The Cubs were in great shape to extend their six-game winning streak against the Pirates at Wrigley Field Monday night, holding a 3-0 lead through seven innings. That’s when disaster struck for Chicago, however, with a bullpen meltdown in the 8th inning and an absolute gut-punch of a loss that might derail their playoff chances.
Dansby Swanson put the North Siders ahead with a solo home run off Jared Jones in the 3rd inning. Jameson Taillon pitched very well and kept Pittsburgh quiet despite being treated with a heating pad for a stiff back throughout his outing.