Cubs Pitchers Combine for 1-Hitter in 1-0 Win Over Guardians

Amaya's RBI Single in 8th Inning Proves Decisive in Chilly Doubleheader Opener

Apr. 5, 2026 at 10:18pm

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Miguel Amaya hit an RBI single in the eighth inning, and four Cubs pitchers combined for a one-hitter in a 1-0 victory over the Cleveland Guardians on Sunday in the opener of a traditional doubleheader. The Guardians managed only one hit against Cubs starter Edward Cabrera and relievers Caleb Thielbar, Hoby Milner, and Daniel Palencia, who earned his first save.

Why it matters

The low-scoring, pitching-dominated affair highlighted the challenges both teams faced in the chilly, blustery conditions at Progressive Field, with the game-time temperature at just 44 degrees Fahrenheit. The win marked the third time in Cubs history that the team has won a game with two or fewer hits while allowing one or fewer hits.

The details

Amaya's hard-hit single to right-center field off Connor Brogdon (2-1) scored pinch-runner Dylan Carlson from second base in the eighth inning, providing the only run of the game. Cabrera held the Guardians hitless through 5 2/3 innings before CJ Kayfus led off the sixth with a double that possibly could have been caught by outfielder Michael Conforto. The Cubs then kept the game tied 0-0 as second baseman Nico Hoerner threw Kayfus out at the plate after a sacrifice bunt by Steven Kwan.

  • The game-time temperature was 44 degrees Fahrenheit (6.6 degrees Celsius) with a steady wind blowing toward the plate.
  • A rainout Saturday prompted the Easter doubleheader, Chicago's first since 1973.
  • Guardians star José Ramírez played in his 1,618th game, one shy of matching Terry Turner (1,619) for the most in Cleveland history.

The players

Miguel Amaya

The Cubs catcher hit the game-winning RBI single in the eighth inning.

Edward Cabrera

The Cubs starting pitcher held the Guardians hitless through 5 2/3 innings.

Caleb Thielbar

The Cubs relief pitcher retired Bo Naylor to pop out and keep the game tied 0-0 in the sixth inning.

Daniel Palencia

The Cubs relief pitcher worked a perfect ninth inning for his first save.

José Ramírez

The Guardians star is poised to become the first active major leaguer to lead his team in games played.

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What’s next

The teams will play the second game of the traditional doubleheader later on Sunday.

The takeaway

This game showcased the importance of strong pitching and defense, even in difficult weather conditions, as the Cubs were able to secure a victory with just two hits thanks to a combined one-hitter from their pitching staff.