The Cubs turned a tight game into a rout with five runs over the final three innings, defeating the Cardinals 6-1 at Busch Stadium. What began as a pitcher's duel became a showcase for Chicago's late-inning offense.
Ben Brown earned the victory with seven innings of three-hit ball, allowing one run while striking out six. The right-hander carried a 1.92 ERA and improved to 2-2 on the season. Brown worked efficiently through 82 pitches, keeping St. Louis off balance throughout his outing.
Pete Crow-Armstrong led the Cubs' offensive charge, going 4-for-5 with a home run and two RBIs. His 444-foot homer in the eighth inning extended Chicago's lead to 4-1. Crow-Armstrong also delivered an RBI single in the ninth inning that scored Seiya Suzuki. Michael Busch contributed two RBIs, including a sacrifice fly in the sixth that gave the Cubs a 3-1 advantage.
Ryan Fernandez suffered his first loss of the season for St. Louis, allowing two runs in one inning of relief work with a 1.86 ERA. The Cardinals managed just five hits and committed three errors in the defeat. JJ Wetherholt provided the lone bright spot for the home team, going 3-for-4.
Chicago snapped a one-game losing streak and improved to 31-27. St. Louis fell to 30-25 after winning their previous game. Ian Happ finished 2-for-5 and sits one hit away from 1,000 career hits.