World Series Game 6 recap: Cubs defeat Indians, force Game 7
The Chicago Cubs knot the World Series at 3 wins apiece, taking Game 6 from the Indians with a commanding 9-3 win.
With a 9-3 in Game 6 over the Cleveland Indians, the Chicago Cubs force Game 7 of the 2016 World Series. Both teams have three wins each and will play for the championship title in Game 7 on Wednesday.
Cubs’ third baseman Kris Bryant got things started in the first inning with a solo home run to left field. Addison Russell followed with a two-run double, driving in Anthony Rizzo and Ben Zobrist to put the Cubs up 3-0 in the first.
Russell wasn’t done yet. In the top of the 3rd inning with bases loaded, Russell smoked one into the center field stands for a grand slam. Kyle Schwarber, Anthony Rizzo, and Ben Zobrist all score along with Russell. The Cubs go up 7-0.
The Indians get on the board in the bottom of the 4th when Mike Napoli sent a base hit to center field to bring in Jason Kipnis. In the 5th, Kipnis nailed a long ball on a line drive to left center for a solo home run. The Cubs still had a 7-2 lead.
In the 9th inning Anthony Rizzo hit a two run homer into right field, driving in Bryant and putting the Cubs up by 7. The Indians’ Roberto Perez sent a line drive to right field to bring in Brandon Guyer to put the Indians within 6.
Arrieta left the game after 5 2/3 innings of work with 3 hits, 2 runs, 3 walks and 9 strikeouts. Despite putting up solid numbers, Arrieta’s frustration was evident when he left the game; he was one strikeout away from tying the franchise record for most strikeouts in a single postseason game.
Indians starter Josh Tomlin only lasted 2.1 innings. He allowed 6 hits and was charged with 6 hits and 6 runs, with 6 earned runs for a 7.71 ERA on the night.
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While Game 7 pitchers weren’t confirmed as of this writing, Indians manager Terry Francona has Corey Kluber slated to start Game 7. If there’s a silver lining to losing Game 6 it’s that Kluber, Miller and Allen will be available to pitch on 3 days’ rest.
Game 7 of the 2016 World Series will play on Wednesday at 8pm ET on FOX.