Dodgers Knock Off Cubs in Opening Playoff Game

The Los Angeles Dodgers have defeated the Chicago Cubs 7-2 in their opening game of the National League Divisional Playoff Series. With the win, Joe Torre's Dodgers now have taken away home field advantage in the 5 game series.

James Loney provided the big blast for the Dodgers clubbing a grand slam against losing pitcher Ryan Dempster in the 5th inning. The Dodgers would add insurance runs in the final three innings of the game including a towering home run by Manny Ramirez.

Derek Lowe pitched 6 innings giving up two runs in the contest. Torre then handed over the game to the bullpen with future Hall of Famer Greg Maddux working the ninth inning for the final outs at Wrigley Field where he used to call home for many years as a member of the Cubs.