Morning Box Score

By Matt Motyka in News on Aug 20, 2009 3:00PM

Cubs Down Padres
A masterful performance from Rich Harden helped the Cubs beat the San Diego Padres on Wednesday, 7-1. Harden hurled seven scoreless innings, allowing just one hit and three free passes. The Friars' Mat Latos didn't have the same success, as Chicago was able to post five runs in the first four frames. Those five runs included ribbies from Koyie Hill, Derrek Lee, Kosuke Fukudome and Aramis Ramirez, and were supplemented by solo shots from Ramirez and Milton Bradley in the sixth. In addition to his flash of power, Bradley demonstrated his patience at the plate, drawing three walks as he reached safely in all five of his plate appearances. Sean Marshall allowed the lone San Diego score in the ninth, but the Cubs' big lead made it a non-issue. After salvaging the final game of the series, the Cubs move on to L.A. for a 9:10 start with the Dodgers tonight.

Galaxy Outshine Fire
The Fire suffered a 2-0 defeat to the shorthanded L.A. Galaxy on Wednesday night. Local-product Mike Magee stepped up for L.A. in David Beckham's absence, scoring the go-ahead goal 23 minutes into the action. Magee then assisted Landon Donovan on his score in the second half, as the Galaxy made the most of their limited scoring opportunities. Chicago, on the other hand, rattled off 10 attempts on net, but could not convert a single one. The Fire stay put for their next contest, which is against Colorado at 5:00 on Sunday.