DENVER � The Cubs pounced on rookie Jeff Hoffman for four runs in the fourth inning Saturday night, and Kris Bryant launched a three-run home run in the fifth as they rolled to a 9-2 victory over the Rockies at Coors Field and increased their lead in the National League Central to 13 games.
Bryant worked Hoffman during a 10-pitch at-bat before poking a single through the right side of the infield to score Dexter Fowler with the first run. Ben Zobrist drove in two runs with a single and his first home run since July 9, and Miguel Montero produced three hits and three RBIs.
Left-hander Mike Montgomery could give the Cubs a big lift in the final six weeks. In his first start with the team, Montgomery allowed only one hit over 4 1/3 innings. Montgomery featured a sharp-breaking curve and 93 mph fastball. Trevor Cahill finished with 4 2/3 innings of one-run ball.
KEY NUMBER
9 � Starting pitchers used by the Cubs this season.
