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Thoughts On A Cubs Postseason

Many of you have already posted your thoughts and feelings about what the playoffs, which begin today, mean to you. And maybe you were wondering how I feel about all of this.

Or not. But I'm going to share how I'm feeling as the 2008 postseason begins today, first, by looking back.

I was 12 years old in 1969 and those Cubs, for five months, looked as good as this year's team. We all know about the failures on the field and so I don't have to repeat those here. But what it did to me as a fan was crushing. I still remember, every day during the collapse, thinking, "This'll be the game that will stop this, turn it around." It never happened. I even listened to the final blow, the Mets' clinching of the NL East against the Cardinals, on KMOX from St. Louis, which you could easily hear in Chicago at night. Irony of ironies, it was future Cubs broadcaster Harry Caray who I can remember saying, "I raise a toast to the new champs -- the New York Mets", and dying a little inside.

And every year until the great teams of my childhood, featuring Ron and Billy and Fergie and Ernie and others, were broken up after 1973, each summer, I hoped against hope that that would be the year. It never happened, not even in '73, their last hurrah, when they blew a late-June 8.5 game lead.

The 1977 Cubs came out of nowhere and led by that same 8.5 game margin in late June, and I kept thinking, as a song by Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes released that year said, "This time it's for real!" It wasn't. You all know about that team, which wasn't as good as its 47-22 record in midseason.

By 1984, when the Cubs again came out of nowhere (following yet another dreary 90-loss year in '83) to win the NL East, I sat in the bleachers on warm early October days reveling in the two wins there, knowing, just knowing, that they could easily win one, just one, game in San Diego. I went with a friend of mine from Los Angeles; the drive back to LA after game five was the longest two hours I'd ever spent. It was made worse by the treatment we got from the San Diego people, among the worst displays I've ever seen toward visiting fans. A friend of mine had nails thrown at him. They almost seemed happier that we lost than that they won.

The same thing happened in 1989 and 1998 -- teams that almost didn't belong in the playoffs, and they seemed to know that and played that way. The '89 defeat wasn't as crushing feeling as '84, because although the Cubs had the best record in the NL, they weren't the best team (unlike '84, which surely was the best NL squad). The fans in San Francisco were welcoming; Don Zimmer got outmananged and the Cubs stopped hitting, and though it hurt, the hurt wasn't as deep. Neither was it in '98 -- we had the marvelous HR race (perhaps now tainted) and wild card race, in which for the final 45 days of the season no more than one game separated the top two teams. I told Dave after the Cubs beat the Giants in the wild card tiebreaker, the first winner-take-all game at Wrigley Field since 1945, "If they don't win another game, it was all worth it." Well, they didn't win another game -- outclassed and swept by a far superior Braves team -- but it had been, for what it was, worth it.

2003, which most of you experienced firsthand (and some of you read about my personal experiences at my old blog; check out the archives to read what I wrote about it at the time) was different. That Cub team wasn't the best team in the league, but they got hot starting at the beginning of September -- they went 19-8 in September, so far different from the September collapses of my youth -- and the soul-crushing defeat in NLCS Game Six still sears my memory. One of the random things I remember as I left the ballpark that night was someone on the street offering his tickets to game seven for sale. I thought, "Why would you do that?" The next night, we found out.

It has been a long journey back to this point, this day, this feeling we all have that the 2008 Cubs are special, are different, are the ones that will take away the hurt, the pain, the empty spot in our souls that can be filled only by the ultimate triumph. Last year was just -- well, it feels now, with a year's perspective, like a warmup. Last year's team roared through September again, only to stop hitting once the calendar turned. The 2007 Division Series almost seemed as if it didn't even happen, a footnote in Cubs history.

This year has felt like an awakening. We have seen our team win an historic number of games at Wrigley Field, total the most wins since World War II ended, seen a Cub no-hitter for the first time in decades, seen performances beyond any that most of us alive today have ever witnessed. It feels wonderful.

It will not be completely fulfilled until a World Series is won. I don't think it boasting to say that the 2008 Cubs should be at the very least, favored to get there, if not win everything. Do I know how I'll feel when it happens? Not for certain.

But damn, I want to find out. We've had enough of losing, enough of reciting and hearing about the miserable history of our team, the team we live and die with every day, and yes, I'm not afraid to tell you that seeing a Cubs World Series victory will indeed fill a hole in my life. Yours too, I bet. Go Cubs.

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Best first post yet.

Great story Al, and great first post, GCG22

The day we lose our will to fight - Is the day we lose our Freedom.

by sanantonecub on Oct 1, 2008 8:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Today is the beginning...

of National Pizza Month – and the first of 11 wins for the Cubs this October. LET’S DO THIS!! Raise a slice of pie to the 2008 Cubs!

Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!

by DKT on Oct 1, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Pie?

Or Pie?

"This field, this game...it reminds us of all that once was good, and it could be again." ~ Terence Mann

by chr15 on Oct 1, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This Geno's East is for you!

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Oct 1, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd prefer

Lou Malnati’s. Do you think they deliver to Ohio?

Oh wait, they do!

Long days and pleasant nights.

by The Original Dave on Oct 1, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That is sucha life-saver.

And throw in the Carson’s and Portillo’s…Priceless…

The Missouri Tigers (4-0) begin defense of their 2007 Big 12 Conference North Division title Saturday on the road, as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) in Lincoln, Neb.

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 1, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Mmmmmm

Portillo’s.

There’s a place in Columbus, OH called Wholly Joe’s that is a Chicago-style hotdog joint. They do pizza, too, which is excellent, but it’s not quite the same.

I think I’m going to waste some gas and go up there for lunch. Gotta get a Chicago-style dog or a beef sangwhich.

Go Cubs!

Long days and pleasant nights.

by The Original Dave on Oct 1, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Have you ordered the Portillos from that

Malnatis online deal? I would recommend…

The Missouri Tigers (4-0) begin defense of their 2007 Big 12 Conference North Division title Saturday on the road, as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) in Lincoln, Neb.

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 1, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I haven't...

yet. I have had Lou’s from that, though. It’s not quite the same as getting at the restaurant, it seems too doughy, but I’m sure my oven doesn’t do it justice.

Long days and pleasant nights.

by The Original Dave on Oct 1, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True.

But better than nothing. Last year when I was at school over the summer, my mom sent me like 10 of the pizzas for my birthday…My place was the spot to be at for all the Cubs games with my friends from Chicago!

The Missouri Tigers (4-0) begin defense of their 2007 Big 12 Conference North Division title Saturday on the road, as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) in Lincoln, Neb.

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 1, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My grandma

won a Lou’s pizza from WGN Radio 10 years ago when I was at school. I was living in the dorms and used my RA’s mini-oven. It was the worst Lou’s I’ve ever had, but still better than anything Papa John’s or Late Night Pizza could offer, especially in Athens, OH.

Bob Howry: Ruining Baseball Since 2008

by The Original Dave on Oct 1, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I like Geno's East for deep dish...

but for thin crust I much prefer Aurelio’s Pizza. And I like Portillo’s a lot too, although I find them kind of pricey nowadays. I mean, afterall, it’s just a hotdog. If you ever get a chance, try Gene and Judes in River Grove, or Bozo’s Hot Dogs which are all over IL and IN. Both are great and better than Portillo’s IMO.

