Closer Makes Unfortunate MLB History Amid Disappointing Stretch
Chicago Cubs closer Jacob Webb allowed a game-tying homer in the ninth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers.
In a disappointing stretch, Chicago Cubs closer Jacob Webb failed to secure his third consecutive save opportunity on Tuesday. The pitcher allowed a game-tying home run in the ninth inning against the Milwaukee Brewers, as the Cubs held a 3-1 lead heading into the ninth inning. Webb got off to a solid start, managing to retire the first two batters, but ultimately failed to prevent the Brewers from tying the game.
The Brewers went on to secure a win in the 10th inning. This marks Webb's third consecutive save opportunity in which he allowed either a walk-off or game-tying homer with two outs, making him the first pitcher to achieve such a feat since the introduction of saves as an official stat in 1969. Webb's struggles came to light after his previous appearances, including a loss against the Seattle Mariners on August 22, where he allowed three runs in 0.2 innings, and his subsequent outing against the Arizona Diamondbacks, during which Ryan Waldschmidt hit a homer.
Webb acknowledges his shortcomings, stating, "I'm tired of letting the team down, to be completely honest." Despite his recent struggles, Webb remains the team's primary closer, with the most opportunities and saves on the Cubs' roster. The Cubs still possess a strong chance of securing a postseason spot, currently leading the Wild Card race by three games over the Arizona Diamondbacks and just half a game behind the Philadelphia Phillies, who lead the Wild Card with the top spot.
With less than three weeks left in the season, the Cubs aim to secure their position as they prepare for the high-stakes October baseball.
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