The Cubs snapped their five game losing streak Sunday night as they defeated the Cardinals. After being swept by Milwaukee earlier in the week, the Cubs were faced with the possibility of being swept again Sunday night. Fortunately for the Cubs they could find a way to win tonight.
Things got off to a bad start for the Cubs offense as Cardinals pitcher Jake Westbrook was perfect through five innings. However, Ryan Dempster was just as good through five innings, allowing just two hits and no runs. Then the Cubs solved Westbrook in the sixth inning. After retiring the first batter, Westbrook issued a walk to Hill. Dempster then laid down a sacrifice to advance Hill. Then the next five hitters for the Cubbies reached base. Castro and Byrd had the big hits of the innings, driving in three runs combined. The Cubs were feeling good with a 4-0 lead after the top of the sixth.
However, the comfortable lead did not last long. All- Star Lance Berkman blasted a three-run homer in the bottom of the sixth,bringing the Cardinals within one run. But luckily for the Cubs the bullpen was on top of it’s game tonight. After the Berkman homer, the Cardinals failed to score again.
Soriano gave the Cubs a comfortable lead in the ninth inning with a two-run shot. It was Soriano’s second straight day with a home run.
The Cubs will now travel to Pittsburgh for a four game series against the Pirates. Zambrano will get the start for the Cubs monday night. 