Note: For an end of game Cubs score update, text SCORES to 80373

CHICAGO (WKZO) – Early pitching trouble dug the Cubs into a hole they couldn’t get out of. Despite a four-run ninth inning, the Cubs were swept Thursday night by the Phillies 8-7.

Chris Volstad continued a losing streak that dates back to last July, dropping his sixth decision of 2012. Volstad gave up four earned runs on six hits and three walks in two innings of work. Casey Coleman did most of the leg work out of the bullpen, working four innings, giving up a run and striking out two.

Already trailing 5-2, the Phils tacked on three more runs in the eighth, extending their lead to 8-2. Wellington Castillo cut one run off of that lead, lifting a solo home run over the left center field fence. Castillo added three more RBI’s in the ninth, doubling a sharp ground ball through the infield in left. Darwin Barney scored Castillo on the next at-bat, but the comeback ended there.

Chicago’s South-siders pay a visit to Wrigley this weekend for the "Windy City Series", starting Friday afternoon. Jeff Samardzija duels with Phillip Humber. First pitch is set for 2:20 pm.