Bryan LaHair and Ian Stewart hit solo homers - a major outburst for the power-challenged Chicago Cubs - and Jeff Samardzija pitched into the eighth inning on Wednesday night for a 3-1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds.
The Cubs opened the rain-shortened series with only their third multihomer game of the season. They managed only nine home runs in April, the fewest in the majors. LaHair's shot off Bronson Arroyo (1-1) gave him six overall.
Samardzija (3-1) allowed three hits in 7 2-3 innings and contained Jay Bruce, holding the NL's player of the week to a harmless double. Carlos Marmol retired all three batters in the ninth for his second save in four chances.
The Cubs have had only six save opportunities this season, underscoring their early struggles.
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