Full Breakdown
Brewers Defeat Cubs 9-3 Behind Jake Bauers’ Four-RBI Performance
5/20/2026, 12:43:47 AM
Game Summary: Brewers Overcome Cubs 9-3
On Monday night in Chicago, the Milwaukee Brewers defeated the Chicago Cubs 9–3 in the first meeting of the season between the two NL Central rivals. Jake Bauers delivered an RBI single in the fourth inning and a three-run homer in the fifth, giving Milwaukee an 8–0 lead. Cubs left-hander Shota Imanaga (4-4) was charged with eight runs on nine hits over 4 1/3 innings. Milwaukee starter Brandon Sproat allowed three runs in 4 2/3 innings, and reliever Shane Drohan (2-1) secured the win by pitching 4 1/3 innings of four-hit ball.
Season Context and Division Race
The victory moved the Brewers to a 9-2 record over their last 11 games and pulled them within a half-game of the Cubs for the NL Central lead. The Cubs have now lost seven of their past nine contests after previously posting a 15-game home winning streak—the longest at Wrigley Field since an 18-game run in September 1935. The Brewers also recorded a second consecutive homer from Christian Yelich, extending their offensive surge.
Key Performers
Jake Bauers, batting .438 (14-for-32) during a nine-game hitting streak, logged his seventh season homer and four RBIs. Andrew Vaughn contributed two hits and two runs scored. Christian Yelich added a solo homer. For Chicago, Dansby Swanson hit a two-run homer, while Michael Busch recorded two hits, including a run-scoring double.
Statistical Highlights
- Brewers total hits: 13
- Brewers runs: 9 (four driven in by Bauers)
- Cubs runs: 3
- Shota Imanaga’s line: 4 1/3 IP, eight runs, nine hits
- Brandon Sproat: 4 2/3 IP, three runs, three hits
- Shane Drohan: 4 1/3 IP, four-hit ball, credited win
- Bauers’ current batting average: .438 (14-for-32) with two homers and eight RBIs in the hitting streak
Implications for the NL Central
Milwaukee’s win narrows the gap at the top of the division, positioning the Brewers just half a game behind Chicago. The Cubs’ recent slump contrasts with the Brewers’ strong finish to their last 11 games, suggesting a potential shift in momentum as the season progresses.
Upcoming Pitching Matchups
Milwaukee will start right-hander Jacob Misiorowski (3-2, 2.12 ERA) on Tuesday night, while Chicago’s next starter is right-hander Ben Brown (1-1, 1.60 ERA).
