Jay Bruce hit three home runs and drove in five RBIs as the Cincinnati Reds routed the Chicago Cubs 7-1 on Friday night.

Bruce went deep in the third, the fifth and the seventh and now has 16 home runs on the year. He walked in his first plate appearance.

Johnny Cueto (12-4) was lights-out in allowing one run over eight innings while striking out eight to earn the win. Sam LeClure came on to work the ninth inning and preserved the blowout triumph.

Chris Valaika had two hits and an RBI while Joey Votto continued his hot streak with a hit and an RBI as the Reds took the first of the three-game set.

Chicago starter Tom Gorzelanny (7-8) was hit hard, allowing six runs and the three dingers over five innings of work.