Michael Busch makes history as Cubs defeat Cardinals in memorable fashion
On Saturday, the Chicago Cubs earned a decisive 7-3 victory over their long-time rivals, the St. Louis Cardinals, propelled by a record-setting performance from first baseman Michael Busch. Busch’s day at the plate was nothing short of extraordinary, as he showcased his power and skill in a manner that will be remembered for years to come.
A Historic Performance
Busch’s achievement was particularly noteworthy as he mirrored a remarkable performance from earlier in the season. On July 4, he finished 4-for-4 in an 11-3 victory against the Cardinals, becoming the first Cubs player to hit three home runs in a game since Hall of Famer Ernie Banks accomplished the feat in 1963. That day, Busch amassed a career-high 13 total bases, and Saturday’s game saw him replicate that success.
In the latest matchup, Busch once again demonstrated his prowess, finishing 4-for-4 with four extra-base hits, including a double, a triple, and a home run—totaling 13 total bases once more. This remarkable achievement places him among an elite group; he is only the sixth player in the last 125 seasons of Major League Baseball to record two games with 13 or more total bases in a single season. His name joins the ranks of baseball greats such as Kyle Schwarber, Alex Rodriguez, and Willie Mays.
A Record-Setting Season
Busch’s accomplishments don’t stop there. He also made Cubs history by launching a lead-off home run in the first inning of Saturday’s game, marking his 33rd homer of the season. This milestone places him alongside Derrek Lee and Ernie Banks as the only first basemen in Cubs history to hit 33 or more home runs in a single season. The Wrigley Wire highlighted this profound achievement, underscoring Busch’s growing legacy in Chicago.
An Unfulfilled Cycle
Despite Busch’s historic day, there was a moment that could have elevated his performance to an even greater height. As the game progressed into the eighth inning, with the Cubs holding a comfortable lead, Busch approached the plate just one hit away from completing the cycle. However, the Cardinals opted to intentionally walk him, denying him the chance to make history in a more dramatic fashion, even though the game held little significance for St. Louis.
Regardless of this missed opportunity, Busch’s contributions were instrumental in securing the victory for the Cubs, emphasizing the larger narrative of the season—one team is poised for postseason play while the other is left to reflect on missed chances. Busch’s achievements not only highlight his individual talent but also reflect the resilient spirit of the Cubs as they continue their pursuit of success.
