Cubs Rally to Beat Pirates 7-6 After Busch Ends Slump

Michael Busch's late-inning heroics lift Chicago to comeback victory.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:17pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a baseball game broken down into overlapping planes of green, brown, and white, conveying the dynamic energy and tension of the Cubs' comeback win.The Cubs' dramatic comeback victory showcases the team's resilience and ability to overcome deficits late in games.Chicago Today

The Chicago Cubs overcame a 5-run deficit to defeat the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-6 on Thursday night. Trailing 6-1 in the 8th inning, the Cubs rallied with a two-run single by Michael Busch to tie the game. In the 9th inning, Carson Kelly delivered the game-winning hit to complete the comeback.

Why it matters

The win keeps the Cubs in the hunt for a playoff spot in the competitive National League Central division. Busch's clutch hit also ends his 0-for-30 slump, providing a much-needed boost to the team's offense.

The details

Down 6-1 in the 8th, the Cubs loaded the bases against the Pirates' bullpen. Michael Busch, who had been mired in a 0-for-30 skid, came through with a two-run single to tie the game. In the 9th, Carson Kelly drove in the winning run with a single to complete the comeback.

  • The game took place on Thursday, April 12, 2026.
  • Busch's 0-for-30 slump dated back several weeks.

The players

Michael Busch

A 25-year-old infielder for the Chicago Cubs who broke out of a prolonged hitting slump with a key two-run single in the 8th inning.

Carson Kelly

The Cubs' starting catcher who delivered the game-winning hit in the 9th inning to complete the comeback victory.

Chicago Cubs

The Major League Baseball team based in Chicago, Illinois that rallied from a 5-run deficit to beat the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Pittsburgh Pirates

The Major League Baseball team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania that squandered a late lead and lost to the Chicago Cubs.

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What they’re saying

“That was a huge hit by Busch to get us back in the game. The guys never gave up and we were able to pull this one out.”

— David Ross, Cubs Manager

What’s next

The Cubs will look to build on this comeback win as they continue their series against the Pirates this weekend.

The takeaway

The Cubs' thrilling comeback victory, fueled by Busch's clutch hit to end his slump, demonstrates the team's resilience and ability to overcome deficits late in games - a valuable trait as they push for a playoff spot.