The Chicago Cubs saw their impressive 10-game winning streak come to a definitive end on Saturday, April 25, 2026, falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers with a final score of 12–4. In a game characterized by high-octane offense and a dramatic mid-game shift in momentum, the Dodgers utilized a massive sixth-run fourth inning to overwhelm the North Siders at Dodger Stadium.

Chicago Cubs vs Los Angeles Dodgers Score Summary

For those looking for the immediate result of the latest Cubs matchup, here is the breakdown of the April 25 contest:

Team 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R H E
Chicago Cubs 0 2 0 1 1 0 0 0 0 4 7 1
LA Dodgers 0 0 2 6 0 4 0 0 X 12 14 0

The loss marks the first time in over two weeks that the Cubs failed to secure a victory, bringing their record to a still-respectable standing in the National League Central.

How the Dodgers Rally Overturned an Early Cubs Lead

The game began with a sense of optimism for the Chicago faithful. Building on the momentum of their double-digit scoring performances earlier in the week, the Cubs took an early 3–2 lead by the top of the fourth inning. The offensive spark was ignited by a series of solo home runs, showcasing the raw power that had defined their 10-game surge.

However, the bottom of the fourth inning proved to be the undoing of the Chicago defense. Cubs starter Colin Rea, who entered the game with a 3–1 record, struggled to navigate the heart of the Dodgers' order. The Los Angeles squad pivoted to a "small ball" strategy, utilizing gaps in the outfield and aggressive base running to pressure the Chicago infield.

The turning point arrived when Alex Freeland tied the game at 3–3 with a sharp RBI double. Shortly after, Freddie Freeman’s RBI single forced the Cubs to pull Rea from the mound. The relief staff, including Javier Assad and Vince Velasquez, struggled to contain the bleeding. By the time the fourth inning concluded, the Dodgers had batted around, scoring six runs and flipping a one-run deficit into an 8–3 lead.

Key Player Performances and Statistical Highlights

Despite the lopsided final score, several individual performances stood out during the Saturday night clash.

Seiya Suzuki Leads the Chicago Offense

Seiya Suzuki continued to be a bright spot for the Cubs. Finishing the night with a three-hit performance, Suzuki accounted for much of the team’s early production. His solo home run provided a temporary cushion, and his ability to track pitches from high-velocity starters remains a critical asset for the Cubs as they navigate the 2026 season.

The Home Run Parade: Ballesteros and Amaya

Joining Suzuki in the home run column were Moisés Ballesteros and Miguel Amaya. Ballesteros, who has been on a tear lately, launched a two-strike homer off Roki Sasaki in the fourth inning. This marked a continuation of the "run parade" the Cubs enjoyed against previous opponents, though on this night, the solo shots were not enough to match the Dodgers' sustained rallies.

Roki Sasaki’s Dominance on the Mound

On the Dodgers' side, the spotlight was firmly on Roki Sasaki. In what was designated as his "bobblehead night," the Japanese right-hander earned his second Major League victory. Sasaki (1–2) pitched into the sixth inning for the first time this year, throwing a career-high 99 pitches. While he surrendered four runs—three via the aforementioned solo homers—he struck out five batters and showcased the elite velocity that made him a standout closer during the Dodgers' previous World Series run.

Analyzing the End of the 10-Game Winning Streak

A 10-game winning streak is a rare feat in modern baseball, often requiring a perfect blend of dominant pitching, timely hitting, and defensive consistency. For the Chicago Cubs, this streak allowed them to climb the NL Central standings and silence early-season critics who questioned the consistency of their lineup.

Manager Craig Counsell had previously noted that the team was searching for "length" in the lineup—the ability to get production from every spot in the order. During the streak, this was evident, as the team eclipsed 10 runs in three consecutive games leading up to the Los Angeles series.

The loss on Saturday highlights the inherent volatility of a long MLB season. Even a deep lineup can be stifled when a bullpen struggles to strand runners. The Cubs left the bases loaded in the sixth inning, a missed opportunity that could have shifted the momentum back in their favor. Reliever Jack Dreyer and the Dodgers' bullpen managed to induce critical groundouts and strikeouts to end the threat.

What is Next for the Chicago Cubs?

With the series tied, the Cubs and Dodgers are scheduled for a high-stakes "rubber match" on Sunday, April 26, 2026. This finale will determine the winner of the series and provide a litmus test for how the Cubs bounce back from a blowout loss.

Starting Pitching Matchup for Sunday

The Cubs will look to left-hander Shota Imanaga to steady the ship. Imanaga enters the finale with a 2–1 record and a stellar 2.17 ERA. He will face off against the Dodgers' Justin Wrobleski, who has been one of the league's most consistent young arms with a 3–0 record and an 1.88 ERA.

For Chicago, the key to winning the series finale will be:

  1. Early Run Support: Giving Imanaga a lead to work with to prevent the Dodgers from utilizing their aggressive running game.
  2. Bullpen Management: Ensuring the middle relief can bridge the gap to the closer without surrendering multi-run innings.
  3. Situational Hitting: Converting on opportunities with runners in scoring position, an area where they struggled during Saturday's loss.

The Impact of the 2026 Season Trajectory

The 2026 season has already seen significant shifts in the National League. While the Dodgers were fighting to reclaim their lead in the NL West, the Cubs were asserting themselves as the primary challengers to the Milwaukee Brewers in the Central.

Statistical leaders across the league, such as Shohei Ohtani (who ended an 0-for-12 skid in this game) and Aaron Judge, continue to dominate headlines, but the depth of teams like the Cubs suggests a highly competitive postseason race. The "run parade" witnessed in April serves as a reminder that when the Chicago bats are hot, they are among the most dangerous units in baseball.

Summary of the Cubs vs Dodgers Matchup

The Chicago Cubs' 12–4 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers was a game of two halves. The Cubs utilized power hitting to take an early lead, but the Dodgers' relentless offensive pressure in the fourth and sixth innings proved insurmountable. While the 10-game winning streak is over, the Cubs remain a formidable force in the National League as they head into the series finale.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions About the Cubs Score

What was the final score of the last Cubs game?

The Chicago Cubs lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers with a score of 12–4 on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

Who hit home runs for the Cubs against the Dodgers?

Seiya Suzuki, Moisés Ballesteros, and Miguel Amaya each hit solo home runs for the Cubs during the game.

How long was the Cubs' winning streak before the Dodgers loss?

The Cubs had won 10 consecutive games before their streak was snapped by the Dodgers on April 25.

Who was the winning pitcher in the Cubs vs Dodgers game?

Roki Sasaki earned the win for the Dodgers, while Cubs starter Colin Rea was credited with the loss.

When is the next Cubs game?

The Cubs play the Los Angeles Dodgers in a series-deciding game on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 4:10 p.m. EDT.

What is the current record of the Chicago Cubs?

Following the loss on April 25, the Cubs' record stands as a primary contender in the NL Central, having recently completed a 10-game winning streak.