For the second straight outing, the Chicago Cubs received a strong pitching performance from Jeff Samardzija that helped propel them to a win. Although Samardzija had to settle for a no-decision, he pitched six strong innings to help the Cubs earn a 3-2 win over the St. Louis Cardinals.
Samardzija allowed only two earned runs in six innings and struck out seven batters. He did struggle a bit with his command, walking six hitters, but was able to get out of nearly every jam.
The Cubs jumped out to an early lead in the bottom of the first inning, as Alfonso Soriano drove in two runs with a triple. After the Cardinals tied the game, the Cubs finally took a lead they wouldn't relinquish in the eighth inning. A bunt by Reed Johnson scored Tony Campana to give Chicago a 3-2 victory.
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