Open Thread: Cubs vs. Padres, Wednesday 5/23, 9:05 CT

by Al on May 23, 2007 4:30 PM CDT in Game Threads Comment 224 comments

Since I've been the kiss of death on things like Alfonso Soriano's hitting streak, let me see if I can do it to this one, too: the Cubs have now lost five straight games in San Diego for the first time since July 14, 1989-April 25, 1990. They have not lost six in a row there since May 8, 1983-April 7, 1984.

I'd think you'll agree that sort of thing needs the kiss of death tonight, right?

The Padres have three forty-plus pitchers (David Wells, Greg Maddux and Doug Brocail), plus another (Trevor Hoffman) who is 39. And they've got the best pitching staff in the National League. Maybe they're on to something. Think Terry Mulholland is available? (I'M JOKING HERE. Well, mostly joking, anyway.)

Meanwhile, the Cubs' 181 runs allowed is third-fewest in the NL (behind the Padres and Mets) and their Pythagorean numbers still show they are underperforming, now by four games; they should be 24-19, having scored 207 runs, which ranks seventh in the NL. This disparity can be almost entirely attributed to the bullpen meltdowns, of which I don't think any of us need to be reminded.

Today's Starting Pitchers


S. Marshall Cubs	vs.	D. Wells Padres


making	W-L	1-2
his	ERA	5.40
2007	SO	24
season	BB	11
debut	HR	5
vs. SD	--	vs. Cubs

Wells is in his 21st year in the major leagues; most of his pre-interleague play days were in the AL, so he's only made three career starts vs. the Cubs (1-1, 4.61), the last one being on May 16, 2004; only Derrek Lee, Michael Barrett and Aramis Ramirez remain from that day's players. In fact, San Diego returns only Wells, Brian Giles, Scott Linebrink and Khalil Greene from their players who appeared in that game three years ago.

Wells was originally drafted in 1982 by the Blue Jays. He was pitching in their system for Medicine Hat (what a great place name!) when Sean Marshall was born on August 30, 1982.

Today's TV includes WGN, Ch4 San Diego and the Mediacenter.

MLB.com Gameday (2007 version)

MLB.com Gameday (2006 version)

Discuss amongst yourselves.

0 recs | Comment 224 comments

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Comments

pythagorean numbers

sorry if this has been answered elsewhere, but do those numbers take into account for games when you score an ungodly amount of runs? having a series of games where you win 10-1 and then lose 2-1 would throw run differentials off in a very real way.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on May 23, 2007 4:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think what your referring to is...

the widely accepted CUBNESS factor in calculating those numbers. I believe it goes something like this...

(Any useful SABR metric) * (CUBNESS factor)^2 = We still suck.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 23, 2007 4:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The theory is

over 162, all those things balance out. But, over a shorter duration, the formula is quite flawed, as you can see by the Cubs record.

"Just give me 25 guys on the last year of their contracts; I'll win a pennant every year" - Sparky Anderson

by MPH73 on May 23, 2007 8:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My Theory is

Great numbers don't = wins.

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think it's flawed at all.

Going over/under one's Pythagorean win expectation generally has one of two causes -- luck, or bullpens. Putting luck aside for a second, it's pretty clear that a lot of the current difficulties can be traced back to our bullpen.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Cubs Bull Pen is Great

Sincerely,

The 1986 Boston Red Sox's Bull Pen.

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 8:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was four and a half back then.

n/t

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 8:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Flawed? Come on!

A great baseball expert like Pythagoras would never devise a flawed formula.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 8:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Missing The Point

It's a win% estimator pure and simple. It won't necessarily balance out over 162- it's not meant to. All it's saying in our case is our run differential would indicate 4 more wins than we have. Experience over time has shown that if a team continues the same RS-RA pace, they'll log wins closer to expectation than than they are currently. Why a team would under/over perform is usually luck. In the Cub's case, I think Al was right when he pointed out the bull pen as the reason.

"In the olden days, the umpire didn't have to take any courses in mind reading. The pitcher told you he was going to throw at you." ~ Leo Durocher

by The Lip on May 23, 2007 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you look beyond the Pythagorean

numbers the Cubs are still 3 games under .500

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 4:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Key to tonight's game:

NOT giving up four home runs.

Let the sleep deprivation series continue!

Go Cubs!!!

