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Open Thread: Cubs vs. Brewers, Tuesday 8/28, 7:05 CT

Yelloncard_tiny by Al on in Game Threads Comment 930 comments

Seems like it's been forever since the Cubs played, doesn't it? If you're antsy to see a game today, imagine how the players must feel. The entire NL Central was off yesterday, and all six teams will play inside the division today, including a Reds/Pirates doubleheader (go Pirates!).

Here are a few morning headlines to whet your appetite, and this will also serve as tonight's game thread:

Bob Howry says Cubs fans are better than Red Sox fans. He should know, too: he played there for parts of the 2002 and 2003 seasons, though not in the postseason for the ill-fated 2003 team.

Is Alfonso Soriano coming back too soon? Yes, says Carol Slezak:

Soriano was able to convince the training staff and Piniella that he's healthy enough to play. But whose idea was it to put him back in the leadoff spot? What is Piniella thinking? Ryan Theriot has done a good job filling in for him at the top of the order. Why mess with one of the few spots in the lineup that worked during his absence?

And why put a tender-legged Soriano at the top of the order when stealing bases or running out an infield hit is the last thing he should be thinking about at this point? Wouldn't it make more sense to bat him lower in the lineup, especially since the Cubs need more production from the middle of the order?

Excuse me for being a worrywort. With any luck, Soriano will make a problem-free return, the offense will start clicking and the Cubs will widen their lead on the Brewers and Cardinals. But given their history with injuries to marquee players in recent years -- from Wood and Prior to Sammy Sosa's big sneeze -- I can't help but be concerned.

The Cubs were 8-11 without Soriano. Yes, Theriot did a good job leading off. But it's time for Soriano to show the power he's lacked most of the year. His SB game is likely done for the year with this injury and the hamstring that he hurt in April that's probably still bothering him. If he hits the ball out of the ballpark, he can run around the bases as slowly as he wants to.

Bruce Miles compares this series to a similar "three nights in August" the Cubs had on nearly the same calendar dates in 2003, and says they'll sweep it. Hope you're right, Bruce.

Who's going to start for Milwaukee on Wednesday and Thursday? Could Ben Sheets return? (The Cubs should hope so: Sheets has a 4.76 ERA vs. them this year.)

And in case you were wondering about the story behind the difference in the spelling of "DEROSA" on Mark's home and road jerseys, our girl Carrie has the scoop:

The clubhouse attendants were not aware of the difference, but DeRosa noticed it right away. He would prefer to have it spelled with the small "E" as it is on his road jersey. But, he said, "I'm just thankful to have a jersey."
 Today's Starting Pitchers
Rich Hill
 R. Hill
Cubs		 vs. Jeff Suppan
 J. Suppan
Brewers
7-7 W-L 8-11
3.67 ERA 4.85
145 SO 85
51 BB 57
24 HR 14
vs. Mil -- vs. Cubs
Rich Hill threw a fine game in his last start at San Francisco against fellow curveballer Barry Zito, but got a no-decision when the game went into extra innings. Hill's got 11 no-decisions in his 25 starts; only Matt Chico of the Nationals has more no-decisions (13) among pitchers with that many or more starts. Oddly, the Nats have a winning record, 13-12, in games Chico has started, even though he is 5-7. The Cubs are 11-14 in games Hill has started, and he has allowed two or fewer runs in five of the seven no-decisions that turned into losses. Conclusion: Hill's put his team in a position to win with his pitching, and the bullpen has failed.

Jeff Suppan shut out the Cubs for 8 innings on April 24 at Wrigley Field, but they cuffed him around pretty good on June 6 in Milwaukee; this doesn't jibe with his overall record, which is better at home (5-3, 3.97) than on the road (3-8, 5.68). He hasn't won since June 22, and will be facing two guys who hit him hard (Derrek Lee, 15-for-33, 5 doubles, 3 HR, .455/.571/.879) and Jacque Jones (12-for-42, .286/.444/.571, 4 HR and twelve (!) walks).

Baseball-reference.com preview for tonight's game with more stats than you can possibly ever use.

Today's cable-only telecast is also available at the MLB Mediacenter.

MLB.com Gameday (2007 version)

MLB.com Gameday (2006 version)

MLB.com Gameday for today's Reds/Pirates doubleheader game 1 (4:05 pm CT start time)

MLB.com Gameday for today's Reds/Pirates doubleheader game 2

MLB.com Gameday for today's Astros/Cardinals game (7:05 pm CT start time)

Discuss amongst yourselves.

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There must be absolutley no pitching
in that league. Because all of our guys seem to hit .350 there. Then, they can't do squat in the Bigs.
1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Defense too
I think a lot of balls that turn into hits in the PCL are really outs in the major leagues because of the superior defensive players at the major league level.  

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good point
I know that a lot of balls hit toward Ronny Cedeno and Eric Patterson turn into hits.
1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

lol
Don't forget Jake Fox.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cubs fans
That is a most excellent link Al.  So regarding some of the discussion yesterday, it is clear that Cubs fans are better than Red Sox fans, because Howry would be the guru on that.  Now how do we find out if Cubs fans are better than Yanks fans?  That one never was determined.

by adam316 on Aug 28, 2007 9:10 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

All other teams fans
are better than yankee fans.  Period.  :)
"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Aug 28, 2007 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I WISH THIS GAME WAS AT 10 A.M.!!!!
"The game is always healthier when the Cubs are good, and in a week they have made themselves a whole lot better."

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 9:14 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Tonight's Game
It will be important to get the W tonight and get this serious off on the right foot. I'm glad that we have a 1.5 game lead as opposed to .5 game lead. Could you imagine how nervous everyone would be if one loss would knock us out of first?
AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on Aug 28, 2007 9:16 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Maybe I woke up cranky today, but...
Is it my imagination or do the qustions on Muskat's "mailbag" article quoted by Al above seem more stupid than ever before?

Oh, well, it's a long time before the game. I better go back to work. In the meantime, laugh a little. (I hope you all find this video useful. lol)

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 28, 2007 9:16 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

some of those were freakin horrible!
"Did the Cubs sign Scott Podsednik from the White Sox?"

or

"Just wanted to say it's great Lou reads the maibag and listens to the experts."

Sorry all, I just made anyone who reads these last two lines instantly less intellegent

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Aug 28, 2007 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My favorite...
I liked the second quote you list.  Frankly, the writers words were just dripping with sarcasm, which Muskat obviously missed.
Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dunno what Carol Slezak sees.....
...or when she's been seeing it, but the Alfonso Soriano I saw last week during batting practice in San Francisco hitting bombs into the seats and line drives everywhere, followed up by playfully skipping around the bases, sure seemed ready to me. Ready to the point where I thought he might be playing then.
Santo Forever!

by BeerCub on Aug 28, 2007 9:22 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I thought the same thing...
... when I saw Soriano running in the outfield with no pain or restriction, during BP in San Francisco.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just hope...
Soriano can generate power even with that sore leg.

