8/6/08 vs. Astros; W 11-4; (69-46)

Mark DeRosa has definitely gotten back on track. An RBI double in the second and a two out grand slam in the third inning provided all the offense Chicago needed today to take the game, and the series, from Houston.

For good measure, Alfonso Soriano added a three run homer, his second in two days. He has certainly been a spark since coming off the DL. His average is now hovering just below .300, and Chicago is 11-4 since his return.

Jason Marquis earned his first win since the month of June thanks to the offensive outpouring. He allowed four earned runs himself over six plus innings. But by then, the game wasn't in doubt. Chicago had an eight run second inning and scored all eleven runs before the end of the fourth inning.

Chicago will now enjoy a day off before welcoming the redbirds to town. They deserve it, having played 20 games in 20 days. They finish that stretch 12-8, going 6-4 both on the road and at home. Playing .600 ball over that stretch increased their lead in the division by one game.