Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (5/9/21): Pirates 6, Cubs 5 – Cubs Late Rally Falls Short, Win Streak Snapped at Five

The Cubs were aiming for a second consecutive series sweep on a brisk Mother’s Day at Wrigley Field. Unfortunately for Chicago, the Pirates seemingly could do nothing wrong Sunday, particularly in the first inning, and salvaged a victory in the final game of the series.

It was a frustrating afternoon for Kyle Hendricks from the start. Five soft singles, a walk, and a throwing error from shortstop Ildemaro Vargas gave Pittsburgh a 4-0 lead in the opening inning.

Kris Bryant doubled and scored on a Joc Pederson single in the 2nd inning. The Pirates responded the next half-inning, a Wilmer Difo triple keyed a two-run inning.

A 6-1 lead appeared to be more than enough for Bucs starter Tyler Anderson. The big lefty had the Cubs off-balance in eight strong frames. Chicago staged a furious 9th inning rally which cut the lead to 6-5 but Javy Báez, still battling a stiff back, grounded out to end it. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

The Pirates got a month’s worth of BABIP luck in a single inning, which was just barely enough to pull out a win.

Key Moment 

Difo hit a two-run bloop single with two outs in the 1st inning to give Pittsburgh a 3-0 lead. Cubs center fielder Jake Marisnick injured his hamstring on the play and had to leave the game.

Stats That Matter

• Pederson had three hits after coming in for Marisnick.
• The Professor deserved a better fate: 5 IP, 6 R, 4 ER, 9 H, 3 K, and 1 BB.
• Vargas had a two-run double in the 9th.

Bottom Line

Sunday’s outcome was a disappointment, still, a 5-1 homestand is pretty good. Losing Marisnick for significant time would not be fun, he has been a big contributor.

On Deck

The Cubs head to Cleveland for two games on Tuesday and Wednesday, seems to ring a faint bell. Tuesday’s game features Adbert Alzolay taking on ace Shane Bieber at 5:10pm CT in a contest airing on Marquee and 670 The Score. You can also watch live on fuboTV (in-market), just click the link and sign up now for a free trial.