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 28, 2007 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Amen...
Her reference to Wood, Prior, and Sosa is just lame. That was under the old regime. I'd say Piniella and his staff have done a good job this year of managing the health of the players. If Lou says that Soriano is ready to go, send him out there.  

by Oscarson1 on Aug 28, 2007 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I gotta say...
...Theriot has done a great job in the leadoff spot.  He's been terrific at working counts, taking pitches, taking walks to lead off the game.  Hats off for a job well done.

by John Q Freejazz on Aug 28, 2007 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It would be great...
to win this game. It's my birthday darnit. So yeah, if for no other reason they have to win this game to usher me into my mid-20s the right way.

Anyhow, with Soriano batting leadoff what happens in that 2 hole? And what happens if that man isn't Theriot? Do you pull that "bat the pitcher 8th" stuff? It's a thought I suppose. Probably a bad one at that ;)

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:30 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Theriot...
... will bat 2nd.

Although, I wouldn't be unhappy to see Kendall bat second on occasion.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I like that
I think getting the hot hand between Kendall and Theriot in that second spot would be a really great idea. Have the one who isn't hitting 2 in the 8 hole, as both seem to be tough outs and willing to at least work a count or stay alive by fouling off a bunch of balls. Not only would this obviously help at the top of the lineup, but with some of the free swingers we have, it would help lengthen some of those extremely quick innings we seem to have, thus giving our pitcher a bit more time to rest.

I wasn't the biggest fan of sticking Soriano back at the top, but the more I think about it the more I believe it actually will help us if he is as free and mobile as you all said he looked. He certainly can't do anything to hurt us at this point, as the production from our offense as a whole just hasn't been that great as of late.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re: Theriot...
I heard a pretty good case made on sports radio this weekend about leaving Theriot in the leadoff spot and batting DLee in the two-hole and Soriano third. That way, Ramirez could serve as protection for Alfonso and maybe Soriano would see a little less junk.

My guess, however, is Lou feels it's a little too late in the season to be doing anymore major experimentation with the lineup.

"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 28, 2007 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree with Lou...
For whatever reason, Soriano seems to be most comfortable in the leadoff spot, so as far as I'm concerned, keep him there.

What I do love right now is that folks are hitting 1-8 in the lineup.  That shouldn't be overlooked in terms of how much it might help Soriano's RBI #s the rest of the way.  Having Kendall and a revitalized JJ in the 7/8 slots is actually pretty impressived when compared to Hill/oldJJ, which what pretty scary.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Happy birthday!
I put a cub sweep on reserve.  Hopefully it will come in today!
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sounds good to me
Thanks for the present. I think a Cubbie sweep this week would top rank right up there with tickets to the game Sandberg had his number retired in terms of birthday gifts.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lets just hope it arrives today
tomorrow and thursady!  And heck, maybe, I'm feeling generous and I will get you a little something for this weekend too!
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Two sweeps....
And a Hawkeye win? Hell yes.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'll see what i can do.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Happy Birthday
and I hope you get a Cubs win today. I hope the Hawks get a win on my birthday on Sat.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Could care less
about the Hawkeyes (but not much else going on in Iowa, so I do understand). Hope Northwestern beats them.

But a Cubs SWEEP? Now THAT would be terrific.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Uh oh....
That Hawkeye comment probably won't go over well haha. I wish I could take a cheap shot at NW but the Hawks can't seem to beat them. They are like our Capuano.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No one
asked you to care about the Hawkeyes.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I was at the NW/Iowa game
two years ago when NW came back very very late to win.  Hawkeye fans who had left early and were tailgating in the rain outside refused to believe us when we told them their team had lost.  One drunk threatened to hit me until his friend went in the car and heard the score on the radio.  

by TR on Aug 28, 2007 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't know what you're talking about
That game never happened. I refuse to believe it happened......

That was a sad day to be a Hawkeye.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's been
a sad past two seasons to be a Hawkeye. I'm hoping for the best this season, but I'm not overly optimistic.

by qccub on Aug 28, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

awesome game
i was there too... the stadium was almost empty when the 'cats recovered the onside kick and took the lead.  hopefully they'll have some of that magic this year...

by numike on Aug 28, 2007 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Uhh.... too
bad we are not playing Northwestern on Sat. I plan on playing NIU:)

by BigZ 4 Cy on Aug 28, 2007 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You going?
I really can't wait to get in that stadium and see all the black and gold. It won't be the same as being in the student section at Kinnick, but it should be awesome.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

From what I've
heard and read there should be anywhere from 46,000 to 60,000 Hawkeye fans there.

GO HAWKS!!!

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's what I heard too
Can't wait for the I-O-W-A cheer. That cheer is always my favorite, especially the first time in the first game of the year. Get goosebumps just thinking about it.

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!! LET'S GO HAWKEYES!!!

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I won't be
there in person but will definitly be there in my black and gold spirit.  We need a confidence builder to start the year off on the right foot and get our young qb ready so when we go to Madison we can give them BADgers a game.

by BigZ 4 Cy on Aug 28, 2007 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Isn't there a Hawkeye website where
you guys can get all giddy with people who give a damn about this thrilling showdown with NIU?

by TR on Aug 28, 2007 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My Birthday too, Hawkeyenation
Love the name. Go Hawks! Go Cubs! Go 'stros! Go Buckos!

by jmw676 on Aug 28, 2007 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Happy Birthday.
I agree with everything you said, but only the 'stros for 3 days, then they can remember they are terrible.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Side Note
Tampa Bay's elimination number is 3... On the other hand, they are only 23 games back in the wild card race!
Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Why does it have to be the bullpen failling?
Doesn't Hill have one of the lowest run supports?

by GoCubbies34 on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That, too.
n/t
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What ironic timing
for that article about Red Sox fans and Cub fans!  That is kind of wierd.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 9:38 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Timing
That is awfully strange timing considering you and that Yanks fan were talking about the Red Sox, Cubs, and Yankees fans relating to TV time.

by adam316 on Aug 28, 2007 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

A note about postseason chances...
... because the Cubs have done poorly against the Diamondbacks, Padres and Mets, teams they might face in the playoffs.

It doesn't matter. When October 1 rolls around, the records revert to 0-0 and what's happened during the season is irrelevant.

A prime example of this is the 1988 Mets, who won 100 games and were 10-1 in the regular season against the Dodgers. Didn't matter, as LA won the NLCS.

The 1998 Cubs were 4-2 in the regular season against a much better Braves team, who proceeded to sweep them out of the playoffs. Same with the 2003 Cubs, who were 4-2 against the Marlins during the season.

Even the 2005 White Sox, who had a "perfect storm" sort of regular season, were 7-10 against the teams they faced in the AL playoffs (3-4 vs. BOS, 4-6 vs. LAA). They were 7-1 against the same two teams in the AL playoffs.

And for perhaps the most relevant example, look at last year's Cardinals, who were a combined 4-11 against the three teams they beat in the postseason (2-4 vs. SD; 2-4 vs. NYM, and 0-3 vs. the Tigers).

