Houston, TX (Sports Network) - Bud Norris tossed seven shutout innings to guide the Houston Astros to an 8-4 win over the Chicago Cubs, in the first of a three-game set.

Norris (5-1) gave up five hits and walked three while fanning eight.

Chris Johnson had a three-run homer and Jed Lowrie recorded three hits, including a solo blast as Houston picked up its fourth win in six tries.

Blake Lalli drove in two runs while Reed Johnson and David DeJesus each had RBI-singles in the ninth for the Cubs, losers in seven straight.

Matt Garza (2-2) lasted just three innings, giving up seven runs on five hits.

GAME NOTES:

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