Bryant’s two-run blast in the sixth inning made him the first player in franchise history to hit 25 or more homers in his first three seasons and only the 12th ever in MLB history.

The Cubs jumped out fast with two runs in the first inning on a RBI groundout from Anthony Rizzo and a Javier Baez RBI single. Cubs catcher Rene Rivera drew a based loaded walk in the third inning to add a third run. That play was made possible after an error from Braves third basemen Jace Peterson extended the inning and allowed Ian Happ to reach with two outs.

Hendricks (W, 6-4) pitched an efficient 6 2/3 innings giving up just 5 hits and 2 runs (1 earned) with five strikeouts on 99 pitches. Braves starter Sean Newcomb (L, 2-8) picked up the loss giving up 8 hits and 3 runs (3 earned) in five innings.

The Cubs and Braves will play game two of the series on Friday afternoon at 1:20 p.m. CT when RHP John Lackey (10-10, 4.98) faces RHP Mike Foltynewicz (10-10, 4.84).