CHICAGO -- Here's a quick look at the Cubs' win over the Reds on Monday.

How it happened: Matt Garza got of to an inauspicious start, throwing 26 pitches and giving up a run in the first inning. The Cubs tied it up at one in fourth then broke through against Dontrelle Willis the next inning, tagging him for three runs. Though the Cubs' defense faltered at times (leading to two unearned runs), Garza was strong enough to make the Cubs four runs hold up as he allowed only one earned run though 7 2/3 innings. After blowing a 5-3 lead on Saturday by giving up a ninth inning grand slam to Derrek Lee, Carlos Marmol worked a perfect ninth to pick up the save.

What it means: Garza is expected to be the anchor of a very questionable 2012 rotation and he's showing that he'll likely be up to the task. In his last seven starts, Garza's given up only 11 earned runs (2.23 ERA), striking out 49, and walking only 13 in 44 1/3 innings pitched.

Outside the box: Andrew Cashner was activated from the 60-day disabled list prior to Monday's game. Cashner will be used as a reliever for the rest of the season and won't pitch more than one inning an outing. Cashner likely won't be used on less than two days rest and since he appeared in Sunday's game for the Iowa Cubs (the Cubs' Triple-A affiliate), he won't throw in the big leagues until Wedneday at the earliest.

What’s next: Rodrigo Lopez (4-6, 4.94) takes the mound in second game of the series, with Mike Leake (11-9, 4.12) going for Cincinnati as the Cubs face the Reds on Tuesday at Wrigley at 7:05 pm.