Cubs' John Lackey: Strikes out seven in Thursday's win

Lackey (1-0) allowed four runs (three earned) on six hits and two walks while striking out seven in Thursday's 6-4 win over the Cardinals.

Analysis:

He fired 66 of 98 pitches for strikes, and after being victimized by some shaky defense from Ben Zobrist in the first inning, Lackey held on long enough to see Kyle Schwarber launch a three-run homer in the top of the seventh to give him the win. The veteran righty will next take the mound Wednesday at home against the Dodgers.