Montero's homer helps power Cubs past Reds

Miguel Montero hit a 3-run homer in the first inning Thursday night, and the Chicago Cubs held on for a 6-3 victory over the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field.

The home run was Montero's eighth of the season. Dexter Fowler hit a solo homer into the newly opened right-field bleachers leading off the third.

Cubs starting pitcher Tsuyoshi Wada lasted only 3-plus innings, as he threw 73 pitches. Wada gave up 4 hits and 3 runs, including a home run to Chris Dominguez leading off the fourth. Cubs manager Joe Maddon lifted Wada in favor of Travis Wood, who worked 2⅓ of solid relief.

The game marked the beginning of a six-game homestand for the Cubs.