They went 11-5 against those same three teams in October. It's all about getting hot at the right time.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 9:39 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Exactly
Much like March Madness, crazy things happen in the post season. It's part of what makes baseball so great.
Heck, crazy things happen in the regular season. If someone had been talking about playoff matchups on June 1st we would have called them insane. But, being that baseball is crazy, we now get to talk and analyze it. Things like this remind me why I love baseball so much.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed
The Cubs have a small sample size versus non-divisional teams such as the Snakes, Mets, Pods, etc.  While poor performance during the regular season may not fill you with confidence, it is not indicative of playoff performance at all.  The seven game series involves more chance than a 162 game season, which is why "Moneyball" school guys just throw up their hands in the playoffs - just not enough games for trends to emerge.  More often then not it's something like Mark Lemke or Billy Hatcher just catching fire and getting on base constantly or a pitcher like Jared Wright stringing together 3 very good starts.  

Just get in, Cubbies, & I'll take the Cubs against any of the NL.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Last year
the worst hitting every day position player in the league, Yadier Molina, was a 1 man wrecking crew helping the Cards win the pennant and then the world series.  Ya just never know.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not only that....
Name the 4 starting pitchers for that Cardina....(DeadTurd) team.....

Tell me how they are doing this year...

And how they did previous to being a TURD last year....

The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 2:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Somewhat disagree...
While I don't believe regular season records vs playoff opponent matters, I do think that the best teams GENERALLY win, which is usually not the team with the worst record in the playoffs. I think the Cardinals were just an abstract anomaly, and I don't think we should be clinging to their run as hope if we limp into the playoffs slightly ahead of the other Central foes. I think our fate, both playoff and regular season, rests on the rotation's shoulders. If Z heats backs up, and the rest of the starters gain consistency, then we can ride a White Sox-like run to the World Series. Teams built for the postseason-with a strong staff-don't need a great regular season record.
MARQUIS! YES, MARQUIS!

by thekansasian on Aug 28, 2007 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly
Using the Cards as an example of how limping into the postseason isn't cause for alarm is slightly misleading. The '06 Cards were KILLED by injuries most of the year, yet hung around long enough to be in the race when Edmonds, Rolen, et al got healthy. By the time the playoffs rolled around, they were essentially a completely different team than the one who played May-August. The first time they had a completely healthy team (aside from Isringhausen) was when the playoffs started. Basically, that team was much, MUCH better than their regular season record would indicate.

by scotteboy on Aug 28, 2007 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Disagree
Killed by injuries?  Edmonds missed some time but Rolan played in over 140 games.  They did lose Mulder and Isringhausen but those guys weren't back for the postseason.  No, they were essentially the same team in the postseason as they were in the regular season.  The difference of course was that scrubs like Jeff Weaver, Anthony Reyes, Jeff Suppan, and Yadier Molina played out of their minds, and their rookie closer, Adam Wainwright, was pretty much unhittable in the playoffs.  In other words, they got on a roll at the right time.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, killed by injuries
Edmonds missed lots of time, Rolen was never completely healthy, Pujols had health issues, Eckstein had issues, etc. Yes, Wainright, Suppan, Weaver, and Reyes played a HUGE part in their postseason run, but they most certainly had plenty of injury problems that hampered their regular season record.

There is definitely something to be said for continuity, and it wasn't until late September that the Cards had all their parts (minus Izzy and Mulder) in place. Is it the sole reason they won the WS ? Hell no. But it sure as heck was not the same team, health-wise, that played the regular season.

by scotteboy on Aug 28, 2007 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Pujols
played in 143 games.  Eckstein played in 123.  Edmonds in 110.  They had these guys for most of the year and they were were all healthy when the Cards were practically falling apart during the month of September.  They didn't just magically heal for the post-season (as you say, Rolan was never healthy).  Their success in the playoffs had significantly more to do with certain guys unexpectedly getting on a roll than with a return to health.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rolan is actually Rolen.
Sorry, let it go the first time, had to correct.  It is my father's fault, he edited all my papers growing up.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cards Surprise
What surprised me about the Cardinals surge through the postseason wasn't so much their final record as how HORRIBLE they ahd been the last 10 days of the season.

Regular season records can be particularly misleading when comparing, for a timely example, the Cubs & Brewers of today.  If a team is lousy in April and May, and sneaks into the postseason anyway, I'd feel pretty good.  On the flip side, a team that starts hot and barely stays alive to make the postseason would be more worrisome.

that said... let's just be playing in Oct.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

In addition to the Cards
both the White Sox in 2005 and the Tigers last year faded down the stretch before picking things up in the postseason.  Ya never know.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sox
The one thing about the Sox in 2005 was that they did pick it up for the last 5 or so games.  Folks had pretty much given up on them holding off cleveland, so they actually seemed to be in a good place heading into the postseason.

On top of that, the Red Sox were actually a pretty easy first round opponent with no Schilling or Pedro and a remaining hangover from 04.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True
In fact, if Houston gets just ONE clutch hit in the Sunday game against Atlanta last year they probably screw St. Louis to high heaven. The Cards then would've had to have won 2 games, and not have had Carpenter available for either game. In fact, I believe it would've been Marquis' turn on that Monday, if it had reached that point. And we all know how bad Marquis was down the stretch last year.

by scotteboy on Aug 28, 2007 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Pennant races are crazy
I sure would like to see the cubs go on an 8 game tear while the Crew and Cards drop 8 straight.

I'm not counting on it, but my bloodpressure could use it.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed
I would like it to be like in 2003 where after that Cardinal series, it was all downhill.  Actually more like a victory lap.  I just don't want a repeat of the 2004 season.  

by shawonfan on Aug 28, 2007 4:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Also seem to remember...
after the Cubs threw in the towel a couple of tough close 1 run battles with them late in the season AFTER the Cubs proved dominance over the bird.......seem to remember a great performance by Rich Hill ...Cubs lost like 2-1....a little offense that day mighta left the TURDS completely OUT (where they Belonged)....where was/is Jeff Weaver?  None of that McGwire water left???
The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 2:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What is it about the Meth in Kansas....
That Turd team last year didn't deserve to make the playoffs...let alone the series...

This years edition shouldn't be anywhere close to competing for the division title...

What is it in the water is St. louis....did McGuire "poison" the water?

The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 2:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Brewers staff
If the Brewers have the chance, they should let Capuano start against the Cubs. He's been awful the last three months (trust me, he's on my fantasy team), but if I recall, he pitched two complete game shutouts against the Cubs last year. Let's hope he stays as bad as he's been all year and doesn't revive if he pitches against us.
"Have Keith Moreland drop a routine fly. Give everybody two bags of peanuts and a frosty malt, And I'll be ready to die." -Steve Goodman

by danimal15 on Aug 28, 2007 10:01 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Yeah
Capuano pretty much owns our soul.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

cappy vs cubs
A look at Baseball Reference pretty much confirms that. 8-2 with a 3.76 era in 11 starts.
AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on Aug 28, 2007 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But, only one this year so far...
... a win in April when he was pitching well. He did not face the Cubs in any of the other three series.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

lies, damned lies, and statistics
we can go back and forth all day on this.

