The Chicago Cubs secured a win over the Pittsburgh Pirates with a 4-1 victory at PNC Park on September 16, 2025. The Cubs improved their record to 87-64, while the Pirates fell to 65-87. Cubs pitcher Cade Horton earned the win, bringing his season record to 10-4 with a 2.70 ERA.

Key performances included M. Busch, who went 3-for-4 with a home run and scored two runs. P. Crow-Armstrong added two RBIs, helping the Cubs maintain their position in the NL Central division. The Pirates managed only one run, driven in by O. Cruz, as they struggled to overcome the Cubs’ pitching.

The Cubs started strong with two runs in the first inning. Matt Busch hit a home run, and Ian Happ added a sac fly. The Pirates answered back with a run in the bottom of the first from Oneil Cruz’s triple. In the second inning, the Cubs scored another run, extending their lead to 3-1. By the fifth inning, Pete Crow-Armstrong added a sac fly, bringing the score to 4-1. The Cubs’ pitching held the Pirates scoreless for the rest of the game. Cade Horton was the winning pitcher for the Cubs. He pitched five innings, allowing just one run on three hits and striking out six. His strong performance helped the Cubs secure the win. Horton now has a record of 10-4 with a 2.70 ERA. Paul Skenes took the loss for the Pirates. He pitched 3.67 innings, giving up three runs on seven hits with six strikeouts. Despite his efforts, Skenes’ record fell to 10-9 with a 1.92 ERA. On the batting side, Matt Busch stood out for the Cubs. He had three hits, including a home run, and drove in a run. Pete Crow-Armstrong also contributed with two RBIs. Their efforts played a key role in the Cubs’ victory.

What’s Next

The Cubs’ win improves their record to 87-64, keeping them in 2nd place in the Central division. They are in a strong position to challenge for the top spot. The Pirates, with a record of 65-87, remain in 5th place in the Central division. This game adds to the Cubs’ advantage in head-to-head encounters this season. The Cubs are aiming to close the gap with the division leader. Meanwhile, the Pirates look to improve their standing as the season nears its end.

The Cubs will continue their series against the Pirates on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 12:35 PM. The game will be held at PNC Park. After that, they will travel to play a series against the Cincinnati Reds starting on Thursday, September 18, 2025.

The Pirates will face the Cubs again on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at 12:35 PM at PNC Park. Following this game, they will begin a home series against the Athletics on Friday, September 19, 2025. The Pirates will remain at home for this series before heading out to face the Reds later in the month.

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