The Cubs stole that game. They stole it.
For so many reasons you could point to in the immediate aftermath of the Cubs’ comeback win tonight, you could argue they had no business beating the Nationals.
First, the Cubs were once again no-hit by a dominant Nationals starting pitcher through two thirds of the game. Second, the Cubs made four errors (in a one-run postseason game!!!), one of which was an especially bad goof by Kyle Schwarber, which directly led to the the Cubs’ cruising starter being pulled, and then led to the Nationals’ run when it seemed like the inning was over. Third, the Cubs were gifted some strange bullpen decisions that led to Anthony Rizzo being in position to give the Cubs the lead.
I’m dumbfounded.
And thrilled. So very thrilled. It’s a credit to these Cubs that they still figured out a way to win the game when it seemed like there was no way they could.
Much love to Ben Zobrist for coming through at the plate with the first hit of the night. Much love to Albert Almora for driving in Zobrist with the game-tying run in the 7th. Much love to Tommy La Stella for working a walk that led to the leading run. And much love to Dusty Baker for pitching to Anthony Rizzo with first base open and two outs.
Last but not least, of course, much love to the Cubs’ pitching in this one, which was once again brilliant. Jose Quintana was not at all flapped by the moment, Pedro Strop gave up the game-tying double, but ended that threat and then came back out to pitch a clean inning. Carl Edwards Jr. shook off the Game Two nightmare by cruising and pumping his fists. And then Wade Davis did as Wade Davis does.
What a freaking game. The Cubs now have a chance to win this series tomorrow before it even heads back to Washington.