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Matt Clement outduels Dontrelle Willis to give Chicago a 3-1 lead.

MIAMI (AP) – That Dontrelle Willis-Matt Clement trade is looking pretty good for the Chicago Cubs right about now.

Clement shut down the Florida Marlins on Saturday night, moving the Cubs one improbable game from their first World Series appearance since 1945. Clement scattered five hits and three runs as Chicago took a 3-1 lead of the NL championship series with an 8-3 victory over the Marlins. He left to a standing ovation from the rowdy Cubs fans who filled Pro Player Stadium. And when Kyle Farnsworth retired the last Marlins batter, Clement walked out of the dugout, clapping his hands.

The Cubs can wrap up the best-of-seven series Sunday with Game 5 at Pro Player Stadium. Aramis Ramirez led another offensive outburst for the Cubs, tying an LCS record with six RBIs. He hit a grand slam in the first inning, a solo homer in the seventh and added another RBI in the third.

Lost in the fireworks was a solid outing by Clement, which was somehow fitting.

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AP-ES-10-11-03 2303EDT

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