Guardians Defeat Cubs with 7th Inning Home Runs

DeLauter and Arias power Guardians to victory in home opener

Apr. 4, 2026 at 10:44am

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The Cleveland Guardians defeated the Chicago Cubs 4-1 in their home opener, powered by two key home runs in the 7th inning from Chase DeLauter and Arias. DeLauter had a total of three hits, including a two-run homer, and drove in three runs for the Guardians.

Why it matters

The Guardians' victory in their home opener is an encouraging start to the season, as the team looks to build on last year's success and compete in the AL Central division. The clutch hitting from DeLauter and Arias will give the Guardians' offense a boost as they take on divisional rivals like the Cubs.

The details

In the bottom of the 7th inning, with the game tied 1-1, Chase DeLauter hit a two-run homer to give the Guardians the lead. Later in the inning, Arias also hit a solo home run to extend the Guardians' advantage. DeLauter finished the game with three hits, including the key two-run shot, and drove in three runs total.

  • The game took place on April 4, 2026, the Guardians' home opener.

The players

Chase DeLauter

An outfielder for the Cleveland Guardians who had a standout performance in the home opener, hitting a two-run homer and driving in three runs total.

Arias

A player for the Cleveland Guardians who hit a solo home run in the 7th inning to extend the team's lead.

Chicago Cubs

The opposing team that the Guardians defeated 4-1 in the home opener.

Cleveland Guardians

The home team that won their season opener against the Cubs, powered by key home runs in the 7th inning.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to come out strong in our home opener and set the tone for the season. Those two home runs in the 7th were huge for us.”

— Chase DeLauter, Guardians Outfielder

What’s next

The Guardians will look to build on this momentum as they continue their homestand, facing the Cubs again on April 5th and then hosting the Twins over the weekend.

The takeaway

The Guardians' victory in their home opener, powered by timely home runs, demonstrates the team's offensive firepower and ability to win close games against divisional rivals. This early-season success could set the tone for a strong campaign in the AL Central.