Cubs Force Game 5: Boyd and Happ Rescue Chicago at Wrigley

Chicago Cubs Force Game 5 with a Commanding Victory

In an electrifying atmosphere at Wrigley Field, the Chicago Cubs triumphed over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 4 of the National League Division Series, forcing a decisive Game 5 in Milwaukee. The victory, with a score of 6-0, was driven by key performances from players seeking redemption. Starting pitcher Matthew Boyd and left fielder Ian Happ led the Cubs’ attack from the start. Boyd pitched 4⅔ scoreless innings, while Happ hit a three-run home run in the first inning, igniting the home crowd.

The guys have been supporting me throughout the postseason, so contributing at that moment and giving us the lead was incredible for me.

Ian Happ

Happ, who had struggled in the postseason, connected on a pitch from Freddy Peralta, the Brewers’ starter, which unleashed euphoria in the stadium. The crowd, with more than 41,000 fans, chanted Peralta’s name, generating an atmosphere of pressure.

This crowd affected the game in the last two games. It certainly affected the way we played.

Pat Murphy, Brewers Manager

Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner commented on the energy of the crowd, comparing it to the chants in favor of Johnny Cueto in the past. Boyd, after a short outing in Game 1, showed a remarkable recovery. Cubs manager Craig Counsell highlighted the importance of the first inning for Boyd’s performance. Catcher Carson Kelly was fundamental in Boyd’s performance, who managed to adjust his game. The pitcher showed himself as the player everyone knew, achieving an excellent performance.

It was a good time for him to be really good.

Dansby Swanson

Boyd praised the fans for their support, describing the atmosphere as “another level.” Murphy acknowledged the difference in Boyd’s performance compared to Game 1.

He was on it. He didn’t leave the ball in the middle. He made quality pitches. He threw his curve for a strike. He made pitches when needed. He was fabulous.

Pat Murphy, Brewers Manager

Boyd left the game after allowing 2 hits, 3 walks, and striking out 6 batters. Kyle Tucker and Michael Busch’s home runs extended the Cubs’ lead.

I have never seen a baseball game like this. What they did tonight was incredible.

Craig Counsell, Cubs Manager

Happ, with experience in October baseball at Wrigley Field, valued the opportunity to play in front of the fans and give them a memorable night.

Doing it in this environment, in this stadium, in front of these fanatics… They’ve been here every day. It doesn’t matter if it’s a Tuesday in mid-June, they’re here. There are 40,000 people here. Giving them that experience and hearing that roar was really special.

Ian Happ