Arizona Diamondbacks defeat Chicago Cubs with ninth-inning walk-off

The Arizona Diamondbacks secured a 5-4 walk-off victory against the Chicago Cubs at Chase Field, fueled by a two-run home run from rookie Ryan Waldschmidt in the bottom of the ninth inning with two outs.

The Cubs held a 4-0 lead heading into the eighth inning, supported by a three-run home run from Ian Happ and a strong seven-inning scoreless performance by starter Clay Holmes. However, the lead evaporated after reliever Daniel Palencia surrendered three runs in the eighth, followed by Waldschmidt’s decisive blast in the ninth.

The game was marked by tension regarding sign-stealing allegations. Diamondbacks pitcher Merrill Kelly accused the Cubs of relaying signs, leading to a heated exchange. Following a review by MLB officials, Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo apologized to Cubs manager Craig Counsell, acknowledging that the Cubs' third base coach was operating within the rules.

Despite the loss, Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki had a productive night, recording two hits and two runs. The Diamondbacks' win moves them within one game of the San Diego Padres for the final National League wild-card spot.