Improved Boxscore: Dodgers 10, Cubs 8

The disappointment will outweigh the positives of this game, as the Cubs had a chance to beat one of baseball's best teams in their own stadium, but fell short by a few late runs (including the tying run on base in the 9th). At this time of year, in the situation the Cubs find themselves in, there is simply no room for “good” losses.

There are positives, though. I like that Jordan Wicks had the experience of pitching extra innings after a disaster of a first inning (there's still something to learn there). I like that the Cubs fought back from an early deficit and tied the game. I like that the Cubs showed once again that they can compete with a great team. I like that Ethan Roberts, Keegan Thompson, and Tyson Miller – all controllable middle relievers – continued to pitch very well (I share the Ankin Law: “Making it Personal” Player of the Game award because I just want to give them some love).

Buuuuuut, yes, the Cubs lost. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman combined to go 0 for 9, and the Dodgers STILL scored 10 runs. Shohei Ohtani got his, and the Dodgers' real firebrand, Tommy Edman, hit two home runs for the second night in a row.

The Dodgers hit FOUR home runs in the first inning, which is a strong lineup on one hand, but on the other hand, you almost never win a game where your starting pitcher allows four home runs in the first inning. Fight all you want.

The Cubs' middle lineup had a strong night, with Seiya Suzuki, Cody Bellinger and Isaac Paredes all reaching three or more bases.

I'll say it again: For the second consecutive game, a Dodger batter hit two home runs in this game. Given the lineup, that statement probably wouldn't have shocked you, but the identity of that batter annoys me beyond belief.