Sure he only has one win against us, but he's only faced us once.

Sure he has a great record against us this year, but he doesn't have a win since May 7th. oh, but that means he's due!

fwiw: When I saw Capuano on the 19th the Brewers gave him a 5 run lead and he slowly but surely gave it all back. The 5th run was probably the most frustrating to watch, as he plunked Dunn in the back and then threw two straight wild pitches to put Dunn on 3rd at which point Conine was able to get him in with a sac fly.

not all of his losses are like that, but in that game he definitely did his best to give that game away.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on Aug 28, 2007 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re: lies, damned lies, and statistics
Good points one and all, but I'm still glad Capuano won't be pitching. The last thing the Cubs need is for him to come out and have a stupendous "comeback" start that reinvigorates the Brew Crew. Let him sit on the bench and watch his cohorts get pounded.
"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 28, 2007 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i'm thrilled he's not pitching.
that guy scares me more than any other pitcher in the bigs. he dominates the cubs. when did we get those 2 wins against him anyway.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah
He has stunk up the joint pretty much for the last half of the year. Doesn't mean he doesn't completely humiliate us just about every time he faces us. I'm glad we won't have to find out if that will continue. Kinda nice how the pitching matchups worked out for this series for us, both for our team and for the Brew Crew.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm considering doing Yoga...
...or at least some deep-breathing exercises before tonight's game (and tomorrow's and Thursday's). I'm emotionally invested enough in most Cubs games, this "being in contention" stuff is enough to send me to the ER. 2003 seems so long ago...
"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 28, 2007 10:05 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Here we go
Come on man, this is what it's all about.  This is the time for the stars to relax and do some damage.  I'm as amped as you are but throttle it back, let it all in and enjoy the ride.  It's our time....NOW.
Eighty-five percent of the f*ckin' world is working. The other fifteen percent come out here. -- Lee Constantine Elia, 1983.

by krummy12 on Aug 28, 2007 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rob Dibble on Cubs/Red Sox & Yankee Fans
A few years ago ESPN was doing a long bit on the best fans.
Dibble said it was a tie between the Red Sox and Yankee fans.
He said from his personal experiece the Cubs fans were equally dedicated but they did not intimidate oppossing teams the way
the Red Sox and Yankee fans did. He recalled that once while he
was stiing on the bullpen bench, someone sitting in the row behind him offered him  a brownie ( regular variety as far as I know). He said visiting players would often feel physically threatened in Fenway or Yankee Stadium.

Much as I might want to give the Cubs an edge I am OK finishing
3rd because we don't threaten oppossing players.

"It's the Cubbies. There's always a vibe. It's the greatest vibe in baseball." Greg Maddux on Cub fan's optimism even after the 06 debacle.

by jessica on Aug 28, 2007 10:23 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Improvement
I think our hatred and dedication is improving.  It all comes to winning.  Once you get that taste you expect more. Since winning the 2003 division we've become restless and I like it.  Puts management on their toes.

by shawonfan on Aug 28, 2007 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

oh man
as someone who now lives in boston, i can say that i was absolutely blown away by the amount of red sox mania in boston. i had grown up thinking the cubs had an intense fan base and was awestruck by the fatacism of red sox fans in comparison.   this being said, IMHO, i feel that the majority of Sox fanaticism is rooted in yankee hatred, while cubs fandom is all root root rooot for the cubbies.  sure, we have the cards and the sox rivalries, but our dislike of those teams doesnt overwhelm our love our our team.  so as far as overall city-wide intensity- the red sox win, no doubt about it.  as far at the better fans- gotta go with the cubbies.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs" - Alvin Dark

by holycow07 on Aug 28, 2007 10:24 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Another difference
is that a greater percentage of Boston residents are Red Sox fans than Chicago residents are Cubs fans.  Obviously that is the case since Chicago is a two team city.  It just just seemed to me that everyone in Boston was a Red Sox fan.  The NY hatred also has something to do with it.  The only place that I experienced something where it seemed everyone rooted for the team was in Denver and the Broncos.  I spent sometime in Denver in the 90's and it seemed everyone rooted for the Broncos.  

I expect St. Louis and the Cardinals are probably similar but I haven't spent much time there.    

by rlpete on Aug 28, 2007 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Sox Surge
The Red Sox really took off a few years ago into the super-popularity they enjoy now. Back in the 80s and 90s they had plenty of support, to be sure, but there wasn't the same level of visible fandom (seems like every other person on the street in Boston is wearing a Sox cap, and every kid seems to have a player t-shirt).

Part of it has been that they really do have a fun team these days, part was the championship, and part is probably just better merchandising.

I haven't been back to Chicago enough in recent years to really make a valid comparison, but my sense is that the level of intensity is pretty even, but that the Sox fans have a little more anger - as someone else noted, opposing players can feel the heat in Fenway. And Sox fans were traditionally much quicker to go negative on both visitors and their own team.

Going forward, I think the Sox image will be very different from what it was in the past - now that they've shaken their jinx, they're just going to be another strong perennial contender.

by CaughtInTheVines on Aug 28, 2007 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re:
i agree.  kids literally grow up learning the sox lineup.  i know a 3 year old that can give you the stats on any player.  you dont really see that in chicago all that much.  
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs" - Alvin Dark

by holycow07 on Aug 28, 2007 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So hyped!
Wouldn't miss this one for the world. It's been a long time since we had some real baseball to watch in practically September!

For those of you who don't have Direct TV or an mlb.com account, there are currently two sopcast feeds going to be up:

http://www.myp2p.eu/MLB.htm

If that's no cool to post, mods feel free to delete it.

Feel the Brees.

by SouthernBrees on Aug 28, 2007 10:43 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

What is this?
I have no idea what this is.  How does it work?
Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's to hoping Woody Williams
can show-up Tony LaRussa tonight...
1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 10:43 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Many thoughts...1st sportswriters....
Practically every sportswriter I have ever known or talked to has never played competitively in a sport beyond high school (if at all), they are writers. Any sportswriter who challenges the practiced decision making of a manager and staff like Piniella & Co. regarding Soriano's play status as some kind of risk is like one of us doing the same....it is irrelevant...their opinion is nothing but uninformed jibberish.

Doesn't mean they can't have an opinion but their opinion is like a 3rd grader speaking about the reading materials of their high school sibling.

Soriano is either ready to play or not, if he is than he is to be put in the lineup where it is best for him to perform. My guess is that Soriano is a comfort ball player so Piniella is putting him in the lead off spot because it makes him feel good and he performs better there.

Kendall down in the order allows the Cubs a stronger offense from the bottom of the order and now that Jones will be moving down the order...

Cubs need to play .560 ball here on out, win 20-13 and they will beat the surging Cardinals. Destiny is in their hands.

