Cubs Fall 5-3 to A’s: Bullpen Woes and a MLB Milestone

Cubs Drop Series Opener After Bullpen Fails

The Chicago Cubs fell to the Oakland Athletics 5-3 on Friday night at Wrigley Field, dropping the series opener and extending their losing streak to three games. The Cubs bullpen was unable to hold a 3-2 lead in the seventh inning, as the A's scored three runs to take the lead for good.

Hendricks Goes Six Strong

Cubs starter Kyle Hendricks pitched well, allowing just two runs on three hits over six innings of work. He struck out seven batters and walked one, but the bullpen was unable to hold the lead he gave them.

Cubs Offense Goes Silent

The Cubs offense was held in check by A's starter Cole Irvin, who allowed just two runs on four hits over six innings of work. The Cubs managed just five hits in the game, and they were 0-for-9 with runners in scoring position.

MLB Milestone for Vogt

A's catcher Stephen Vogt hit a two-run home run in the seventh inning to give the A's a 4-3 lead. The home run was Vogt's 100th career home run, making him just the fourth catcher in A's history to reach that milestone.

Cubs' Bullpen Struggles Continue

The Cubs' bullpen has struggled mightily this season, and that continued on Friday night. After Hendricks left the game, the bullpen allowed three runs on four hits in just one inning of work. Rowan Wick, who entered the game with a 4.50 ERA, allowed two runs on two hits, while Brad Wieck allowed one run on two hits.

Wrigley Field Crowd Dwindles

The Cubs drew a crowd of just 31,169 on Friday night, the smallest crowd at Wrigley Field this season. The Cubs have struggled to draw fans this season, as they are now 19-33 at home.

Cubs Look to Avoid Sweep

The Cubs will look to avoid a sweep when they face the A's again on Saturday afternoon. Marcus Stroman will start for the Cubs, while James Kaprielian will start for the A's.