MILWAUKEE, Wisconsin — The Chicago Cubs were very close to an important victory against the Milwaukee Brewers, but in just the final moments, everything changed in the most painful way.
In the game at American Family Field, the Cubs held a 3 1 lead before entering the ninth inning. Craig Counsell’s team was only a few outs away from victory, but the bullpen once again became the problem that forced Chicago to pay the price.
The player given the responsibility of protecting the lead was Jacob Webb, one of the Cubs’ important arms this season. However, this time he could not complete the mission in the most crucial moment.
Webb started the ninth inning with promise as he quickly recorded the first two outs. The Cubs believed they could close out the game, but one moment of losing control opened the door for the Brewers.
After allowing Christian Yelich to draw a walk, Webb had to face Jackson Chourio in a high pressure situation. Just one mistake in a pitch changed the entire game.
Webb’s changeup missed its location, and Chourio did not miss the opportunity. The Brewers’ young star crushed the ball into left field, creating a two run home run that tied the game for Milwaukee.
From a game that appeared to be in the Cubs’ hands, everything turned into a new battle. The Brewers eventually won 4 3 in extra innings, while Chicago suffered another painful loss in the postseason race.
Jacob Webb addresses the media after tonight's walk-off loss to the Brewers. ⤵️ pic.twitter.com/pkzG8bNrdX
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) September 9, 2026
After the game, Webb stood in front of his locker inside the visiting clubhouse with disappointment clearly visible on his face. He did not search for excuses or blame anyone.
The Cubs pitcher chose to face the responsibility. Webb admitted that he was the one who failed to make the necessary pitch in the most important moment.
“I know everyone in this clubhouse fought with everything they had, and what hurts me the most is that I was not able to finish the job and help them win. I take full responsibility for that moment. I believe in this team, but I’m tired of constantly disappointing my teammates.”
That was Webb’s emotional message, a player who was once viewed as a reliable pillar in the Cubs bullpen.
Before this difficult stretch, Webb once had a streak of 24 consecutive games without allowing an opponent to score, showing incredible control and consistency.
But since the end of August, things have become more difficult for the 31 year old pitcher. Webb has allowed opponents to score in four of his last six appearances, causing the pressure to continue increasing.
Manager Craig Counsell continues to show confidence in Webb and the entire Cubs bullpen, emphasizing that the team needs to overcome this challenging period together.
“This is the job of the bullpen. We need to get important outs, and I believe these players will get it done,” Counsell said.
The loss against the Brewers was not just another defeat in the standings. It was also a warning for the Cubs as the season enters its decisive stage.
Chicago remains competing for a high position in the Wild Card standings, but bullpen consistency will be the deciding factor in their hopes of making a deep October run.
Despite the mistake, Webb continues receiving support from teammates and Cubs fans, who understand that every player must go through the most difficult moments.
For Jacob Webb, this was not only a failed game. It was a moment where he had to face himself, but also an opportunity to prove the mentality of a great player.
Because sometimes, what fans remember most is not a missed pitch, but the way a player rises after a mistake and fights to return stronger.
