Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/2/23): Cubs 6, A’s 1 – Small Ball Leads to Win
The Oakland A’s came to Sloan Park on Thursday for a matchup with Marcus Stroman and the Cubs. Chicago combined quality pitching with a series of timely hits to roll to victory.
Nick Madrigal ripped a two-run double down the third base line in the bottom of the 1st inning. Stroman lasted into the 3rd before hitting his pitch count allowing just a couple of weak singles. Nico Hoerner doubled and scored on an Ian Happ single in the bottom of the frame to make it 3-0.
The Cubs used two stolen bases to set up a rally in the 4th inning as Mike Tauchman and Zach McKinstry both notched RBI singles to build the lead to five. Chicago easily won the game by a score of 6-1. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Won
The Cubs were able to manufacture runs throughout the game and completely shut down the A’s offense.
Stats That Matter
- Stroman looked good in his prelude to the WBC: 2.1 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 4 K, and 1 BB.
- Madrigal had two hits and a stolen base as he continues to push for a roster spot.
- Happ picked up a couple knocks and drew a walk, all while batting right-handed.
- Rowan Wick tossed a scoreless inning as he battles to stay in the bullpen.
Bottom Line
Chicago still looks to have a lineup with limited power in 2023, so being able to manufacture offense like they did Thursday will be huge.
On Deck
The Cubs head to Peoria Friday night to take on the San Diego Padres at 7:40pm CT. Justin Steele is scheduled to make his spring debut in a game airing on Marquee and MLB Network (out-of-market only).