Send...more...paramedics!

by dat cubfan daver on May 23, 2007 4:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Get in your bunkers

..forecast ain't pretty and there is no chance in hell, the Cubs will win. Padres are clearly the better team.

CUbs 3
Padres 8

by lemon20pie on May 23, 2007 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's fun to make predictions

with out backing them up with any evidence.

I'll give it a try.

I predict that your parents will tell you to move out of the basement next week.

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Both my parents are dead

and I don't live in their basement.

by lemon20pie on May 23, 2007 5:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm sorry to hear that

Who's basement do you live in then?

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 5:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Do they?

Eagles may soar, but weasels don't get sucked into jet engines.

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 23, 2007 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Marshall might suprize us all tonight

I really, really like this kid.

Last year he came up a pitched great the first half of the season. His record wasn't great but he was doing all the small things right.

He's got talent but more importantly I look at this kid as a smart player who gives it his all.

I think there is a chance for him to have a special night if the Cubs offense can pull their collective heads out of their corn-holes and give this kid the advantage of pitching with a lead.

Wells has lost his fastball this season but he does have an ERA over 5.00 so I expect Well to throw a 2 hitter against the cubs tonight.

We will see. Good Luck Marshall and Go Cubs.

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 4:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Responding to this for 2 reasons:

I like Marshall also, he has control and if he has mastered a cutter to RH batters effectively he could be something. Maddux was never a K king but eventually learned to get his K's.

Number two the post was void of cynism and all knowing sarcasism.

This team is in the midst of transition. Each day that goes by with Jones starting, Murton starting, Howry-Eyre-Dempster in the pen is each day the club is not contending.

Harry Carey: 3 & 2, 2-out, no place to put him...tying run on 3rd...winning run on 2nd...THE PITCH....HEE POOOOPPPED....IT UP!

by Ivy Walls on May 23, 2007 8:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks Ivy

Once a day I'm not an ass.

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 8:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Here's a stat..

..the Padres hit lefties a full quarter point higher than righties. I mean, they are only .240 overall but they would be 4th in the NL if they hit .265.

This isn't going to be a "soft" first start (2007) for Marshall..

Chicks dig the long ball

by Will23 on May 23, 2007 4:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Damnit!

Why do you people make it so hard to be optimistic?

Oh yeah, we're talking about the Cubs.

Carry on.

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 5:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Isn't .265 still a...

Cesar Izturis offense?

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 5:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Will we get to see our....

10 run 14 hit offense tonight? Or the 5 hit 1 run offense tonight?

Yawn, everyday is a new chance for this team to disappoint me.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 23, 2007 5:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Who is taking bets

Gentlemanly wager:

By this time next week, counting the Wed matchup versus the Fish. We are....26 - 25.

I have a good feeling about this new, hard throwin, fuck the craftiness, bullpen.

The bullpen has held us back so far, I just have a good feeling about this next week.

by louslovechild on May 23, 2007 6:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You are smoking crack...

we will be lucky to split the rest of these games. You HAVE been watching this team play right?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 23, 2007 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Crack???

No. I have watched this team play. The face the following:

David Wells - W
Chris Young - W/L
Lowe - L
Henderson - W
Tomko - W
Byung Yung KIM - W
Rickie Nolasco - W
Rookie Call Up - W

They are hitting fine. Even better, somehow, with 2 outs. Yes I am making this claim based on what I feel is an improved bull-pen and timely hitting as of late. Last night was a game we were supposed to lose. He is the best pitcher in the NL. Tip your cap, move on, and beat the shit out of David Wells. We win tonight by at least 4 runs.

by louslovechild on May 23, 2007 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ok...maybe your just freebasing...

cause we make bad pitchers look really good. Tell me the last Rookie Call Up we've made look like a Rookie Call Up.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 23, 2007 6:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ESPN

Yankees - Red Sox are on EPSN. I bet they had to beg, borrow and steal to get the network to show them.

DmL

by dmlichte on May 23, 2007 6:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Um...

so what else is new?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 23, 2007 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I had to look

One more Yankee/Red Sox series the first weekend in June and then not again until late August (that series is even a Tuesday to Thursday.. horrors!!!). Then only one more after that in September. What will ESPN/FOX do? There aren't any other teams in MLB! <snark> Might as well shut down until October.

It just seemed that they were on every weekend and almost every night so far this year. They really front loaded the schedule. Probably because they know "The Yankees Suck!"

