The Chicago Cubs put on a spectacular fireworks show for the Fourth of July, hitting a team-record eight home runs in an 11-3 win over the St. Louis Cardinals. Michael Busch led the way with three home runs, while Pete Crow-Armstrong added two. Other contributors included Seiya Suzuki, Dansby Swanson, and Carson Kelly. This offensive explosion came despite the Cubs placing starting pitcher Jameson Taillon on the injured list with a calf strain. With the Cubs' bats firing on all cylinders, the team ranks second in the majors with 475 runs, trailing only the Los Angeles Dodgers. Colin Rea pitched effectively, going 6⅔ innings and allowing only one run, setting the stage for a potential bullpen day to follow.