As for the playoffs....Look at the Cardinals last year, Houston the year previous, Florida the year previous to that.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 11:00 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That's nonsense
There are good sportswriters and there are bad ones. But to ceremoniously dismiss all their comments as uninformed gibberish is foolish.

From sports to politics to religion, there are numerous incidents where so called wise leaders were dead wrong. Would you have us become so passive as to agree with everything that Hendry and Piniella are doing because they played the game?

The truth is that we have no idea what will win the Central. And we have no idea what the Brewers and Cards and even the Reds will do from here on out. And it makes no difference what the Cards did last year. The only thing that matters is today's game because it is today. The most important thing tomorrow will be tomorrow's game. We're in 1st place and our destiny will be based only upon our own results. Accept that and the games won't cause a nervous breakdown. Tight players and tight fans don't do so well.

It's not too late to go to Soto

by tharr on Aug 28, 2007 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

correct...and I shouldn't paint all
I will stand corrected...most and let me continue most that I have had personal interaction professionally are ignorant to the real game....now that is why so many people like Stone or Brenly because they know from experience...

Listen to Girardi when he does a Fox game, he gives you so much detail and pieces that it shows up another color man who is only interested in the superficial....

My favorite sports writer/caster is Jay Bilas he is smart and played the game. Sorry if I brought you too much nonsense but it was my reaction to the nonsense of the sportswriter who knows it all.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

While I have my favorites
and you have yours, sometimes my reaction to an article is based upon whether or not I agree with it.

However my most agonizing experiences go towards the writers that are just carrying the water for the teams they cover because they feel the need to be loved and fed more than the obligation to inform the reader. One of the reasons I love Stone is his ability to criticize by suggesting what should be done before it happens. Too many guys see a terrible play or decision and then spend an outrageous amount of effort trying to excuse the error.

Sports and life are full of mistakes. Deal with them and move on instead of trying to rationalize them. That's one of the things I like most about Lou.

It's not too late to go to Soto

by tharr on Aug 28, 2007 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Interesting thoughts
and I have a tendancy to agree with your take on sports writers that cover baseball.

Much of the problem comes from the complexities/variables that baseball has, that most other sports do not.  Speaking from experience, it is difficult to understand the inner workings of the game, if you have not been exposed to it at a fairly high level.  I am not saying that all sports writers no nothing about the game, just that IMO, many prove to me they lack enouph of an understanding, to make them so called "experts" by any means.

In my mind, Chicago is not exactly loaded with knowlegeable baseball writers, in fact, some of the ones that are most prominant, are really a bit of a joke.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Aug 28, 2007 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

guzman
anyone know what happened to Angel Guzman
i thought he was supposed to be out for a week like 3 months ago?

by drodd on Aug 28, 2007 11:30 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Yep
Pitched an inning in rehab for Mesa on Sunday.  His line:

1 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 0 H, 0 K/0 BB, 2 GO-1 FO

I can't figure out how that run was scored.

Here's the box:
http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_08_26_mrnr ok_cubrok_1

As far as I know, that's his first rehab appearance since the injury.

by John Q Freejazz on Aug 28, 2007 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The game tonight is huge
The Brewers are on a 4 game losing streak and a win for them will give them hope. Plus they've played well in Wrigley. The Cubs will need to score often I think...

by Mapmaker on Aug 28, 2007 11:35 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Just do it Cubs!!!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 11:36 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Well boys... I made some T-Shirts
this morning to wear to the park during this final stretch. One of them was a nice big "W" shirt... and the other one, well... it fits this board darn perfectly:

I'll be there Wed night and Saturday...

The boys of summer have come a long, long way since last year, when I made this shirt at the all-star break:

I just accidentally posted this in yesterdays thread... ugh. Oh well.

 

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 12:01 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Sackman
I have your Crap logo printed out and posted to the wall of my cube in Michigan here. Gave one to a co-worker down the hall and he put his up, too, though he's a Tiger fan. We both share an appreciation of the fantastically poor play of Neifi, so it's all good.

Nice work.

"Mine, mine, says the squirrel to the transformer, unclear on the capacities of electricity." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Aug 28, 2007 12:08 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That just made my day...
Thanks keg...
1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why bat Soriano lead off?
he probably won't be a threat to steal bases. I'd assume have a lineup of

Theriot
Lee
Soriano
Ramirez
Floyd
DeRosa
Jones
Kendall

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 12:24 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

with soriano being activated..
who does everyone thing will be demoted?
Quade!

by mikew on Aug 28, 2007 12:36 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Probably Murton.
n/t
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sounds about right...
 give him a few days off in Chicago, and bring him back over the weekend.

by Damen Jackson on Aug 28, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Demotion
My guess is Pie.  If Pagan recovers, it will be between him and Murton for the final playoff roster spot.  I don't think that you can carry someone on the playoff roster who does nothing but pinch-run, and Monroe can back up JJ in CF.

JMO.

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Aug 28, 2007 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Monroe and Jones
as CF?  Yetch.   Murton's the logical one to demote because of the two OF with options, he's not the one who can play CF.   Have you looked at Monroe's fielding stats as a CF?   His RF is 1.81, the league RF for centerfielders is 2.37.  No, he won't be as bad as Ward or A Ram in CF, but he's no Jones (who has a RF of 2.48).   You have to keep Pie up as your CF defensive option.  

by frustratedfan on Aug 28, 2007 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cubs Fans better than Red Sox Fans?
Not totally true.  Remember the early 60s when the park barely had 5000 people?  Remember last year when park was not even full during September? Let's face it, we hate losing as much as anybody.
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse

by ronsanto10 on Aug 28, 2007 12:47 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I love losing actually.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 12:52 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Agreed.
I'm also a fan of parking tickets, traffic jams, having my identity stolen and, above all, having wet socks.

/end sarcasm.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I love losing...
...my lunch...all over a Cardinals fan.
"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 28, 2007 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I enjoy losing:
ground
my mind
self confidence
arguments
foot races
brain cells
it
to girls
control of my faculties

and most of all...

he right to have dry socks.

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Seriously
People always laugh at me when they ask "What is the worst feeling in the world?" and I say "Wet socks." I know, obviously, there are worse feelings, but for me that is the nastiest feeling. I feel gross even thinking about it.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

WET SOCKS, WET SOCKS, WET SOCKS!
Kidding.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha
I just threw up in my mouth.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

NICE!
I enjoyed that too.  What was for lunch?
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Let's Get it On Already
I'm here for the series and bouncing off the wall now waiting....
¡BLANCO!

by 08Cubs on Aug 28, 2007 12:53 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Soriano is still human
and has the same muscle fibers as anyone else, so Carol Slezak's concern is a bit warranted.  It all comes down to the cellular level - the myofibrils and the sarcomeres.  As Al said, he can run the bases as slowly as he wants when he hits it out, the concern lies when he has to suddenly recruit those muscle elements.  Does he have an above average healing ability?  It's easy to be skeptical. Yet, he is an elite athelete and should know his body pretty well.  Using those muscles fibers could be helpful.  Let's hope he tries to make up for lost time by hitting rather than running.   Go Cubs !!!

by coral on Aug 28, 2007 1:09 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Back in April...
... he came back from the hamstring problem faster than anyone expected. So maybe he DOES have better-than-average healing ability.

