Cubs, PCA Power Past Dodgers

Dodgers' shortstop Mookie Betts fired back in the top of the fifth inning, hitting a game-tying RBI double, and Hernandez followed it up with a two-run homer to make it 5-3 Dodgers.

The Cubs’ offense took the lead right back in the bottom half of the fifth inning thanks to a clutch RBI single from Dansby Swanson, a SAC fly from Nico Hoerner, and, to no one’s surprise, an RBI single from Crow-Armstrong to give the Cubs a 7-5 advantage.

Dodgers’ outfielder Andy Pages hit a solo home run in the top of the sixth inning, but thanks to a locked-in Cubs bullpen, that was the last run the Dodgers would put up for the rest of the night. 

Matthew Boyd took the win on the mound for the Cubs, posting his third quality start of 2025 and second against the Dodgers this year. The left-hander tossed six innings with four strikeouts, one walk, and just 3 earned runs. Cubs’ relievers Daniel Palencia and Julian Merryweather each posted scoreless frames and earned holds, and Porter Hodges shut things down in the ninth inning to earn his first save of the season.

Crow-Armstrong led Cubs hitters for the night, going 3 for 4 with a home run, four RBIs, and two stolen bases. It was his second straight three-hit night, as well as his second straight night with a home run. Crow-Armstrong has also been excellent against Dodgers' pitching this year, with a .345 batting average, four home runs, and 12 RBIs against the defending World Series champions. 

The win for the Cubs gives them a 4-3 season series win over the Dodgers and a 16-10 overall record.

After an off day on Thursday, the Cubs stay at home and host the Philadelphia Phillies starting on Friday at 1:20 PM. Right-hander Colin Rea will take the ball for the home team, who owns a 1.32 ERA in 13.2 innings pitched this year. He will face off against Taijuan Walker, who has a 1-1 record and a 2.29 ERA.