Cubs Drop a Heartbreaker, Lose 5-4 in Extras vs. Red Sox

Chicago's offense was once again dormant for most of the game. The Cubs didn't score their first run until Matt Mervis's RBI single in the top of the seventh inning. If the Cubs can find a way to get Mervis going from the DH spot, it would be a huge boost while key everyday contributors deal with injuries.

With their backs to the wall the next inning, the Cubs started the eighth with back-to-back singles from Pete Crow-Armstrong and Nico Hoerner. Mike Tauchman then cleared the bases with a clutch three-run homer to tie the game at four, giving the Cubs all the momentum.

Unfortunately, the Red Sox rallied in the bottom of the ninth and plated the winning run as Swanson couldn't corral Tyler O'Neill's pop-up into short left field.

Takeaways

The Cubs' offense for the most part was missing in action for the second straight game. Moving forward, they need to do a better job of getting on the board and doing so early. With Seiya Suzuki and Cody Bellinger both on the injured list, it's easier said than done.

With Chicago's starting pitching currently not at full strength, the onus will fall on the remaining healthy arms to provide as many innings as possible while the reinforcements make their way back.

The Cubs were fortunate that their division rivals, the Milwaukee Brewers, lost two of three to the New York Yankees this weekend. Entering play Monday, the Cubs are a half-game back of first place in the NL Central.

What's On Tap Next?

Looking to put the last two games in the rearview mirror, the Cubs seek to finish their road trip on a high note as they travel to Citi Field to face off the New York Mets in a four-game series starting Monday. Jameson Taillon will take the ball against Mets' righty Luis Severino in the series opener. First pitch is at 6:10 PM CT and the game will air on Marquee Sports Network.