MLB: Chi. Cubs 6, Washington 2

WASHINGTON, July 16 (UPI) -- Rich Harden worked 6 2/3 innings Thursday, and the Chicago Cubs spoiled the managerial debut of Jim Riggleman with a 6-2 win over the Nationals.

Harden (6-6) had lost two straight starts and five of his last seven, but gave up only an unearned run on three hits to go with seven strikeouts.

Ryan Theriot doubled home a run in the first and had a sacrifice fly during Chicago's three-run ninth. Derrek Lee added a solo homer in the sixth.

Chicago had lost four of its last six games before the All-Star break and moved a game over .500 with Thursday's victory.

John Lannan (6-7) took the loss, allowing three runs on seven hits in 6 2/3 innings. It was his second straight loss after having won four straight decisions.

Riggleman took over as manager after the Nationals fired Manny Acta. Washington had a 26-61 record going into the break and has lost 16 of its last 22 games. The Nationals have not won a series since taking two games from Toronto almost a month ago.