3 Takeaways from Cubs' 5-4 Walk-Off Win Over Marlins

As mentioned before, the offense was largely silent for most of the evening. Prior to the ninth inning, the Cubs had just four hits and mustered up a pair of runs. Both runs came off the bat of Pete Crow-Armstrong, who started the game with a lead-off single, hit a solo home run for his 11th on the season, and scored Hoerner on a sacrifice fly in the fifth inning. 

However, a quiet offense could not be kept down for long. Kelly reached on an error in the ninth, and Swanson's second walk of the game set up the chaos. Clutch hits from Hoerner and Turner ultimately helped the team take care of business. This offense is showing muscle. They're not necessarily a high-octane group every single day, but rather a clutch group when big hits are needed. 

Bullpen is Still a Work in Progress

After an effective start from Ben Brown and a solid appearance from Caleb Thielbar, Julian Merryweather struggled on Tuesday night. Giving up two runs on three hits, including a home run, he ultimately put the Cubs behind late in the game. Yes, the offense pushed through and secured the win, but Merryweather was not looking like himself. 

For a reliever who routinely sits between 97-99 mph on the radar gun, Merryweather has only been hitting 94-96 in recent appearances. Believe it or not, that two-to-three mph difference has made him look like a different pitcher, and something could be off. Even if he isn't fully injured, a stint on the IL may be in order. 

Although Merryweather struggled, Chris Flexen was brilliant in his two innings of relief, ultimately picking up the win for the Cubs. Flexen pitched two clean innings, allowing just one hit and one walk to the Marlins. 

Moises Ballesteros is Getting Acclimated

Yes, Moises Ballesteros was 0-for-4 in his MLB debut after his call-up on Tuesday, but that shouldn't be disheartening for Cubs fans. The 21-year-old connected on all four of his outs, unfortunately keeping the ball on the ground every time. There wasn't a lack of confidence or sense of feeling lost in the batter's box. Rather, he was simply acclimating to MLB pitching. 

The youngster might not remain on the roster for long, as it appears Ian Happ is due back sooner rather than later. That said, he should start to the see the hits come in the upcoming games, possibly starting with Wednesday's series finale against the fish. 

What's On Tap Next?

The Cubs and Marlins will wrap up their three-game set on Wednesday with another 6:40 p.m. CT first pitch. RHP Jameson Taillon takes the hill for the Cubs while LHP Ryan Weathers will do the same for the Marlins. Following Wednesday's game, the Cubs will be off on Thursday as they await the crosstown Chicago White Sox for a three-game series at Wrigley Field beginning on Friday.