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Cincinnati Reds catcher Ryan Hanigan drove in three runs in the sixth inning to propel the NL Central-leading Reds to a 3-1 win over the Chicago Cubs in the first game of a three-game series at Wrigley Field.
Chicago starting pitcher Justin Germano (2-8) loaded the bases in the sixth inning with three consecutive walks before Manuel Corpas entered the game. After recording an out, Corpas gave up a three-run double to Hanigan that would be all the Reds needed to win the game. Germano only gave up three hits in five innings on the mound, but his five walks were too much for the right-hander to overcome.
Cincinnati starter Homer Bailey pitched into the eighth inning before Chicago pinch hitter Bryan LaHair doubled to score the Cubs' only run and force the Reds to use their bullpen. Bailey (12-9) earned the win after giving up just four hits and one run in 7⅓ innings on the mound.
Jonathan Broxton retired the Cubs in order in the bottom of the ninth inning to earn his 26th save of the season for Cincinnati.
The two teams resume their midweek series on Wednesday at 7:05 p.m.
Take a look at Bleed Cubbie Blue for more info on the Cubs. Head over to Red Reporter for more Cincinnati Reds coverage and check out Baseball Nation for even more news from around the league.