Cubs Force Decisive Game 5 With Shutout Victory Over Brewers

The Chicago Cubs have evened their National League Division Series. They defeated the Milwaukee Brewers 6-0 on Thursday night. The win forces a decisive Game 5 in Milwaukee. Ian Happ’s first-inning home run sparked the victory.

The best-of-five series is now tied at two games apiece. The winner-take-all game will determine who advances. According to Field Level Media, the Cubs’ pitching staff delivered a dominant combined three-hitter.

Happ’s Homer Sets Early Tone for Chicago

Ian Happ hit a three-run homer in the first inning. His blast off Brewers ace Freddy Peralta gave the Cubs a quick 3-0 lead. It was his second home run of the series against Peralta.

Nico Hoerner and Kyle Tucker also contributed key hits. The Cubs’ offense continued to build momentum throughout the game. Kyle Tucker and Michael Busch added solo home runs in the later innings.

Pitching Staff Dominates in Combined Effort

Five Cubs pitchers combined for the shutout. Starter Matt Boyd struck out six in 4.2 innings. He allowed just two hits and kept the Brewers off balance.

The bullpen was flawless in relief. Daniel Palencia, Drew Pomeranz, Brad Keller, and Caleb Thielbar closed out the game. They allowed just one hit over the final 4.1 innings.

The Chicago Cubs have successfully pushed their playoff series to the limit. Their decisive win sets up a dramatic Game 5 showdown. This final game will determine the series winner.

Info at your fingertips

When is the decisive Game 5 of the NLDS?

Game 5 is scheduled for Saturday night. The game will be played in Milwaukee. It will determine which team advances in the playoffs.

Who was the winning pitcher for the Cubs?

Starter Matt Boyd was credited with the win. He pitched 4.2 scoreless innings. The bullpen preserved the shutout after his departure.

How many home runs did the Cubs hit?

The Cubs hit three home runs in the game. Ian Happ, Kyle Tucker, and Michael Busch all homered. Happ’s was a three-run shot in the first inning.

What was the final score of the game?

The Cubs won by a score of 6-0. Their pitching staff held the Brewers to just three hits. The offense provided ample run support.

Why was this game so critical for the Cubs?

A loss would have ended their season. The victory forces a final, winner-take-all game. The series is now tied 2-2.