Cubs-D'Backs, Tuesday, 7/22/08. Cubs lose; Lead down to 1 game

Result: Diamondbacks 9, Cubs 2. Cubs have lost 4 of 5 since the All-Star break, and their lead is now just one game over the red-hot Brewers and two over the Cardinals. Milwaukee defeated St. Louis 3-2 on Tuesday.

What happened: Another below-average pitcher shut down what's supposed to be the most potent offense in the NL. Yusmeiro Petit, making just his second start of the season, held the Cubs to one run and three hits over five innings. Conor Jackson had three hits and three RBIs, and Arizona blew it open with two runs in the 7th and four more in the 8th. Jason Marquis was serviceable, but not nearly good enough with the Cubs' anemic bats. Maybe they can steal the finale and return home, where all seems to be well -- so far.

Up next: Cubs vs. Arizona at 8:30 tonight. Cubs try to avoid sweep with Ted Lilly matching up with cancer survivor Doug Davis.

Quick note: this is the second time in recent weeks where an opponent has failed to give the Cubs a favorable "getaway day" starting time. The Cubs will have to fly back to Chicago after tonight's game, and also lose two hours across time zones. Not cool, Arizona. This should have been an afternoon game.