Cubs Outshine Rays with Hoerner's Heroics at Wrigley Field

First Inning

The Chicago Cubs faced off against the Tampa Bay Rays at Wrigley Field, securing a 6-4 victory. This win improved the Cubs' record to 84-63, while the Rays fell to 72-75. The game began with a strong start from the Rayhawks, who scored 3 runs on 3 hits in the first inning.

Second Inning

The Cubbies responded swiftly in the second inning. Nico Hoerner was instrumental, contributing significantly to their offensive surge. The North Side team tallied 3 runs on 4 hits during this inning, leveling the playing field and setting an intense tone for what was to follow.

Third Inning

Continuing their momentum into the third inning, Chicago added another two runs thanks to strategic hitting and aggressive base running. This put them ahead of Tampa Bay for the first time in this matchup.

Fourth Inning

In an exciting fourth inning, both teams managed to add more runs to their totals. The Cubs scored once more through a combination of smart plays and solid batting performances from key players like Ian Happ and Moisés Ballesteros.

Fifth Through Ninth Innings

From innings five through nine, pitching became crucial as both teams tightened their defenses. Chicago's bullpen proved impenetrable; Brad Keller delivered a standout performance with zero earned runs allowed over his relief appearance. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay struggled offensively after their initial burst but managed one additional run in the fourth inning before being shut down by Cubs' pitchers for good.

The final innings saw no further scoring from either side as Chicago maintained its lead until closing out successfully against Tampa Bay’s attempts at a comeback effort late into playtime—securing them yet another notch under victory belt!

As fans eagerly await future games between these two competitive squads: mark calendars now! Next up is another thrilling encounter scheduled September 13th when they meet again right here home turf starting promptly @2:20 PM EDT broadcast live via MARQ network coverage available across region-wide channels so don’t miss chance catch all action firsthand! Share this article if you enjoyed reading about today's exciting match-up!