Wolf, Thome Carry the Phillies

CHICAGO —  Randy Wolf wanted to keep this game to himself.

Wolf pitched a four-hitter, Jim Thome hit a two-run home run to reach 1,001 runs batted in and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Cubs, 3-0, Wednesday night.

Wolf (11-5) struck out four and walked three, earning his sixth career shutout despite three Philadelphia errors. It was his second shutout this season.

Before the game, Wolf told pitching coach Joe Kerrigan how long he wanted to pitch.

“I told Joe I didn’t want any relievers pitching today,” Wolf said. “I like to pride myself on going deep in games.”

Wolf threw 136 pitches and closed out the win by getting Alex Gonzalez to ground out.

Chicago’s best scoring chance came in the first inning. Mark Grudzielanek doubled with one out and moved to third on an error by right fielder Bobby Abreu.

Wolf then struck out Sammy Sosa, walked Moises Alou and got Eric Karros on a groundout.

“I was able to throw my curveball for strikes. I just went with what was working,” Wolf said.

Only three more Chicago runners got past first base.

“When a guy like Wolf comes out today and pitches like that, you’ve got to tip your hat and give it to him,” Sosa said. “He made no mistakes.”

Ricky Ledee opened the scoring in the second inning, hitting a 1-and-2 pitch from Matt Clement (7-9) into the right-field bleachers.