We'll find out tonight.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Perhaps
he takes glucosumate chondroitin regularly?
It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The "other" BCB is picking Cubs 2 to 1
I am always amused to read comments from the enemy, especially with a critical series like this one.

by JFCubFan on Aug 28, 2007 1:24 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I love that site
they are brilliant over there!

Good for cubfan calling jacob out.  They all want to ask about why people from here go there to start discussion and challenge them, and yet jacob spends so much time here instigating.

hypocracy is a wonderful thing isn't it?

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 1:42 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Ah, jacob.
The memories....

I forget sometimes that he's a Brewers fan, he's here so often. He must be a closet Cub fan in Racine or something.

And Sack, your Crap logo may be what turned this season around. I put it up in late May, and within a couple weeks....

"Mine, mine, says the squirrel to the transformer, unclear on the capacities of electricity." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Aug 28, 2007 1:47 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Jose Ceda...
whom we acquired for Todd Walker, should get a call up due to his 99mph moving heater, and if I remember right - something like a 0.00 in his last 13 innings...

He is kinda like Marmol, apparently. Lotsa gas/short innings.

He is barely 20, but REALLY promising.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:10 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That would be nice
Especially if he has that ridiculous slider like Marmol.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ceda...
... isn't on the 40-man roster and is hardly ready for a ML callup.

I'd expect him to be added to the 40-man over the winter and throw in spring training.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True, Al, True
Just dreaming for one more super-power arm that we could use on the bullpen staff.
It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, I know.
You're looking for the Cubs' version of Joba Chamberlain.

Maybe Ceda can be that -- a year from now.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

One can dream.
Also, I know Rapada has been mentioned as the PTBNL in the Monroe deal, but he sort of intrigued me when he came up. Is a lefty side armer really that expendable? Just a question, I haven't actually looked at his stats from Iowa or anything and I know he faced only 1 hitter or something when he was up.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Actually - I'm hoping its
Oh-Man!
It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

As am I
Again, one can dream. ha.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cubs could make a couple of moves
I have heard they are thinking of moving 2 off the 40-man roster to make room for something like this. Cubs could move someone like Cedeno and a pitcher like Cotts for utility IF'er and also move Ceda onto the 40-man roster for a fall call up.

It will be interesting to see what if any adjustments can be made at this time.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well - let's put the
word out to our Peoria folks!

Anybody seen him pitch recently out there??

The scouting reports on him are very encouraging, indeed.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's the amazing stat
about Ceda. Since being turned into a reliever, he has thrown 19 innings. He has not allowed any hits in that role. 34K/14BB.

His biggest problem has always been his wildness. Give him time to adjust and learn to have a good set of mechanics. If he doesn't have any hiccups, I'd guess we'd see him in spring training and have him start in Daytona. However, I wouldn't be shocked to see him start next year in AA. As a reliever, he doesn't need the polish that a starter requires.

If Wood continues to progress, imagine a 7-8-9 inning game with Ceda, Wood and then Marmol.

It's not too late to go to Soto

by tharr on Aug 28, 2007 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes
I saw him pitch about a week ago in Appleton.  He does throw hard but he's by no means close to the majors.  His control left a little to be desired and Single A hitters were getting themselves out a bit more than he was getting them out.  Based on that extremely small sample size, I don't think he's even a long shot for this year.  
Eighty-five percent of the f*ckin' world is working. The other fifteen percent come out here. -- Lee Constantine Elia, 1983.

by krummy12 on Aug 28, 2007 3:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I say
Soriano does what Utley couldn't do coming back from an injury....hit for the cycle  :)
Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Aug 28, 2007 2:13 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Vargas
to the 15 day DL for the Brewers.

Don;t know if this will have an effect if Sheets comes back tough but we will take all the setbacks we can get IMO.

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 2:32 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

nice...
"The game is always healthier when the Cubs are good, and in a week they have made themselves a whole lot better."

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Blame me if the Brewers win...
I was just driving by Wrigley, coming south on Sheffield.  Stopped at traffic light at Addison, when cab crosses in front of me and pulls up by Harry Caray statue.  All the autograph hounds start scrambling so I figure it's somebody big.

As I turn right onto Addison, the rear door on the driver's side opens up.  Somebody big, alright....  none other than Prince Fielder!  And he's stepping out right in front of me!  So easy, so tempting....  just give it a little gas, enough for a decent bump.   Nothing serious, maybe just a twisted knee or bruised ribs...

But alas...  I froze like Jeff Bagwell looking at a Kerry Wood slider, circa 1998...  and Prince just ambled across the street to the 7/11 for his pre-game meal no doubt.

So it's my fault, BCBers.  I had the chance to just about ensure a Cubs victory and I blew it.  Maybe if I'd been a Chicago Bear driving a sports car, I could've gotten away with it...  ;-)

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Aug 28, 2007 2:50 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Maybe he'll have a bad burrito
n/t
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Aug 28, 2007 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Or...
... one of those Simpsons Movie Donuts.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

One?
....not likely!

by cubrandy on Aug 28, 2007 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I wouldn't risk it...
the damage to your car would be tremendous.

by eamuscatuli1881 on Aug 28, 2007 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh man!
All you had to do was start yelling, "Hey there goes Lance Briggs!"  

What up with the lack of committment to this Cub team ballhawk.

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 2:54 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

<silence as he hangs his head in shame>
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Aug 28, 2007 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its true, ballhawk...
Not many of us will have this kind of opportunity.

Here is hoping you catch ONLY Cubs HR's this whole week.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's OK
us BCBers need to stick together.  Even today's modern safety features cannot protect you from running into a tan Jabba the Hut.  Your safety is more important, Ballhawk, at least, until October.

by eamuscatuli1881 on Aug 28, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Reading the Brewers site
They state that the Cubs have the best defense in the NL...interesting and that the Brewers pitching is allowing .334 BA after the All Star Break....and a small item that if Cub is reading this blog that they notice the catcher calling the same pitch consecutively after a called strike or for certain one pitch later.

That is worse than tipping one's pitches. Maybe a team should hire an advanced scout to read all the blogs and find out what intelligent fans are saying about their own team's weaknesses.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 3:01 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Good point, but...
... I have a feeling the advance scouts have noticed this, too.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Aug 28, 2007 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

probably which goes to the point
Why certain catchers have CERA's that are higher than others.

With the Cubs Kendall is 4.32 (in Oakland 3.38) who leads the MLB combined now.
Estrada is 4.63 is 14th out of 18 qualified...

Barrett last year was 4.57 (this year 4.17) in SD 4.41 (go figure)

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 3:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

AL...Bruce Miles...today's article he said Murton
in the OF and not Pie when he made his sweeping comparison's. Was this the tell that indeed Murton is staying instead of Pie?

