MLB: Chicago Cubs 6, Cincinnati 4

The victory gave the Cubs a four-game winning streak and their fifth victory in six games.

Ramirez's two-run single gave Chicago a 3-1 lead with two outs in the bottom of the third. He also hit an RBI single.

Geovany Soto hit a solo homer and a sacrifice fly, while Bobby Scales drove in a run with a pinch eighth-inning double.

The winner was reliever Jeff Stevens (1-0) and Carlos Marmol earned his 12th save with a scoreless ninth.

Jonny Gomes led Cincinnati with a three-run homer in the fifth.

Joey Votto added an RBI for the Reds, who were held to six hits in their fifth loss in a row.

The losing pitcher was starter Justin Lehr (4-2).

Copyright 2009 by United Press International.