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Cubs Add Insult To Insult With Dreadful 10-3 Loss To Dodgers

Put away your dreams, everyone. It's over.

Last night's 10-3 Cubs loss to the Dodgers, which felt like the score was 100-3, was the most embarrassing postseason loss I have seen by any Cubs team, in fact possibly the most embarrassing postseason loss I've seen by ANY team.

Yes, I know. In fact, Manny Ramirez said it in the postgame press conference, which I listened to with little enthusiasm on the drive home: it takes three wins, not two, to win, and there have been seven five-game series in the history of MLB postseason play in which a team went down 2-0 and came back to win. They are:

I guess this means it can be done. But not by this team, not the way it's playing. Embarrassing doesn't even begin to describe the disastrous second inning last night in which Carlos Zambrano got not one, not two, but three ground balls, the last two of which could have ended the inning as routine double play balls, and none of them were fielded. The first one by James Loney -- that glanced off Ryan Theriot's hand for a base hit into left field -- that one I can understand, because Theriot appeared to be shifting to cover second base on a hit & run. It happens. Teams execute hit & runs all the time, and even to get to that ball was good effort on Theriot's part.

But the easy grounders booted by Mark DeRosa and Derrek Lee -- wow. I just can't understand those at all. You can't give a major league team five outs in an inning, especially in a playoff game. Z did the best he could to get out of the inning and his defense failed him, and when Russell Martin cleared the bases with a double, the crowd, which was jazzed up like a playoff crowd ought to be before the game, was silenced. All of us in our section sat there -- I can't even describe the feeling of being stunned that I felt throughout the game. It didn't help matters that by the 9th inning, the bullpen had helped tack four more runs onto the Dodgers' lead, including Neal Cotts allowing a single that scored the seventh (third earned) and final run on Z's record, so that when the Cubs got the remains of the sellout of 42,136 (maybe about half stuck it out to the end) noisy again with a two-run rally, it didn't matter -- maybe if it had been 6-1 instead of 10-1, the Cubs might have pulled off a miracle, but they had dug themselves far too deep a hole. Mike got me to laugh, finally, in the 9th inning when he said, "Maybe we've all been dead for 40 years and this is hell." (Was the fact that each infielder wound up with an error by the end of the game a macabre way of making each one feel better about himself? Or just another cruel joke?)

Yeah, that's what it felt like. Hell. (Although, maybe this movie describes it better.) The Cub offense looked like the 2006 version -- swinging and missing at bad pitches, or bouncing into groundouts. The only walk before the ninth inning was drawn by Z -- and then the second walk was drawn by Felix Pie, who had walked 21 times in his 266 major league plate appearances before last night. It's as if impostors showed up at Wrigley Field last night and put on the pinstripe pants and the blue shirts that Z favors. These guys couldn't be the ones who won 97 games during the regular season. What do you say about this? Management spent a ton of money and virtually every single move that Jim Hendry and Lou Piniella made during the season seemed the right ones, were hailed by most of us here, and almost every day new heroes were made, things Cubs fans hadn't seen in decades happened... and now this?

I received an email from BCB reader mjk83 this morning which read, in its entirety:

I will see you on Tuesday for Game 5.

Rich Harden and Ted Lilly will get this back to Chicago and Ryan Dempster will redeem himself.

..hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.

And those of you who have read this site for a long time know that I am, in general, optimistic in nature, want to see the best of things, want to hope against hope (you know, if you are a "certain age", this is the way Jack Brickhouse always was on the air back in the hopeless early '60s, even when the Cubs were down several runs late in the game, always hoping they'd pull it out, even though they never did)... but this one's just about too much for me. I hope mjk83 is right. Really, I do. But that hope is much smaller this morning than it ought to be, and as I write this I'm 99% certain I'm cancelling my trip to Los Angeles... the game tickets I thought I had in hand fell through, and to go out there without tickets to see what feels like it's going to be a series sweep? Why bother?

I hope I'm wrong. If I am wrong and there's a game five on Tuesday, of course I'll be there. I know there are a ton of FanPosts today, far more than usual, and there may be some duplication in topics but at this point, I'm just going to let you guys vent. If this really is the end... yes, we're left with the wonderful memories of a great regular season, but it may be an extremely bitter taste from 2008 that will take a long time to wash away.

Let's hope that isn't the case. Go Cubs.

MLB Postseason on SB Nation

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No seriously...

Awful, awful game.

I have to ask as an aside, how did you get your same seats for the playoffs?

by Damen Jackson on Oct 3, 2008 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'll tell you some other time.

Right now, that just doesn’t feel very important.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

Rich Harden vs Hiroki Kuroda

I still have faith until the last out is recorded.

by dr stabbingworth on Oct 3, 2008 9:20 AM CDT reply actions  

That was a horrid display of baseball

This team looked like they had never played baseball before!

