Ryan Kalish ignites Cubs offense for 8-3 win over Phillies

Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports

Carlos Villanueva (1-2, 4.26) pitched five efficient innings and finally ended on the right side of the decision as the Chicago Cubs beat the Philadelphia Phillies 8-3 on Sunday afternoon.

The Cubs tapped Phillies starter A.J. Burnett (0-1, 3.86) for four runs in the first inning, and the bullpen was able to hold on for the Cubs first win at Wrigley Field in its centennial season.

Ryan Kalish had a superb game at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a triple, knocking in three while he also walked twice. The Cubs benefited from some unusual patience at the plate, with seven walks and scored eight times on only six hits.

The Cubs were able to add four more in the sixth, all unearned after Ben Revere misplayed a line drive that would have ended the inning. After struggling with RISP, the Cubs went 4-for-7 today, scoring as many runs today as they had all season.

Jose Veras  (o-o, 16.20) once again struggled with his control in a non-save situation in the 9th, walking four in his 2/3 of an inning. Pedro Strop relieved Veras and promptly put a fastball in the dirt allowing another run to score. He then got Ryan Howard to fly out to end the game and give the Cubs the victory.

The Cubs will have an off-day tomorrow, then the Pittsburgh Pirates will come in for a three game series starting on Tuesday.  Edwin Jackson (0-0, 1.69) will oppose the Pirates Charlie Morton (0-0, 0.00)