MLB: Chicago Cubs 3, San Francisco 2

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 25 (UPI) -- Jeff Baker hit a two-run homer with two out in the ninth inning Thursday to give the Chicago Cubs a 3-2 victory over San Francisco.

The Chicago win forced the St. Louis Cardinals to wait at least one more day before clinching the National League Central title. The Cardinals had an off day in Denver awaiting the start of a series against the Rockies Friday -- and might have celebrated a sixth division crown in 10 years but for the Cubs' late comeback.

San Francisco took a 2-1 lead into the ninth and closer Brian Wilson (5-6) was brought in to nail down the victory. Derrek Lee drew a leadoff walk and Wilson quickly retired the next two batters -- and had a 1-2 count on Baker before the Chicago third baseman launched his fourth homer of the year.

The Giants then put runners on first and second with one away in the bottom of the ninth before Carlos Marmol struck out Aaron Rowand and pinch-hitter Fred Lewis to end the game.

Marmol picked up his 15th save and preserved the victory for Aaron Heilman (4-4), who worked the eighth inning.

The Giants wasted an eight-inning, one-run effort by Brad Penny.

San Francisco remained four games behind Colorado in the National League wild-card race.