Soriano hits two-run homers in consecutive innings as Cubs beat Pirates 4-1

CHICAGO — Alfonso Soriano hit two-run homers in consecutive innings to lead the Chicago Cubs to a 4-1 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-1 on Saturday.

Edwin Jackson and three relievers combined on a five-hitter, and the Cubs handed the Pirates just their third loss in 14 games.

Pittsburgh came in with the best record in the majors and a seven-game road win streak, but the Pirates couldn't get much going at the plate or find a way to contain Soriano.

His drive off Charlie Morton in the fourth after Pedro Alvarez homered in the top half put the Cubs ahead, and he followed that with a long drive to the bleachers in left to make it 4-1 in the fifth.

That was enough for Jackson (5-10), who won his second straight start. A disappointment after signing a four-year deal with Chicago in January, the veteran right-hander had one of his better outings.

He held the Pirates to just one run and four hits in 5 2-3 innings, leaving to cheers after he walked Garrett Jones to put runners on first and second.

James Russell came in and struck out Alvarez to end the threat.

Morton (1-2) pitched six innings for Pittsburgh, allowing four runs and seven hits. He struck out six and walked three.

Starling Marte had two hits for the Pirates after collecting three the previous day and extended his streak to 11 games. He also had two steals, although he got caught trying to swipe third in the third inning.

Pirates second baseman Neil Walker left the game because of discomfort on his right side. Brandon Inge replaced him at second base in the fifth.

Soriano put the Cubs ahead in the fourth after Anthony Rizzo doubled off the left-field wall, and he struck again with a shot in the fifth.

The ball sailed to the last row of the left-field bleachers for his 12th homer this season.