Small things, even if it is only 3 or 4 games.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

CERA...
...is such a difficult stat to actually glean anything from. Put simply, the difference between gamecalling ability in catchers is smaller than the difference between ability in pitchers. And the difference in ability between pitchers can be obscured all too easily by random chance, park effects and defense to begin with. It's possible that Kendall is a better game caller than He Who Will Not Be Named (I hate flame wars), but CERA does little to conclusively establish this.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 4:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha!
The Yost-haters will have plenty of material to rant on tomorrow!

by JFCubFan on Aug 29, 2007 12:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Carol Slezak's column...
...is so absurdly difficult for me to grasp that it causes me pain.

Theriot's line during Soriano's absence is fine, sure: .321/.364/.432/.796 out of your shortstop is fine. Dandy. Superlative. I could go on.

But our outfield hasn't been as productive. Our power isn't where we'd like it to be. We're losing games.

And this part takes the cake: "The Cubs shouldn't feel they need Soriano to beat the Brewers, a team that is apt to beat itself on any given night. The Cubs should be looking ahead to September, knowing they'll need Soriano to beat the Cardinals."

Bull. We still need to win the division, and the Brewers are still higher up in the standings than the Cardinals -- and until such a time as it's otherwise, they need to be our first concern, history notwithstanding.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 4:17 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

if soriano bats fifth, won't he still play lf?
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Biggest game of the year!
It has been a long time since I have looked forward to game this much. I say the Cubs get two of three and maybe a sweep if the offence picks up.

This is a big series, two out of three is important, a sweep would be huge. It's also important to remember that losing two of three isn't the end of the world, even getting swept wouldn't be the end of the season. Losing would be bad, but not season ending.

"Harlem Furniture......You'll like our style!"

by Imtrejo on Aug 28, 2007 4:31 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Official...
soriano lf
theriot ss
lee 1b
ramirez 3b
floyd rf
derosa 2b
jones cf
kendall c
hill p

by seang03 on Aug 28, 2007 4:45 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

arguably
our best lineup for the year right now..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 4:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Theriot
I like having him in the two-hole (though I still think he should lead off and let Soriano bat 5th - we need RBIs!)
"Have Keith Moreland drop a routine fly. Give everybody two bags of peanuts and a frosty malt, And I'll be ready to die." -Steve Goodman

by danimal15 on Aug 28, 2007 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yes
it is a great lineup

by tbizzle83 on Aug 28, 2007 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i really like the lineup for tonight
gahh. i'm so excited for this game!

by cubs ftw on Aug 28, 2007 4:50 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Good looking lineup
and as someone higher up in the thread mentioned, Soriano's RBI chances should be much better with that lineup compared to what we were getting out of our 6,7,8 hitters a couple months ago.

by cubrandy on Aug 28, 2007 4:58 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

hey, it's lou's 64th birthday.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 4:58 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Tonight's game
The Brewers are desperate and the Cubs aren't exactly known for stepping on an opponents throat and taking care of business (the end of '04).

by Mapmaker on Aug 28, 2007 5:07 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Yes.

Our offense normally goes dormant for the big matchups.

I'd love to see us get into the Brew Crew bullpen EARLY tonight!

by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Aug 28, 2007 5:27 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Grand Slam -- Pirates lead Reds 5-0
Keep it up... ...last thing we need is another team in the race.

Love our line up tonight... ...I can't wait!

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

by mrtobby on Aug 28, 2007 5:29 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

First Key Game of the Year
It is the pennant drive, not the final stretch but in the metaphor they are approaching the last turn in the proverbial horse race.

First game of the series is important and second only to the rubber game. Hill having come off a great start 6 nights ago against SF where he went 7-IP 2-R should be strong. In the first two innings watch to see if he can throw his curve for strikes....On June 30th he lasted only 3-IP (once of only 2 games he did not make 5-IP) and yet the Cubs still won. Way back on 04/06 Hill bested Mil pitching 7-IP and 1-ER in a 9-3 romp.

Suppan we have seen for years, beat the Cubs in April 8-IP 1-ER, then lost to the Cubs in June 4-ER in 5-IP, Since his last start in June when he was 8-7, Suppan has not recorded a win 11 starts, 4  losses and 7 ND's where the Brewers record is 5-6...During those starts he has only reached the 6-IP mark 4 times and 7-IP once, giving up 23 ER in 62.1 innings, 3.70 ERA.

Want to bet there is some altercation initiated by the Brewers? I do....want to bet Lou finds a way to channel it?

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 5:32 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Pignatiello Optioned
That move actually makes some sense.  They needed to go down to 11 picthers on Aug. 31 anyway, so doing it now leaves both Murton and Pie play-off eligible.

Now, please, please, please....

No short outings from the starters the next three days.

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Aug 28, 2007 6:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm off to the pub
Lets get 'em cubbies!
Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Aug 28, 2007 5:41 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Looks like the Cubs will go
with 11 pitchers for the next 5 days.  Bye, bye Piggy.  And the big Murt gets a reprieve, much to the relief of many around here.

http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20070828&content_id=217534 9&vkey=pr_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 5:41 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

lineup
i wrote down that exact lineup earlier today, i have been doing this day in and day out i think im in lou's head or something, really is a good lineup you have to feel confident about everyone 1-8

by CubbieBeerFan21 on Aug 28, 2007 6:07 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Wind Howling Out!
Rich please keep the ball DOWN tonight...

by section101 on Aug 28, 2007 6:17 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

It is RIDUNKULOUS
that everyone is so worried about the pirates/reds game.  
"The game is always healthier when the Cubs are good, and in a week they have made themselves a whole lot better."

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 6:21 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I don't even know...
...where this concern came from.

It baffles me so, so much.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 6:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree
Pirates sweep the reds and climb within 6 and we start worrying about them.  

Where on earth does the worrying stop!!

WE ARE IN FIRST PLACE.  LETS WORRY ABOUT STAYING THERE.

WIN and we are IN

"The game is always healthier when the Cubs are good, and in a week they have made themselves a whole lot better."

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 6:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

GO CUBS GO!!
Just have to say I am so excited and nervous!
Nice to have this feeling in late August and not have it pertain to Grossman!
Let's get 'em tonight boys!

by Tangled Up In Blue on Aug 28, 2007 6:22 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Wind?
How much wind do we have...

Anyone?

"The game is always healthier when the Cubs are good, and in a week they have made themselves a whole lot better."

