The Cubs came out swinging on Wednesday night as they scored eight runs in the first two innings and knocked out Astros starting pitcher Brian Moehler after just 1.2 innings. Five of the first six batters reached via singles in the first inning when the team scored four runs. Milton Bradley was the only one not to get a hit but he reached base via a walk. It was a great way to start off the game and eventually the Cubs would win 11-6.

It was a pretty good offensive night for the Cubs up and down the lineup. Mike Fontenot and Aramis Ramirez both finished the night with four RBI while Kosuke Fukudome had four hits and a solo home run. Fontenot had a big three run homer in the second inning that gave the Cubs an eight run lead at the time.

Derrek Lee and Ryan Theriot also had an RBI each in the game.

I guess you could say the one downside of the game was the pitching staff. Starting pitcher Ted Lilly gave up four home runs and eight hits. Lilly did throw five innings to pick up the victory but he sure got lucky that the Astros didn’t have more runners on base when he gave up the home runs. Lilly did do his job and that was to throw strikes so I’m not really worried about the start. When you are spotted a big lead like he had, his job is to get outs and not worry about giving up the long ball or letting a couple of runs score. Make them put the ball in play, just hope it doesn’t go over the fence lol!

David Patton made his big league debut and was welcome to the Major Leagues by Hunter Pence who took him deep for a home run. After the home run Patton was able to settle down and and get the next three batters out.

Carlos Marmol and Angel Guzman finish up the final two innings as they held off any rally by the Astros.

It was a good series for the Cubs as they nearly swept the Astros on the road. I’ll take two out of three every road trip that’s for sure! The team will have an off day on Thursday and then begin a three game set with the rivals up North in Milwaukee.

**Photo via AP/Pat Sullivan**