Seiya Suzuki seizes the MLB RBI lead and All-Star Pete Crow-Armstrong shines as the Cubs hold off the Guardians 5-4 in a thrilling July 3, 2025 matchup.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Wrigley Field was buzzing on a perfect July evening, and the hometown heroes delivered. Led by their newly-crowned All-Star Pete Crow-Armstrong and the new MLB RBI king Seiya Suzuki, the Cubs scratched out a thrilling 5-4 victory over the Cleveland Guardians. It was a classic nail-biter that showcased the team's resilience and star power, giving the North Siders a crucial series win to start the month.
With his clutch two-run single in the fourth inning, Seiya Suzuki didn't just give the Cubs a lead they'd never relinquish—he vaulted to the top of the entire MLB with the most RBIs in baseball.
What a 24 hours for Pete Crow-Armstrong. After being named a first-time All-Star starter, PCA played like one, lacing a triple and driving in two key runs. He wasn't the only outfielder making headlines. Seiya Suzuki was the man of the hour, collecting two hits and three RBIs. His go-ahead, two-run single in the fourth was the decisive blow, a piece of hitting that also pushed him past the competition to become the major league leader in runs batted in. With every starter reaching base, the offense showed the depth that makes this team so dangerous.
It wasn't Shota Imanaga's most dominant outing, but it was exactly what the Cubs needed. In his second start since returning from a hamstring injury, Imanaga (5-2) battled for 5 1/3 innings. The Guardians got to him for three solo home runs, but he never let them string together a rally, striking out four and limiting the damage. Once he departed, the bullpen took over and did what it does best. The bridge to the ninth was solid, and while Daniel Palencia made things interesting, he ultimately slammed the door for his 10th save of the season, stranding the potential tying run.
After a bumpy end to June, the Cubs have turned the page emphatically. With two straight wins over a tough Guardians team, they've improved to an impressive 51-35 on the season. More importantly, they've maintained their grip on first place in the NL Central. This team is showing its character, finding ways to win even when not firing on all cylinders. The Guardians went 0-for-4 with runners in scoring position, a testament to the Cubs' ability to make big pitches in big moments.
As the team racks up wins, the front office is undoubtedly looking ahead to the trade deadline. The Cubs' biggest asset might be their embarrassment of riches in the minor leagues. With seven players ranked in the Top 100 prospects (six of them position players), the farm system is a massive strength. Farm director Jason Kanzler highlighted this 'reservoir of talent' at Double-A and Triple-A, which gives the team incredible flexibility. They can either call up reinforcements or package some of these assets to acquire a key piece for the postseason push.
This was more than just another win; it was a statement. The Cubs are starting July with momentum, their stars are leading the charge, and the team is proving its mettle. As they look to close out the series against Cleveland and head into the weekend, the message is clear: the road to the NL Central title still runs through the North Side of Chicago. The next few weeks will be telling as the trade deadline approaches, but for now, Cubs fans have every reason to be excited.
