The Pirates scored three runs in the sixth inning and held on for a 4-2 defeat of the Cubs in Chicago, Pittsburgh’s first road win of the season.
David Freese turned in a big game with three hits, including two doubles, and two RBIs. Francisco Cervelli knocked in the other two runs.
Gerrit Cole pitched six innings for his first win. Tony Watson recorded his third save despite loading the bases in the ninth inning.
The Pirates and Cubs go at it again Saturday at 2:20 p.m.
