In a game that showcased both promise and frustration, the Cubs fell to the Rockies 4-3 at Salt River Fields in Scottsdale. With temperatures soaring to 84 degrees, the afternoon was as heated as the action on the diamond. The Rockies clinched the win with a walk-off homer from minor leaguer Braxton Fulford against Grant Kipp, but the focus for Cubs fans should be elsewhere.
Ben Brown was the standout performer for the Cubs, delivering a stellar outing that should give fans hope for the future. Brown pitched four impressive innings, allowing just two hits and one run, with no walks and six strikeouts.
His efficiency was on display with 51 pitches, 39 of which were strikes. If Brown can replicate this performance consistently, he might soon find himself a regular in the Cubs' rotation.
The Rockies lineup, even on a split-squad day, featured several regular-season starters, making Brown's performance all the more noteworthy.
The Cubs' offense showed flashes, scoring through a single by Kevin Alcántara, a sacrifice fly from Jonathon Long, and a throwing error by Rockies catcher Hunter Goodman, which allowed Nico Hoerner to score. It was encouraging to see Long back in action after his elbow injury, contributing as the DH with a 1-for-3 outing and the sac fly.
Hunter Harvey gave up an unearned run in the sixth, thanks to a throwing error by Scott Kingery that allowed Brenton Doyle to reach base. The game remained tight until the dramatic ninth inning, when Fulford's homer sealed the win for Colorado.
Looking ahead, the Cubs will return to Sloan Park to face the Dodgers. Jameson Taillon, fresh from the World Baseball Classic, is set to start, with Emmet Sheehan on the mound for the Dodgers.
Fans can catch this matchup on Marquee Sports Network and SportsNet LA, with radio coverage on WSCR The Score. Expect more action and highlights as the Cubs continue their Spring Training campaign.