St. Louis CardinalsOpen full analysisVSChicago CubsOpen full analysis

The Chicago Cubs defeated the St. Louis Cardinals 6–4 on July 5 at Wrigley Field in a low-scoring affair that fell short of the Vegas total of 8.5 runs. Both teams managed seven hits, but the Cubs' four RBIs proved decisive despite striking out seven times and posting a modest .747 OPS. St. Louis scored four runs on one home run and four RBIs of their own, yet their pitching staff's 4.14 ERA and seven strikeouts couldn't overcome a Cubs lineup that drew two walks and avoided errors defensively. Chicago's pitching allowed seven hits and three earned runs while recording five strikeouts, holding the Cardinals to a .722 OPS. The game exemplified tight, efficient baseball on both sides—neither team generated explosive offense, but the Cubs' ability to convert their limited opportunities into runs, combined with St. Louis's inability to capitalize on their own scoring chances, proved the difference. The Cardinals' pitching quality suggests they remain competitive in the division despite the loss.