Sanchez's hit parade was a triple short of the cycle. Nate McLouth hit a two-run homer and Adam LaRoche drove in a pair of runs as the Pirates sent the Cubs to their eighth loss in a row.
Pittsburgh starter Paul Maholm gave up seven runs on seven hits and three walks in just four innings yet escaped with a no-decision. Reliever Tom Gorzelanny (2-1) got the victory despite giving up one run in two-plus innings.
The Cubs got a two-run homer and a two-run double from Milton Bradley. Ryan Theriot chipped in two RBI and scored twice.
Chicago starter Ryan Dempster was nicked for six runs on seven hits and three walks. He also lasted just four innings.
But it was reliever Neal Cotts (0-2) who took the loss.
Copyright 2009 by United Press International.
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