St. Louis shows why they're on top of Central

The Cubs came into Friday's game 3 1/2 games behind the NL Central leading Cardinals and looking to trim the lead. The Cubs did not help their cause in a sloppy loss to the Cardinals.

Cubs starter Rich HardenRich Harden lasted only five innings allowing four runs on 7 hits. The Cubs defense commited 2 errors along with Alfonso SorianoAlfonso Soriano's dropped catch in Left Field.

The Cubs hardly mustered any offense although they did have NINE hits but could not drive the runners across with the exception of Derrek LeeDerrek Lee's 3 run homer.

The Cardinals however showed they were the better team. Chris CarpenterChris Carpenter pitched 6 solid innings allowing only three runs on Seven hits. The ST. Louis defense had no errors. They were helped by a home run by Albert PujolsAlbert Pujols.

The Cardinals were hitting the ball all over the field.They were assisted by errors by the Cubs. The Cardinals also had very good defense behind the plate in Yadier MolinaYadier Molina.

Once again the Final score ST. LOUIS CARDINAL 8 CHICAGO CUBS 3

With the win the Cardinals move to 4 and a half games in front of the Cubs