Seiya Suzuki Powers Cubs to 4-1 Win Over Red Sox at Wrigley

By Oliver Wiener July 21, 2025 09:43

Seiya Suzuki's offensive firepower powered the Chicago Cubs to a convincing 4-1 victory over the Boston Red Sox at Wrigley Field on Friday, snapping Boston’s impressive 10-game winning streak. Suzuki's early explosion set the tone for the Cubs, who relied on timely hitting and solid pitching to claim an important divisional win as they build momentum in the second half of the season.

The defining moment came in the very first inning. With two runners on base via walks from Michael Busch and Kyle Tucker, Suzuki faced Red Sox starter Lucas Giolito and wasted no time seizing the opportunity. He hammered the first pitch a 93.5 mph four-seam fastball over the left-center field wall for a massive three-run home run. It was Suzuki’s 26th homer of the year and brought his RBI total to a National League-leading 80, cementing his status as one of MLB’s most dangerous middle-of-the-order hitters.

“That first inning was huge,” Suzuki said through interpreter Edwin Stanberry. “I saw a good pitcher struggling early, and I trusted my instincts to stay aggressive. The high pitch count for him helped me stay ready.” Suzuki's wRC+, a metric that measures overall offensive value, now stands at an elite 141, reflecting his ability to generate runs consistently.

Suzuki’s power numbers this season are career highs, a marked step forward compared to his previous three Major League campaigns. The outfielder acknowledged his surprise at the production but emphasized his goal of maintaining consistency. “I want to keep these numbers going and take this momentum into the second half,” he added.

The Cubs' pitching was equally impressive. Left-hander Colin Rea took the mound after Giolito’s rough start and helped stymie the Red Sox offense. Rea and five relievers combined to allow just one run in relief, with the Cubs showcasing improved bullpen depth. The lone Boston run came in the third inning but was never enough to shift the game’s momentum.

Chicago’s disciplined approach early in the game helped Suzuki's potent hitting flourish. Busch’s six-pitch walk and Tucker’s eight-pitch at-bat solarized Giolito’s command and set the stage for Suzuki’s homer. Cubs manager David Ross praised the lineup’s patience and ability to capitalize on key moments. “That’s the kind of efficient hitting we need,” Ross said. “Seiya’s home run ignited us and our pitchers settled in after.”

With this victory, the Cubs pushed their record to 58-39, strengthening their hold atop the NL Central. The win not only halted the Red Sox’s streak but also underscored Chicago’s continued contention viability. Reflecting on the team’s dynamics, teammate Pete Crow-Armstrong lauded Suzuki’s impact: “Seiya has been incredible for us all season. He deserves recognition, and I hope he continues to build on everything he's accomplished.”

Boston, now 53-47, will look to rebound in the next game with Brayan Bello taking the mound. Despite the loss, the Red Sox remain in the playoff hunt in the AL East, but Thursday night's result serves as a reminder of the competitive fire the Cubs possess.

In all, the game was a fine showcase of how Suzuki’s emerging star power, combined with timely hitting and solid pitching, can steer the Cubs through tight contests. As Chicago embarks on the season’s stretch run, Suzuki’s continued brilliance will be pivotal to their hopes of clinching a postseason berth and making a deep run.