Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (4/18/26): Cubs 4, Mets 2 – Kelly Pinch-Hit HR Keys Fourth Straight Win

The Cubs offense wasn’t quite as explosive Saturday afternoon as it has been recently, scoring only four runs at a blustery Wrigley Field, but that turned out to be enough for a fourth win in a row. A clutch pinch-hit home run made the difference as the Mets suffered a 10th consecutive defeat.

New York went on top in the 2nd when Mark Vientos hit a solo homer off of Jameson Taillon. Chicago responded quickly in the bottom of the frame when Ian Happ took Freddy Peralta deep to tie the game.

Both starting pitchers did very well the rest of the way, making it to the 6th inning with no additional runs crossing the plate. Peralta finally came out of the game for left-handed reliever Brooks Raley with two on and two out in the bottom of that frame. Carson Kelly, batting for Moisés Ballesteros, jumped on the first pitch he saw and crushed a three-run homer put the North Siders on top 4-1.

The Mets cut the deficit to 4-2 against Ben Brown in the 8th inning when Nico Hoerner made an uncharacteristic throwing error. That was as close as it would get, however, as Caleb Thielbar had a perfect 9th inning to seal the victory. (Box score)

Key Moment

Kelly had an aggressive mindset coming off the bench and was ready when Raley threw a cutter that got too much of the plate.

Why the Cubs Won

A great all-around effort by the pitching staff and one big swing were enough for the win.

Stats That Matter

• Taillon was a bit shaky at the open but once again settled down nicely: 6 IP, 1 R, 5 H, 4 K, and 3 BB.
• Happ drew a pair of walks in addition to the home run.

Bottom Line

The Cubs have now won consecutive series for the first time this season. The bullpen held up pretty well in its first save situation without a closer. Chicago has been getting good production from whoever they have asked to be a starting pitcher so far through April. As talented as they are offensively the pitching staff does not need to be perfect for them to win a lot of games.

On Deck

The North Siders attempt to get the sweep Sunday afternoon at 1:20pm CT. Javier Assad takes the hill against David Peterson in a game available on Marquee with a radio feed on The Score.