The Cubs began a nine-game road trip by losing their sixth straight. They have managed just 14 runs in the slump.

Despite the skid, Chicago began the evening with a five-game lead over Milwaukee in the NL Central. Cincinnati won for the fifth time in seven games.

Votto's homer came in the first inning off Ted Lilly (13-9), who lasted only two innings for his shortest outing of the season. It was the third straight game in which Votto has homered and eight of his 18 round trippers this season have come against the Cubs.

Bruce's blast off Jon Lieber gave the Reds a 9-0 lead in the fourth.

Bronson Arroyo (14-10) allowed a run on four hits in 6 1/3 to get the win. He has picked up a victory in each of his last four starts.