WATCH: Carson Kelly reacts to his go-ahead homer in playoff win over Padres |
Tony Crumpton
· · 8 hours ago
Chicago Cubs catcher Carson Kelly addressed the media following the Cubs' 3-1 win over the San Diego Padres in Game 1 of the NL Wild Card Series talking about the playoff atmosphere at Wrigley Field.
Kelly shares how the back-to-back home runs lifted weight off the team's shoulders and much more. Watch his postgame interview below: Video summary/cliff notes: (00:00) Kelly said the energy from teammates and the crowd was powerful, calling it “a good day to wear a Cubs uniform.” (00:16) Momentum shifted when Cubs hitters began taking close pitches and putting together quality at-bats, leading to the key three runs. (00:35) Adjustments at the plate included being more direct to the ball to handle the opposing pitcher’s fastball. (00:54) He emphasized that hitting is contagious — one big moment can spark a rally. (01:14–01:35) Praised strong defense, solid pitching, and a flawless bullpen performance that shut down the opponent over 4 2/3 innings. (01:59) Winning Game 1 was “huge,” giving the team a chance to clinch the series in Game 2. (02:31–02:51) Credited manager Craig Counsell for putting players in the right spots and earning their trust. (03:18–03:44) Highlighted his connection with Matthew Boyd, who made critical pitches with runners in scoring position. (04:18) Valdez’s passionate performance and rare emotional display, including a hard high-five, showed how much the moment meant. (05:40–06:01) Kelly’s game-winning home run was his first postseason homer, calling it a childhood dream come true and his biggest career hit so far.
