Cubs Force Game 5: Boyd Resurfaces, Happ Awakens at Wrigley

Chicago Cubs Force Game 5 with a Commanding Victory

In an euphoric Wrigley Field, the Chicago Cubs defeated the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 4 of the National League Division Series, forcing a decisive Game 5 in Milwaukee. The home team counted on the performance of two key players who resurfaced to lead the victory. Starting pitcher Matthew Boyd and left fielder Ian Happ set the pace early. Boyd pitched 4⅔ scoreless innings, while Happ hit a three-run home run in the first inning, propelling the Cubs to a 6-0 victory.

“The guys have been supporting me all postseason, so contributing in that moment and giving us the lead was incredible for me,” Happ said after the game.

Ian Happ

Happ, who had underperformed in the postseason, quickly changed the narrative by connecting on a pitch from Freddy Peralta. The fans, for the most part, were chanting “Fred-dy! Fred-dy!” while Peralta struggled to control his pitches.

“This obsession affected the game in the last two games. Without a doubt, it affected the way we played,” commented Brewers manager Pat Murphy.

Pat Murphy

Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner also noticed the energy of the crowd.

“I wonder how that started,” Hoerner said with a smile. “It made me think of Johnny Cueto’s chants in Pittsburgh a long time ago.”

Nico Hoerner

Boyd, who had a short outing in the first game, responded to the criticism with a solid performance. Cubs manager Craig Counsell highlighted the importance of the first inning for Boyd.

“I know how important it was for him after Game 1 how he pitched tonight, and he gave us exactly what we needed,” Counsell said.

Craig Counsell

Boyd praised his catcher, Carson Kelly, for the adjustments made. Shortstop Dansby Swanson also highlighted Boyd’s good timing. Murphy described a different version of the pitcher he saw in Game 1. Boyd allowed 2 hits, 3 walks and struck out 6 batters. Home runs by Kyle Tucker and Michael Busch extended the Cubs’ lead, making the night easier for the bullpen. Counsell described the atmosphere as amazing. Happ, who has experienced the October atmosphere at Wrigley Field, commented on the excitement of playing in front of the fans.

“Giving them that experience and hearing that roar was really special,” Happ said.

Ian Happ