Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (4/18/23): Cubs 4, A’s 0 – Stroman Shines in Shutout

The Cubs went into Tuesday’s game with a chance to win their fourth consecutive series and set up a potential sweep in Oakland. It was a pitching duel for most of the game before Chicago finally broke it open late for a shutout win.

Both teams left the bases loaded in the opening inning, after which the starters dominated. Marcus Stroman settled in nicely, going six strong with just two hits allowed. Ken Waldichuk was just as good for the Athletics and the contest remained scoreless through seven.

The Cubs finally got to reliever Trevor May in the top of the 8th inning. Seiya Suzuki walked and moved to third on a Patrick Wisdom double. Cody Bellinger put the road team ahead with a single to right and Wisdom came in to score on a Yan Gomes RBI groundout.

Nick Madrigal got a base hit up the middle off of Richard Lovelady to score Bellinger. A’s right fielder Conner Capel committed an error on a Nico Hoerner line drive and Madrigal hustled home with the Cubs’ fourth run of the inning.

Oakland never really threatened and Chicago won easily 4-0. (Box score)

Key Moment

Stroman coaxed Tony Kemp to ground out with the bases loaded in the bottom of the 1st. The Cubs hurler was vulnerable in the opening frame but he was terrific rest of the way after settling in.

Why the Cubs Won

The pitching was great and they took advantage of their opportunity with runners in scoring position in the 8th.

Stats That Matter

• Stroman has been outstanding every appearance in 2023: 6 IP, 0 R, 2 H, 5 K, and 2 BB.
• Suzuki had a perfect night with two hits and three walks.
• Mark Leiter Jr., Michael Fulmer, and Michael Rucker all pitched scoreless innings to preserve the shutout.

Bottom Line

The Cubs keep finding ways to win series, and it was great pitching and timely hitting on Tuesday. Quality starts are giving Chicago a chance to win almost every day and Stroman is performing very much like an ace.

On Deck

The Cubs go for a sweep Wednesday afternoon at 3:37pm CT. Justin Steele matches up with A’s top pitching prospect Mason Miller, who makes his major league debut in a game airing on Marquee and 670 The Score.