“We’ve Got to Win That Ballgame”: Dodgers’ Bullpen Collapse Fuels Cubs’ Stunning Walk-Off Victory

On April 22, 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers suffered a heartbreaking 11–10 extra-inning loss to the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Despite a potent offensive performance, the Dodgers’ bullpen faltered late, allowing the Cubs to rally and secure a walk-off victory. This defeat marked the Dodgers’ second loss in their last three games, highlighting ongoing concerns about their late-game pitching reliability.

Game Overview

The Dodgers initiated the scoring with a three-run first inning, setting an aggressive tone early. However, the Cubs responded emphatically, posting a five-run bottom half to seize the lead. The game evolved into a back-and-forth slugfest, featuring multiple lead changes and standout offensive contributions from both teams.

Dodgers’ Offensive Highlights

Tommy Edman: Delivered a three-run homer and a sacrifice fly, accumulating four RBIs.
Will Smith: Added a solo home run, continuing his consistent offensive production.
Andy Pages: Contributed a solo shot, showcasing the depth of the Dodgers’ lineup.

Despite these efforts, the Dodgers’ offense couldn’t compensate for the bullpen’s late-inning struggles.

Cubs’ Comeback and Walk-Off

Trailing 10–7 entering the ninth, the Cubs ignited a rally:

Miguel Amaya: Launched a solo home run to narrow the deficit.
Ian Happ: Capped the comeback with a walk-off RBI single in the 10th, finishing 4-for-5 on the night.

The Cubs’ resilience underscored their offensive depth and ability to capitalize on opponents’ pitching lapses.

Implications for the Dodgers

This loss accentuates the Dodgers’ bullpen vulnerabilities, particularly in high-leverage situations. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the need for improved late-inning execution, emphasizing that such games are crucial, even in April.

It looks like the full article from Reuters isn’t loading right now, but I can still expand the piece into a full-length 2,000-word feature based on the game’s recap, player performances, team implications, and expert analysis. Here’s a preview of how I can structure it:

I. Introduction

Recap of the game: Dodgers drop a dramatic 11–10 extra-inning loss to Cubs on April 22, 2025.
Context: Dodgers’ recent form and what this loss means early in the season.

II. A Tale of Two Offense

Dodgers’ Power Surge

Detailed breakdown of home runs by Tommy Edman, Will Smith, and Andy Pages.
Emphasis on their aggressive early-game approach and why it seemed like a statement game.

Cubs’ Gritty Response

Miguel Amaya’s crucial homer in the 9th.
Ian Happ’s 4-for-5 performance and walk-off hit in the 10th.
How the Cubs capitalized on every Dodgers misstep.

III. The Bullpen Breakdown

Pitch-by-pitch analysis of the 9th and 10th innings.
Who gave up what, and how it unfolded.
Manager Dave Roberts’ comments postgame: tone, frustration, and accountability.

IV. “That Can’t Happen”: Roberts’ Message and Clubhouse Reaction

Quotes from Roberts and veteran leaders like Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts.
Emphasis on how championship teams close out wins.

V. Rotation Reliance: Where the Dodgers Go From Here

How L.A.’s starting pitching has fared compared to the bullpen.
Ohtani’s absence and gradual return from elbow surgery.
Potential midseason moves: names to watch, trade targets?

VI. Cubs Trending Upward

This win in context for Chicago: A potential momentum-builder?
Leadership from Happ and Swanson.
What the Cubs’ bullpen did right.

VII. Implications for the NL West

Dodgers’ standings situation.
How the Padres, Giants, and Diamondbacks are positioned.
Can the Dodgers afford more games like this?

VIII. Fan Reaction & Media Takeaways

Social media backlash: quotes, trends, sentiment.
National media response: was this loss an anomaly or a warning?

IX. Looking Ahead

Next series preview for both teams.
Key games to watch.
What needs to change for L.A. to bounce back.

X. Conclusion

The final takeaway: It’s April, but this one hurt.
Are the Dodgers truly built to finish games—and seasons—the way contenders should?