In an 11th-Inning Thriller, Matt Shaw’s Walk-Off Single Lifts Cubs Over Rockies 4-3 at Wrigley Field
CHICAGO — On a crisp Chicago night filled with tension and anticipation, rookie infielder Matt Shaw delivered the defining moment — a walk-off single in the bottom of the 11th inning — lifting the Chicago Cubs to a hard-fought 4-3 victory over the Colorado Rockies at Wrigley Field.
The game, a classic extra-innings battle, was a testament to both teams’ resilience, but it was Shaw who emerged as the hero. With Jon Berti on second base and two outs, the 22-year-old calmly stepped into the box and laced a clean line drive into left-center field. Berti, flashing his speed, raced around third and slid home safely, igniting a roar from the Wrigley faithful as the Cubs celebrated at the plate.
“It’s one of those moments you dream about growing up — bottom of the 11th, chance to win it for your team,” Shaw said postgame. “I just wanted to stay calm and put a good swing on the ball. It’s an amazing feeling.”
The game was tight from the outset. The Rockies struck first with a solo homer in the second inning, but the Cubs quickly responded behind timely hitting and a solid performance from their pitching staff. Chicago starter Ben Brown went six strong innings, allowing two runs on five hits while striking out seven.
The Cubs tied it in the fifth and briefly took a 3-2 lead in the seventh thanks to a clutch RBI double from Seiya Suzuki. However, Colorado answered in the ninth, taking advantage of a rare miscue from Cubs closer Adbert Alzolay, who surrendered a game-tying RBI single to send it to extras.
Both teams had chances in the 10th but couldn’t break through. In the top of the 11th, reliever Luke Little worked out of a jam, stranding a Rockies runner on third and setting the stage for Shaw’s dramatic game-winner.
Tonight’s win improves the Cubs’ record to (insert record) and provides a jolt of momentum as they continue their homestand. It also marked another strong showing from the club’s young talent — particularly Shaw, who is quickly proving he belongs on the big stage.
“These are the kinds of games that build character and belief,” said Cubs manager Craig Counsell. “Matt stepped up in a huge spot. That’s what this team is about — guys picking each other up.”
The Cubs and Rockies will continue their series tomorrow at Wrigley, with first pitch scheduled for 1:20 PM CT.