The Reds scored seven runs for the third game in a row last night when they defeated the Chicago Cubs by a score of 7-1. Oh yeah, and something about an eight-game winning streak too. And I think I heard someone say the phrase “first place.” I don't know: I wasn't really listening.

Bronson Arroyo got the win, allowing one run (earned) on five hits and zero walks through seven. Arroyo gave up the season's first home run to Tony Womack, which only counts for one on the scoreboard, but surely must count for a lot more in terms of shame.

Kent Mercker took over in the eighth and held the Cubs hitless. Esteban Yan took over in the ninth and did the same.

Let's call Ryan Freel the star of the game last night. He went 3-for-5 with two RBI. One of those was his fourth home run of the year (fifth one really, but I'll let that go one of these days), a solo shot in the third inning.

That being said, Brandon Phillips didn't do too bad either, going 2-for-4 with two RBI coming off a home run in the fourth. David Ross went 1-for-2 with a walk and two RBI. He also had a home run off the beleaguered Glendon Rusch in the fourth inning.

Rich Aurilia had the other RBI, but he didn't really have that good a night, so we'll leave it at that.

Between Freel, Phillips, Aurilia, and Womack, six of the eight runs scored in today's game were driven in by men who have played second base for the Reds this season.

Ken Griffey, Jr. did not play because he's still suffering some soreness in that quadriceps muscle. He did, however, deliver the line-up card before the game for the eighth time in a row. Even when the guy can't take the field, he still makes a contribution. What a team player.

The win brings the Reds' record to 36-24 and gives them their longest winning streak since 1999. Tonight we're going to party as Elizardo Ramirez faces off against Greg Maddux at 7:10 p.m. at Great American Ball Park.