Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (8/23/21): Cubs 6, Rockies 4 – Ortega Walk-Off Home Run Leads Cubs to Win
Kyle Hendricks took the mound against Antonio Senzatela in the series opener, leading the league in wins with 14. Hendricks pitched well his last time out, holding Cincinnati one earned run and three hits in six innings of work.
Unfortunately, that didn’t carry over into tonight’s contest as the Rockies jumped out to an early 3-0 lead in the 1st. The Cubs got on the board in the 6th when David Bote grounded into a double play with the bases loaded. Colorado regained their three-run advantage with a sacrifice fly in the next frame.
The Cubs mounted a comeback in the 8th, scoring three runs and tying the game at 4-4. Rafael Ortega played hero in the bottom of the 9th with a walk-off two-run blast to give the Cubs the win by a final of 6-4. (Box Score)
Why the Cubs Won
Clutch hitting in crunch time resulted in tonight’s victory.
Key Moments
Tied 4-4 in the 9th, Ortega finally gave Cubs fans something to smile about.
Stats That Matter
- Codi Heuer pitched a perfect 8th. He continues to impress since coming over from the White Sox.
- Ortega went 1-for-4 with 2 RBIs and a walk. His season average sits at .306.
Bottom Line
In a lost season, it’s nice to have these kinds of nights to maintain any morsel level of morale in the clubhouse.
On Deck
Justin Steele (2-2, 3.22 ERA) squares off against Germán Márquez (11-9, 3.80 ERA) in game two of the series. First pitch is scheduled for 7:05 pm CT on Marquee, 670 The Score, and WRTO for Spanish Speakers.