Chicago Cubs catcher Miguel Amaya turned as Pete Crow-Armstrong’s bat connected with the ball. The Cubs’ star and MVP candidate launched a fly ball at 106.4 mph in the third inning. It seemed destined for a home run, heading to the park’s deepest part.
However, a 10 mph wind blew it back, according to the Wrigley Field scoreboard. Pittsburgh Pirates center fielder Oneil Cruz made the catch for the second out. Amaya returned to first base.
In the fifth inning, Crow-Armstrong hit another fast ball at 103.2 mph, aiming for the seats. Again, Cruz caught it. Two powerful hits and three potential runs lost. This played a role in the Cubs’ 4-3 defeat to the Pirates.
The loss put the Cubs at an 83-67 record, tying them with the Philadelphia Phillies for the top NL wild-card spot. The Cubs hold a tiebreaker advantage, having won their season series 6-1.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell said, “Weather affects the game randomly. It’s sometimes in your favor, other times not. We got hurt today. It’s beyond our control.” He emphasized the importance of good swings, noting that on neutral days, Crow-Armstrong’s hits would have been home runs.
With twelve games left and playoffs approaching, the Cubs focus on controllable factors.
Chicago Cubs pitcher Daniel Palencia in action during the ninth inning against the Pirates. (Photo: Arthur Maiorella/Chicago Tribune)
Daniel Palencia’s performance was a highlight. Formerly the Cubs’ closer in 2025, Palencia had challenges since returning from right-elbow inflammation. In seven appearances after a scoreless inning, he posted a 9.95 ERA.
Palencia faced velocity concerns. His four-seam fastball, averaging 98.2 mph in September, had dropped from May’s 99.9 mph. He also had a career-low 6.1% whiff rate, down from last year’s 27.5%.
On Sunday, Palencia managed five whiffs among 18 pitches, averaged 98.8 mph on his fastball, and hit triple digits. He notably struck out Bryan Reynolds to end the ninth inning.
“I’m feeling better and more confident,” Palencia shared. “I’m just playing and enjoying the game. When I’m healthy and having fun, everything works.”
The Cubs’ bullpen needs internal solutions due to ongoing problems. Improvement is essential, especially with no imminent help from injured pitchers or the minors. Palencia’s return to form is vital; Sunday’s game marked only his 28th appearance this year, compared to 60 games last season.
Manager Counsell praised Palencia’s recent outing as his best since returning. “This is why you keep giving him chances. He might figure something out during a game. It’s promising, and we’re hopeful for progress.”
Palencia’s post-strikeout celebration gained notice. Cubs fans had embraced his emotional displays in high-pressure moments during last season’s playoffs.
“That’s me, enjoying baseball,” Palencia said about his visible emotions. He values being part of a team striving for victories.
Reporter Andy Martinez contributes to the Chicago Tribune.
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