Bellinger’s home run leads the Cubs against the Brewers

CHICAGO — Cody Bellinger led off the tiebreaker with a fortuitous single in the eighth inning, and the Chicago Cubs beat the Milwaukee Brewers 3-2 on Wednesday to take a three-game lead in the National League Central.

The ball, hit by Bellinger, bounced hard off the right ankle of Dominican reliever Joel Payamps, toward third baseman Andrew Monasterio. Bellinger beat the Venezuelan’s throw to first while Mike Tauchman scored from third.

After losing the first game of the series on Monday, the Cubs responded and took the next two games with strong pitching and good defensive work. With a 71-62 record, Chicago is nine games above .500, the best mark it has had all season.

Venezuelan Adbert Alzolay (2-4) got the last four out to earn the win, though Mark Canha hit with the bases loaded in the eighth inning to tie the game.

The defeat was in favor of Bayamps (4-4).

For the Brewers, Venezuelan William Contreras won 3-1 with RBI and Monasterio 4-0. Dominican Carlos Santana 4-1, Willie Adams 3-0. Mexican Rudy Tellez 3-1.

For the Dominican Cubs, Jimer Candelario 3-0 and Christopher Morell 1-0.