Chicago Cubs: Offense does just enough to pick up fifth-straight win

Veteran John Lackey was masterful and the offense did just enough for the Chicago Cubs to earn a fifth consecutive win on their current homestand.

If the Chicago Cubs have found one consistent theme during this homestand, it’s stellar starting pitching.

Veteran right-hander John Lackey proved to be no exception, turning in seven shutout frames on an efficient 83 pitches, limiting the Atlanta offense to just three hits. He struck out five and did not walk a single batter.

It was Lackey’s first outing in nearly three months in which he went seven innings, and at one point, retired 16 batters in a row. The last base runner to reach against Lackey came in the second inning.

For the Braves, Mike Foltynewicz went 6 1/3, allowing two runs on five hits. He struck out two and walked three.

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Baez the magician

Javier Baez scored the games’ first run from second on what was essentially a swinging bunt chopped by Kyle Schwarber.

Atlanta challenged Schwarber being safe at first, but the call was upheld.

Schwarber also displayed a barrel roll type catch in left field as the defense was on par for the Cubs again.

Anthony Rizzo stayed hot with a pair of hits. His average is now up to .282.

Wade Davis picked up his 28th-consecutive save, as he extends the franchise-record streak and current ML streak for consecutive saves going back to last season with 34.

Chicago has won eight straight at home.

Next: Looking at Kyle Schwarber’s first full season

What’s next

The Cubs and Braves resume Saturday afternoon. Jon Lester returns from the DL to face the Braves and Lucas Sims (2-4, 4.41 ERA).

First pitch from Wrigley Field is 1:20 pm C.T.