Carson Kelly breaks Cubs' 32-year cycle drought with stellar performance

In the United States on April 1, 2025, Carson Kelly made history by becoming the first Chicago Cubs player in 32 years to hit for the cycle during a game against the Oakland Athletics at Sutter Health Park. This remarkable achievement was made possible during the Cubs' significant 18-3 victory over the A's, marking the first major league game held at the new minor league ballpark. The game was marked by several key offensive performances, including Kelly driving in five runs and Michael Busch contributing with a two-run homer and a total of four RBIs in what became an explosive night for the Cubs. Kelly's cycle included a fourth-inning homer, a two-run single in the fifth, a double in the sixth, and his race to a triple in the eighth inning that secured his cycle and concluded a 342-game drought since a Cubs player last achieved this feat. The Cubs’ dominant performance reflected not only Kelly's personal success but also the overall strength of the team's batting. They totaled 21 hits, helping right-hander Ben Brown clinch his second career win. The Cubs capitalized on the A’s pitching struggles, particularly against starter Joey Estes, as the team celebrated their historic victory in front of a sellout crowd. Cubs manager Craig Counsell acknowledged the rarity and joy of such a performance, emphasizing the excitement it brings to players and the team. The historic nature of Kelly's accomplishment cannot be overstated. Prior to this game, the last Cubs player to hit for the cycle was Mark Grace on May 9, 1993, which also serves as a symbolic reminder of how unique and challenging it is to achieve this milestone in Major League Baseball (MLB). Additionally, this was a fitting moment for the A's as they opened their new home, though it quickly turned into a challenging outing. The emotional atmosphere was amplified as all A's players wore No. 24 in honor of late Hall of Famer Rickey Henderson, who passed away five days before his 66th birthday. Henderson’s daughters participated in the ceremony by throwing out the ceremonial first pitches. Overall, the game was memorable not only for Carson Kelly as he expressed his delight and gratitude towards his teammates and supporters but also as a significant event for both franchises involved. As the Cubs celebrated a remarkable offensive display, it was clear that they could thrive in new environments despite their long history and past performances. The mixture of nostalgia and triumph exemplified the spirit of baseball, showcasing the unpredictability and excitement that keeps fans engaged across seasons.