Really, really sad to see them collapse like that. the label of “CHOKERS” is going to be hard to shake for a long time to come.

Players are paid to play the game. The Cubs couldn’t execute when they had to (outside of DeRo and Edmonds) and this game is all about execution.

I feel so sad to be a Cub fan today.

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 9:21 AM CDT reply actions  

What the hell did DeRo execute????

The season? That double play ball boot was as bad as I’ve ever seen and cost the Cubs 5 runs.

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

I was referring to...

his offense the last two games!

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

I can understand not going to LA all things considered.

That’s a tough trip to take with no tix and a good chance of being punched in the stomach.

I still can’t believe that Z came through with a big game. He pitched well and kept his emotions in check while the defense behind him fubar’d the game.

The Dodgers are a good team. The Cubs losing last night was not the shock, it was the way they lost and the run differential. That game was never close and the other starting 8 owe Z an apology.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Oct 3, 2008 9:23 AM CDT reply actions  

Agreed

Z did remarkably well considering the lack of help he received. For Z to hold it together like he did was quite the feat. When I got home from work and watched the “highlights”, I have never had an ache in my heart for a Cub as I did when they showed Z in the dugout holding the towel to his face with his eyes squeezed shut. Just a totally heart wrenching night all around.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions  

Z did all he was expected to do

I am proud to have seen him pitch and hold the line as well as could. He brought his A game and the rest of the infield did NOT.

He was probably hot when he said he what he said at the postgame, but he was absolutely 100% RIGHT

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

I didnt get to hear this

can you paraphrase for me

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

Aw man

what a picture.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

+1

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

I did

Thankfully golden retrivers are completely understanding.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

sums it up

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

I don't knon what Demp said

when he came over to talk to him, but he then put the towel over his head and leaned back. Completely killed me

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

I finally understand Yankees' fans feelings about A-Rod

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 3, 2008 9:23 AM CDT reply actions  

As crazy as it sounds,

I agree with mjk83. Lou has been in this situation before and won. (See the 1995 Seattle Mariners)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1995_Seattle_Mariners_season

Remember the Yankees historic collapse in 2004? Who was the manager?

Our best pitcher is going on Saturday. Lilly has been lights out 2 starts in a row.

I still say we win this thing.

Let the flaming begin.

by Neifi Puppy on Oct 3, 2008 9:24 AM CDT reply actions  

If you're right we will all have come from the depths to the mountains in four days.

I just don’t expect it.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

fifty fifty chance It's Gonna Happen

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

Those are better odds than I would give right now.

I’ll take ’em, though.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

I wish I could be more like you

If anyone flames you, I’ll kick them in the shins.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm glad you have faith....

but the season (for all intents and purposes) is over.

A team can’t play that kind of ball and expect to go anywhere in the Postseason. The Dodgers are executing flawlessly in every area (hitting, defense pitching) of the game, but the Cubs are failing in every area. That my friend is a recipe for a quick exit from the Playoffs

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 9:26 AM CDT reply actions  

Even the voice of reason - Al- has succumed

so sad…..but now I am falling into believing this Curse thing is true…

the question is, where do you even start in trying to improve this thing? change attitudes? rid the pressure laden atmosphere?

this team on paper has some holes, but no more so than any other in this postseason, and arguably less than anyone else who is still playing…

by LuisSalazar on Oct 3, 2008 9:26 AM CDT reply actions  

the holes are not the reason...

the Cubs are failing.

It all comes down to EXECUTION!

The Dodgers are executing flawlessly, the Cubs…not so much.

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

No curses

Simply coming to the park ready to play…some teams are and some are not during the postseaon. Its what seperates the winners from the losers. As I’ve said before when your hot your hot, when your not your not.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

I agree completely

so where do you go from here? everybody in the starting lineup has no trade clauses. these are players who have not failed on other teams in playoff situations….but when they come here…it’s a different story

by LuisSalazar on Oct 3, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

We're following the Braves

pattern from 2002 – 2005. We can win the division, just not much else, but its only 2 years in a row. At least we are beginning to consistently dominate in that area.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

That's easier to take

once you’ve got at least one WS ring.. Braves fans probably would not agree; they wanted to win it all every year during those glory years.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions  

If the Cubs can emulate the Braves from 1992 through 2005 in

competing and post season appearances, that is a great start. You gotta get to the playoffs to advance.

All said, I’m not pleased with this season… yet.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Oct 3, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed

We’ll wait and see, sometimes its like a giant puzzle—need all the pieces.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm at least thankful that

there’s no “Bartman” episode here. It’s simply execution and how the Cubs couldn’t execute.

Sobering synopsis Al. You hit the nail on the head with it.

