Chris Coghlan started the winning rally with a one-out single against Matt Grace (2-1). The Cubs then caught a huge break when shortstop Ian Desmond threw wide to first while trying to turn a potential double play on pinch-hitter Jonathan Herrera's grounder to second.
That extended the inning, and Russell lined a 1-0 pitch beyond center fielder Denard Span's reach for his third hit of the game.
That made a winner of Hector Rondon (3-0), who worked a scoreless ninth.
