Cubs 12, Nationals 6: The Alex Bregman game

Key Points:

• Alex Bregman, who struggled early after signing a five-year, $175 million deal with the Cubs, has dramatically improved, batting .324/.397/.657 with nine doubles, nine home runs, 26 RBI, and 27 runs scored over his last 26 games.
• On Wednesday, Bregman hit three home runs in a single game against the Nationals, driving in a career-high seven runs and helping the Cubs to a 12-6 victory; this was his first three-homer game and the second for the Cubs this season.
• The Cubs overcame an early deficit, with key contributions from players like Dansby Swanson and Seiya Suzuki, and a strong five-run sixth inning that helped secure the win.
• Bregman’s performance significantly boosted his season value, increasing his bWAR by 0.5 to 3.6, putting him on track for his best season since 2019.
• The Cubs moved within three games of the NL Central lead following the Padres’ win over the Brewers, and they aim to complete a series sweep against the Nationals in Thursday’s afternoon game.