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Oct 1, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Had dreams about the Cubs all night

I think I am a freak, and my wife knows it. Cannot wait to be in left field tonight.

by gocubsgo22 on Oct 1, 2008 8:40 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I dreamed about the Cubs too

I specifically dreamed that the Cubs won Game 1 (it was Game 1 in the dream, though Carlos Zambrano was the starter) 5-4. Zambrano pitched 5-6 no-hit inning, but allowed two runs because of control problems and a fielding error.

It may seem weird, but I often have very specific, detailed dreams about sporting events I am heavily invested in. They never come true, but they are sort of fun to remember later on and compare to the real thing.

by SuperContext on Oct 1, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Me too

Not so much dreams, but the rabid inability to fall asleep because all I think about are the Cubs. I keep creating bizarre scenarios of how we win. My personal favorite, Game 7 of the NLCS vs. the Brewers, bottom of the 16th inning, tied 2-2. Lou has Big Z pinch hit and he hits a walk off homer to clinch the pennant.

My other one is that Theriot hits the walk off. The guy with 1 HR.

They call me MISTER Fukudome!

by brokenland on Oct 1, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Stranger things have happened...

Theriot is already ahead of Scott Podsednik in ’05, so far stranger things have happened…

by MarchHare on Oct 1, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

me too

my wife thinks its werid

-Charlemagne
"Cubs Win!" "Yes, Sir!" - Pat and Ron, June 12, 2008, Walk off HBP, bottom of the 11th

by Charlemagne on Oct 1, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cut her loose!

Go Green! Go White! GO STATE! (#13031 on the Cubs season ticket waiting list...)

by Zeke on Oct 1, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've had a couple of Cubs dreams

But my favorite was celebrating a FO to the outfield in a game where the Cubs clinched. I don’t know which series they were clinching, but the final score was 3-2.

"I owe [Dunston] a lot. Nobody would know how good I was at digging balls out of the dirt if it wasn't for him..." -Mark Grace
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Oct 1, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dreamt of Game 1 last night, too

Cubs won, btw, 6-2

If that comes true this afternoon, I will certifiably freak.

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Oct 1, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dreamt of Game 1, also

But I don’t know how it ended. It was still tied in the 15th when I woke up!

by John Q Freejazz on Oct 1, 2008 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I finished your dream.

Ward came up and hit a HR to win the game!

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Oct 1, 2008 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

better than me last night I dreamt it was 4-3 Cubs going into the bottom of the 2nd

also that I missed that whole part b/c I couldnt find the channel it was on. (I know its on TBS and will be somewhere else to watch it)

"A catchers biggest concern behind the plate is to make his pitcher pitch a little better than he can" Roy Campanella

by Madison Cub Fan on Oct 1, 2008 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dedications?

Now that we’re all in that sentimental mood, anyone want to dedicate these playoffs to someone or something?

I’m dedicating this October to my Grandma Margaret who force-fed me the Cubs as a toddler and through adulthood. She died last year, but would have loved this team.

Proud recipient of a hot dog shot from the Iowa Cubs hot dog gun.

by IowaCubs- on Oct 1, 2008 8:48 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Grandma's watching, you know.

And no doubt, smiling down on you.

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

by Al on Oct 1, 2008 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dedicate these playoffs to...

My 2nd grade teacher who got me hooked on the Cubs. That wacky old lady with her dangly Cubs earrings and Cubs sweaters, I should send her a thank you card.

"Remember each day this year, where you were, what you were doing, who you were with, how you felt as the Cubs win their way through it. Because if this does turn out to be the promised land we have all been waiting for, you will want to remember, savor, cherish every moment..."

by CubsBullsBears on Oct 1, 2008 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

To me, it's for Ron Santo

While I know that I want it a lot, there’s no bigger fan than Ron.

Cubs Win!! Cubs Win!

by Ihatethecards on Oct 1, 2008 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

…for a Cubs World Series and the Hall of Fame for Ronnie.

Proud recipient of a hot dog shot from the Iowa Cubs hot dog gun.

by IowaCubs- on Oct 1, 2008 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I used to think I wanted them to win for myself

well after hearing Ron recently,,,I want them to win for him and the many others that have been through more than I have…..I can wait for mine..

by cozmotaylor123 on Oct 1, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+2

Just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand. - Homer J Simpson

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 1, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+3

Gotta win it for Ron, not to mention the rest of the 69 Cubs

Some people have 3 layers, like pie. Blog Blog Blog

by berselius on Oct 1, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+10

I keep picturing Ron if/when the Cubs finally do it. That picture is what keeps me going as a Cub fan.

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 1, 2008 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dedicate these playoffs to Steve Goodman

’nuff said

That's the beauty of baseball. You never know what's going to happen until the final out -- Lou

by Emelie on Oct 1, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1 for Steve.

“A Dying Cub Fan’s Last Request” is one of my favorite songs (next to “Go Cubs Go”, of course)

by godsgeek on Oct 1, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Amen sister!

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Oct 1, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

To my grandfather...

Who made me a Cubs fan and took me to my first game at Wrigley Field… I know he’s watched this year in heaven with a huge grin on his face. (Hopefully Jack Brickhouse is announcing the playoff games up there, because my grandpa did not like Chip Caray.)

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Oct 1, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'll be the odd one here..

to my dog Tucker who i had to put down back at the end of July during the Brewers series in Mil. He would lay right next to me during every game and would get pissed when i jumped up when something good or bad happened. So there i’ll be the weirdo that wants them to win for my old dog!!

Your 2008 NL Central Champs: Chicago Cubs!!! Go Cubs Go

by mkcubs21 on Oct 1, 2008 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

as a dog person myself

I don’t think it’s weird at all. I sorry to hear about Tucker.

"Destiny is a matter of choice, not chance"

by MerlinDog on Oct 1, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've had time to get over,

plus we had another dog which helped but i do miss the laying on the couch watching games as he would lay right by me. I was hoping it wouldn’t be to weird!! Go Cubs!!

Your 2008 NL Central Champs: Chicago Cubs!!! Go Cubs Go

by mkcubs21 on Oct 1, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I had to have a dog put to sleep in '04

And it broke my heart. I do remember the Cubs getting hot afterward and it was the only thing that made me feel better. Of course we all know how that year ended. 2004 was an awful year all around for me. 2008 however has been one of the best year of my life (even if the Cubs weren’t doing well). Having another dog is a big help. My dogs name is Merlin (thus my screenname)

"Destiny is a matter of choice, not chance"

by MerlinDog on Oct 1, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I got my golden in '03

and named him Cubby. Lucky for him he doesn’t have to be ashamed of his name anymore!

by mlern on Oct 1, 2008 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We got our second of three goldens in '03

and her name also Cubbie. Her older brother is Sammy (he’s 10-was a good thing back then) and her younger sister is Kerry.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 1, 2008 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm a sappy guy I guess...

Everytime I think about the possibilty of a WS win I get a little watery eyed.

When we win it this year I’ll be thinking of my Grandpa who would watch everygame, but if the weather was nice he would sit on in the yard with an Old Style and be the umpire while my brother and I player wiffle ball.

