early Innings: A Pitcher's Duel ​

Steven Steele took the mound and delivered a strong performance for the Cubs. He kept the Rays' bats quiet through the first six innings, matching Tampa Bay's starter pitch-for-pitch in a classic pitcher's duel. Our defense was also on point, turning quick outs and stifling any early Rays' rally attempts.

5th Inning: Cubs Take The Lead ​

The top of the 5th was when things started to get exciting for us. Michael Busch and Nico Hoerner got the action started with back-to-back singles. Then came a crucial sacrifice from Patrick Wisdom that advanced the runners. A fielder's choice hit by Pete Crow-Armstrong led to an error that allowed Busch to score! Hoerner quickly followed, scoring on a sacrifice by Yan Gomes, putting us up 2-0.

7th Inning: Rays Strike Back ​

Trouble began in the bottom of the 7th when Mark Leiter Jr. came in for relief. A throwing error on Patrick Wisdom allowed Amed Rosario to reach second base. Singles by Josh Lowe and Yandy Díaz, plus a key stolen base, handed the Rays three runs and the lead.

Final Push: Cubs Fall Short ​

Despite a courageous effort in the 9th inning with Michael Busch drawing a walk, the Rays’ closer effectively shut down our hopes with a double play to end the game. Our bats just couldn't come alive when it mattered most.

It's always tough to lose close games like this, especially when we've battled so hard. Let's take the positives and continue to root for our Cubbies! Next game, we’ll bounce back stronger. Go Cubs Go!

Scoreboard for Cubs @ Rays (June 13th, 2024)​

	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	R	H	E
	0​	0​	0​	0​	0​	0​	3​	0​	0​	3​	7​	1​
	0​	0​	0​	0​	2​	0​	0​	0​	0​	2​	3​	2​