Context:

Kyle Tucker excelled against his former team, the Houston Astros, leading the Chicago Cubs to a decisive 12-3 victory. Tucker hit a three-run homer and achieved a season high with four hits, contributing to the Cubs' 15-hit offensive onslaught that included three homers in a single inning. The Cubs' pitcher Colin Rea earned a win, allowing only two runs over five innings, except for a two-run homer by rookie Cam Smith, who was part of the trade for Tucker. Astros' pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. struggled, conceding eight runs in just over three innings, continuing his challenging season at home. The game saw significant contributions from other Cubs players, including Dansby Swanson, Seiya Suzuki, Michael Busch, and Nico Hoerner, who all added to the scoring barrage.

Dive Deeper:

• Kyle Tucker, playing against the team that traded him in December, had an outstanding game with a three-run homer and four hits, matching his season high, helping the Cubs break the Astros' five-game winning streak.

• The Cubs' offense was prolific with 15 hits, including three home runs in one inning, a feat they accomplished for the second time in the season, highlighted by Tucker's three-run homer that put the Cubs ahead 7-2.

• Colin Rea, the Cubs' starting pitcher, allowed two runs and five hits over five innings, securing the win despite a two-run homer by rookie Cam Smith, marking Smith's first consecutive game with a home run.

• Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. had a tough return from the injured list, giving up eight runs on seven hits in just over three innings, exacerbating his struggles at home where he has a 10.89 ERA.

• The Cubs' lineup showed depth with contributions from players like Dansby Swanson, who had three hits, and Seiya Suzuki, Michael Busch, and Nico Hoerner, who all hit home runs, leading to a dominant offensive performance.

• Cam Smith, part of the trade package for Tucker, showed promise with two hits and a home run against the Cubs, though it wasn't enough to turn the tide for the Astros.

• Despite McCullers' difficulties, the Astros look to bounce back with LHP Framber Valdez scheduled to face Cubs' RHP Jameson Taillon in the series finale.