Nico Hoerner shone with two hits and two runs as the Chicago Cubs secured a 5-3 victory over the Washington Nationals, marking their fifth consecutive win.

Javier Assad contributed significantly, allowing three runs across six innings.

Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed pride in the team's performance, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming games.

The Chicago Cubs have added right-hander Shawn Armstrong to their roster after claiming him off waivers from St. Louis. Armstrong has had a mixed season with a record of 3-2 and a 4.85 ERA across 49 games.

Before the game against Washington, the Cubs optioned Daniel Palencia to Triple-A Iowa and released catcher Tomás Nido, who struggled offensively this season.

The Chicago Cubs have placed veteran pitcher Drew Smyly on outright waivers, differing from the earlier release of Héctor Neris, who has since joined the Astros.

The Cubs aim to reduce payroll while remaining eligible for the postseason if Smyly is claimed before the deadline.

The team's focus appears to be on future roster building rather than immediate playoff contention, as demonstrated by recent trades and roster adjustments.

Michael Busch's game-ending home run secures a 3-2 win for the Cubs over the Padres, with Cody Bellinger returning with a home run after two weeks out due to broken ribs.

Bellinger made a strong comeback to help the Cubs secure the victory, while Chicago's Héctor Neris pitched out of a ninth-inning jam with a pop fly out. Bellinger's sixth home run of the season was a sweet return after his injury.

The Chicago Cubs activated Cody Bellinger from the injured list after a two-week absence due to broken ribs. Bellinger made his return against the San Diego Padres as the designated hitter. The team also placed right-handed pitcher Daniel Palencia on the injured list and recalled Keegan Thompson. Outfielder Seiya Suzuki was set to return soon after dealing with an oblique injury.

Bellinger, the 2019 NL MVP, was back in the lineup to bolster the Cubs' offense. Despite a slow start to the season, his return was seen as a positive step for the team. Manager Craig Counsell expressed confidence in Bellinger's ability to quickly regain his form.