Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (5/1/23): Cubs 5, Nationals 1 – Swanson Leads Charge as Skid Stops in DC

The Cubs needed to bounce back from a sweep at the hands of the Marlins over the weekend with a win over the Nationals on Monday night. Chicago got back on track with early offense and quality starting pitching to take home the victory.

Cody Bellinger singled and stole second to start a two-out rally in the top of the 1st. Seiya Suzuki had a line drive base hit to score Bellinger and he would advance to third on a botched pick-off attempt by Washington starter MacKenzie Gore. Trey Mancini then doubled to dead center, scoring Suzuki and putting the Cubs ahead 2-0.

Drew Smyly made his only big mistake in the 2nd inning on a solo home run by Lane Thomas that cut the lead in half. The lefty starter was outstanding after that, going seven strong innings against an overmatched Nats lineup.

Dansby Swanson hit a two-run homer in the top of the 5th to give the North Siders a 4-1 edge, then Ian Happ added a solo shot in the 9th. The Cubs prevailed rather easily to snap their three-game losing streak. (Box score)

D.C. stands for Dansby Crushes.@LieutenantDans7 pic.twitter.com/0SYuREwrMz

— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 2, 2023

Key Moment

Suzuki’s RBI single in the opening inning was a big moment after the Cubs had been so frustrated with runners in scoring position against Miami. They followed it up with another hit to give them all the scoring they would need.

Why the Cubs Won

Smyly completely dominated Washington and his teammates provided a couple of home runs for insurance.

Stats That Matter

• Smyly has been great almost all season and was aggressive against a weak lineup: 7 IP, 1 R, 6 H, 2 K, and 0 BB.
• Swanson had three hits and also got a little cut on his face sliding into second base on a double. Fans don’t need to worry, though, he still looks pretty good.
• Yan Gomes got hit in the head by a backswing while catching and had to leave the game.

Bottom Line

That was a much-needed win after a very frustrating series in South Florida. The Cubs continue to get very good starting pitching early in 2023 and Swanson is starting to provide more power with the weather heating up.

On Deck

Game two of the series is Tuesday at 6:05pm CT. Hayden Wesneski takes the mound against former Cub Trevor Williams with coverage available on Marquee and 670 The Score.