Just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand. - Homer J Simpson

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 1, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Same here

I know out in New England it is actually a pretty big deal. Me and my buddy (TCobb1911 on here) made a strike zone out of PVC pipe and some particle board. Just two days ago we were out playing some fast-pitch wiffle ball….good times.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe, but then so am I

My dad and a teacher in grade school are primarily responsible for my love of the Cubs. They’re both still around, and I want this to happen while they are.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

To every Cubs fan who has ever lived and died

I know that’s easy to say. But I really think we deserve it.

We, the fans, who have stuck around, not because Wrigley is a giant beer garden, but becuase this is our team, and even though we haven’t won a World Series in our lifetimes, we’re still here.

by daeviant on Oct 1, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dedicate mine to my Grandma "Pete"

she passed at age 94 in 1990—but still lived in Sweden in 1908 when the Cubs last won. She used to ride the train in from Michigan City to Wrigley as often as possible and one time gave me an autographed ball signed by Ernie Banks and Bob Scheffing.

Also to my dad (gone in 1995) who sat next to me and downed many a Hamm’s and Schlitz while watching heroics from guys like Lindy McDaniel, Ted Abernathy and George Altman.

"Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like to him."
Solomon

by cubfever7 on Oct 1, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My late mother...

Ten years gone next month. She took me to my first game in Wrigley – I was six.

She also gave me my introduction to such jazz greats as Duke Ellington and Count Basie. Who would have thought that?

by MN exile on Oct 1, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what a GREAT Mom!

That's the beauty of baseball. You never know what's going to happen until the final out -- Lou

by Emelie on Oct 1, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah...

It took a while before I stopped wanting to pick up the phone when something interesting was going on. She always kept informed, instilled that in us kids, and made sure to take us to places like the Art Institute, Museum of Science and Industry, the aquarium and planetarium, just developed that hunger for knowledge in us from early days on.

Thanks…

by MN exile on Oct 1, 2008 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wow

My Grandma passed away last year, too, and she had a big hand in me growing up to love the Cubs. She had been in bad health for the last couple years of her life, before she passed in her sleep. I loved her a lot, and I was the first at Hospice to start taking care of things before my mom and uncles got there. I owe a lot to her, so it was the natural thing to do. At her wake, my uncles, myself, and a few cousins put a Cubs magnet inside of her casket. It was one of the few things she was buried with. At her burial, once the priest was done with his prayer, we all sang “Take Me Out to the Ballgame” before we left. Since the end of last season and the beginning of this season, things have felt different.

My uncles are all getting there in age too, 2 of them suffering from diabetes, the other a cancer survivor. I learned the most about the Cubs growing up from my grandma, but I learned a lot from them too. They’ve lived in South Bend their whole lives, but from the way they talk, the sound like they’ve never stepped out of Chicago. That’s why I think a lot of this has to be in my blood, in our blood. Anyway, I’m dedicating this October to my grandma. I miss her and I wish she could be alive to see this. I’m dedicating this October to my uncles, so they can see something they’ve waited 60 some years to see. I’m dedicating this October to really anyone who wants this, who lives for this, who knows people who might miss this, who knows people who survived for this.

For the rest of the playoffs, that’s all that will be in my mind. I don’t want any more fans to miss something they’ve lived to see. I really hope all of our dreams come true.

by Craig in South Bend on Oct 1, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm dedicating this

October to my late dad. He was a huge Cub fan and passed that love to me. The night the Cubs clinched I imagined my dad and Harry in heaven celebrating with all the other Cub fans there. My dad would have had a permanent smile on his face this season. If the Cubs win it all the celebration will be in heaven and on earth. My husband thinks if the Cubs make the WS it will be the most watched series ever.

GO CUBS!!!

by sue369 on Oct 1, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great stories, Craig and Sue..

I hope all our deceased loved ones are looking down and smiling.

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Oct 1, 2008 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

GO CUBS....

I really thought the Cubs were going all the way in 84, 89, 98, and 2003 . Last year I was not sure as we sat in Cincinnati with the thousands of other fans they clinched it . Wow now what would happen well we all know now . But I think this is a much differant team then last year .We as fans can only sit back, hope and pray if we choose to . Being a Cub fan for me is a way of life . Everything I do revolves around the cubs but as my daughter reminded me “There is always next year .”

by cubs north on Oct 1, 2008 8:52 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

At your best here, Al

I can get decent game recaps elsewhere, but emotions and thoughts like this post cannot be found in the media, but only amongst true fans.

I can’t explain it, but my feelings going into this year are 180 degrees different from las year’s debacle. I am so excited for these games to start.

by TC Cubby on Oct 1, 2008 8:52 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

How great would a Cubs/Red Sox WS be.

I wish my Uncle Dick was still here. He started taking me when I was eight. We used to love when the Giants came to town. Mays, McCovey and Marichal. He too, would love this team.

by Rick B on Oct 1, 2008 8:55 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I think it would tear the town apart, sad to say

That's the beauty of baseball. You never know what's going to happen until the final out -- Lou

by Emelie on Oct 1, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have a friend who is a Red Sox fan

He’s always saying how great that would be.

And my response is always, “Why would you want to see the Red Sox lose the World Series?”

by daeviant on Oct 1, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

actually, I misread and thought he said WHITE sox

Cubs/Red Sox would be insanely great.

That's the beauty of baseball. You never know what's going to happen until the final out -- Lou

by Emelie on Oct 1, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I would live down by Fenway.

:D

Believe or Leave ~Cubswynn 9/9/2008

by slcathena on Oct 1, 2008 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I would prefer never to ever ever ever have to face him in the postseason

Best postseason pitcher ever IMO. He won two WS by himself.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #3/4 4-0 (0-0). Next up at Nebraska October 4th. Live on ESPN in primetime. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Oct 1, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great post, Al

I live in Austin now, thus I don’t get much Cubbie atmosphere down here. So, I rely on this site heavily, and you bring it every time. Thank you.

I woke up at 5 am this morning like I was a kid going to Disney World. I’m prepared for whatever happens…I think.

by my kind of town on Oct 1, 2008 8:56 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Ditto

I’m in Oregon and although the cubs fandom reaches far and wide, there’s only a handful of fans in this small town. I hang the “W” flag outside my office with every win and that has attracted some fans to stop in and chat. they’ll point out where they sat @ Wrigley on the framed print of the first night game hanging on my wall. HOWEVER, this site has become the heart that pumps blood through my veins.

Thanks AL

by 100yearitch on Oct 1, 2008 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great Stuff Al.

This season started out as one of the worst seasons i could have imagined. My father in law passed away in March from health complications. And while he was in the hospital my wife and i asked him for one thing, to do his best to bring a World Series Championship to the Cubs after he reached the heavens. Her dad was one of the best guys around, and the nicest man you will ever meet and he was a clear front-runner to actually pull some magic upstairs. He was a diabetic and absolutely loved Ron obviously, and he would get upset and whine just like Ron.

A few months later, my wife and i looked at each other and said – maybe, just maybe your dad is still working on that Championship. Now being 11 wins away from a magical season and one that we believe her dad brought upon us is great.

My wife’s sister said last week that the Cubs would win it all this year because her dad is not alive to see it. And i quickly corrected her and said no, it will be because of her dad, and that is when i think she really thought that this might be the year.

Win or lose, it is a game, and there are bigger things in life but – damnit this is gonna be fun and i just wanted to thank my father-in-law.

Go Cubs!

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 8:58 AM CDT reply actions   1 recs

What a wonderful story.

