Morning Box Score
By Marcus Gilmer in News on Jul 2, 2009 3:00PM
Cubs Boot Bucs
The Cubs got another outstanding start from Randy Wells and actually didn't squander it on their way to a 4-1 win over the Pirates. Taking two of three from Pittsburgh, the Cubs have a little momentum coming off their road trip. Wells pitched seven innings, striking out four and allowing a single run in the first inning. Of course, Wells never trailed as Derek Lee blasted a two-run shot in the top of the first. Kosuke Fukudome added a solo shot later and Geovany Soto knocked in a run as well. The struggling team of Marmol & Gregg bounced back with each pitching a scoreless inning to secure the win. Most importantly for the Cubs is that with first-place Milwaukee's loss to New York last night, the Cubs find themselves only three games back with the Brewers coming to town for a big four-game series this weekend.
White Sox Sweep Tribe
Break up the Pale Hose! With their 6-2 victory last night over Cleveland, the White Sox have now won five straight. Tied at 1-1, Ramon Castro put the Sox ahead for good with a three-run shot. Alexei Ramirez, Gordon Beckham, and Paul Konerko each knocked in a run as well. On the mound, Jose Contreras pitched lights out for the Sox, going eight strong innings, striking out eight and allowing only the two runs. Matt Thornton pitched a scoreless ninth in mop-up duty. Like the Cubs, the White Sox are easily within striking distance of first in spite of their struggles. Detroit lost last night leaving the Sox just three games back of first place.