CHICAGO – On the eve of the Cubs’ final game to cap a dismal season, Bryan LaHair wanted to go out with a bang.

Inspired after talking to his grandmother, who is battling cancer, LaHair was psyched for the season finale. Manager Dale Sveum gave most of his starters the day off against the Houston Astros, their final game in the National League, earning LaHair a rare start at first base, and he delivered.

LaHair’s solo homer tied the game in the second inning, but he saved his biggest hit for the ninth. His two-out, bases-loaded single set off a celebration as the Cubs pulled out a 5-4 walk-off win.