Mariners End Cubs’ Winning Streak with Dramatic Walk-Off

The Chicago Cubs experienced a dramatic loss in a game against the Seattle Mariners. Jacob Webb had a commendable streak of scoreless outings, but it ended at a crucial moment. The Cubs faced a tough back-to-back walk-off losses series with the Mariners, with Webb’s streak ending in the process.

Early in the game, the Cubs managed to disrupt Mariners’ pitcher Kade Anderson, making his major league debut, in the sixth inning. They overcame a slow start to gain a two-run lead. Ian Happ’s struggles as a switch-hitter remained evident, affecting the team’s momentum. Webb handled the first two Mariners hitters efficiently but gave up a double to Weston Wilson and an RBI single to Leo Rivas, which set the stage for a walk-off ending.

Randy Arozarena had already impacted the game twice, first hitting a homerun off David Peterson’s initial pitch and later denying Miguel Amaya a home run with a remarkable catch. In the ninth inning, Arozarena capitalized on a poorly executed slider from Webb, smashing it 404 feet to secure a walk-off two-run home run and a 5-4 victory for the Mariners. Webb acknowledged his misstep and the pressure of facing a strong lineup, stating, “I didn’t execute today.”
“I’m human,” Webb reflected on his previous streak, focusing on regrouping for future games.

It’s unfortunate when you give up some runs that obviously results in a loss, but he’s been so good and the other side’s trying to get you and they got him today. – Cubs Manager Craig Counsell

Webb’s streak ended with three runs given up, marking his first runs allowed since June 20. In Cubs history, only two other relievers have achieved 24 or more consecutive scoreless outings: Andrew Chafin in 2021 and Mark Guthrie in 2003.

David Peterson gave the Cubs a solid start, holding the Mariners to two runs over six innings. His performance had consistently provided the Cubs opportunities to score. Acquired from the Mets, Peterson has adapted well, especially through injuries in the Cubs’ rotation. In his last eight games, he has recorded a notable 2.20 ERA. Peterson expressed his readiness to contribute in any role, whether as a starter or reliever.

The Cubs’ offense showed strength against starters late in games. Entering with an .826 OPS on a lineup’s third appearance versus a starter, the Cubs ranked second in MLB. This proved challenging for the Mariners in the sixth inning when Alex Bregman hit his third home run in two games, tying the score. Michael Busch immediately followed with another home run, marking the Cubs’ fifth back-to-back homers of the season.

Nico Hoerner and Tyrone Taylor extended Cubs’ lead with consecutive doubles, ultimately putting them ahead by 4-2. However, after these advances, the Cubs couldn’t score in the final three innings, failing to get any hits in that period.

Sunday’s game presents an opportunity for the Cubs to avoid being swept as they pin their hopes on left-hander Shota Imanaga. Currently, they hold a slim lead in the National League wild-card race, now at risk with their three-game losing streak, especially as the Philadelphia Phillies continue their eight-game winning run.