And for you, beyond your family, because you worked briefly for the Cubs and know some of these players personally, I know what this would mean to you.

No more words necessary. Just win.

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

by Al on Oct 1, 2008 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Al a lot of capture.....biggest one is season expectations

First we are close to the same age for I too was 12 in ’69.

Each of those seasons you bring up were surprises, not to say that surprises don’t emerge victorious, as I will provide an example that the ’87 NCAA BB championship was as surprise for my old friend but the ’92 season which ended in a upset in the Final Four was as surprise the other way. Bob would be clinical in his assessment and would say that ’76 was by all means the best talent and still they were challenged until near the end they could and would overwhelm anyone. ’81 they grew with the talent to win that championship so he always looks at talent first and then management second.

This year was not so much a surprise. Cubs had talent and then acquired more (Edmonds, Harden, Johnson). They got career years in DeRosa, Dempster, and Lilly. And management has worked in Theriot, Fontenot, Marquis and Wood very well. Fukudome is an adjustment and it will be interesting if thing turn around suddenly as they sometimes do in this atmosphere.

But this year is different for the Cubs are one of the best teams in the game talent wise and management wise. It will be interesting for that does not preclude anything but it is better than trying to be the surprise like the Dodgers and Brewers.

Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."

by Ivy Walls on Oct 1, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great story!

The Cubs need all the help they can get – and I have no doubt your Father-in-Law is up there supporting the team.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

definitely wasnt easy to write it - let me tell you.

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It was well written

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I bet.

Thanks for sharing, though. I’ll definitely raise a drink to this great man I never knew if the Cubs win it all.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Consider that drink on him.....

you didnt know him, but if you did it would be on him.

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cheers.

Here’s to many drinks in the future.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Very heart warming.

Reading all of these posts has made me so emotional.

by sue369 on Oct 1, 2008 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Darnit Sue

Getting all teary-eyed. This is a BASEBALL thread!!! :)

The day we lose our will to fight - Is the day we lose our Freedom.

by sanantonecub on Oct 1, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know....just

can’t help it.

by sue369 on Oct 1, 2008 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Your punishment

Is being forced to watch bull durham. or rookie of the year.

The day we lose our will to fight - Is the day we lose our Freedom.

by sanantonecub on Oct 1, 2008 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yikes! a punishment worse than death.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Now, WMHG,

Bull Durham isn’t so bad; the other one is excruciating though.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 1, 2008 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's the one I was referring to. It's an insomniacs greatest remedy.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Bull Durham

Any scene with Sarandon = fast forward

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Oct 1, 2008 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Watched "The Natural" today...

Always get misty near the end when Roy hits the light towers with his HR and with the sparks coming down and Randy Newmans great music playing, it gets to me everytime.

Final Scene

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Oct 1, 2008 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've seen them so

I’d probably fall alseep if I had to watch them again.

by sue369 on Oct 1, 2008 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

There's no crying in baseball!

Just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand. - Homer J Simpson

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 1, 2008 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Like the one with the fruit having sex?

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Or the birthday meatcake?

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well there's emotion and then there's real emotion.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

it ain't the meat it's the motion

That's the beauty of baseball. You never know what's going to happen until the final out -- Lou

by Emelie on Oct 1, 2008 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

TWSS!

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

damn emelie!

you’ve gotten worse in the week I took off!

The day we lose our will to fight - Is the day we lose our Freedom.

by sanantonecub on Oct 1, 2008 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

you mean better.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 1, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If ya want to feel the pushin'...

…ya got to have the cushion!

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL!

Ok, I had to go through the rest of this thread to find that pic. That pic made me laugh.

by sue369 on Oct 1, 2008 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We can always depend on DCD to take the disgusting and make it funny.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hm, maybe I'll put that on my business cards.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Feel free to use that. No charge this time.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm either coming down with a cold/flu or..............

I’m sick with anxiety. I’ve had diarreha for the last day, a bad headache, and bad baseball dreams all night. Am I taking this too serious?

"Bring On The Major Leagues" Stephen Malkmus

by graceunderpressure on Oct 1, 2008 8:59 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Dang, and I thought I was nervous.

Assuming it’s not a cold or the flu, you may want to try some deep breathing exercises or meditation or something.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not at all

I have the same symptoms. My wife—God bless her and her hypochondriac soul—made me an appointment to see the doctor tomorrow. But it’s Cubs Fever.

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space. That day appears to be near.

by chilango2 on Oct 1, 2008 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Outstanding post Al...thanks

..I will there tonight with my Dad, the 2nd postseason Cubs game we have attended together. I hope I can bring him to many more this postseason.

When I asked him if he could go (silly question I guess) there was no hesitation… “Yes! I’m 70 years old, you dont miss things like this”

I cant wait. Go Cubs!

"When I got to Chicago, fans came to Wrigley Field just to have fun, now they come to see us win. The expectations have changed, for the players and for the fans. It’s about winning." Kerry Wood, 7/14/08

by JB 23 on Oct 1, 2008 8:59 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I will be there with my Dad tonight also--

He came here from the Philippines in 1964 and has been a Cubs fan ever since he came. He was crushed by the ’69 Cubs and has followed them through thick and thin. So, when I lucked out on the NLDS lottery, he was definitely first choice for me to take him. Unfortunately, my 13 year old wants to go just as badly, so I ended up buying a SRO ticket for myself so the three of us could go.

by epcub on Oct 1, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That is a way cool move

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Eight and a half hours.

Off early at work. Go home, change into appropriate gear, enjoy baseball like only October can provide.

I cannot wait.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 9:00 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I can't wait to throw on my Jersey

I have my oldest Cubs Tshirt on under my monkey suit right now!

"Bring On The Major Leagues" Stephen Malkmus

by graceunderpressure on Oct 1, 2008 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My "lucky" jersey is an alternative 2004 Aramis Ramirez

I haven’t washed it since April. It has a mustard stain on the chest.

by daeviant on Oct 1, 2008 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I still have "hat head" at work right now...

a big red rim around my forehead.

My boss the White Sox fan is gloating about last night’s win.

Proud recipient of a hot dog shot from the Iowa Cubs hot dog gun.

by IowaCubs- on Oct 1, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm getting funny looks

here at the office as I sing “go cubs go” as I walk down the hallway.I guess I wasn’t singing it to myself afterall!

by sdurst on Oct 1, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My wife caught me singing Go Cubs Go last night...

as I was rocking my daughter to sleep. I figure when she gets older it wil be some subconcios thing when she hears that song.

Just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand. - Homer J Simpson

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 1, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My 13-year-old loves to walk around the

house singing Go Cubs Go. He usually is listening to rap, hip-hop or some other song I have never heard of and wouldn’t listen to if you held me at gun point, but for some reason, he loves that song.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My 5 year old

Has it on her I Pod list we have for her and her brother to play in the car.

They call it “Dad’s song”, but sometimes my son (3 years old) unnerves me when we are watching games in the 9th inning and he asks when they will be playing “Dad’s song”. Hasn’t jinxed us yet though . . .

by TORCO on Oct 1, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Max sings

it all the time. Probably helps that it’s my ringtone.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Oct 1, 2008 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm with you...

Leaving work early, had one of my employees close for me. Pickup the beer, buddies coming over about game time.. 5:30 can’t get here fast enough!!!

