Reds, Harnisch Stop Cubs, 11-3

The Chicago Cubs had won four games in a row until running into Cincinnati’s Pete Harnisch, whose luck finally turned around.

Harnisch, who would be among the National League leaders in victories if not for three blown saves by the Reds’ bullpen, got an easy win Friday night, as the Cubs were routed, 11-3.

Reggie Sanders drove in four runs with a three-run homer and a walk during a nine-run Reds’ outburst in the second inning. Although he was staked to a big lead, Harnisch felt some pressure.

“It’s kind of a lose-lose situation,” he said. “If you win, it’s no big deal. If you lose, you really screw up.”

Harnisch (3-0) had no problem preserving the lead, giving up six hits and two runs in seven innings. He struck out five and issued an intentional walk.

“We score nine runs in the second inning, it’s kind of my job to throw strikes,” he said.

The Reds sent 14 batters to the plate in the second, with eight of the runs charged to Jeremi Gonzalez (3-4). Cincinnati hadn’t scored nine runs in an inning since May 16, 1993, against Colorado.

“Starting pitching sets the tone for the whole game,” Cub Manager Jim Riggleman said. “Our starting pitching has been sharp, but it wasn’t tonight. Harnisch was sharp.”

The Reds have won three consecutive to move over .500 for the first time since the fifth game of the season.

Eddie Taubensee, the Reds’ hottest batter, was three-for-five and raised his batting average to .382.

“He’s relaxed and he’s having a lot of fun,” Manager Jack McKeon said. “Somewhere along the line, he’s going to slow down. I hope not, but it’s a long season.”

NEXT SERIES FOR DODGERS

WHO: Chicago Cubs

WHERE: at Chicago

WHEN:

Tuesday, 5 p.m.

Wednesday, 11:15 a.m.

Thursday, 11:15 a.m.