Carson Kelly's Walk-Off Single Seals Cubs' Comeback Win Over Pirates

Chicago rallies from 6-3 deficit in the 8th inning to stun Pittsburgh 7-6

Apr. 13, 2026 at 1:37am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball game between the Chicago Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates, with the players and field of play broken down into abstract shapes and angles, conveying the intensity and excitement of the game.A cubist interpretation of the Cubs' thrilling comeback victory over the Pirates, capturing the raw energy and drama of the game's key moments.Today in Pittsburgh

The Chicago Cubs staged a thrilling comeback against the Pittsburgh Pirates, capped off by Carson Kelly's walk-off single in the bottom of the 9th inning to seal a 7-6 victory. The win was a much-needed boost for the Cubs, who overcame a 6-3 deficit in the 8th inning to rally for the victory.

Why it matters

This game showcases the resilience and determination of the Cubs, who refused to give up despite falling behind early. The comeback win could provide a crucial momentum shift for the team as they look to build on this success and climb the standings in the NL Central.

The details

The Pirates jumped out to an early 6-3 lead in the 2nd inning thanks to Brandon Lowe's grand slam. However, the Cubs chipped away at the deficit, with Michael Busch delivering a pinch-hit RBI single in the 8th to tie the game. In the 9th, Carson Kelly stepped up with the game on the line, lacing a single to right-center to drive in the winning run and complete the comeback.

  • The game took place on April 12, 2026.
  • The Pirates took a 6-3 lead in the 2nd inning.
  • The Cubs tied the game 6-6 in the 8th inning.
  • Carson Kelly's walk-off single came in the bottom of the 9th inning.

The players

Carson Kelly

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

Michael Busch

The Cubs' pinch-hitter, who drove in the tying run with an RBI single in the 8th inning.

Brandon Lowe

The Pirates' second baseman, who hit a grand slam in the 2nd inning to give his team an early 6-3 lead.

Dansby Swanson

The Cubs' shortstop, who hit a 391-foot home run to contribute to the team's offensive effort.

Moises Ballesteros

The Cubs' outfielder, who hit a 427-foot home run to help keep his team in the game.

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What they’re saying

“We never gave up, even when we were down by three runs. That's the kind of fight and determination this team has shown all season.”

— Carson Kelly, Cubs Catcher

“This was a huge win for us. We needed to bounce back after a tough loss yesterday, and the guys really stepped up when it mattered most.”

— David Ross, Cubs Manager

What’s next

The Cubs will look to build on this momentum as they continue their series against the Pirates, with the next game scheduled for April 13th. A win in that game would give the Cubs a series victory and further solidify their position in the NL Central standings.

The takeaway

The Cubs' thrilling comeback victory over the Pirates showcases the team's resilience and determination. Despite falling behind early, the Cubs refused to give up and found a way to win, led by timely hitting from players like Carson Kelly and Michael Busch. This game could be a turning point for the Cubs as they look to establish themselves as a contender in the NL Central.