Your 2008 NL Central Champs: Chicago Cubs!!! Go Cubs Go

by mkcubs21 on Oct 1, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wearing my BCB shirt at work today...

Last time I wore it Z threw his no no.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think you need to wear that BCB shirt all month.

The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love. ~Bryant Gumbel

by Blue W on Oct 1, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ticked the Fiancee washed it...

I told her not to but it was my fault for not setting it aside.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Washed mine last night.

May be the last time for a while.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

TWSS

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 1, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, I ain't hittin' dat for damn sure.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Liar.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 1, 2008 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I need to hang my cubs flag up

when I get home.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Oct 1, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Al, you always make me feel better about my irrational panic attacks

I was born in 1976, so I was unaware for most of the Dark Ages of Cubdom, but it doesnt’ stop me from feeling the pain of those who lived through it all, hearing everyone pine over past failures, especially hearing Ron Santo. He seems to want it more than any veteran wants it for their former team. My memories go back to 1984, seeing my brother sobbing after the Cubs lost to the Padres. In 1998 I was embarassed at getting swept out of the NLDS. In 2003, after game 6, I left the bar, my head hung low. The bouncers were White Sox fans and they jeered at us and I wanted to break their noses. That was the year I was randomly quoted in the Sun Times, saying that maybe the ridiculous curse IS real. Last year I admittedly wasn’t expecting much. I wasn’t that excited about the playoffs. This year, however, has something special behind it, and I actually feel this team can go all the way. I don’t know what it is… the historic accomplishments, the way this team sticks together like a family, a competent manager? This morning I woke up with that familiar feeling of panic. I’m at work now, and I’m reading BCB, and it’s making me feel so much better to hear rational people saying that the Cubs have a chance.

by daeviant on Oct 1, 2008 9:02 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Last year seems so long ago, but why do all of us have the same memory

of not having any expectations or high levels of excitement. I was so ambivalent about the playoffs last year.

"Bring On The Major Leagues" Stephen Malkmus

by graceunderpressure on Oct 1, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think it was a combination of a few things

The way the season started and the way the Cubs had to claw their way to the top. It just seemed like a fluke season.
I think what makes the 2008 season more real is that it validates 2007’s regular season success and we can actually say that this IS a good team and not a fluke.

by daeviant on Oct 1, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

Making it to the NLDS last year was a relief — and I think the team had the same hangover.

Not this time.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My Derrek Lee Jersey

has given them losses pretty much everytime I wear it….

Not being looked at in October.

Fukudome shirt for me.

"I guess you had some lean years, and didnt have to beat it hard" - Craig Sager

SORIANO WATCH: AVG: .282 HR 29 75 RBI

by Galvan316 on Oct 1, 2008 9:06 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I have the same history with my Wood jersey.

…I wore it to game 6 in 2003 and then again to game 3 of the NLDS in 2007. It will remain in the closet this October.

It has been replaced with an Aramis Ramirez jersey which will debut this week, I hope with much better results…

"When I got to Chicago, fans came to Wrigley Field just to have fun, now they come to see us win. The expectations have changed, for the players and for the fans. It’s about winning." Kerry Wood, 7/14/08

by JB 23 on Oct 1, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Cubs lose every time I wear the Fukudome T-shirt

The Cubs always lost when I wore my Maddux jersey in ’04. Maybe if I wear it THIS year, the Dodgers will lose.

by daeviant on Oct 1, 2008 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Then don't wear the Fukudome shirt any more!!

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

by Al on Oct 1, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Patient - Doctor, Doctor, it hurts when I move my arm like this.

Doctor – Then don’t move your arm like that!

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

I haven’t worn the Fukudome shirt since April.

by daeviant on Oct 1, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

well then one would argue -

if he plays you may want to wear it. Fuku was solid in April?

Eh – i want the win instead. Ignore what i said.

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's what I was thinking.

But, really, this is all as ridiculous as “curses.”

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It is ridiculous

But it’s like global warming…. It might be caused by people farting too much or it might not be, but let’s stop eating beans just in case.

by daeviant on Oct 1, 2008 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The thought I had last night was:

Does DeRosa really care if I don’t wear the same undershirt under my Cubs shirt every game? No, he doesn’t.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But you'll still do it, right?

The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love. ~Bryant Gumbel

by Blue W on Oct 1, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha..

I think I saw that on “House”.

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Oct 1, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

House might say, "Who cares?"

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Best House line:

“Your son swallowed a magnet. Darwin says he should die.”

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Oct 1, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Speaking of superstitions...

I swear I’m not superstitious, but this whole postseason has turned that around. My best friends (and Cubs savant) and I have promised not to talk to each other throughout the post season. The last 6 post season games we’ve watched together, they’ve lost.

Okay that’s totally silly, but it’s out there, so we thought we’d take one for the team.

Proud recipient of a hot dog shot from the Iowa Cubs hot dog gun.

by IowaCubs- on Oct 1, 2008 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Going with my new BCB shirt

which has only been worn during Saturday’s win (1-0). Will also have my trusty hat that I’ve had since Little League. I’ll also my Rami jersey to intermitenly wear.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Where can I buy one?

I’m going to be in Chicago this weekend for business…

Proud recipient of a hot dog shot from the Iowa Cubs hot dog gun.

by IowaCubs- on Oct 1, 2008 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Strange Cargo, about 3 blocks south of Wrigley on Clark

http://www.strangecargo.com/

"When I got to Chicago, fans came to Wrigley Field just to have fun, now they come to see us win. The expectations have changed, for the players and for the fans. It’s about winning." Kerry Wood, 7/14/08

by JB 23 on Oct 1, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm wearing my BCB shirt

and my Fukudome Jersey that I got for my birthday.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Oct 1, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

no kidding, how about a big start tonight

Imagine if the Cubs score like 8 runs by the third and all we have to worry about is Lou putting in Howry in the 7th inning

"Bring On The Major Leagues" Stephen Malkmus

by graceunderpressure on Oct 1, 2008 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I will have a heart attack every time Lou puts Howry in

That's the beauty of baseball. You never know what's going to happen until the final out -- Lou

by Emelie on Oct 1, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm really looking at tonight being:

1-7 – Demp
8 – Marmol
9 – Woody

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

How about a 97 pitch CG gem for Demp?

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That would work.

Add four sac bunts.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That works for me!

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

lets hope that never happens....unless were up by double digits.

"When I got to Chicago, fans came to Wrigley Field just to have fun, now they come to see us win. The expectations have changed, for the players and for the fans. It’s about winning." Kerry Wood, 7/14/08

by JB 23 on Oct 1, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

which begs the question...............

why is a guy on the roster if he can only trusted with a double digit lead that almost never occurs in the playoffs?

"Bring On The Major Leagues" Stephen Malkmus

by graceunderpressure on Oct 1, 2008 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Damn good question. Lou needs to answer for

that move. Seems like a wasted roster spot to me. He’s been given every opportunity to turn things around and it hasn’t happened. Why is he here?

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Just a question

Who would you choose to have besides Howry? I’m just curious because I have pondered the question myself. It doesn’t seem like they need another position player, and I couldn’t think of too many pitchers that would be deserving…

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gaudin

The Missouri Tigers (4-0) begin defense of their 2007 Big 12 Conference North Division title Saturday on the road, as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) in Lincoln, Neb.

