The Chicago Cubs defeated the Pittsburgh Pirates 11-3 Thursday afternoon. The win kept the Pirates from sweeping the four-game series with Chicago. Pirates starting pitcher Jordan Lyles allowed seven earned runs on 10 hits in just four innings. His record fell to 5-5.
Kevin Newman had two of the Pirates six hits.
The Pirates didn’t lose any ground on first place in the National League Central Division because Cincinnati defeated Milwaukee 1-0. The Brewers and Cubs are now tied for the lead in the Central. The Pirates are three back.
The Pirates host the Brewers for three games beginning tonight at PNC Park. First pitch is 7:05pm. WISR pre-game is 6:40pm.
The Bucs and Brewers continue their series Saturday at 4:05pm.
The Major League All-Star Break begins after Sunday’s game.