Chicago Cubs: Team makes it four-straight as Kris Bryant homers in win

Kris Bryant blasted his 25th home run of the season as the Chicago Cubs extended their winning streak to four games with a victory over the Atlanta Braves.

Yet again, a Chicago Cubs starter held the opposing offense at-bay, and the bats did enough. When the dust settled, the reigning World Series champs picked up a fourth-straight victory.

Chicago (73-60) opened the scoring early against the Braves. With one out and men on second and third, Anthony Rizzo grounded a ball to second, scoring Jon Jay. Shortstop Javier Baez followed, taking a 1-2 hanging breaker to right field to make it 2-0.

The Cubs added a third tally in the bottom of the third inning when catcher Rene Rivera drew a bases-loaded walk. Right-hander Kyle Hendricks took it from there.

The right-hander pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing just two runs – one earned. He struck out five and walked just one in the contest. Of-late, Chicago starting pitching has been absolutely dominant. And, what do you know? With the strong starts, the Cubs have been ripping off wins like crazy.

Atlanta (59-73) got a run back in the fifth, cutting into the Chicago lead. But, one inning later, Kris Bryant connected on his 25th blast of the year off former Cub Jason Motte.

Atlanta’s only earned run against Hendricks came in the top of the seventh. Lane Adams took the Chicago starter deep for a solo blast – his second homer of the season.

For Hendricks, though, it’s nothing but good news. He’s run off four straight starts of at least six innings pitched. Furthermore, eight straight starts in which he’s allowed three earned runs or fewer.

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What’s Next

Chicago and Atlanta continue their series throughout the weekend at Wrigley Field.

On Friday, John Lackey (10-10, 4.98) battles Mike Foltynewicz (10-10, 4.84) in matinee action. First pitch is at 1:20 p.m. CT.