Jon Lester sharp in second start as Cubs beat Mariners 7-3 in Cactus League play

Lester against the M’s on Sunday.MESA, Ariz. — The Cubs took advantage of shaky Mariners pitching for eight walks and a pair of homers to beat the Mariners 7-3 at Sloan Park and snap a three-game Cactus League losing streak. the Cubs improved to 4-5 this spring.

Lester sharp: After a rough first outing, veteran Jon Lester was in command for three scoreless innings in his second start of the spring, facing the minimum, thanks to catcher Willson Contreras throwing out a pair of would-be base stealers to wipe out the two singles Lester allowed. The left-hander struck out four.

Center of attention: Albert Almora Jr. and his simplified swing homered on the first pitch leading off the fourth for…