Cubs continue to homer past Padres 3-1 for series win

The Cubs got home runs from both Joc Pederson and Sergio Alcantara, Jake Arrieta struck out six and allowed just one run, and the Cubs managed a close 3-1 win over the Padres to clinch the series in Petco Park on Wednesday afternoon.

Yu Darvish had himself a solid outing but it was the offense that couldn’t find a way to get him some help. He finished with a game-high eight K’s but allowed two runs in three total hits with two walks. He earned just his second loss of the season. Tim Hill also struck out a pair in the ninth.

The Padres lone run of the day came in the bottom of the third when Manny Machado struck a base hit into left field, scoring Tommy Pham from second.

San Diego gets a much-needed day off as they travel to the east coast to face the Mets once again in a three-game series. Game one will kick off with a notable pitching matchup between Blake Snell (2-2, 4.83 ERA) and Jacob deGrom (5-2, 0.62 ERA). Friday’s start time is set for 4:10 p.m.