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 1, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

In these circumstances, I disagree

Gaudin has not looked sharp at all since his comeback from injury. I mean, Howry has been extremely disappointing for quite awhile now, but I don’t know. If it was the Gaudin from right after the trade, I would totally agree.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gaudin isn't 100%. I would have taken Wuertz or Guzman. Either one

showed that they can at least get a hitter out in a tough situation. I just can’t see Howry pitching in anything but mopup duty. If that’s the case, out a younger player on the roster to get some playoff experience.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good point

Guzman would probably have to be my pick over Howry. He definitely has electric stuff and he looked really good against the Brewers the other day.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Mine too.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I would take either of those two over Howry.

They can’t be any worse than Bob and they both have a future with the Cubs.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 1, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Except for that homer to Braun...

he’s been better. I bet he steps up.

"This field, this game...it reminds us of all that once was good, and it could be again." ~ Terence Mann

by chr15 on Oct 1, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The leadoff triple

against the Mets was a little worrisome too, but he really buckled down and did a good job after that.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

this is really the only thing I have really questioned Lou on..

…he shouldnt have run Eyre out of town and he certainly shouldnt have Howry on the postseason roster.

I dont get it at all..

"When I got to Chicago, fans came to Wrigley Field just to have fun, now they come to see us win. The expectations have changed, for the players and for the fans. It’s about winning." Kerry Wood, 7/14/08

by JB 23 on Oct 1, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

Eyre has pitched well for Phily, I do believe. I don’t have the numbers, but I don’t think he’s been bad. And Howry has been just awful. And honestly, I don’t think Gaudin was all that good right after the trade. He truly was a dump-job from the A’s point of view.

Bob Howry: Ruining Baseball Since 2008

Long days and pleasant nights.

by The Original Dave on Oct 1, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Eyre for Phils

14.1 IP
8 H
3 BB
18 K
1.88 ERA

Yikes!

For Cubs:
11.3 IP
15 H
4 BB
14 K
7.15 ERA

I think that change of scenery did him good!

"Manny Trillo is coming in to pinch run. You know, for a lot of teams, you would pinch run for Manny Trillo." - Harry Caray

by Archie on Oct 1, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lou thinks differently

than the rest of us.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Oct 1, 2008 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He orders his salad with the dressing right there on the salad. Where

it’s supposed to be. Where there’s no turning back.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Right, and it's not the Ryder Cup...

You can’t halve a game.

"This field, this game...it reminds us of all that once was good, and it could be again." ~ Terence Mann

by chr15 on Oct 1, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thank goodness

Gotta give Lou a lot of credit for making good personnel decisions and mixing the lineup up with just the right amount of spice.

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 1, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Also a 12 year old in "69"

I remember handing my hat to my dad after the cubs blew the lead and telling him to burn it I was crushed as only a 12 year old fan can be. then in 89 my dad pulled the hat out of a box someplace and it became my 12 year olds hat.

Dad is 81 now and dancing in the streets but unfortunatly mom passed away in 02 and she was the big Cubs fan in the family. I’m sure she is wearing a huge smile right now.

My son came into town last night for his high school reunion and the first question he asked was whether or not that old hat still survived .I’m pretty sure it’s gone but we are on the lookout for it.

If the world didn't suck we would all fall off.

by carolinacub on Oct 1, 2008 9:13 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

First Time Cubs Have Home Field Advantage in 5-Game Series

That does matter to this Cubs team. Home field didn’t seem to matter in the 2003 playoffs. The Cubs played better in Atlanta and Florida than they did in Chicago in postseason. It’s different for this club.

This 2008 Cubs team is 55-26 at home this season. I think this Dodgers series will go 5 games with the Cubs winning at Wrigley Field to wrap the division series up. I still wish game 5 of the 1984 NLCS had been at Wrigley. That club played well at home. That’s water under the bridge now. The new magic number is 6 (3 Cubs wins, 3 Dodgers losses). Let’s hope we have a new magic number about which to worry after this series.

"The big possum walks late." - Harry Caray

by memphiscub on Oct 1, 2008 9:14 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

The first game...

…of any playoff series, is usually the easiest one for the road team to win. If you look at all major league sports, this holds true accross the board.

You have to win 3 games to move on and tonight only counts as one. IMO, if the Cubs win tonight, the series will be short (4 games max). If the Dodgers win tonight, it will go at least 4 and probably 5 and I think the Cubs prevail in both circumstances.

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

by MPH73 on Oct 1, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Taking the first 3 would make us all feel better!

And then nervous as hell until next Thursday….

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Indubitably.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You said it Al...

You summed it up nicely Al…I have many of the same recollections (except for ‘69…was before my time). No doubt to this day, that the ’84 team was the best in the NL. I have those same feelings about this team. Let’s do it…Go Cubs Go!!

by NashCub on Oct 1, 2008 9:15 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

With tears in my eyes

As I sit here thinking about tonight and the future I cant help to think about all the players and fans that werent as lucky as were going to be. All of you watching from up there thank you for all you did. Next year starts tonight, this season. We need and deserve this. Go Cubs GO!!! p.s. in my dreams last night all I kept hearing and seeing was some old man yelling holy cowwwwwwwww!!

from the mouth of Uecker:

"Am I the only one who’s glad it’s only a 4-game series? If was a 9-game series, I think the Cubs would win them all."

by cubsluver22 on Oct 1, 2008 9:16 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Al, great description of a checkered past. I was born one year

after you were, so I lived the same Cub fan life as you did. The strangest part about it is that while we are living through these moments, it’s almost like time stands still. I can remember exactly what I was doing at every moment that you mentioned.
 
As a Cub fan, we have been robbed of the joy of being champions. Coming up short is so much a part of our nature, that we dare not even think of the moment of winning it all. You would think that living through the ‘85 Bears triumph and MJ’s golden years would have sated our appetites for experiencing being a winner, but alas, it’s not even a close second. I really want to experience that golden moment.

As we start this journey to what I hope will culminate in the title of World Series Champion, I hope that we can enjoy these moments and allow them fill us with as many good memeories as the bad ones that we have lived through. I pray that Lou and his charges have the stuff that champions are made of. I know they will represent us well, make us proud and award all of us with the trophy we so richly deserve.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 9:20 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Work

I don’t think I’m going to be able to get a single thing done today. I need to go drink some coffee to settle me down today.

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Oct 1, 2008 9:23 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

thats funny...

Coffee to settle you down. How does that work? Decaf?

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Actually when you're this pumped....

….caffeine is a downer.

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Oct 1, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If that is the case....

12 cans of Red Bull for Z tomorrow.

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Woke up at 4:30 this morning

Like a little kid on Christmas Morning… There is definitely not a lot of work getting done on my end today.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm with you on that.

Definitely killing time til 1:30 today.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I live in Brewer country too...

so half of the office is taking off to watch that game at 2:30.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Same here.

A friend is going to lunch at Stenny’s…since I’m wearing a Cubs shirt, I probably won’t join him.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, you would get booed.

Cooks would probably mess with your food too.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The booing I can handle. Not afraid for my safety, either

But the food thing…

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hear you...

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe wear a jacket until your food arrives.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Or just lean over -- it's a button down shirt with a small logo

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Waitress: "Whatcha got on your shirt there, hon?"

