ST. LOUIS — In a dramatic clash between fierce division rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals outlasted the Chicago Cubs 8–7 on Tuesday night at Busch Stadium. The win marked St. Louis’ seventh victory in their last eight games, while the Cubs extended their season-long losing streak to three games — a defeat punctuated by a costly mental lapse and a resilient Cardinals offense.
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Masyn Winn Shines Bright
The game belonged to Masyn Winn, who delivered a breakout performance that had the home crowd on its feet. The rookie shortstop went 2-for-4 with a three-run home run, four RBIs, and two runs scored — becoming the heartbeat of the Cardinals’ offense.
“He’s a stud,” said teammate Nolan Gorman. “Every night, it’s something new with him.”
Winn’s home run in the fourth inning gave the Cardinals an 8–5 lead, capping a huge rally that saw them erase an early 4–0 deficit. His energy and explosive play — including aggressive baserunning and smart defense — were defining features of the comeback win.
Nootbaar and Gorman Add Power
Lars Nootbaar opened the scoring for St. Louis with a two-run blast in the second inning, while Nolan Gorman added a solo homer in the fourth. Together, the trio of Nootbaar, Gorman, and Winn combined for all of the Cardinals’ eight RBIs.
“We’re feeding off each other,” Gorman said. “This team is starting to click.”
St. Louis tightened up defensively when it mattered most. Alec Burleson made a highlight-reel catch at the wall in left field to preserve the lead, and third baseman Nolan Arenado ended the game with a barehanded play on a tough ground ball, firing to first for the final out.
“Those are game-saving plays,” manager Oliver Marmol said. “You don’t win without them.”
The Cardinals will look to clinch the series in Game 3 on Wednesday night, sending Erick Fedde to the mound. The Cubs, desperate to halt their skid, will counter with Matthew Boyd.
