8/23/08 vs Nationals; W 9-2; (79-50)

Chicago responded, especially Aramis Ramirez, to their worst drubbing of the season. Ramirez led the way with two three run long balls. He added a single to lead the team with three hits. His six RBI was his most since September 21st of last year, when he hit two three run homers. He has been picking up the slack lately with 15 rbi in his last ten games.

Overshadowed by Ramirez' offensive output was Ryan Dempster. He held Washington scoreless, allowing only four hits and one walk through 6 2/3 innings. With two out in the seventh he finally allowed consecutive base hits and a run. In the eighth he was chased after another base hit and a hit batsmen. His effort was needed after yesterday's bullpen work.

Chicago had everyone contributing today. Ryan Theriot had three hits. Mark DeRosa went yard for the third time in three days. He also had a single for another multi hit game. Locked in is an understatement for him. Reed Johnson had a couple hits, while Derek Lee and Alfonso Soriano each had only one hit, but both drove in runs.

Chicago will go for their eighth straight series win tomorrow with none other than Rich Harden on the hill. They should need to score a half a run to win.