Justin Turner delivered a dramatic two-run walk-off homer in the bottom of the ninth inning to secure a 5-3 victory for the Chicago Cubs against the Baltimore Orioles on Sunday afternoon. The Justin Turner walk-off homer came with Dansby Swanson on base, immediately ending the game with a powerful hit to left-center.
Turner’s Pinch-Hit Heroics Drive Cubs to Victory
Turner stepped up as a pinch hitter and connected on the first pitch he saw, launching the ball deep into the outfield. This home run marked Turner’s third of the season and his first walk-off homer during the regular season. Notably, he had previously hit a walk-off homer in the 2017 National League Championship Series as a member of the Dodgers, which was against the Cubs.
Before Turner’s decisive hit, the Cubs led 3-2 entering the ninth inning. However, the Orioles threatened when outfielder Colton Cowser doubled and was driven home by Ryan Noda’s line drive to right field, tying the game and setting the stage for the dramatic finish.
Cubs Strengthen Position in NL Central with Weekend Win
Sunday’s victory gave the Cubs two wins out of three games over the weekend, keeping them two games behind the Milwaukee Brewers, who currently sit atop the National League Central division. The walk-off win revitalized the Cubs as they continue their push in a close divisional race.
Turner’s contributions earned him Player of the Game honors for his crucial role in securing the win. With momentum on their side, the Cubs are preparing to host the Cincinnati Reds tomorrow night, August 4, at Wrigley Field.
Upcoming Challenges and Current Team News
The Cubs face critical decisions regarding their roster as the season progresses, especially with discussions around the future of key players amid looming free agency and trade deadline considerations. The team is also preparing to host the 2027 MLB All-Star Game at Wrigley Field, an event that highlights Chicago’s growing prominence in Major League Baseball.
Meanwhile, prospects like Owen Caissie have been reacting to the recent trade deadline without being moved, while the Cubs weigh options about potentially reuniting with recently released former all-star pitchers.