Cubs Clinch Series, Win Second Straight Against Blue Jays

After multiple (but short lived) rain delays the game finally found a conclusion and the Chicago Cubs picked up a series win after a 3-2 victory against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Here is what you need to know from Saturday's contest

Happ Starts it Off Strong

On Saturday, the Cubs took an early 1-0 lead as leadoff hitter Ian Happ recorded his 22nd home run of the season. The home run went 413 feet and had an exit velocity of over 106 MPH off Blue Jays pitcher Chris Bassett. It now makes it six straight games that Bassett has allowed a home run in his starts.

This is the first time since the series opening game of the Crosstown Series against the Chicago White Sox on August 9th that the Cubs scored a run in the first inning of play. Ian Happ has been on fire over the last stretch of games. In his last seven, he is hitting .375/.483/.917 with four homers.

An Unexpected Bullpen Game

Because of the two rain delays before the two teams could complete the second inning, Cubs pitcher Justin Steele found his day to be cut short. Steele only threw two innings in the second game of the series, throwing 36 pitches (23 strikes) and striking out three batters.

The bullpen did a good job for the remaining seven innings as they combined for seven hits, seven strikeouts, and two runs allowed. Jorge Lopez came in for the top of the ninth inning, and although he allowed a home run to Blue Jays Addison Barger , he picked up his third save of the season.

Busch Triples into the Ivy

Not only are the Cubs still somewhat in contention for an NL Wildcard spot, they are getting a great look at some of their future pieces in everyday at bats. Michael Busch continues to impress at the plate as he ripped his second triple of the year. He cleared the bases, and brought in two runs doing so, picking up his 47th RBI of the season.

Among all first basemen in the majors this year, Busch ranks fifth with a .803 OPS.

What's Next

The Cubs will be back in action for the series finale at Wrigley Field on Sunday. The first pitch is scheduled for 2:20 PM EST.