Kyle Hendricks pitched six strong innings in his first appearance against Cleveland since Game 7 of the 2016 World Series and Anthony Rizzo homered, leading the Cubs to a 7-2 win over the Indians on Wednesday night to match their best start in 50 years.

Hendricks (3-1) didn’t have much trouble with the slumping Indians, who came in batting a major league-worst .192. He allowed one run and seven hits — threw 18 straight strikes in one juncture — and handled everyone in Cleveland’s lineup but Franmil Reyes, who got three hits.

Carrasco was pulled in the fifth after a shaky, seven-walk outing over 4 1/3 innings. The right-hander struggled with his control from the outset, but he was able to work around two, two-walk innings without giving up any runs.

Indians: C Roberto Perez (shoulder) has been running and throwing at the team’s alternate site in Lake County. Francona said Perez has not suffered any setbacks and the club could have him back soon.

Indians: Following their second off day in four days, Cleveland opens a three-game series in Detroit on Friday. Aaron Civale (1-2) starts the opener against Ivan Nova (1-0).