Game 4: Cubs’ Bullpen Struggles in Heartbreaking 9-8 Loss to Padres

On a day when the country was fixated on a rare total eclipse, the Cubs faced a unique game against the Padres. Initially in cruise control early in San Diego, the Cubs put up 4 runs in the 2nd and 4th innings for an 8-0 lead. However, things quickly turned around as the Padres tallied 7 runs in the 6th inning, taking an unexpected lead.

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Fernando Tatis Jr. hit a game-winning 2-run shot in the 8th inning, resulting in an 9-8 loss for the Cubs. This marked the first time since June 2002 against the White Sox that the Cubs had blown an 8-run lead.

The Cubs’ bullpen struggled throughout the game, giving up 7 runs (5 earned), despite learning they would be without a key reliever for several months beforehand. Manager Craig Counsell mentioned after the game that the team couldn’t make the necessary pitches to stop