I want my Macias!

by wombat on May 23, 2007 6:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Honesty compels me to say,

that I guess it's not a disgrace to lose to Peavy, but I'm sure hoping for better results against this Wells guy.

I'm very anxious to see the lineup for tonight's game, and looking forward to Sean Marshall's first start in 2007.

Hey Lou, we're long overdue.

by deadcatbounce on May 23, 2007 6:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

GO CUBS!!

"David Aardsma has ice water in his veins." BlueMike 5/17/07

by sue369 on May 23, 2007 6:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You guys ready for this?

On Lost tonight Juliet Kills Kate.

Have a good night all.

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 7:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

line up tonight...

Be nice to see lou put pagan and theriot in the lineup tonite..have them lay down some bunts and make wells move his fat ass off the mound and field some grounders...

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 7:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's not nice to call someone fat.

But it is alright to call him stupid and left handed.

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 7:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Watching the A's/Sox game...

...because I'm a sort-of mark for Oakland (I'm sure that shocks everyone here), and... yeah, Hawk and DJ are no more bearable when the Cubs AREN'T involved. Wow.

More to the point, I'd like to hear BlueMike's commments on this:

"I've had good closers. Dempster is a good closer."

Guess which Lou Piniella said that?

Oh. Sorry. Gave that one away.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 7:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Lineups

Cubs
Soriano, LF
Pagan, CF
Lee, 1B
Ramirez, 3B
Barrett, C
Murton, RF
DeRosa, 2B
Izturis, SS
Marshall, P

Padres
M. Giles, 2B
Cruz, RF
Cameron, CF
Gonzalez, 1B
Greene, SS
Bard, C
Kouzmanoff, 3B
Sledge, LF
Wells, P

by Bruce Miles on May 23, 2007 7:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

My picks to get DFA'd tonight...

are DeRosa, Barrett and Izturis

They played hard. They did their best. Move on. Their whole life isn't out in that field. It's their job. It's not an obsession.

by Jeff Pico on May 23, 2007 7:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think that's...

...a SHADE drastic, don't you?

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 8:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah, right

Blanco will be our everyday catcher. Sure.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How is it that Cameron,

a dude with three homers, is hitting third for a team that is fighting to make the playoffs?

That's just crazy.

Sincerely,

DLEE

by MrDurden on May 23, 2007 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Someone's been listening to

Jim Rome.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 9:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That....

would explain a lot.

"Not true at all. Vaseline is manufactured right here in the United States." - Don Sutton, about the rumors that he uses a foreign substance on the ball

by Orangeman94 on May 24, 2007 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

good to see that the cubs 6-8 hitters

... couldn't inspire fear in rookie league. C'mon, Lou -- is this your getaway-day squad?

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

always nice

when the Cubs' half-inning lasts less than 90 seconds. Playoffs here we come.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

What a joke

yesterday they make the best pitcher in the game work his ass in the 1st inning. Today David Freaking Wells has a 7 pitch 1st

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 23, 2007 9:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Sean Marshall...

He needs to get ahead in the count if he wants to be productive tonight -- so throw first pitch strikes. That's what Hill didn't do yesterday, which pretty much doomed him.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

THROW STRIKES

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 9:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Adrian Gonzalez

This guy has a great looking swing.

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 23, 2007 9:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Phew.

Marshall got away with some poor command.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

lets hope this time around we last

longer than 1 minute, that would probably be a good thing

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 9:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

the best thing about marshall

He doesn't have the best stuff in the world, but he keeps his wits about him. If only we could put Marshall's head on Zambrano's body.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i second that motion

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 9:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

why do I have a bad feeling

About a crafty lefty against our less-that-crafty team?

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

sorry

Less-than-crafy

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

2 outs in 45 seconds

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

A HIT!

Doth mine eyes deceive me?

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah, a murton special

soft single with two outs and nobody on.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

Well that's a given.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, he stole a base.

And what, he was supposed to make the guys in front of him get on base?

Oh, look, DeRosa bats him in.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

well, of course

murton can't force anyone else to get on base ahead of him. But with the exception of the pinch-hit HR in Philly, Murton gets most of his hits in low-pressure situations, IMO.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

See, this I don't get.

If it gets his single here, DeRosa has an RBI chance. If Murton doesn't, the inning is over. That run is currently our lead. How is DeRosa's RBI clutch, and Murton's hit in a "low-pressure" situation?

