Chicago Cubs Upset Cleveland Guardians in Extra-Inning Thriller

Cabrera's strong outing and clutch hitting lift Cubs to road victory

Apr. 5, 2026 at 1:06am

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In a closely contested matchup at Progressive Field, the Chicago Cubs defeated the Cleveland Guardians 4-3 in extra innings. Cubs starter Edward Cabrera pitched a gem, going 7 innings and allowing just 1 run, while the Chicago offense rallied late to tie the game and then win it in the 10th. The win snaps a 3-game losing streak for the Cubs and hands the Guardians their fourth loss of the young season.

Why it matters

This victory is an important early-season boost for the Cubs, who were looking to bounce back after a slow start. Meanwhile, the Guardians' loss raises questions about their ability to compete in the AL Central division this year. The game featured strong pitching performances and dramatic late-inning heroics, making it an exciting matchup for baseball fans.

The details

The Guardians jumped out to an early 1-0 lead thanks to a solo home run by first baseman Josh Naylor in the 2nd inning. But Cabrera settled in and kept the Guardians' offense in check the rest of the way. The Cubs finally broke through in the 8th inning, tying the game on a clutch RBI single by shortstop Dansby Swanson. The game went to extra innings, where the Cubs took the lead for good on a 2-run double by third baseman Patrick Wisdom in the top of the 10th. Closer Brandon Hughes shut the door in the bottom half to secure the win for Chicago.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 5, 2026 at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio.
  • The Cubs and Guardians entered the game with records of 3-3 and 4-3 respectively.

The players

Edward Cabrera

The Cubs' starting pitcher, who threw 7 strong innings, allowing just 1 run on 4 hits while striking out 8.

Dansby Swanson

The Cubs' shortstop, who delivered the game-tying RBI single in the 8th inning to spark the comeback.

Patrick Wisdom

The Cubs' third baseman, who hit the go-ahead 2-run double in the 10th inning to give Chicago the lead.

Brandon Hughes

The Cubs' closer, who pitched a scoreless 10th inning to earn the save and preserve the victory.

Josh Naylor

The Guardians' first baseman, who hit a solo home run in the 2nd inning to give Cleveland an early lead.

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What they’re saying

“That was a huge win for us today. Cabrera really set the tone with his outing, and the guys came up big in the clutch to get us the victory.”

— David Ross, Cubs Manager

“We had our chances, but just couldn't get that big hit when we needed it. Tip your cap to the Cubs, they played a great game and deserved to win.”

— Terry Francona, Guardians Manager

What’s next

The Cubs will look to build on this momentum as they continue their road trip, facing the Cincinnati Reds next. The Guardians will try to bounce back at home against the Detroit Tigers.

The takeaway

This hard-fought extra-inning victory shows the resilience of the Cubs, who were able to overcome an early deficit and come through in the clutch to earn a crucial road win against a divisional opponent. The loss is a setback for the Guardians, who will need to regroup and find a way to generate more consistent offense if they hope to contend in the AL Central.