Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (3/20/21): Cubs 4, Rockies 2 – Homers By Bryant and Marisnick Back Solid Williams Outing

The Chicago Cubs headed into their second meeting with the Colorado Rockies in Cactus League play looking to extend their three-game winning streak.

Kris Bryant went deep in the 6th for his first home run this spring, a long bomb to left-field. Jake Marisnick also went deep for a two-run shot in the 5th inning.

Meanwhile, in the booth, Beth Mowins made history as the first woman to handle play-by-play on a Cubs broadcast.  Pretty cool. (Box score)

Why the Cubs Won

Trevor Williams had a strong start, allowing one run on three hits in 5.0 IP. The Cubs’ offense cashed in on most of their scoring opportunities, scoring four runs on six hits.

Key Moments

The Cubs’ offense got started quickly. Ian Happ led off the game with a ground-rule double over the left-field wall. After advancing to third on Joc Pederson‘s groundout to second base, Happ scored the Cubs’ first run on Kris Bryant‘s ground ball to third.

Jason Heyward‘s leadoff double in the 5th inning put pressure on Gomber. He was replaced by Jairo Díaz after Eric Sogard was retired on a groundout to first base. Díaz’s first offering hung over the middle of the plate for Marisnick, who drove it over the centerfield fence to give the Cubs a 3-1 lead.

Stats that Matter

• Three of the Cubs’ six hits went for extra bases (Happ 2B, Marisnick and Bryant HRs)
• Williams pitched five innings, allowing one run and striking out four Rockies batters. His ERA is 1.32 over four Cactus League starts.
• Craig Kimbrel pitched a perfect 7th inning with two strikeouts.
• Pedro Strop made his spring debut and recorded the save for the Northsiders.

Bottom Line

The Cubs extended their winning streak to four games and now head into the final full week of preseason action.

On Deck

The Cubs will remain at home on Sunday to face division rival Cincinnati Reds at 3:05 PM CT. Tyler Mahle, who is expected to be the Reds #3 starter in 2021, will face Alec Mills. Listen on 670 The Score or watch on Marquee Sports Network.