From: chicagocubs.com

First-inning lightning: The Cubs have outscored their opponents 24-8
in the first inning and are 6-1 when scoring at least one run in the
opening frame.

Leadoff hitter Grudzielanek, who is batting .364 with one home run
and six RBIs, tried to explain the Cubs first inning success.

"I think it's a combination of a few things," Grudzielanek
said. "Being prepared, focusing on jumping out. You know Bake (Dusty
Baker) likes his teams jumping out early on them, putting something
in their minds and having them think about what can happen so fast
and quickly.

"It's just one of those things, but I think it's a combination of
preparation and confidence and concentration, all of those things.
Jumping on the other team early is vital."