CHICAGO -- The Chicago Cubs beat the Colorado Rockies, 3-2, on Wednesday afternoon. Here's a quick look at the game.
How it happened: Dexter Fowler led off with his 10th home run of the season before Anthony Rizzo went deep two innings later for his 17th. Both came off Rockies starter Eddie Butler. Meanwhile, Cubs hurler Jon Lester was dominant, striking out a season-high 14 batters. The Rockies pushed their first run across in the fourth inning as a double steal set up a sacrifice fly by Nolan Arenado, but Lester struck out the next two batters to strand a runner at third base. Carlos Gonzalez hit his 21st home run of the season in the seventh, but that's as close as the Rockies would get. Lester lasted eight innings, giving up five hits while allowing four stolen bases. Hector Rondon earned the save with a clean ninth inning.
What it means: Two stars emerged in the game. Fowler continues a hot streak of getting on base, while Lester simply didn't give up much hard contact -- or contact at all -- besides the Gonzalez home run. He became the first Cubs lefty since at least 1914 to record 13 or more strikeouts. Besides going deep, Fowler was also on base two more times via walks. His on-base percentage since the All-Star break is .518, as he's finally setting the table for the run producers on a consistent basis. Meanwhile, Rizzo simply needed something good to happen, and hitting the foul pole counts. Three key players came through in the win.
The Cubs completed their home stand 2-4 after dropping the first three games to Philadelphia. At least they leave on a positive note, having taken the series against the Rockies, but they're far from feeling like they're on a hot streak. Maybe it'll happen on the road.
Lester at the plate: He didn't record his second career hit, but he had three sacrifice bunts to become just the second player (Gio Gonzalez) this season to accomplish that feat, according to ESPN Stats & Information. He's the first Cub with three sac bunts in a game since Sean Marshall in 2006. Lester had five in his career before adding three more on Wednesday.
Fifth starter: Before the game, Joe Maddon wouldn't commit to a starter for Sunday's game in Milwaukee. Clayton Richard might get another chance after producing a scoreless outing for Triple-A Iowa on Tuesday. The Cubs could make a trade for a starter before then.
La Stella rehabbing: Infielder Tommy La Stella is headed to Double-A Tennessee for a rehab assignment as he continues his comeback from an oblique injury. He's missed all but two games this season.
What's next: The Cubs leave on a seven-game road trip with stops in Milwaukee and then Pittsburgh. Jake Arrieta (11-6, 2.61) will face Jimmy Nelson (8-9, 3.97) in Game 1 in Milwaukee on Thursday night.
