Chicago Cubs Score and Recap (4/5/26, Game 1): Cubs 1, Guardians 0 – Barely Enough Offense
The Cubs played the first game of a doubleheader at Progressive Field against the Guardians on a cold and cloudy Easter Sunday afternoon. It was the epitome of a pitchers’ duel with just three combined hits, but the road squad came up with the only run to earn the victory.
Edward Cabrera got to start for Chicago and did an excellent job despite some control issues. Slade Cecconi was just as good for Cleveland, and neither team could get on the scoreboard through the 5th inning.
Cabrera ran into trouble in the bottom of the 6th, exiting the game with the bases loaded and two outs. Caleb Thielbar took over and got catcher Bo Naylor to pop out and keep the score even.
The North Siders finally made a dent in the scoreboard in the 8th inning when Michael Conforto drew a walk and pinch-runner Dylan Carlson moved to second base on a sacrifice bunt. Miguel Amaya smoked an RBI single up the middle against Connor Brogdon to give his team a lead.
Hoby Milner and Daniel Palencia handled the final two innings to preserve the 1-0 win. (Box score)
Key Moment
Nico Hoerner threw home in the bottom of the 6th to nail CJ Kayfus at the plate and keep Cleveland from going ahead. Amaya did a great job of making the tag while lunging to catch the ball.
Why the Cubs Won
Just great work from the entire pitching staff to make a single run stand up.
Stats That Matter
- Cabrera’s only problem was the walks: 5.2 IP, 0 R, 1 H, 4 K, and 5 BB.
- Conforto was the only Chicago hitter to get on base twice.
Bottom Line
