The Chicago Cubs faced a frustrating defeat against the Colorado Rockies, losing 3-2 due to a walk-off hit by pinch-hitter Sterlin Thompson in the ninth inning. This loss marked their 10th consecutive series loss and brought them back to a .500 record.

As the game concluded, Cubs players and coaches remained motionless, processing the outcome. The team, which once enjoyed a 10-game winning streak, now struggles with a lineup in a slump, finding it difficult to score runs.

Left-hander Shota Imanaga’s performance, consisting of five shutout innings, should have provided enough support. He limited the Rockies to two hits and two walks, striking out seven batters. Despite these strong efforts, the Cubs’ offense failed to capitalize against Michael Lorenzen, who held them to one run over five innings.

Manager Craig Counsell commented, “We didn’t produce enough opportunities tonight.” The Cubs managed only five hits and scarce chances with runners in scoring positions.

Imanaga joined the ranks of Japanese-born pitchers who have succeeded at Coors Field, including Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Kenta Maeda, and Hideo Nomo. Imanaga expressed his resolve to help the team more in future outings.

After Imanaga left, the bullpen faced pressure to maintain the lead. Phil Maton and Caleb Thielbar delivered two scoreless innings. Jacob Webb, a reliable reliever, allowed a single and a two-run homer that shifted the lead to the Rockies. This marked Webb’s first runs allowed since May 9.

Cubs left fielder Ian Happ provided a glimmer of hope with a game-tying home run in the ninth inning. However, the Rockies responded quickly against Cubs reliever Daniel Palencia. Thompson’s well-placed single secured the win for the Rockies.

The Cubs’ primary struggle lies with their offense. Though they get players on base, converting those opportunities into runs remains elusive. “The hardest part is getting out of your own way and just letting things happen,” Happ noted, emphasizing hope and persistence.