Reds use seventh-inning onslaught to bury Cubs

Chicago, IL, United States (4E Sports) – The Cincinnati Reds (91-59) strengthened their grip on the top spot of the NL Central standings as Joey Votto and company came through with a batting clinic in the seventh inning to steer them to a 5-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs (58-92) Thursday at Wrigley Field.

Johnny Cueto allowed five hits and no runs over six innings while Reds sluggers produced five runs in the seventh inning to extend their winning streak to four games and give them an 11-game advantage over the St. Louis Cardinals (80-70) going in the final three weeks of the season.

After going scoreless in the first six innings, Didi Gregorius came through with a run-producing hit off relief pitcher Manny Corpas to spark a five-run onslaught in the seventh inning. Joey Votto, Xavier Paul, Henry Rodriguez all drove in runs in the frame.

The Cubs tried to mount a comeback with Anthony Rizzo driving in runs in the seventh and ninth innings while Welington Castillo blasting a solo homer in the eighth inning.

However, Reds closer Alfredo Simon blanked the Cubs in the final inning for his first save of the season.

---

---