Opinion
3 min read

Can the Cubs Outmaneuver the Pirates at PNC Park?

In a season filled with ups and downs, the Chicago Cubs are set to face off against the Pittsburgh Pirates in what promises to be an intriguing matchup at PNC Park. The Cubs, coming off a mixed bag of performances in their recent games, have shown both resilience and areas for improvement that could play a critical role in their upcoming game.


Sep 21, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates designated hitter Connor Joe (2) is tagged out at second base by Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner (2) against the Chicago Cubs during the eighth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The last game for the Cubs against the Milwaukee Brewers on May 4th showcased their ability to bounce back under pressure. Despite committing two errors and facing challenges on the field, they managed to secure a 6-5 victory. This win was characterized by a notable performance from their hitters who managed an average of .250 and demonstrated power with three home runs contributing significantly to their six runs. The bullpen's performance, however, raised some eyebrows as it struggled with an ERA of 12.0 over three innings pitched but managed to hold onto the lead.


On May 3rd against the Brewers again, despite having eight hits similar to their opponents, the Cubs could only muster one run compared to three by Milwaukee. This game highlighted areas where improvement is needed; particularly in capitalizing on scoring opportunities as they left five runners stranded on base.


Sep 21, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) throws the ball against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

A standout moment came during their encounter with New York Mets on May 2nd where despite losing 7-6 after eleven innings, showed significant tenacity. They rallied from behind multiple times and displayed aggressive base running with six stolen bases indicating a potential strategic advantage they might leverage in future games.


Looking ahead at their match against Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park scheduled for May 10th at 6:40 PM ET broadcasted on SportsNet PT; fans should expect an aggressive approach from CHC particularly on base paths given their recent success in stealing bases which stands out as one of their strengths this season.


Sep 21, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates right fielder Miguel Andujar (26) hits a one run single against the Chicago Cubs during the fifth inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-USA TODAY Sports

The Pirates will not make it easy for them though. As hosts and considering CHC's recent inconsistencies especially within its bullpen which has shown vulnerability under pressure; PIT might look to exploit these weaknesses early on.


However, if CHC can harness its hitting prowess while tightening up its defensive play especially late into games; there is every reason for optimism among its fanbase that they can come away with another crucial win away from home.


Fans eager not to miss any action should tune into SportsNet PT where this promising clash will unfold live from PNC Park this Friday night.

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