Guardians Rally Late to Split Doubleheader with Cubs

CJ Kayfus and Gabriel Arias drive in two runs each in comeback win

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:11am

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The Cleveland Guardians rallied late to beat the Chicago Cubs 6-5 and split their doubleheader on Sunday. After being shut out 1-0 in the first game, the Guardians scored four runs in the eighth inning, including a home run from CJ Kayfus and an RBI single from Gabriel Arias, to come from behind and secure the split.

Why it matters

The Guardians' comeback win helps them maintain their position in the tight American League Central division race, where they are battling with the Twins and White Sox for playoff positioning. Splitting the doubleheader also prevents the Cubs from gaining ground in the National League Central.

The details

Down 5-2 in the eighth inning, the Guardians rallied to score four runs and take the lead. CJ Kayfus hit a game-tying two-run home run, and Gabriel Arias followed with an RBI single to give Cleveland the 6-5 advantage. The Guardians' bullpen was then able to hold on and secure the victory.

  • The Guardians lost the first game of the doubleheader 1-0 on Sunday.
  • Cleveland scored four runs in the eighth inning to rally and win the second game 6-5.

The players

CJ Kayfus

A Guardians outfielder who hit a game-tying two-run home run in the eighth inning to spark the comeback.

Gabriel Arias

A Guardians infielder who drove in the go-ahead run with an RBI single in the eighth inning.

Chicago Cubs

The National League opponent that the Guardians split the doubleheader with on Sunday.

Cleveland Guardians

The American League team that rallied late to win the second game of the doubleheader and split the series.

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The takeaway

The Guardians' comeback win in the second game of the doubleheader shows their resilience and ability to rally late, an important quality as they continue to battle for playoff positioning in the tight American League Central race.