Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (8/17/22): Cubs 3, Nationals 2 – Catchers Lead Cubs to Win

The Cubs were looking to win the rubber match of their series with the Nationals on Wednesday afternoon. Quality pitching performances and a clutch hit late combined to bring home a series win.

Washington took the lead in the 2nd inning on a run-scoring single from Cesar Hernandez. Former Cub farmhand Cory Abbott was pitching very well on Wednesday and kept the Cubs scoreless through four.

P.J. Higgins gave Chicago a lead in the 5th inning with a two-run homer that just got over the wall in left field. Drew Smyly was good but the Nationals were able to tie the game on a RBI ground out in the 6th.

Framil Reyes doubled in the 7th and came around to score on a single by Yan Gomes to make it 3-2 Cubs. The bullpen was excellent from there and the road team sealed the one-run victory. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Won

After some bullpen issues in the first two games of the series, Cubs relievers were much better on Wednesday. Giving the offense just enough room to pull out the win.

Eye on the Future

• Seiya Suzuki is mired in a pretty big slump right now and is hitting just .163 (9-55) in August.
• Higgins could be an interesting bench bat going forward.

Stats That Matter

• Another solid start for Smyly, who has been very good down the stretch: 5.1 IP, 2 R, 4 H, 4 K, and 0 BB.
• Steven Brault returned from the IL and threw two solid innings of relief on Wednesday.
• Reyes had a pair of doubles and has 11 hits, including five for extra bases, in seven games as a Cub.

Bottom Line

Chicago may have a real find with Franmil Reyes, if so, it would certainly help solidify the lineup going into 2023.

On Deck

The Cubs head to Baltimore Thursday for a make up game with the Orioles at 2:05pm CT. Adrian Sampson duels with Spenser Watkins in a broadcast available on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.