Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (8/23/25): Cubs 12, Angels 1 – Tucker Homers Twice in Big Win

The Cubs and Angels got together for the second matchup their series at the Big A Saturday night. Chicago finally got the big offensive explosion they have been waiting for and Kyle Tucker led the way with a huge performance.

Tucker put the North Siders on the board with a two-run homer in the top of the 3rd off of Victor Mederos. The Cubs loaded the bases against the Los Angeles starter in the following inning and Reese McGuire lifted a fly ball to right that barely cleared the wall for a grand slam to put the visitors ahead 6-0.

Cade Horton showed absolutely no ill effects from his blister and dominated, throwing 21 consecutive strikes to begin his outing. The rookie eventually went six shutout frames, allowing just three singles, and got plenty of room support from his teammates.

Chicago scored four more runs against Carson Fulmer in the top of the 6th and the big blow once again cane from King Tuck, this time a three-run shot that increased the margin to 10-0. Both teams pulled many of their starters at that point and the Cubs eventually took home a 12-1 victory. (Box score)

Key Moment

The McGuire grand slam happened with two outs in the 4th inning and pretty much put the game out of reach for Los Angeles.

Why the Cubs Won

The hitters unloaded on the Angels’ pitching staff and made it a laugher.

Stats That Matter

• Horton continues to dominate in the second half: 6 IP, 0 R, 3 H, 7 K, 1 BB.
• Tucker had a double in addition to his two homers and five RBI.
• McGuire also had five RBI at the bottom of the order.

Bottom Line

With the caveat that it’s only been two games, it seems like Tucker may be back to his first half form. Possibly an even better sign for Chicago is the fact that Horton is getting better seemingly every start. They might finally be developing the homegrown ace they have been lacking for a long time.

On Deck

The Cubs go for the sweep Sunday afternoon at 3:07pm CT. Jameson Taillon takes the mound against a young up-and-comer named Kyle Hendricks in a potentially emotional game airing on Marquee with a radio feed on 670 The Score.