Overview
- The Cubs beat the Mets 12-4 at Wrigley Field on Friday, leaving New York 7-13 and on a nine-game slide that few teams have overcome to reach the playoffs.
- Hours before the loss, president David Stearns defended manager Carlos Mendoza and said the problem is cold bats rather than effort.
- Star outfielder Juan Soto, out with a right calf strain, began running and took live batting practice this week with a return targeted for next week’s homestand.
- Jorge Polanco’s left Achilles bursitis prompted a Friday reevaluation, and the team said an injured-list stint remains possible.
- Chicago is managing its own setbacks, placing reliever Daniel Palencia on the 15-day injured list with an oblique strain as Jed Hoyer ordered a review of recent pitcher injuries.