WATCH: Michael Busch reacts to playoff win against Padres

Tony Crumpton · Senior Editor · 2 hours ago

Chicago Cubs first baseman Michael Busch addressed the media following the Cubs' 3-1 win over the Padres in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series talking about the importance of winning the first game of a three-game set against the Padres.

Busch also discusses the huge defensive plays from Dansby Swanson and more.

Watch his postgame interview below:

Video summary/cliff notes:

ael Busch emphasizes Cubs’ “big win” over Padres (Game 1, NL Wild Card Series)

(00:00) Busch calls Game 1 a “big one for us” in the best-of-three series, noting the importance of taking the opener but keeping focus on Game 2.

(00:16) Describes a momentum shift from a key swing and Carson Kelly’s strong at-bat afterward that helped solidify the lead.

(00:36) Stresses the importance of keeping pressure on the Padres, who have a strong lineup and pitching staff; praises the Cubs’ persistence.

(00:53) Compliments Padres’ pitcher for attacking the top of the zone with tough fastballs, making at-bats difficult, but says the Cubs battled and scratched out runs.

(01:12) Highlights Dansby Swanson’s defensive plays, especially a key catch that saved at least one or two runs, calling him one of the best shortstops in baseball.

(02:10) Mentions his pregame routine timing felt different for a 2:08 start vs. regular 1:20 games, but once play began, it was “game on.”

(02:26) Notes shadows later in the game made hitting even tougher, adding to already difficult at-bats.

(02:44) Says winning the first game is a huge step but emphasizes the team must approach Game 2 with the same intensity.

(03:02) Praises teammate Michael (say) Suzuki’s hot streak with home runs in five straight games, calling him a confident, consistent hitter.

(03:38 – 04:07) Celebrates the energy boost from the homer and bullpen’s ability to hold down the Padres’ stars like Tatis and Machado; admits he didn’t expect his first homer attempt to carry unless the wind helped.