SB: “Cough, cough…tomato juice stain…gimme a tuna melt and an Old Style.”

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Old Style would probably raise suspicion, too...

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Need a bratwurst for table 7--it's a Cub fan

"Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like to him."
Solomon

by cubfever7 on Oct 1, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I get outta here at 4:30

So I can make it home before 1st pitch no problem!

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah

This going to be a really rough day. Hopefully the whole month of October is the same way though because that means they’ll still be playing.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly..

Thankfully i own my business and can get away with having my two employees help the customers while i chat on here about how badly i want the game to start tonight.

Your 2008 NL Central Champs: Chicago Cubs!!! Go Cubs Go

by mkcubs21 on Oct 1, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what address...

can i send my resume?

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And how many employees do you need?

How about one with international experience….

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 1, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its retail..

so it has its highs and lows but i love it..

Your 2008 NL Central Champs: Chicago Cubs!!! Go Cubs Go

by mkcubs21 on Oct 1, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can't ever remember going in to a series with a starting pitching surplus

Has anyone been as good as Ted Lilly and he is game 4 (if necessary) starter. That is crazy if you think about it.

"Bring On The Major Leagues" Stephen Malkmus

by graceunderpressure on Oct 1, 2008 9:26 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

It's very comforting to have Ted waiting in the wings.

if we need him.
I say we wrap this thing up in 3 and then move on.

The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love. ~Bryant Gumbel

by Blue W on Oct 1, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Dodgers are so afraid of facing Ted Lilly in game 4

that they’ll gladly lose the first three games

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Oct 1, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

A psychic once told Ted Lilly....."you're psychic".

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Oct 1, 2008 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This post-season does feel special

In the same way 2003 felt special (I was born in 1979, so I don’t really remember the 1984 team). The difference is that this team is much better than the 2003 squad. But the atmosphere and anticipation this year is the same. It feels more than possible – it feels like destiny.

I have been extremely nervous about this series ever since we learned that the Dodgers would be the Cubs opponent. But today, most of those nerves are gone and have been replaced with a focused, white-hot anticipation of tonight’s first pitch. This team has already given us a lot of great memories and magical moments throughout, and I think they are primed to give us more in the coming month.

I’m ready. Go Cubs!

by SuperContext on Oct 1, 2008 9:28 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Al the Media Darling

Hey Al … I read a quote from you in my local, small town newspaper this morning (280 miles south of Chicago). Your words were quoted and made the national wire service, along with a plug for bleedcubbieblue.com! Way to go!

Ya gotta love a team with a shortstop named TheRiot ...

by StampMe on Oct 1, 2008 9:40 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

What paper is that?

Is there an online link? The AP reporter I talked to said he didn’t know where it would run.

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

by Al on Oct 1, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Tribune is the only place I saw it

I’m assuming you’ve seen this already, Al? LINK

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh yeah

And the site is called BleedCubbyBlue now.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ouch.

Well, at least the link provided does go here.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah. I had to have SBN buy that domain name because of a similar error a couple years ago.

Nice of the AP to give the link, though.

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

by Al on Oct 1, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You were in the Chicago Tribune yesterday

You probably knew that but I was on the road and excited to see your mug. They plugged the site as well.

by gocubsgo22 on Oct 1, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yep, I saw that.

The photo actually came out good. They sent a photographer to my house last Saturday.

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

by Al on Oct 1, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Morning Sentinel

It was in the Mt. Vernon edition of the Morning Sentinel (http://morningsentinel.com) although they don’t have a very good on-line presence. I’ll gladly mail the paper to you if you want to give me your address by e-mail. stampme at aol dot com

Ya gotta love a team with a shortstop named TheRiot ...

by StampMe on Oct 1, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Funny

I tried searching for the newspaper, so I typed “280 miles south of Chicago” (with the quotes) in google. I think the last link said something about Mt. Vernon, but I guess I went to the wrong newspaper’s site. The Register-News or something like that.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, the Register-News

is another local newspaper, and they have a much better web presence (http://www.register-news.com). They will print wire service stories (and I would expect to see the Al quote in there this afternoon) but on the web they only include local news and sport stories. So, if you want to know how the Mt. Vernon Rams are doing this season …

Ya gotta love a team with a shortstop named TheRiot ...

by StampMe on Oct 1, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Email me so I have your address handy.

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

by Al on Oct 1, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

HAPPY NEW YEAR AL!

Could be the best year of all!!!!

I'm not going to even bother trying to update this sig everyday anymore... that's what the standings column on ESPN is for.
Updated on May 25, 2008

by SackMan on Oct 1, 2008 9:43 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Started in ' 60

I became a fan in 1960, a dreary year record wise, but Jack Brickhouse got me hooked. His calls & optimism was what made a wide-eyed 9 yr. old believe. Was a high school senior when ‘69 team came along. I think anyone who remembers that year was scarred in ways no later fans can understand. Have four adult sons who have followed in my footsteps as real die-hards .(they’ve already indoctrinated my grandchildren) I hope they win for my boys & their families as well as good old Jack.

"It's a funny old world. Man's lucky if he gets out of it alive." W.C. Fields

by KedzieKid on Oct 1, 2008 9:47 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I can't wait

This team is absolutely special. For me, I think one characteristic about it that separates (and elevates) it from previous Cubs playoff incarnations – and other Chicago championship teams – is that there is no “cartoon” character. No Sammy, no Michael, no Fridge, no Ozzie. This is a solid team of pros, vets and young players, who know what they are supposed to do. No individual commands the media spotlight. Just play the game the right way.

History, curses, and lovable losers be damned. This is our year!

by Cubbiedaddy on Oct 1, 2008 9:50 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

what you just said....

is what the difference between a baseball team, and a championship baseball team.

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Z may be heading that way though

This team reminds me of the mid 90s Yankees teams that had no player with over 25 HRs even in the middle of the steroids era and still won the world series multiple times.

by gocubsgo22 on Oct 1, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

for Harry....

I wouldn’t be a Cub fan if it hadn’t been for the way he called the game. Let’s win one for all the great announcers in Cubs history! Go Cubs!

by cubbiefanTN on Oct 1, 2008 9:50 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Two thoughts...

You can’t turn it on like a faucet, and, ‘on any given day…’ If you could, or if that wasn’t always true, it wouldn’t be baseball. And we couldn’t have that. Don’t like to conjure Nixon but I remember something he said about the deepest valleys and the highest mountains. Wouldn’t have it any other way. Go Cubs.

"This field, this game...it reminds us of all that once was good, and it could be again." ~ Terence Mann

by chr15 on Oct 1, 2008 9:52 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Great post, Al. Bravo.

This made me choke up a little. Sometimes I wonder if I’m cuckoo for wanting it this much, but it’s always good to know I’m not alone. Thanks, BCB.

"What's the score?" "Nothing-nothing." "Who's winning?" "The Bears."

by ScottieG33 on Oct 1, 2008 9:53 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Pie is on the post season roster, Hoffpauir left off.

Complete roster won’t be announced until later AM.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Oct 1, 2008 10:04 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

The complete roster has been announced.

Starting lineups won’t be announced until later…

The Missouri Tigers (4-0) begin defense of their 2007 Big 12 Conference North Division title Saturday on the road, as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) in Lincoln, Neb.

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 1, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I saw it in the Trib this morning...

