Ryan Johnson Faces Challenges in His First Career Start as Angels Fall to Cubs
Cubs Triumph Over Angels in Season Opener
CHICAGO — Edward Cabrera made a memorable debut for the Chicago Cubs, pitching six shutout innings and leading the team to a 7-2 victory against the Los Angeles Angels on Monday night at Wrigley Field.
The 6-foot-5 right-hander, who joined the Cubs in a trade with Miami earlier this year, allowed just one hit and one walk, captivating a crowd of 36,702.
In the opening game of a three-game series, the Cubs (2-2) also benefited from strong offensive performances, with Carson Kelly and Moisés Ballesteros each driving in two runs.
On the other side, the Angels (2-3) faced disappointment as they suffered their third consecutive loss. Yoán Moncada hit a two-run homer for Los Angeles, but starting pitcher Ryan Johnson struggled in his debut, giving up six runs on seven hits in just over three innings.
Angels superstar Mike Trout, after an impressive start to the season with six hits and seven walks in the first four games, went hitless with two strikeouts against the Cubs.
The Cubs began to establish their lead in the first inning when Johnson walked the bases loaded. After an 11-pitch walk to Pete Crow-Armstrong, Nico Hoerner’s sacrifice fly brought in the first run. Kelly followed with a crucial two-run single that slipped just out of Trout’s reach in shallow right-center.
The Cubs extended their lead in the third inning, with Ian Happ hitting a solo homer, marking his third consecutive game with a home run, and Ballesteros contributing a two-run single to increase the score to 6-0.
Cabrera (1-0) showcased his talent by striking out five batters while throwing 80 pitches, 49 of which were strikes. Colin Rea secured his first save of the season, working three innings and striking out Moncada with two runners on base to seal the win.
