Cubs Break Out In a Big Way

The Chicago Cubs, mired in a 5 game losing streak, broke out in a big way tonight, taking advantage of the lowly Pittsburgh Pirates.  They put up 14 runs in the first two innings, chasing newly acquired Charlie Morton after just one complete inning.  Morton was torched for 7 hits, 10 earned runs, and 3 walks, before being relieved by Chris Bootcheck who surrendered 7 earned in 2.1 innings of work.  Derrek Lee led the charge, going 3-3 with 7 RBI.  Kosuke Fukudome added a 3 run home run, and Jake Fox, Ryan Theriot, Alfonso Soriano, Jeff Baker, and even Randy Wells drove in runs to lead the Cubs to a 17-2 victory.  Just when people were doubting the Chitown Northsiders, the Cubbies broke out in a major way when they needed it most.  The Cubs still trail the Cardinals, who have won 12 of their last 15 behind the hot hitting of Matt Holliday.  If Chicago is going to have any chance at catching St. Louis, they’re going to have to ride this offensive surge to hit their way into the postseason.

The Cubs will need big numbers from Derrek Lee to get into the postseason.