Cubs defeat Rangers with a score of 9-5

In a thrilling game on Sunday, the Chicago Cubs managed to secure a 9-5 victory over the Texas Rangers, thanks to a four-run ninth inning rally. Ian Happ was the star of the game, tying his career high with four hits and drawing a tiebreaking bases-loaded walk from José Leclerc.

The game was tied 4-4 heading into the ninth inning when Leclerc walked Michael Busch, allowed Nico Hoerner’s swinging-bunt single, and walked Mike Tauchman to load the bases. Miles Mastrobuoni grounded into a forceout at the plate before Happ stepped up to the plate. Despite falling behind in the count 1-2, Happ displayed patience and worked a full-count walk to bring in a crucial run. Seiya Suzuki then delivered a two-run single, followed by Cody Bellinger’s single to bring in the final run.

Manager Craig Counsell praised his team’s performance in the ninth inning, highlighting the players’ patience and ability to capitalize on opportunities. Héctor Neris pitched a one-hit eighth inning, and the Cubs bullpen shut out the Rangers over the final five innings.

The Rangers struggled with their pitching, walking nine batters and allowing 12 hits. Despite a strong start with Christopher Morel’s three-run homer in the first inning, the Rangers couldn’t hold off the Cubs’ late-game surge.

The Cubs will now head home for their opener against the Colorado Rockies, with Shota Imanaga set to start on the mound. Meanwhile, the Rangers will face the Tampa Bay Rays, with Dan Dunning taking the mound in hopes of bouncing back from their loss to the Cubs.