Everyone here seems to think that RBI chances are handed down by the baseball gods... they happen when people get on base.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 9:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You can

cancel the post game show.

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 23, 2007 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Barrett

Barrett should not be hitting 5th. When he's in a slump (seems like the entire season) he's absolutely useless. This lineup is awful. Already over yet again. Hard not to get that feeling every time this team takes the field.

by BringBackRyno on May 23, 2007 9:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

SB Murton Yeah!

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 9:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You can

Put one on the board

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

NO!

No one's putting anything on "the board", especially not "it".

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

mark derosa

with an rbi this month. Brace yourselves -- the frogs are about to start falling from the sky.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

one just landed on my lap actually

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Manufactured runs

are nice, doncha think?

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 9:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

the cubs still believe

in getting runs agrarian style. They're still mastering industrialization.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I love

How everyone moves in for Izturis..Its like co-ed softball when a chick comes up

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

hahahaa

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

funny

Liked how Len said it was "lazily hit" to right.

And nice play, D-Lee.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

nothing lazy

about that. Nice, Izzy.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

OK, What the hell is going on tonight??

1-0, and Izturis makes a defensive...i can't even say it...

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I guess

Thats that defense they are always talking about

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

almost 2!

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

No way Ryan Theriot could have missed that ball...

...with HALF as much flash and pizzaz!

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 9:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Theriot.

Now there's a man who misses a ball with moxie.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

nice, sean

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nicce Curve Marshall!!

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

milwaukee down 4-0 in the first

if we dont win this division i think ill cry

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 9:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Capuano vs. Penny

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

has anyone ever listened

to len and bob's podcast?

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

no and ill make sure i never do

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 9:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm OK with L & B

I know we could have a broadcast team like Hawk and DJ. And I remember Wayne Larivee.

But Len and Bob are just so lame sometimes ("Didn't see Ron Burgundy on the streets today, heh, heh.").

by elgato on May 23, 2007 9:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wayne Larivee....

I go to Illinois and he frequently does the ESPN+ play-by-play for basketball..."RRRRING IT UP!"

Thank God he does Packer games now instead of the Bears.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just joining the fray...

be thankful you do not have to listen to Matt Vasgergian here in SD.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gonalalez's Swing

Reminds me of Griffey...Very Smooth

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

HAHA

I like how Len and Bob take Cheryl's seat...I am sure they both squeeze into hers...

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 9:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

David Wells...

43 pitches through 4 IP.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 9:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That's fine for the traditionalists, Bob...

...but what about us Three True Outcomes guy?

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 9:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Big Smooth

lookin real good tonight. Now can they please get him some runs?

Len Kasper rocks.

by Matt Allison on May 23, 2007 10:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Murton leading off the 5th

with a very nice at-bat! That's maybe the best I've seen him look this year

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

and of course

he follows that up with shitty ass baserunning

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Once agian

Outfield so close...how bout that base running

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 10:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Big Red...DUMBASS.

by bergs55 on May 23, 2007 10:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

izturis

u suck

by CZ38 on May 23, 2007 10:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Great Inning!!!

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 10:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I don't get it.

Everyone knows Izturis has NO POWER. The way he was running, did Murton have him confused with a major league hitter or something?

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 10:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That was bad.

It's not like he could've scored with the RFr that shallow, why was he so anxious to run?

Len Kasper rocks.

by Matt Allison on May 23, 2007 10:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

1st and 2nd with no out...

and we get nothing... same fuckin story, new fuckin year

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

way to fuck up the inning murton

this franchise is the worst when it comes to baserunning, truly pathetic, im almost positive a high schooler would still be at 2nd base right now

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 10:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

both teams are sleepwalking through this game

by CubsBall2202 on May 23, 2007 10:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

btw,

Stryker, where's your sig from?

Len Kasper rocks.

by Matt Allison on May 23, 2007 10:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pretty sure it's Major League.

The manager going over the spring training invites.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Uhhhh.....

From one of the best baseball movies ever. Rent Major League right now.

They played hard. They did their best. Move on. Their whole life isn't out in that field. It's their job. It's not an obsession.

by Jeff Pico on May 23, 2007 10:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ah yes

thanks

Len Kasper rocks.

by Matt Allison on May 23, 2007 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"this guy here is dead."

"well, cross him off them."

