The Houston Astros’ struggles against NL Central opponents continued as they suffered a blowout loss to the Chicago Cubs. Lance McCullers Jr., the Astros’ right-hander, was dealt a tough hand once again. The Cubs scored seven runs in the fourth inning, including Kyle Tucker’s three-run home run, to take an 8-2 lead.
The Astros tried to mount a comeback, but it was too late. With McCullers lasting only 3.5 innings and allowing eight earned runs, the bullpen stepped up to try and preserve the game. However, Steven Okert, Ryan Gusto, and Jordan Weems couldn’t contain the Cubs’ offense, which scored four more runs off Gusto.
The final score was 12-3 in favor of the Cubs, but the Astros are still on track for a strong homestand, with Framber Valdez set to start the rubber game against Jameson Taillon.
Source: https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2025/6/29/24458134/lance-mccullers-jr-struggles-astros-blown-out-by-cubs-12-3