SOUTH BEND – Despite giving up two runs to the opposing Dayton Dragons in the first inning, the South Bend Cubs stormed back to win the ballgame 8-3 with 10 hits. The game was highlighted by the appearance of the World Series trophy won by the parent club Chicago Cubs last November.

Seven South Bend hitters reached base safely in the second inning before Dragons pitcher Ryan Olson recorded his first out. In that inning, Jimmy Gonzalez’ offense batted around the lineup to score six runs and gain a 6-2 lead over Dayton.

The Cubs hitters also destoryed a very good ERA in that frame. Coming into the game, Olson had not allowed a run in 16.0 innings pitched. He exited with a 2.89 ERA after throwing just 2 2/3 innings as the South Bend lineup combined for seven runs on eight hits against the Dragons top pitcher.

On the night, two of the Cubs top hitters extended personal offensive streaks. Hot-hitting second baseman Yeiler Peguero extended his hitting streak to nine consecutive games while leadoff-man Zack Short extended his streak to eight games with a RBI double in the second inning.

Manuel Rondon picked up the win for the Cubs throwing 5.0 innings, allowing two runs, and striking out six Dragons hitters. Coming in for relief was former USC Trojan Marc Huberman; he did not allow a run in two innings of work.

Dayton, who currently holds the top spot in the Eastern Division, added one more run in the eighth, but the Cubs lead proved to be too much for the Dragons to overcome. With the win, the Cubs are now one game behind the Eastern Division leader.

South Bend is set to return to action tomorrow night at Four Winds Field against the Dragons for game two of this four game series. Jose Paulino is scheduled to start on the mound for South Bend; he is 0-0 with a 2.25 ERA in one start for the Cubs season.