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Best Movie Ever

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 10:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That reminds me, I was going to ask you.

What exactly is our team concept?

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He can wait for the game to be over, I think.

And Len and Bob are seriously discussing issuing an intentional walk to Wells to "clog the bases." I think I just threw up in my mouth.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd love to see that fat p.o.s

rin the bases

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Major League

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 10:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Don't know...

how you could select just one quote from that movie. So many good ones...

"How's your wife and my kids?"

"I play for the Indians."
"Here in Cleveland? I didn't know they still had a team!"
"Yup, we've got uniforms and everything, it's really great!"

"Jesus, I like him very much, but he no help with curveball."
"You trying to say Jesus Christ can't hit a curveball?"

They played hard. They did their best. Move on. Their whole life isn't out in that field. It's their job. It's not an obsession.

by Jeff Pico on May 23, 2007 10:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Willie

You may run like Hayes but you hit like shit

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"I plan to get...

at least a double out of this"

"It's kind of hard to steal second base with your shoes un-tied."

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Everytime I see you hit the ball in the air

you owe me 20 pushups

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"I look like a banker in this"

"Sorry, Rick...those are the house rules."

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Congratulations"

"you made their hall of shame."

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Great scene

That's my wife...
Does she know that?
Well, she would've been if I hadn't screwed it up... who's that guy she's with?
I don't know. He's not wearing a nametag.
Want me to drag him outta here, kick the sh*t out of him?

They played hard. They did their best. Move on. Their whole life isn't out in that field. It's their job. It's not an obsession.

by Jeff Pico on May 23, 2007 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Willie: What language is this?

Rick: Do they have chili dogs?

Jake: Forget it, I'll order.

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

This may be the most applicable quote

"I thought you didn't have any high priced talent."

"Forget about Dorn 'cause he's only high priced."

They played hard. They did their best. Move on. Their whole life isn't out in that field. It's their job. It's not an obsession.

by Jeff Pico on May 23, 2007 10:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice 2 strike bunt from wells

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 10:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nice little catch out of Soriano...

...running right into the pitch count display out in left.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Since things always go down

the crapper in this town, they'd better get to Wells -- RIGHT NOW, or this kid's great performance will be wasted.

Sorry to go 'Durden' here, but I have NO faith in any Cub team, playing in this town. 1984 will do that to you.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 10:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Wells has actually

LOST weight, FYI, because he was diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes. That's what ignoring your health most of your life will do....

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 10:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

2+2=5

n/t

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

thanks, Thom Yorke.

by Mr Snrub on May 23, 2007 10:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Meant to make this a reply..

...to Smooth Jazz Man's comments about 1984.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Crap

The Bullpen is warming up

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 23, 2007 10:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Oh great

We get to watch Murton run the bases again.

by cubsbak on May 23, 2007 10:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Bases loaded - yay

for izturis - umm

If the cubs were an international soccer team they'd be called Scotland.

by mrtobby on May 23, 2007 10:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nice to see the OTHER team...

...do something monumentally stupid.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

radiohead

...is exceptional.

by rm463 on May 23, 2007 10:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

ohh

NEIFI JR.

by CZ38 on May 23, 2007 10:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Izturis

U Suck

I've never heard of half of these guys. And, the ones I do know are way past their prime...This guy here's dead

by Stryker10 on May 23, 2007 10:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Its Murton's fault

He never should have taken the walk. It was his job to get a hit. They don't call the position the "walker" they call the position the hitter.

And then, he should have hustled and gone to third on the DeRosa hit (and forced the other Cub runner to score). No hustle. Its all Murton's fault.

After all, we need a scapegoat and dumping on a good young player is always the best way to do this.

by frustratedfan on May 23, 2007 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

izturis

is utterly useless.

by rm463 on May 23, 2007 10:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

See?

I think I'm going to flip over to American Idol

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 10:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Izturis has done nothing all year

worst pick up ever, should have PH for him with anyone.

"The Cubs are due in Sixty-Two" - Ernie Banks

by TimeForChili on May 23, 2007 10:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

agreed

6 LOB.

by Mr Snrub on May 23, 2007 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The take sign...

...would have worked just as well.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

where's the riot?

he should of been hitting instead of izturis

If the cubs were an international soccer team they'd be called Scotland.

by mrtobby on May 23, 2007 10:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Wow

That was not fun to watch.

by ar_hawkins on May 23, 2007 10:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

guess the double play...

helps the collection of 25 called the cubs look like they don't leave so many on base...

