Dodgers sweep Cubs

CHICAGO – Walker Buehler marked his 100th career start with his usual performance.

Cool. Calm. Efficient. Buehler pitched seven sparkling innings and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the sliding Chicago Cubs 7-1 on Sunday night for their sixth consecutive victory.

“Tonight was all about Walker,” manager Dave Roberts said.

Sure was.

Buehler (4-1), a two-time All-Star who made his big league debut in 2017, improved to 3-0 with a 0.43 ERA over his last three outings. The right-hander allowed one run and four hits, struck out six and walked two.

“Typical Walker,” teammate Gavin Lux said.

The 27-year-old Buehler has permitted two runs or less in five of his six starts this season. His first career win against the Cubs was his 15th start of at least seven innings since the beginning of the 2021 season, third-most in the majors during that span.

He has come a long way since he tossed five scoreless innings in a no-decision against Miami in his first major league start on April 23, 2018.

“I think I just pitch a little bit now,” Buehler said. “I think back then I kind of tried to pick my leg up and throw it by everyone. Trying to mature a little bit that way maybe.”

Cody Bellinger had three