How Chicago Cubs grind out 3-2 win over Pittsburgh Pirates with Ian Happ's clutch hit
How Chicago Cubs grind out 3-2 win over Pittsburgh Pirates with Ian Happ's clutch hit (Image Source: Getty Images)
Ian Happ's clutch tenth-inning walk-off single against the Pittsburgh Pirates represents more than just another victory for the Chicago Cubs – it exemplifies the mental toughness and execution under pressure that championship contenders possess.
The dramatic 3-2 triumph at Wrigley Field on Sunday showcased exactly why the Chicago Cubs currently lead the National League Central division while their Pennsylvania rivals struggle at the bottom of the standings. Happ's game-winning liner to right field, delivered after Jon Berti struck out with runners on second and third base, demonstrated the veteran outfielder's ability to perform in high-leverage situations that separate division leaders from also-rans.
Ian Happ's clutch gene surfaces when Chicago Cubs need it most
Ian Happ (Image Source: Getty Images)
The importance of walk-off heroics by Ian Happ goes well beyond the on-field euphoria of the prevailing 40,162 adoring Wrigley Field fans. This instance summarises the advantageous mindset of closing out games by the Chicago Cubs, who were better at one-run games, with a record of 12 wins to 6 losses in such games, this season. The strategic depth of Happ being able to come through after the Chicago Cubs pulled off a perfect double steal against Pittsburgh Pirates closer David Bednar (1-5) is what makes a difference between contenders and pretenders in the most competitive divisions in Major League Baseball.
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The Chicago Cubs' flow chart of manufacturing the runs that work extra innings (using the double steal to get runners in scoring position) is an indication of the tactical skills of manager Craig Counsell and his players in executing the plays under the highest pressure. Although the Pittsburgh Pirates have been unable to finish close games all through 2025, the Chicago Cubs still have exhibited the mental toughness that title teams need when it comes to playing a 162-game season.
Chicago Cubs establish dominance over struggling Pittsburgh Pirates in crucial series
This was a walk-off win to complete a stellar series as the Chicago Cubs won three of four games against its National League Central division opponents, as it expanded its division lead, and the Pittsburgh Pirates continued a last-place finish. All three matches in this crucial series were won by one run, but the Chicago Cubs always managed to win when matches were still on the line.
The juxtaposition in the series was that although the Chicago Cubs (Chris Flexen, 4-0) were able to provide a perfect bottom of the tenth inning, the Pittsburgh Pirates could only see their bullpen woes continue to overshadow the perfect chance of saving the game by David Bednar.
It now has a streak of 14 consecutive losses by Pittsburgh Pirates starter Mitch Keller, who has also reduced his earned run average to 4.08, an indicator of the franchise's inability to translate good outings into a win.
Chicago Cubs fans can catch their team's next action on Tuesday at Wrigley Field when right-hander Ben Brown (3-5, 5.71 ERA) faces Milwaukee Brewers starter Chad Patrick (3-6, 3.25 ERA) following Monday's scheduled off day.
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Ian Happ's walk-off moment presents a great picture of why the Chicago Cubs remain leaders of the National League Central and the Pirates have yet to find synergy. These pressure-laden wins can make October fates, and the way the Chicago Cubs can perform when it counts the most is a good sign for the club's championship hopes.
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