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 10:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The upshot is...

...ending the inning there kept Lou from pinch-hitting for Marshall, thus keeping the bullpen out of the game for now.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nevermind then.

Wuertz not Ohman, Wuertz not Ohman... please, please, please...

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 10:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Very nice to

see that hot dog Greene sit down. Last night's spin-o-rama wasn't needed.

Now, you give up a single to the weakest hitter on this team. Great.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 10:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Told you.

It's always like this here. Deadwood.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 10:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The TURD-is!

Great At Bat you fucking pinhead!

Leave the BAT ON YOUR FUCKING SHOULDER FOR ONE PITCH WITH A STRUGGLING PITCHER!!!

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 23, 2007 10:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Appropriate time

For a SD 2 run shot.

by ar_hawkins on May 23, 2007 10:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That ball is tracking in Europe by now

El Jefe

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on May 23, 2007 10:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Predictable.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 10:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ain't no comin' back, folks.

Sorry to be negative, I try not to be, but it's always a tragic end in this park. This team has much better success in LA or SF. Not here.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 10:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You NEGATIVE?

The Jazz Man?

Dave Koz' wouldn't stand for it!

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 23, 2007 11:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Isturass

Musta wanted to make the decision to leave Marshall in easy for Dusty....

The DEATH SPIRAL has begun....finding new ways to lose every night...Cubs aren't going to win in Cali....Season over.

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 10:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Is everything...

scripted? it seems to happen everytime.

by AndHart120 on May 23, 2007 10:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Therefore,

think of me when the brooms will be out tomorrow.
Sure glad I'm goin!

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 10:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Better you than me.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What Lou really said on the mound...

...Hey Kid, I've never seen a 1000 foot home run before. Let's try to correct that with your next pitch.

El Jefe

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on May 23, 2007 10:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

shouldn't laugh

but that's funny

If the cubs were an international soccer team they'd be called Scotland.

by mrtobby on May 23, 2007 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

thanks for the laughter

: )

by ar_hawkins on May 23, 2007 10:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yup...saw that coming....

leave in the kid and some bald headed jackass hits a homerun off of him OR take the kid out and the bullpen blows it anyways...and Izturis bails out the fatman the inning before....this is Cubs baseball 2007...one little freaking mistake by Marshall and now we lose...of course if our pathetic offense could score some runs we wouldn't need freaking Cy Young to pitch for us every night...well time to sleep!

by razzpunk on May 23, 2007 10:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Way to waste a quality start....

alll year...good pitchin g..no hitting...

good hitting...no pitching.....

25 individuals ...no TEAM.

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 10:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

...only CUBS.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah

The season's gotta be over because Sean Marshall gave up 2 runs in 7 innings in his first start.

C'mon guys...

by ar_hawkins on May 23, 2007 10:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Cubs Apologits

club out in full-force.

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 23, 2007 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's

Apologists! type much...?

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 23, 2007 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It is ridiculous....

for a kid like Marshall to leave the field feeling bad about his performance because our team of well paid hitters can only score him one run....nice ground out Floyd! Our team is so inconsistent I don't know if we will ever catch fire....

by razzpunk on May 23, 2007 10:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

My thought's exactly

career high in K's for him. Lee needs to pick him up here...

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 23, 2007 10:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Still, in the long run

we may have solved the 5th starter question, which means Dempster and Guzman can stay in the pen, and Miller can stay off the roster.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 11:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow....Ramirez is in a slump....

that was ridiculous.....Hoffman in Cubs out...

by razzpunk on May 23, 2007 11:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Does any individual

want to step up to the plate and BEAT somebody???

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 11:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Can't you just hear Harry say...

..."popped him up!"

El Jefe

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on May 23, 2007 11:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

who's the bigger goat at this point?

Murton for getting doubled off or Izturis for the GIDP with the bases loaded?

by elgato on May 23, 2007 11:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

So the cycle

continues...

They'll be 6 games under .500 after the road trip.

Then they'll win a couple games in a row.

Then they'll be close to .500 -

and again...drop more in a row falling further and further out of it.

All that money and shit to show for it.

What a waste of a truly wonderful start.

What a truly miserable clutch hitting team this is, er - ItsTURDis is.

