Chicago. – With a brilliant pitching performance and a decisive hit by Manny Machado, the San Diego Padres defeated the Chicago Cubs 3-0 at Wrigley Field, forcing a third and decisive game in the National League Wild Card Series.
The Dominican third baseman, a key figure for the franchise, hit a two-run home run in the fifth inning against left-hander Shota Imanaga, extending the Padres’ lead and securing the course of the game.
In the mound, Dylan Cease shone with 3.2 scoreless innings in what was his best postseason start. He was backed by Cuban Adrián Morejón, who dominated with 2.1 effective innings, followed by Mason Miller, who struck out five of the six rivals he faced. Venezuelan Robert Suárez closed with authority and earned a four-out save.
“I knew how important this game was. I prepared all week to compete at my best and things went well,” Cease declared after the victory.
The team led by San Diego executed its pitching plan to perfection, and with the support of Machado’s hit, managed to stay alive in the series. The victory forces a third duel, which will define who advances to the next phase of the postseason.
The decisive game between the Padres and Cubs will be played this Thursday at Wrigley Field.
The Dominican third baseman, a key figure for the franchise, hit a two-run home run in the fifth inning against left-hander Shota Imanaga, extending the Padres’ lead and securing the course of the game.
