Cubs Cap Off Triumphant Homestand with Series Win Against Braves
CHICAGO — The Chicago Cubs have proven that they can compete with the best in the MLB by securing a series victory over the league-leading Atlanta Braves. Despite downplaying the significance of the weekend set, manager David Ross and the Cubs know the impact this series had in capping off a triumphant homestand.
The Cubs came from behind twice in a thrilling 6-4 win at Wrigley Field on Sunday to complete a dominant week. The victory against the vaunted Braves showcased the Cubs’ ability to execute and play baseball at a high level against any team.
“This was a great homestand,” said Cubs outfielder Mike Tauchman. “The National League is running through the Braves right now, so for us to get a series win against them is evidence that we can compete with anybody if we play baseball the way we can.”
The Cubs were in a dire situation on June 8, sitting 10 games below .500 and 7 1/2 games out of first place. However, a shift in momentum and the support of the front office helped fuel the team’s turnaround.
“Momentum is a powerful thing,” Ross acknowledged. “When you play well and have the backing of the front office, it helps build confidence and belief. Winning becomes an expectation, and the focus intensifies.”
On Sunday afternoon, the Cubs quickly erased an early 2-0 deficit and secured the lead for good with a three-run fifth inning. Lefty pitcher Justin Steele impressed by striking out seven batters over 5 1/3 innings, holding the Braves to four runs.
Reliever Michael Fulmer played a crucial role in the Cubs’ victory, whiffing Ozzie Albies and Austin Riley with the bases loaded in the sixth inning to escape a jam.
The Cubs’ 5-2 homestand featured wins against division rival Cincinnati Reds and the MLB-best Braves. They outscored their opponents 60-42 over seven games, with Friday’s loss to Atlanta as their lone setback. This successful stretch marks the first time the Cubs have won six consecutive series since May 2021.
Despite the palpable buzz at Wrigley Field during Sunday’s game, the Cubs remain focused on their long-term goals. The standings may look much better than they did two months ago, but Ross emphasized that there is a lot of work to be done with 50 games left in the season.
“This was a really good homestand, and I’m proud of that,” Ross said. “But we have a long way to go and a lot of games ahead of us.”
The Cubs’ victory against the Braves not only showcases their competitiveness but also ignites hope among their faithful fans. With their recent performance, the Cubs have proven that they are a force to be reckoned with in the MLB.