Ian Happ's walk-off single gives the Cubs a 3-2 win over the Pirates on June 15, 2025. See how Nico Hoerner's defense set up the Father's Day thriller.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
It was a perfect Father's Day script at the Friendly Confines. With the game on the line in the 10th inning and 40,162 fans on their feet, Ian Happ laced a single into the outfield, sending the Chicago Cubs pouring out of the dugout in celebration. The 3-2 walk-off victory over the rival Pirates wasn't just a win; it was a statement, a nail-biting, heart-pounding classic that secured a 3-1 series victory and reminded everyone why this team is so dangerous in the clutch.
The Cubs improved to 12-6 in one-run games, proving once again they have the grit and execution to win the tightest of contests.
The bottom of the 10th will get the headlines, but the game was truly saved in the top half. With a runner on third, second baseman Nico Hoerner launched himself to his right, snagging a screaming line drive from Isiah Kiner-Falefa to prevent the go-ahead run. It was a gold-glove caliber play that preserved the 2-2 tie and electrified the ballpark. That defensive gem set the stage for the offense. After a daring double steal put runners on second and third, Ian Happ stepped to the plate against tough closer David Bednar and delivered the decisive blow, a clean single that scored Vidal Bruján and sent Wrigleyville into a frenzy.
The late-game heroics were only possible thanks to a steady day from the pitching staff. Starter Colin Rea battled through a rocky first inning to deliver a quality start, giving up just two runs over six solid frames. He settled in beautifully, keeping the Pirates' bats quiet and the Cubs within striking distance. But the win went to reliever Chris Flexen, who was lights-out in the top of the 10th. Flexen retired the side in order, earning his fourth win of the season without a loss. His perfect inning was the crucial bridge between Hoerner's defensive gem and Happ's walk-off hit.
While the big-league club keeps finding ways to win, the future continues to look incredibly bright. Even after dealing top prospect Cam Smith in the blockbuster trade for Kyle Tucker, the Cubs' farm system remains one of the most respected in baseball. With seven prospects still ranked in the Top 100, the organization boasts a deep well of talent. Farm director Jason Kanzler emphasized this depth, noting it not only promises a sustained window of contention but also provides significant currency as the MLB trade deadline approaches.
The talent isn't just theoretical; it's making an impact. Catcher Moises Ballesteros, at just 21 years old, recently earned his big-league call-up after tearing up Triple-A. He's joined by first baseman Jonathon Long, who has been one of the hottest hitters in the International League. The pipeline is flowing at every level, with pitcher Will Sanders earning a promotion to Iowa after dominating in Double-A and shortstop Cristian Hernandez showing major strides at High-A South Bend. The next wave of Cubs talent is getting closer every day.
This Father's Day victory was a microcosm of the 2025 Cubs: tough, resilient, and finding contributions from every corner of the roster. As they sit atop the NL Central, they're not just winning with their stars, but with grit, defense, and timely hitting. With a deep farm system ready to provide reinforcements or fuel a major trade, the Cubs are perfectly positioned not just for a summer pennant race, but for long-term success. Get ready, Cubs fans, this is going to be a fun ride.
