The Chicago Cubs faced a challenging game against the Miami Marlins, resulting in an 8-2 loss in 12 innings at Wrigley Field on September 22, 2026.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell was visibly affected as he exited the dugout after the Marlins scored six runs in the 12th inning. This decisive moment contributed to the Cubs’ defeat. Fans, dressed in costumes, showed their disappointment as the game slipped away.

A critical play occurred when Cubs first baseman Michael Busch failed to tag Marlins first baseman Griffin Conine, who hit an RBI single in the 12th inning. Additionally, the performance of Cubs pitcher Edward Cabrera drew attention as he took to the mound in the 12th inning.

Cubs pitcher Caleb Thielbar’s removal in the 12th inning highlighted the struggles faced by the pitching staff. In the 11th inning, center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong returned to the dugout, marking the end of a challenging inning for the Cubs.

Another pivotal moment came when Cubs first baseman Michael Busch caught a pop-up from Marlins catcher Joe Mack during the 11th inning. However, pitcher Ryan Zeferjahn’s performance raised concerns before he was taken out of the game.

During the 11th inning, Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner made a diving attempt for a ball hit by Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez, which resulted in a single. The game saw Cubs designated hitter Matt Shaw bunt a pop-up for an out in the 10th inning, while Ryan Zeferjahn pitched during the same inning.

In the ninth inning, center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong celebrated a double, adding a highlight to the game despite the loss. Pitcher Daniel Palencia’s performance in the eighth inning was also notable. Manager Craig Counsell managed a pitching change during that inning.

Marlins right fielder Esteury Ruiz made a significant catch in the seventh inning, while Cubs right fielder Seiya Suzuki delivered a double. Pitcher Aaron Civale’s pitching in the seventh inning contributed to the game’s developments.

As the game progressed, Pete Crow-Armstrong showed diverse skills, from scoring to stealing bases. He made several crucial plays, including a single in the sixth inning and scoring on an error by Marlins catcher Joe Mack.

Notable actions included Cubs left fielder Ian Happ hitting an RBI single, while Marlins pitcher Calvin Faucher faced pressure with bases loaded. Players like Cubs catcher Carson Kelly also performed, but Marlins second baseman Jared Serna skillfully fielded hits from Kelly.

The game was marked by intense moments involving key players. Marlins catcher Agustín Ramírez and Cubs designated hitter Michael Conforto were focal points in the fourth inning, while the third inning highlighted Pete Crow-Armstrong’s 39th season steal as he stole second base.

The early game saw Cubs pitcher Shota Imanaga in action, fielding a grounder and dealing with an incident where Marlins designated hitter Kyle Stowers was hit by a pitch. Moments before the first inning, coach Ben Martin assisted Cub players in warming up for the challenging game ahead. Additionally, Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman, recovering from a facial injury, was seen preparing and interacting with coaches.

Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer addressed the press, giving insights into team strategies before the game. Enthusiasts are closely observing the Cubs’ positioning as the NFL season progresses in late September 2026, keeping an eye on potential rotation adjustments and player returns.