Jorge Soler smacked a pinch-hit three-run homer as the Cubs bashed the Brewers 9-5 in the opener of a three-game series at Wrigley Field. Starlin Castro drove in two, while Anthony Rizzo went 3-for-3 with two walks and three runs for the Cubs, who have won six of their last seven. Jason Hammel permitted four runs, three earned, in five innings as he moved to 9-and-6. Adam Lind hit a two-run homer and Khris Davis added a solo shot for Milwaukee, which has lost nine of 10. Wily Peralta dipped to 5-and-10 after getting tagged for six runs in less than five frames.
The Cubs' Magic Number is 4 in clinching a playoff spot. Game #2 in the series is tonight at Wrigley Field.