Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (8/25/20): Tigers 7, Cubs 1 – Tigers Bust Out Against Cubs, Quintana Returns to Mound

The Chicago Cubs got their offense rolling against the Detroit Tigers Monday at Comerica Park with a 9-run outburst. Tuesday was a new day with much, much different results, however, as Detroit jumped out to a big lead and kept it throughout.

Tyler Chatwood came off the injured list to make the start and the rust was evident. He allowed two runs in the 1st on a Miguel Cabrera single and a sacrifice fly before stranding the bases loaded. When Chatwood loaded them again in the 2nd, his day was done.

Duane Underwood Jr. took over and got back to back strikeouts to end the threat. The Cubs got numerous chances with men on base, but Detroit’s Spencer Turnbull kept getting off the hook.

Jose Quintana made his season debut in the 3rd inning and looked very impressive. Q slowed down in the 6th and he allowed the first three batters to reach before being lifted for Casey Sadler. Later in the inning, Jonathan Schoop put the game on ice, blasting a long grand slam to left field and Detroit would go on to a 7-1 victory. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Lost

The offense could do nothing with numerous chances, while the Tigers eventually cashed in on theirs.

Key Moment

Javier Baez batted with two on and two out in the top of the 5th and the Cubs trailing 2-0. But Báez smashed a line drive right at former Cub Jeimer Candelario at first base to end the frame.

Stats That Matter

• Quintana was very good before he lost steam: 3 IP, 3 R, 4 H, 3 K, and 1 BB. Look for him to get a shot in the rotation over Chatwood.
• Willson Contreras homered for the Cubs only run in the 9th inning, which was nice to see.

Bottom Line

This flat effort against a bad team has to be a disappointment for the Cubs. On the plus side, Quintana looked healthy and should be able to contribute this year.

On Deck

The rubber-match of the series is Wednesday at 6:10 pm CT. Jon Lester looks to bounce back from a bad start as he takes on Michael Fulmer in a game broadcast on Marquee.