Chicago Cubs News: Lester sharp in 8-2 win over Pirates

The Chicago Cubs got a stellar performance from Jon Lester while the offense pushed across eight runs to beat the Pittsburgh Pirates. It was a soggy game delayed by rain for about an hour, but that didn’t dampen the Cubs spirits as the split the series.

The Chicago Cubs scored in the first five innings while Jon Lester allowed just one run over his six innings of work. Ian Happ went 3-for-5 from the leadoff spot while Anthony Rizzo drove in two runs for a team-leading 102 RBI. Lester wasn’t at his best but still allowed just the one run on five hits while striking out five. His four walks raised his pitch count, forcing him out of the game after 111 pitches.

Former Cubs’ manager and Yankees’ GM Gene Michael passed away on Thursday at the age of 79. Michael spent just a year as the Cubs manager but had great success helping build the Yankees dynasty of the 90s that went on to win four World Series titles. He resigned after just one year with the Cubs, eventually paving the way for Frank Lucchesi and then Don Zimmer.

The Cubs are still looking to make the playoffs this season, but they can’t help but look across and see the Cleveland Indians doing their thing. The Tribe won for the 15th consecutive game, and are starting to peak at the right time. Solid pitching, offensive production from pretty much everyone. Sounds very similar to what the Cubs put together last season. Could this be the second straight year the longest drought falls?

These and other stories you might have missed:

‘Cubs salvage split with big offensive performance’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Michael passes away at the age of 79’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Indians win 15th straight’ – MLB.com

‘Dodgers skid hits seven games’ – ESPN

#Cubs on Twitter

Next: Rizzo nominated for Clemente Award

Be sure to check back later today for more Cubs news and analysis! And follow us on our Twitter @CubbiesCrib, like our Facebook page and follow us on G+!