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 23, 2007 11:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Anyone think LOU

will just bag it?

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 23, 2007 11:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

no, but I bet he'd like a Crown and Coke

El Jefe

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on May 23, 2007 11:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lou's not going anywhere

the frustrating thing this year is that every once in a while, there's something that makes you feel really good about this team -- Hill's first month, Theriot, Pagan having a good few games, Guzman in the pen, now Marshall.

Lou will look at those things and figure if those positives mix with DLee, Ramirez, Soriano, et. al at about the time Z starts throwing ...

But this team just doesn't seem to gel. Lou will hold out hope until the break next year. If the team doesn't figure it out by then.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 11:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

...again...not to beat a dead horse...

you point to individual performance.....baseball is a team sport....

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 11:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Re

Yes, but I'm hard-pressed to think of a team sport that turns so much on individual performances. Care to try?

Visit The Digital Gazette

by Jed Taylor on May 25, 2007 4:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I swear

Getting into the Cubs bullpen these days is like getting your hand in a girl's pants on the first date. You know your'e going to win.

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 23, 2007 11:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yabbut is the game winner a 1B, 2B, 3B, or HR?

El Jefe

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on May 23, 2007 11:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bullpen

Geez guy. The Bullpen allowed ZERO runs last night. How in the world can you claim that they lost this one? This one was lost by the offense and the fact that 1 - 5 went 1 for 18 and that 6 of the seven Cub hits were by two players (and the Goat Horns are being attached strangely enough by some to the guy who went two for three with a walk, scored the only run, and was not at all responsible for the other team scoring the run -- so I guess blaming the bullpen makes about as much sense)

by Frustrated Fan on May 24, 2007 8:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The saddest part is...

Marshall takes a loss if the Cubs don't score this inning. Reason #4592 why W-L records for pitchers are the worst stats imaginable.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 11:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

No, they will probably win

2 of 3 in LA. San Diego is a fucking black hole.

FYI, if anybody locally reading wants a great Field Level seat here tomorrow, write Al -- he'll give you my E-mail address. I can't bear these fucking front running Padres fans. 28K, and you're in a pennant race? These 'fans' suck. If the Cubs weren't here, the crowd count would be under 20K.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 11:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Why does the offense Flatline when we play

at Petco? wells was supposed to provide every opporunity to right the ship and the cubs fell down drunk on every at bat tonight.

Sheesh.

by scottsdalecubs on May 23, 2007 11:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Petco, Qualcomm,

Makes no difference. They cannot win in this town. 25 years of going to Cubs games here, and only every 7-8 years or so, something good happens. We're on target for good stuff here in 2011.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 11:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the 25 individualy players...

collectively known as "the Cubs" are going to go 0 for CALIFORNIA this trip......at least things will get done this summer and I can quit wasting my time...

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 11:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pinella is worse than Baker.....

How many lefties are sitting on the bench and he bats 3 righties gainst Hoffman in the 9th.......

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 11:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

dude, this isn't looking good

but don't start talking crazy.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 11:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah but,

Murton and Derosa have hit the ball tonight, and barrett won't be taken out for Blanco.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 11:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Case in Point...

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Even money that Murton broke his back ...

...with that swing.

El Jefe

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on May 23, 2007 11:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

...why Jones....

at least Isturass is being pulled....ward or floydd are better choices in my opinion...

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 11:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Floyd was already used

But I'll take Ward any day here.

by rlpete on May 23, 2007 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Floyd already PH erlier

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

floyd already hit

but yeah, where's D-Ward?

by elgato on May 23, 2007 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Multitasking...

missed the Floyd at bat...sorry.....to post an uninformed comment.

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 11:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Do you do the really gutsy thing here...

...and call for the squeeze? Maybe the suprise value carries us through here. Because as much as I hate bunting, I don't really know what I think about Jones here.

by cwyers on May 23, 2007 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Would have been worth a try...

Jones certainly can't get any hits that knock in runs that matter.

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 11:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

...it's almost June...

I don't hate Jones...i WISH he'd earn his contract...it's the same as last year.....why6 can't he be a hero and step up and win some games???

The only hit he's had that mattered was a couple of Saturdays ago in Philadelphia....and he could have been a hero in that game but he and two other big failures in that game as well...he'll get his 70-80 RBI's with 55 coming after the all star break when the Cubs are already out of it...or for some other team...

by kcjones on May 23, 2007 11:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DeRosa with maybe the best Cub AB this year....

