A.J. Ellis homered twice and drove in three runs, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 6-1 win over the Chicago Cubs at Dodger Stadium. It was the first multi-homer game in Ellis's career.
The offense backed Chad Billingsley, who pitched seven strong innings, allowing just one run. Billingsley struck out seven and allowed just four hits and two walks, winning his third consecutive game. Billingsley since returning from the disabled list has allowed two runs in three starts.
Ellis also had an RBI single in the game. Hanley Ramirez was 2-for-4 with a double and two runs batted in, his first home hits as a Dodger. James Loney added an RBI double for the Dodgers as well.
Clayton Kershaw gets the start for the Dodgers in the second game of the series on Saturday night, facing Chris Volstad for Chicago.
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