Cubs Defeat Twins 8-2 with Homers
- Ian Happ and Michael Busch hit home runs leading the Cubs to a decisive 8-2 victory over the Twins.
- Five Chicago pitchers combined to limit Minnesota to just six hits throughout the game.
- This performance marks a significant achievement for the Cubs in the ongoing season.
CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Cubs showcased a strong performance on Wednesday, defeating the Minnesota Twins 8-2, thanks to home runs from Ian Happ and Michael Busch. The Cubs' pitching staff excelled, combining for a six-hitter, with Javier Assad starting the game and Jorge López earning the win after pitching two innings. This victory marked the Cubs' sixth win in their last eight games, as they clinched the final two matches of the three-game series. The game took a turn when Twins starter Joe Ryan exited in the third inning due to right triceps tightness. Trevor Richards, who replaced Ryan, struggled significantly, allowing three runs while walking five batters and throwing two wild pitches. One of these wild pitches allowed a run to score, and the Cubs capitalized further with a bases-loaded walk from Seiya Suzuki. Assad, who pitched four innings, allowed three hits and both runs for the Twins, while striking out one and walking two. The Cubs' bullpen effectively contained the Twins' offense, limiting them to just three hits after Assad's departure. In the eighth inning, Dansby Swanson and Christian Bethancourt contributed additional runs off reliever Caleb Theilbar. Looking ahead, the Cubs will have a day off before facing their crosstown rivals, the White Sox, on Friday. Meanwhile, the Twins are set to start RHP Bailey Ober in one of their upcoming games, although the Guardians have yet to announce their starters.