...4 hits tonight including this 3B.

El Jefe

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on May 23, 2007 11:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah

DeRosa has as many hits tonight as the entire Padres squad. The rest of the Cubs hitters should be ashamed they couldn't win this one.

by John Q Freejazz on May 23, 2007 11:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

too much salt

not enough wounds

by elgato on May 23, 2007 11:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Stick around,

one more game to go.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 11:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Blah

What a wasted good start.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 23, 2007 11:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Crap, what a letdown,

DeRosa misses by inches tying the game with what would have been a 9th inning 2 out HR.

El Jefe

by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on May 23, 2007 11:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

WHY JACQUE JONES??

Captain LOB sent out in a must-RBI situation. Really, really dumb move. Ward would've at least given them a chance.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 23, 2007 11:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

eh

JJ actually had a good at-bat and hit the ball hard. He's my least favorite current Cub, but Jacque didn't lose this tonight.

Murton and Izzy both squandered big opportunities, and the top of the order was a complete non-factor.

by elgato on May 23, 2007 11:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

However,

after tomorrow's loss, (guaranteed) you'll see much better baseball at Dodger Stadium -- I promise you that -- it's just the way it is here in America's Finest City. (If you actually have to use that as a slogan, you most assuredly are NOT what you say you are. It's the inferiority complex of this town.)

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 23, 2007 11:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, SDSJ man

This is a football town, no doubt about it, even though they play football in the dump, that is the Q and Petco is a great ballpark to watch baseball in.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 23, 2007 11:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Can't wait to see Qualcomm imploded

The Chargers deserve a decent home. For those of you who just see the joint on TV -- believe me, the infrastructure is horrid. I've been in the bowels (very appropriate term) of that place enough to see the crumbling concrete. I'd rather not be in that facility, if a temblor comes rumbling through -- in the soft earth of a river valley.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 24, 2007 12:04 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Interesting stat

I heard a stat that is priceless.

This game is Marshall's tenth career loss. He has received a combined 10 runs of support in those 10 losses. He has a far better ERA when he loses then when he wins.

Crazy

by louslovechild on May 24, 2007 12:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And -- another given

The Brewers will come in here, and probably take 2 out of 3, and will possibly sweep.
Nothing good ever happens for the Cubs in this town.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on May 24, 2007 12:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's nice to be in a place as a Cub fan.....

where I went to bed in the sixth already chalking this one up as a loss.

by Peoria Matt on May 24, 2007 12:22 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I was right on both counts

Marshall pitched great.

Again the Cubs offense made a pitcher with a 5.00+ ERA look like Cy Young.

What BS.

That's now 9 games they should have won.

by MrDurden on May 24, 2007 4:20 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yep.

If Capuano, or Arroyo (or take your friggin pick of any 4+ ERA guy in the division) pitched against the Cubs 20 times year, they'd all be Cy Young candidates.

Hey Jockstrap! Don't swing at the pitch in the dirt!

by SackMan on May 24, 2007 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

For you eternal Cubbie

optimists.

Here is some REALITY from LOU, post-game:

""It's not early anymore," Piniella said before Wednesday night's 2-1 loss to the San Diego Padres. "We've played 25 percent of our schedule. I don't see where it's that early anymore. It's time for some of these guys to get going. We're just about Memorial Day."

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 24, 2007 6:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

A couple thoughts

In the inning when Murton got doubled off on the line drive to right, why did he not steal second before that? He had stolen second easily earlier in the game off Wells and Bard. Why not go here? If he had, he would have scored on DeRosa's single and as we know that would have been a crucial run to have. This is Petco Park, guys, you can't sit back and wait for the 3-run bomb.

It also became pretty clear early on the Padres were intent on throwing strikes early in the count, and yet the Cub hitters seemed to never adjust. They were constantly down 0-2 or 1-2. I mean this was not a tough pitcher we were facing, get up there and hit the friggin' ball.

by paulucla on May 24, 2007 8:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Steal of Second

As noted in the TV broadcast, Wells changed his delivery when Murton was on the second time to a slide step. They hadn't thought that Murton might steal the first time and thus hadn't held him all that close. No doubt they were reading the BCB comments on his speed.

And, of course, what would people be saying today if he had been thrown out?

by frustratedfan on May 24, 2007 9:38 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs