The Houston Astros defeated the Chicago Cubs 8-5 at Wrigley Field on Friday, May 22, 2026, extending the Cubs’ losing streak to eight games. The Astros secured the win behind three home runs off starter Shōta Imanaga, while the Cubs’ offense continued to struggle with runners in scoring position.
Defensive Failures and the Home Run Bug
The loss marked a continuation of a difficult stretch for the Cubs, who have now dropped 11 of their last 13 games following a 10-game winning streak. For Shōta Imanaga, the afternoon was defined by the long ball. While Jake Meyers opened the scoring with a solo shot in the second inning, the damage compounded as the game progressed. According to Bleed Cubbie Blue, Imanaga surrendered a solo homer to Nick Allen in the third, followed by a decisive three-run home run by Christian Walker in the fifth inning.
Walker’s power was a recurring theme throughout the series. As reported by The Crawfish Boxes, Walker hit two home runs in the game, including a 376-foot blast in the first inning off Colin Rea and his 13th home run of the season in the fourth. The Astros’ ability to capitalize on these opportunities stood in stark contrast to the Cubs’ inability to generate consistent offense when it mattered most.
Persistent Struggles with Runners in Scoring Position
The Cubs’ offensive inefficiency has become the defining narrative of their recent skid. Despite loading the bases in the third inning, the team failed to produce a run, finishing the day 0-for-9 with runners in scoring position and leaving 11 men on base. This failure to execute has left manager Craig Counsell searching for answers as the team’s record with runners in scoring position drops to .131 over their last 12 games, according to the Chicago Tribune.
“That’s frustrating. I don’t know how else to say it. It’s an opportunity, the middle of your lineup up, and just not being able to get it done is frustrating.” Craig Counsell, Chicago Cubs manager
Counsell highlighted the psychological and mechanical toll of these high-leverage situations, noting that the team’s strikeout rate in these spots—28.4%—is significantly higher than the league average of 22.1%. The manager emphasized that while luck is an inherent component of hitting, the frequency of strikeouts prevents any chance for success.
“The thing that hurts you in runners in scoring position is a strikeout ’cause there’s no way to get lucky. When there’s eight fielders out there, it is. Your job is to go up there and try to hit something hard, and you got to live with the results sometimes. When you do have runners on base, you can’t get lucky striking out.” Craig Counsell, Chicago Cubs manager
Injury Concerns and Future Outlook
While the Astros celebrated their victory, the team faces its own challenges. During the sixth inning, Yordan Alvarez was removed from the game after showing signs of discomfort. Astros manager Joe Espada and the training staff consulted with Alvarez before he was ultimately replaced by pinch-hitter Zach Dezenzo. The team later confirmed that Alvarez exited due to back spasms.
The injury to Alvarez adds a layer of uncertainty for the Astros as they navigate their current road trip. Alvarez, a cornerstone of the Houston lineup, has been a central figure in the team’s recent offensive output. His status remains a point of observation for the coaching staff as they evaluate his availability for the upcoming schedule.
As the teams prepare for the Sunday series finale, the contrast in momentum is clear. The Astros, who have won three of their last four games, will look to complete the sweep with Peter Lambert on the mound. For the Cubs, the focus shifts to potential lineup adjustments. With the team now sitting at a 29-23 record, Counsell admitted that the status quo is no longer sustainable.
“I think we got to do something different.” Craig Counsell, Chicago Cubs manager
The Cubs’ recent slide has impacted their position in the standings, moving them further from the top of the division. The team’s inability to capitalize on early-season momentum has raised questions regarding roster construction and the immediate need for a spark. With the bullpen taxed from the heavy workload during the eight-game losing streak, the Cubs are looking for length from their starting rotation to stabilize the pitching staff.
Conversely, the Astros are looking to build upon their recent success. Despite the injury to Alvarez, the team’s depth has been tested and proven effective in the current series. The Astros’ coaching staff has emphasized the importance of maintaining focus as they head into the final game of the set at Wrigley Field. The Sunday game at 1:20 pm will provide the next test for both clubs, as the Cubs attempt to break their losing streak and the Astros look to maintain their recent winning momentum despite potential roster limitations.
