Chicago Cubs: Six home runs not enough as Reds outlast Cubs

Jon Lester didn’t last long on the mound, and despite a huge power surge, including 3-straight homers, the Chicago Cubs fell to the Cincinnati Reds 13-10.

In Jon Lester‘s 90th career start as a member of the Chicago Cubs, things didn’t go well for the lefty. The offense, however, made it interesting as the Cubs hit back-to-back-to-back home runs as part of a six homer day, but ultimately came up short 13-10.

Offensive delight

The Cincinnati Reds scored nine runs in the second inning and Lester promptly left the game with two outs in the inning after motioning for trainers. Mike Montgomery came on in relief. Lester was later diagnosed with left lat tightness.

Even with plenty of run support, Scott Feldman still had to pitch well against a lethal Cubs’ lineup, and especially with the wind blowing out.

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Feldman felt that lethal combo in the fourth inning.

Consecutive home runs by Ian Happ (17), Alex Avila (14), and Javier Baez (19) got the Cubs right back in it. Kris Bryant started the inning with his 23rd home run. For good measure, Kyle Schwarber added his 20th home run an inning later.

Schwarber had one of his better games going three-for-five and is now hitting north of the Mendoza Line.

Avila and Happ each had three RBI to lead the Cubs.

Needed relief

Montgomery was solid on the day in relief, lasting 4 1/3 and not allowing a run. Justin Grimm surrendered the go-ahead two-run home run in the seventh, and Justin Wilson was not able to get an out in the 8th as he allowed an earned run and walked two.

Feldman lasted just 3 2/3 innings, allowing six earned runs. Cincinnati got their offense from just about everyone, as right fielder Phillip Ervin led the day with three hits, four RBI for the visitors. He also hit the lone home run off the Cubs.

Joey Votto made his presence felt per usual, going 2-for-5 with three RBI. Chicago entered the day tied with the Orioles with the most second-half home runs (52).

Next: Aroldis Chapman’s struggles continue as New York Yankees’ closer

What’s next

Friday features interleague variety as the Toronto Blue Jays battle the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field.

The scheduled pitching matchup is Jake Arrieta (12-8, 3.73 ERA) vs J.A. Happ (6-8, 3.63 ERA). First pitch scheduled for 1:20 pm C.T.