Cubs win, Brewers lose 7th in a row

CHICAGO (AP) — Jake Arrieta pitched six solid innings and the Chicago Cubs handed the Milwaukee Brewers their seventh straight loss, 7-1 Tuesday night.

Shortstop Elian Herrera made two errors that helped the Cubs score four runs in the first inning, and Milwaukee went on to match its worst skid of the season.

Since owning a 2 1/2-game lead in the NL Central on Aug. 19, the Brewers have lost 10 of 12.

Jake Arrieta (8-5) gave up five hits in six innings, and lowered his ERA to 2.81.

Yovani Gallardo (8-8) allowed a season-high seven runs and eight hits in five innings.

Cubs shortstop Starlin Castro sprained his left ankle on an awkward slide home in the first inning, and left the game. Initial tests revealed no fracture for the three-time All-Star.

The Cardinals increased their lead over the Brewers to 2 games with a 6-4 win over the Pirates.