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 6:24 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

sheets
The Brewers will send Ben Sheets to the mound Wednesday night against the Cubs and follow him with rookie Manny Parra on Thursday.

by cubs ftw on Aug 28, 2007 6:44 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

so they are starting
  1. A pitcher who hasn't won in two months
  2. A pitcher who hasn't pitched in two months
  3. A pitcher who has started one MLB game
BRING IT!!!

by DC Cubbie on Aug 28, 2007 7:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

MLB.tv
I have no audio and the picture is freaking out.... no!!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:01 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Yay! It's finally working
I missed the entire Soriano film reel though :(
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

CSN has gone
all out for this game tonight. Nice to see all the coverage.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:05 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Good start Rich.
Keep it up buddy!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:09 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

K
but not getting high strikes called apparently..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:09 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

SIDDOWN, WEEKS!!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:10 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

wow, my mlb.com is way behind tonite
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:10 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

my mlb.com is way behind tonite
Hawk - don't you have DSS?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

K#2
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:11 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

yeah baby!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:11 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Need to
contain the tator tot.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:11 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

contain the tator tot
Is that the same potato poop?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

lol, no
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's filthy.
Three straight Ks for Hill, all of them wicked.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 7:12 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

way to start em out...
sit down!
next year is here!

by bendacub on Aug 28, 2007 7:12 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Now let's
get some runs!!!!!!!!!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

i hope that keeps happening
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

KKK
got to love that start

by GoCubsGo! on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

"Filthy" Rich hill
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

WOW.......
only have MLB Audio.....how wicked did Hill's stuff look?

by cubrandy on Aug 28, 2007 7:14 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

w-i-c-k-e-d!!!!!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nice to see Sori back in the line up...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:15 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I have major brain fartage tonight...
Can anyone tell me where Suppan pitched before MIL?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:17 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

St. Louis
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks dude. :-)
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No worries!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

shoot
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:19 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

sure has happened a lot this year
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hawk - do you have DSS broadcast
up there in Lynnwood-ville?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You know what, I don't even know what that is!!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:31 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You're joking, right?
DSS....satelite....baseball package....?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The first pitch he got
was the one he should have swung at. Have seen him homer off pitches like that before this year.

by AndHart120 on Aug 28, 2007 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have never seen
a hitter be overly-patient until this year. What is up with D-Lee? Maybe, and I'm totally serious, he needs glasses, because he's not seeing that strike low and away very well.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:21 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

The D
I love Derrek Lee. He might be my favorite Cub. He is from my hometown, everyone around the league loves him, he had an unreal 2005...but Derrek. At least take a swing. Maybe it's since he got hit, but he looks at so many more strikes than he used to, I think. I don't have any stats, but it certainly feels like he looks at so many strikes. Just take a swing. You might take it out like you used to.

by bloomerang on Aug 28, 2007 7:22 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

If I had to guess (which I am), I would say
I think D Lee is having family issues...perhaps with his little girl, or whatever...

His head just doesn't seem "in it", and there is so much that happens with players that the media and public know nothing about....

IMHO...

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

KKKK
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:23 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

K K K K
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:23 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Shit, there goes the no-no
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:24 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Cancel the postgame show
No no gone.

by bloomerang on Aug 28, 2007 7:24 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That's OK
we need Rich to get a few 1 or 2 pitch outs. All Ks make for a nasty pitch count.

by cubrandy on Aug 28, 2007 7:26 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Bigger head:
Kevin Mench, Barry Bonds, or Mayor McCheese?
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:27 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Billy Beane hates K's
and if Billy Beane hates them, then I guess I should also.

by bloomerang on Aug 28, 2007 7:27 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

5XK already for Hill.....whoa....
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:28 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

K K K K K
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:28 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

ther goes the 27 K game
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:29 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Hill is a stud
the first two innings.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:29 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I guaranteed this
by benching him in my fanatsy league, which pretty much guarantees a career night for the player I bench.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hope he
continues the rest of the night.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Mench
go get some shoes that can f---ing fit..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:30 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Maybe he could use a couple of his
gargantuan ball caps to sew himself some shoes. There's enough fabric in his cap to clothe a small village.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:32 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Base hit BOO-YAH!!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm stuck on MLB.tv
And made the mistake of refreshing this page too quick, so I knew what happened already :)
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hey Blue, What is DSS broadcast?
Satellite?
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes...as in baseball package...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

ahhh, well i have comcast and there is a baseball
package deal. Not sure how much it is though.
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have MLB extra innings on DSS
I watch just about every game too.    :-)
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

lol I know you're a busy guy then!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, I've been fortunate and blessed....
I have a beautiful loving wife that understands being married to a displaced Chicagoan....

I get the NFL, MLB AND NBA every year and watch a TON of games...

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

MLB EI is on cable also
I have it on comcast

by LT on Aug 28, 2007 7:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Do you remember how much it costs?
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If you're on Comcast. call them up....
you should be able to get a good deal on the remainder of the season....
Prolly around $100...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

suck it Suppan!
single
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Rammy with the hit!
Good to see him make contact...
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Yikes.
That pitch was pretty well off the plate to be called a strike.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:34 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

darn it
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:35 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

3-0 Rat Birds
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:36 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

wow Houston sucks
were we seriously swept by them??

3-0 St Louis

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:36 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

After the Astros swept us
All the talk in Houston was how it was the start of another miracle playoff run and how the Astros controlled their own destiny having so many games against the division and brewers/cubs left....

Less than a month later, they've hit rock bottom and no longer have a GM or manager.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

and they are about to get bulldozed
by the cardinals with about 3 thousand people in attendance. lousy astros.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

When did Suppan get good again?
He's painting corners right now...
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:37 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

only two innings
 
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

boo
double play

by cubs ftw on Aug 28, 2007 7:37 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Hill vs Hardy in the...
...early goings. Nothing but balls hit to their shortstop.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 7:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Another ground ball to SS
thrid one already. Suppan's got the sinker working.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:38 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I like good pitching as much as the next guy...
....but I REALLY would like to see some RUNS for the Cubs tonight...

This offensive offense HAS to change....Lou even said so!    :-)

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:39 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

probably should have made that play.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:41 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

my god do we need a double play or what.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:44 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

crap
come on guys
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:44 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Keep it low Rich
we need a ground ball!

by cubrandy on Aug 28, 2007 7:45 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

this is dangerous.
how about a cardinal special, bail out dp ball.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:46 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

damn.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:46 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

dammit
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:46 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

There goes the shutout
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:47 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

cory hart
likes to go in bathrooms with Sen. Larry Craig
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:47 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

need to answer right here.
anything but a quick inning.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:48 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

leave it to JJ to do that!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

JJ!!!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:51 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

jj
good start

by cubs ftw on Aug 28, 2007 7:52 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Good start!!
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 7:52 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Jason!!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:53 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

help yourself hill
good bunt
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:54 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Hill: lay down a good bunt...
please.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 7:54 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

huge at bat. come on rich. get it done!
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:54 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

maybe not huge, but big.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Funny how the very TWO GUYS
that alot of folks here wanted traded or benched have turned out to be two of the MAIN STUDS where the hitting is concerned...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:55 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

meh...
not a good AB

but Soriano can get it done!!

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:55 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

son of a....
have to do the little things rich. pick him up soriano.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:55 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

that was gross
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

come on theriot.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Hill can look in the mirror
before he complains about run support. Come on Rich!! Gotta do better.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

hill just cost himself a run
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

he probably should have had that ground ball
in the top half as well. he's not doing the so called "little things." that makes it tough, especially against a dangerous offense on a night when the wind is howling out.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie