CINCINNATI -- The Chicago Cubs beat the Cincinnati Reds 5-3 on Thursday afternoon, winning their fifth in a row and sweeping the Reds while picking up their 94th victory of the season. Here’s a quick look at the game:
How it happened: Austin Jackson continued a hot stretch, hitting a three-run home run in the third inning to give the Cubs an early lead. They added two more runs in the fifth on an Anthony Rizzo RBI double and Chris Denorfia run-scoring single before the Reds finally scored in the seventh. That was long after Jason Hammel left the game, as he pitched five scoreless innings, giving up five hits and striking out five. An error by Addison Russell opened the door for three unearned runs by the Reds, who scored on a Joey Votto single, the 47th consecutive game in a row he’s reached base. Hector Rondon earned his 29th save of the season for Chicago.
What it means: Hammel has slowly been coming around, as he’s found his control again. He’s walked just one batter over his last two starts after walking seven in his previous two. That’s huge, as fastball command is where it all starts for the Cubs righty. It bodes well for him in terms of a playoff outing in the division series, if the Cubs get there, though Joe Maddon is likely to have a quick hook for him. Still, it was a needed performance as he navigated out of some jams with some big pitches.
Jackson has come alive at the plate, producing eight RBIs over the last two games and reaching base five times. Jackson also made a nice running catch in right field, providing yet another option for Maddon as the Cubs head to the wild card game next Wednesday. He’s not likely to start the game, but Maddon won’t hesitate using him both at the plate and in the field.
What’s Next: The Cubs begin their final series of the regular season in Milwaukee on Friday night as Jake Arrieta (21-6, 1.82) faces Ariel Pena (2-0, 3.91).
