The Chicago Cubs came out swinging on Saturday, with Dansby Swanson and Carson Kelly both homering in a 7-1 rout of the San Diego Padres. Matthew Boyd was brilliant on the mound, tossing six scoreless innings to extend his scoreless streak to 11 innings to start the season.
Game Recap
Boyd (1-0) was in control throughout, allowing just five hits and a walk while striking out five. He worked through two early scoring threats, including a double-play ball in the sixth to keep the Padres at bay. Boyd’s sharp pitching performance was complemented by the Cubs' potent offense.
Swanson and Kelly Lead the Charge
Swanson and Kelly provided the firepower for the Cubs. Kelly drove in four RBIs, starting with a two-out RBI single in the second inning, followed by a three-run homer in the sixth to put the game out of reach. Swanson added a 382-foot homer in the third, marking his third of the season.
Offensive Explosions and Pivetta’s Struggles
Nick Pivetta (1-1) took the loss for the Padres, struggling with his command over three innings. He allowed six hits and three runs, walking three and striking out four. Despite a solid performance against the Atlanta Braves earlier in the week, Pivetta couldn’t find his rhythm against the Cubs.
Nico Hoerner also chipped in with two hits, including an RBI single in the fourth. The Cubs' offense was relentless, outhitting the Padres 11-8 and drawing eight walks for the second consecutive day.
Padres’ Late Rally Falls Short
The Padres managed to avoid a shutout in the seventh with three consecutive two-out singles, including an RBI knock from Fernando Tatis Jr. However, it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback as the Cubs cruised to the victory.
