Cubs Stage Dramatic Comeback to Avoid Sweep Against Pirates The Chicago Cubs delivered a thrilling 7-6 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 12, 2026, in a dramatic ninth-inning walk-off win that salvaged the series after a frustrating weekend. The game, which saw the Cubs fall behind early and face a potential sweep, became a testament to resilience, with key contributions from multiple players and a standout performance from starting pitcher Jameson Taillon. The Cubs entered the game with a 3-1 deficit in the bottom of the ninth, bases loaded, and one out. Carson Kelly, the team’s rookie second baseman, stepped up with a game-winning single to the warning track in right-center field, sending the crowd into a frenzy. The walk-off hit, which came after a sequence of clutch hits and defensive plays, marked a turning point for the Cubs, who had struggled to string together offensive success earlier in the season. The comeback began in the third inning when Dansby Swanson launched a solo home run to center field, igniting the Cubs’ offense. Swanson’s power play was a critical early spark, setting the tone for the team’s eventual rally. However, the Cubs’ offensive struggles persisted throughout much of the game, with the Pirates capitalizing on defensive lapses and timely hits. The Pirates’ lead grew to three runs by the fifth inning, and the Cubs’ offense appeared to be in a rut. Despite the challenges, the Cubs’ bullpen held the Pirates in check, allowing just one run over the final four innings. Jameson Taillon, who had been criticized for his earlier struggles, pitched six innings of solid ball, allowing six earned runs but limiting damage with key strikeouts and defensive plays.#chicago_cubs #pittsburgh_pirates #dansby_swanson #jameson_taillon #carson_kelly
Cubs, Nico Hoerner Agree to 6-Year Extension The Chicago Cubs have secured second baseman Nico Hoerner with a six-year contract extension, keeping him under team control through the 2029 season. The deal, reported by ESPN, prevents Hoerner from becoming a free agent after the 2025 season. Financial details of the agreement remain undisclosed, and the Cubs have not officially announced the signing. Hoerner, 28, struggled in his debut with the Cubs, going 0 for 4 in the team’s Opening Day loss to the Washington Nationals. However, his overall performance in 2024 was impressive. Last season, he posted a .297 batting average with a .345 on-base percentage and .394 slugging percentage, along with 29 stolen bases. His strikeout rate was among the lowest among qualified hitters, and his defensive skills earned him a Gold Glove Award. Over the past four seasons, Hoerner has consistently contributed around 4 wins above replacement (WAR), solidifying his status as one of baseball’s most underrated players. The extension comes as part of a broader effort by the Cubs to retain key players ahead of free agency. Earlier this week, the team also signed center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong to a six-year, $115 million contract. With shortstop Dansby Swanson already locked in through 2029, the Cubs have ensured their infielders—Hoerner, Crow-Armstrong, and Swanson—will remain together for at least three more seasons. All three are Gold Glove defenders, and their combined offensive and defensive value is considered nearly irreplaceable. The decision to extend Hoerner aligns with predictions made by analysts earlier in the season. With several core players set to hit free agency, including Ian Happ, Shota Imanaga, Seiya Suzuki, Jameson Taillon, and others, the Cubs were expected to prioritize long-term deals.#chicago_cubs #mlb #pete_crowarmstrong #nico_hoerner #dansby_swanson
