Ian Happ’s 3‑Run Blast Forces Game 5 in NLDS Showdown

When Ian Happ, outfielder for the Chicago Cubs, launched a three‑run homer in the bottom of the seventh on Game 4 of the National League Division SeriesAmerican Family Field, the series was thrust into a sudden‑death finale. The blast turned a 2‑2 tie into a 5‑2 lead, sending the Cubs to a decisive Game 5 against the Milwaukee Brewers at the same venue on Saturday night.

Game 4 Recap: Happ’s Heroics

The atmosphere at American Family Field on October 9 was electric. After the Brewers stole a 2‑1 lead early in the third inning, the Cubs answered with a pair of singles and a double that put two runners on, but a timely strikeout by Milwaukee’s starter kept the score tight. Then, with two outs and the Cubs clinging to a 2‑2 tie, Happ faced left‑hander Colt Erickson. On the sixth pitch, Happ’s swing connected with a fastball that rocketed over the left‑field wall, a three‑run home run that lifted Chicago’s morale and the scoreboard.

Milwaukee tried to rally in the eighth, but a clutch double play by Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson extinguished the threat. The final 5‑2 margin gave the Cubs a 3‑2 series lead heading into the nightcap.

Series Overview: Brewers vs Cubs

The NLDS began on October 5 with the Brewers taking a 2‑0 lead at home behind strong pitching from Corbin Carroll and a solo blast from William Contreras. Chicago fought back in games three and four at Wrigley Field, with Ian Happ already delivering the series‑saving hit in game three. The Cubs’ resilience forced a winner‑take‑all showdown back in Milwaukee.

Both clubs entered the series carrying recent postseason pain. The Brewers had lost six straight series since their 2018 NLCS defeat, while the Cubs were seeking their first NLDS victory since 2020.

Key Performances and Pitching Duel

Beyond Happ’s homer, the Cubs benefited from solid outings by left‑hander Luis Armenteros, who flirted with a no‑hit bid through six innings. He surrendered only two runs on five walks, a performance that kept Chicago in the game long enough for the offense to explode.

Milwaukee relied on veteran right‑hander Brandon Woodruff, who struck out nine but gave up three runs, including the decisive homer. His earlier dominance set the tone, but the Cubs’ late surge proved too much.

On the Brewers’ side, Andrew Vaughn and Brice Turang each contributed solo home runs in earlier contests, showcasing the team’s power potential.

Reactions from Players and Managers

“That’s the kind of swing we need in a do‑or‑die situation,” said Cubs manager David Rogers, chuckling as he gestured toward the empty seats where the fans once roared. “Ian gave us the spark, and we rode it all the way.”

Brewers skipper Craig Baxter stayed measured: “We’ll regroup tomorrow. The series isn’t over, and we have ways to win.”

Happ, modest after the blast, told reporters, “I just saw a good pitch and tried to drive it. The guys in the dugout gave me the confidence. We’re not done yet.”

What Game 5 Means for Both Teams

For Chicago, the win restores hope of a deep postseason run that could end a five‑year spell without a World Series appearance. The Cubs will aim to capitalize on their momentum, relying on Happ’s bat and a bullpen that has been steady all summer.

The Brewers, meanwhile, are determined to shake off their series‑losing streak. A win in Game 5 would not only send them to the NLCS but also prove they can break the post‑season jinx that has haunted them since 2018.

Key Facts

• Ian Happ hit a three‑run home run in the 7th inning of Game 4.
• The blast gave the Chicago Cubs a 5‑2 victory, forcing a decisive Game 5.
• Game 4 was played on October 9, 2025 at American Family Field in Milwaukee.
• Milwaukee Brewers lead the series 2‑0 before Chicago tied it with wins in Games 3 and 4.
• Attendance for Game 4 was 42,742 fans.