Slugfest ensues in Pittsburgh, Cubs come out on top

I'm satisfied with the outcome last night and sure glad to have caught most of the action. What a game for Geovany Soto! He plated half of the Cubs runs in a 14-9 wallop over the Pirates. This was definitely a career game for the prodigy rookie catcher who smashed two doubles, clearing the bases both times and hit his 20th homerun. I was wondering when he was going to break out of a cold spell at the plate. With his dazzling performance he saved the day for Carlos Zambrano who scuffled a bit and lasted 4.1 innings on the mound and yielded 6 earned runs on 8 hits and 4 walks. Fortunately for him the Cubs lineup showed patience and diligence, combining for 14 hits and 9 walks.

More hitting from the top of the order as Soriano went 3-for-6 with 2 runs scored. D. Lee accounted for 2 RBIs while DeRosa continues to stay hot with a 2-hit performance. After Zambrano departed the bullpen slowly took the zip out of Pirates' offense. Sean Marshall took over in the 6th and got the decision to improve to 3-3. I like the young lefty's contribution. He's quietly taking care of business and helping the club out of the pen. Since Lou had to go his relievers earlier than usual and had to execute a few switches here and there the bullpen will probably need a little rest today.

The Cubs have won 4 straight games, moving towards a big series against the Phillies after wrapping up Game 3 in Pittsburgh today. With a Brewers win Tuesday night no ground has be gained by either team. The series in Chicago against Milwaukee later in September may loom larger than expected. As long as the Cubs hit with regularity like they did yesterday they'll stay ahead in the Central. It's up to Jason Marquis (8-7) to help extend the streak as he takes on Zack Duke (4-12) today for the finale. A good 5 innings from the Cubs starter ought to be enough for the Cubs to set up the sweep. If all else fails, GEO POWER to the rescue!!