…I’ll see if I can find a link on the online edition.

The Missouri Tigers (4-0) begin defense of their 2007 Big 12 Conference North Division title Saturday on the road, as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) in Lincoln, Neb.

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 1, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The online Trib doesn't have a post season roster...

It has an article with names for some on the roster, but not a complete roster.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Oct 1, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I saw Randy Wells is on there?

thought he had a fracture or something in his forearm?

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Oct 1, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Looks like they made an error

Forgot to take him off there I guess. Without him on the list, it makes 25 guys.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That makes sense. maybe if we hack in and take Howry off,

they won’t notice.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

oooh I like the way you think!

That's the beauty of baseball. You never know what's going to happen until the final out -- Lou

by Emelie on Oct 1, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree

I hope Howry is the last resort/we’re-up-by-12-and-we-need-someone-to-just-let-the-other-team-hit-the-ball bullpen guy.

by rambler19 on Oct 1, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why are there 26 players? I'm confused.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He isn't on the roster in the Trib...

…and if you count that one up, it’s 26 guys. Not sure why he is on there…

The Missouri Tigers (4-0) begin defense of their 2007 Big 12 Conference North Division title Saturday on the road, as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) in Lincoln, Neb.

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 1, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Forearm stress fracture

He’s definitely done for the season. Hopefully he’ll recover in time for spring training, but I really don’t know what the exact prognosis is.

Even if he hadn’t gotten hurt, I doubt Lou would put someone so inexperienced on the postseason roster.

"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman

by hip2bsquare on Oct 1, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's just what the active 25 man roster was at the end of the year.

It’s not the play off roster for the first round. Wittenmeyers twitter says it won’t be out until later this morning.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Oct 1, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Big Z

weight 255 pounds!

The Zambino!

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Oct 1, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And MDBNIU's batting average...

…drops another 10 points below the Mendoza line.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe you haven't been listening to Sweet Lou.

Hoffpauir WILL BE THE GUY.

The Missouri Tigers (4-0) begin defense of their 2007 Big 12 Conference North Division title Saturday on the road, as they take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers (3-1) in Lincoln, Neb.

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Oct 1, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We all know that Sweet Lou checks in with MDBNIU every day. There's no way

he could have possibly been wrong.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

1989 hurt.

And I think that was because it was my first taste of the postseason. I remember keeping track of the magic number and counting the number down. It felt like a personal assualt when Will Clark got into that skirmish with Mark Grace (who was my favorite player) at first base [remember that? at WRIGLEY no less], only Clark backed up his talk with an otherwordly series. Still hate that guy.

"What's the score?" "Nothing-nothing." "Who's winning?" "The Bears."

by ScottieG33 on Oct 1, 2008 10:06 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

My son...

….is 4 years old. I went to pick him up from Sunday school last week and the teacher asked me if “Go Cubs Go” was a song. (I live in Houston). Turns out, when she asked what song they wanted to sing next, my son pulled out some Steve Goodman. Made me proud.

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Oct 1, 2008 10:06 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Awesome!

Just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand. - Homer J Simpson

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 1, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's all Personal

Sometimes that is how it feels. That they only play for me. Or for each of us on an individual level. Maybe it is because I’m an only child and was basically raised by a steady diet of Harry Carey “Holy Cows”. Maybe it’s because I live over a thousand miles away from that place with the bricks and the ivy that will be turning the most beautiful shade of red next week. We all have our stories, of how we suffered, how we shored up our patience and dug deep into the pandora’s boxes of our souls for just one more teaspoon of hope. Hope in Santo and Sutcliffe and Sandberg and Sosa. In Grace and Dawson. In Z.

Yesterday I felt the doom and gloom again. The worry that I have invested SO very much in this team this year, watching games on my dinky laptop, checking Cubs-Brewers scores on my phone as I get of the subway, telling people I had plans when all I wanted to do was watch Jason Friggin Marquis pitch. The doom and gloom is not because I fear that they are going to lose. It is because I fear that I have put so much of my being into them. This team. Not time. Not money. Those things are irrelevant. I put me into them.

So here’s another teaspoon of hope for a return on all of our investments.

They call me MISTER Fukudome!

by brokenland on Oct 1, 2008 10:10 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Great little piece on Yahoo:

check it out

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Oct 1, 2008 10:23 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

If you can weed out the typical BS....

…(goats, Bartman, 100 years), yes it is. Some good quotes by Cub players, former players, and famous fans.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Oct 1, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

There's another piece on Piniella

in which DeRo says:

"He wants guys who play hard and play the game right and aren’t afraid to make mistakes," says Mark DeRosa, the Cubs’ do-everything utility player. "That’s the one thing I like about him: He doesn’t like timid guys. He doesn’t like guys who don’t want to be up in big spots. He wants to know guys have an inner strength about them. He wants a player who’s not afraid to come into his office and talk about things and be able to be reprimanded and not take it personally.

"That is him. Your first year with him, it’s a culture shock. And then you get to realize he truly cares about you and that’s his way of going about it."

Interesting to see the kind of guys “Lou doesn’t like”. I recognize Rich Hill in there somewhere, but I wonder if it also applies to Barrett, Izturis, Jacque, Murton….even Pie — guys he has been hestitant or unwilling to play (or else eased out completely).

My next sig line quote will also be from Lou Piniella, and the first word will be either "Look", or "Listen", followed by a comma.

by JohnM on Oct 1, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Every manager...

…has a certain style and with Lou, all you have to do is look at his experiences as a baseball player to figure out how he formed his style.

He played in a situation (Yankees of the late 70’s) in which there was an enourmous amount of pressure put on the club by the media, the fans and especially the owner. He also played for a manager that was a little goofy, but had a great feel the game and had a track record of winning and getting the maximum out of his talent. Lou was also regarded as one of the Yankee hitters you did not want to face with the game on the line, and also one that had a bit of a temper when he didn’t perform.

There isn’t a lot of BS with Lou, but the most important thing is this, he understands his players capabilities better than anyone else and his feel for the game is second to none.

Agree or disagree with him in regards to sending Eyres, Izturis, Barrett, etc. on their way, but there was something he thought those players were lacking and he knew he wouldn’t trust them when the pressure was on.

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

by MPH73 on Oct 1, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ohman is another one

My next sig line quote will also be from Lou Piniella, and the first word will be either "Look", or "Listen", followed by a comma.

by JohnM on Oct 1, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ohman! - Oh man!!!!!!!!!!!!!

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 1, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ohhhhh man!

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

"Woe -- man!"

My next sig line quote will also be from Lou Piniella, and the first word will be either "Look", or "Listen", followed by a comma.

by JohnM on Oct 1, 2008 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes...

…if Lou has a dog house, Ohman was in solitary confinement.

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

by MPH73 on Oct 1, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hm, I don't know.

I might describe Hill and Murton as timid, but I never saw Barrett, Izturis or Jacque Jones as that way. All of them wanted to play, they just weren’t very good – or at least had some major holes in their games.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Oct 1, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re: major holes

when do you expect MDBNIU to make his apperance? Before or after we lose a game?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 1, 2008 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

before.

but he will ignore all of his wrongs.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Oct 1, 2008 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Any number of things could bring him out of hiding:

Pie strikeout, bad inning by Demp, Fonzie’s death. Anything.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 1, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply <