Cubs' Eighth Inning Escape Leaves Pirates Stranded at Wrigley Field

The Chicago Cubs, with a record of 70-53, narrowly edged out the Pittsburgh Pirates, who stand at 52-73, in a tightly contested game at Wrigley Field. The final score was 4-3 in favor of the Cubs. This victory adds another win to the North Side's impressive season tally.

First Inning

The game began with both teams struggling to find their rhythm offensively. The Cubs were unable to capitalize on early opportunities as they went hitless in the first inning. Meanwhile, the Pirates managed one hit but failed to bring any runners home.

Second Inning

In the second inning, Chicago broke through with their first run of the game thanks to a timely hit by Dansby Swanson. Despite this early lead, what went wrong for Cubs was evident as they committed an error that could have been costly if not for solid pitching that kept Pittsburgh scoreless.

Third and Fourth Innings

Both teams remained quiet during these innings as pitchers from both sides dominated. The Cubbies' starter showed resilience by allowing only one run across four innings while striking out three batters.

Fifth and Sixth Innings

The fifth inning saw each team adding runs to their tally; however, it was during the sixth that things heated up when Pittsburgh scored two runs off three hits against Chicago's bullpen. This surge tied up proceedings and set up an exciting finish.

Seventh Inning

As tension mounted in this crucial phase of play where neither side could afford mistakes or missed chances - defensive plays became paramount for maintaining parity between them until further notice!

Eighth Inning

A pivotal moment came during this frame when Ian Happ delivered a clutch performance driving home what would be deemed one of those game-changing plays Cubs vs Pirates needed desperately! His contribution helped secure another vital run giving his team enough breathing room heading into final stages ahead...

Ninth Inning

Despite some late pressure applied by Buccos trying hard not letting go without putting fight till very end - ultimately fell short due largely thanks again stellar relief work done ensuring no more damage inflicted upon scoreboard thus sealing deal once all said done!

Following such intense battle witnessed throughout day-long affair here today: fans can look forward seeing how things unfold next time around when Milwaukee Brewers visit town tomorrow afternoon starting promptly @2:20 PM EDT live broadcast available via MARQ network directly from iconic venue itself located right heartland America’s Midwest region known affectionately worldwide simply “Wrigley Field”.

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