Cubs, Pirates Split a Four Gamer

The struggling Cubs cool down the streaking Pirates, taking the first two games of the series. But the Pirates powerful offense and bad Chicago pitching conspire to give the Pirates the next two.

Game One: Kenny Holtzman two-hits the Pirates in a complete game win, subsequently ending Matty Alou's 22 game hitting streak and Roberto Clemente's 14 game streak. Billy Williams' homer in the first off Bob Moose is the only scoring. Chicago 1, Pittsburgh 0.

Game Two: Williams goes three-for-four and Willie Smith drives a fifth inning three run homer to key the Cubs to a win. Cubs 5, Pirates 2.

Game Three: Chicago appears to be in control again, with a two run lead going into the ninth behind an 11 strikeout performance from Fergie Jenkins. But reliever Phil Regan blows the save in the ninth, as the Pirates score three that includes a Richie Hebner homer and a scratch single from Freddie Patek that gives the Bucs their first lead. Pirates 6, Cubs 5.

Game Four: The Pirates offense maintains its momentum, scoring eight runs as Clemente and Stargell both homer off Dick Selma and Dock Ellis goes the entire way. Pirates 8, Cubs 4.