Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (8/6/22): Cubs 4, Marlins 0 – Smyly Sharp in Quality Start
The Chicago Cubs were looking to win their second straight game over the Miami Marlins on Saturday, after beating the Marlins 2-1 on Friday. Drew Smyly was fantastic today and he got enough offense to back him up and get the win.
The Cubs’ bats were cold in the first three innings today against Marlins starter Pablo Lopez, who held the Cubs to just one hit until the 4th inning. Ian Happ doubled with one out in that frame and scored on a single by Nico Hoerner to give the Cubs an early 1-0 lead.
Christopher Morel led off the 5th with a single, followed by a single by Rafael Ortega. Willson Contreras singled to drive in Morel. Ortega would score on a groundout double play ball hit by Seiya Suzuki giving the Cubs a three run lead.
P.J. Higgins put the cherry on top with a solo blast onto Waveland in the bottom of the 6th. Mark Leiter Jr. was solid the rest of the way and the Cubs cruised to an easy win. (Box Score)
Why the Cubs Won
A lockdown pitching performance and timely hitting will get the win every time. It certainly did today.
Eye on the Future
- Hoerner is good, very good: 3-for-4, 1 RBI
- Higgins had another very solid game: 2-for-3, 1 R, 1 RBI, 1 BB, 1 HR
- Morel continues to impress: 1-for-2, 1 R
Stats That Matter
- Smyly was lock-down good today: 6.2 IP, 0 R, 5 H, 1 BB, 4 K
- Leiter was also on his game: 2.1 IP, 0 R, 0 H, 1 K
- Zach McKinstry, who the Cubs received from the Dodgers in exchange for Chris Martin, has struggled mightily since coming to Chicago and is now 0-for-11 with 4 strikeouts over four games
Bottom Line
When the Cubs play well they actually look like a quality MLB team. Of course, injuries and some sub-par performances from players who won’t likely be on the roster next season have kept this team near the bottom of the standings. There’s a lot to be encouraged about, particularly the play of the younger players.
On Deck
The Cubs will go for the sweep on Sunday against the Marlins when RHP Adrian Sampson takes on Marlins LHP Jesus Luzardo. The game is scheduled for 1:20pm CT and will be broadcast on Marquee Sports Network and 670 The Score.