Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (5/31/21): Cubs 7, Padres 2 – Javy Leads Homer Party at Wrigley
The Cubs celebrated Memorial Day with a fireworks display at Wrigley, blasting five home runs off San Diego in an easy win. Even as the injuries continue to mount, more players are stepping up and stepping forward to fuel victories.
The Padres jumped on top in the 2nd when Jake Cronenworth singled home a runner who reached on a Javy Báez error. Javy atoned for that mistake with a tape-measure two-run homer against Chris Paddack in the 3rd. That was just the beginning of the Cubs’ home run explosion Monday, as red-hot Patrick Wisdom had a solo shot in the 4th and Kris Bryant went opposite field for a two-run jack in the 5th.
Kohl Stewart was terrific in his spot start, going five strong innings for a strong Cubs debut. Wisdom and Báez each added second solo dongs in the later innings to pad the 7-2 Cubs victory. (Box score)
Why the Cubs Won
Any time a team hits five home runs in a game, their odds to win improve dramatically.
Key Moment
Padres center fielder Jurickson Profar dove for a Bryant liner in the 3rd inning and missed it. KB made it to third on the play for a triple and scored on Báez’s go-ahead shot.
Stats That Matter
- Stewart has earned another start: 5 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 3 H, 2 K, and 1 BB.
- Wisdom also had a single for his first-career three-hit game.
- Every Cubs run came via the homer.
Bottom Line
The Cubs rebounded nicely from Sunday’s loss. If Báez and Bryant can go on a tear, things could really get interesting.
On Deck
Game two of the series is Tuesday is at 7:05pm CT. Kyle Hendricks faces Ryan Weathers in a game available on Marquee and 670 The Score.