Formerly NO100

by jerry morales rules on Oct 3, 2008 9:26 AM CDT reply actions  

For the first time ever this season

and for the first time since I can remember, I turned off the television and went to bed before the game was over. I just felt sick.
This is not the same team that we followed all year.
I haven’t given up on this team just yet, but I sure as hell gave up on last night’s game.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 9:26 AM CDT reply actions  

I completely agree

About the 6th inning I just turned it off and went to bed. I couldn’t take it anymore.

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

by VicVega on Oct 3, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions  

I can not turn off the TV...

I want to say it’s over but to many times this year they have proven they can bounce back. We know the games. I refuse to admit it’s over. I know it’s called denial but I still…..

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions  

The players looked rattled early on

and I guess it rattled me.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

I went to bed immediately after the game

But couldn’t get to sleep until quite a long time after that. I just couldn’t stop thinking about it.

I am not as downtrodden today as I thought I would be, but I think I am still in shock.

Making plans to watch Saturday night’s game feels like making plans to attend a funeral.

by SuperContext on Oct 3, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

Oh God,

the nightmare won’t end.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 9:26 AM CDT reply actions  

Wake me up when October ends

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

It feels like a wake

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 9:27 AM CDT reply actions  

This thread is a wake

the team wasn’t last night

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

How embarrassing.

This team is playing like they played right after the ASB.

That Theriot play was crap. All the tiny little guy had to do was glove the ball. Quit trying to barehand it and play fundamental baseball.

Bench Fukudome; he can’t hit and as a result shouldn’t be in the lineup. Even batting 8th.

by kanderber on Oct 3, 2008 9:28 AM CDT reply actions  

Hmmm

I agree with Al, Theriots was probably the only one that could be justified. Lee and Derosa had rocks for hands last night.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

Theriot's play wasn't "crap".

He was going the other way to cover second. He made a great effort even to put a hand on the ball.

The DeRosa and Lee errors — inexcusable.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

Disagree.

If he would’ve simply used his glove, he would’ve got the ball. It wouldn’t have been difficult at all to glove that ball.

Agreed on DeRo and Lee.

by kanderber on Oct 3, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah

If not for Theriot everything would have been different. Drop it.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

That's a bit harsh

I’m not sure that he had a play at first, anyway — but he could have gloved it and kept the ball in the infield. Who knows what happens then?

I’m not blaming Theriot (and his AB in the first was crap), but it’s fair game to point it out.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions  

The point was made clear

If there were plays that were “crap” I think Theriots (far from good) was at the bottom of that list. kanderber chose to pick soley on Theriot, for which I think it was unjustified considering the other lousy plays the infield made.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions  

Drop it? LOL. No.

This is a place for discussion of the Chicago Cubs. If you don’t want to read discussion about a pivotal play from last night, I would suggest not reading here.

And I didn’t choose to pick solely on him… I took issue with Al’s original comment about him.

by kanderber on Oct 3, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

And I took issue with your comment

For which you had no follow-up argument, hence the “drop-it” sorry if I offended you, at the time I am sure I intended that as you see today is not a good day for me. Glad you can laugh, I am sure I will regret my remark later…I hope you’ll understand.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

I must've missed your argument

What was it that you were expecting a follow up argument to?

by kanderber on Oct 3, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

Arguments are in the next room;

this is animated discussions

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions  

I thought it was

How to Crush a Dream in Two Games 101

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

We've successfully merged Monty Pyton and Jeopardy

for our Cubs humor for the day. That’s probably all there will be.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

No need to be sorry

We’re miscommunicating pretty badly here, it appears. Maybe it is best to drop it.

by kanderber on Oct 3, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

Just emotion

getting the best of me, its easy to be snarky with text. No hard feelings I hope.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

Agree

That ball could have been gloved. Theriot must have thought he was Ozzie Smith for a moment.

He is not.

by salparadise23 on Oct 3, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

Right

That was about as perfectly executed hit and run as you will see. The Dodgers have played good fundamental baseball and have executed; Cubs have not (Z excepted)

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

sorry Al, but gotta disagree (again) on Lee's

while errors, by their very nature, are incidents that should (and could) be avoided, the ground ball hit to Lee was a difficult play. Yes, he’d be the first (and you the second) to say he should have made the play, but the runner did cut in front of him right as the ball was getting there. This was no boneheaded play.

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

by ballhawk on Oct 3, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

I've seen D Lee,

DeRosa, Theriot and everyone else make those plays.

That patented double play pivot from DLee (that we have watched countless times) is probably the best executed by any first-baseman I have ever witnessed.

Theriot is a sure handed glove and I really think he could have made that play on the hit and run (and i love Theriot). On the hit and run, I’m pretty sure that DeRo and Theriot both broke for the bag, that is mis-communication.

How else can you explain the statistical improbability of the second inning? I know anything can happen, but this was a tank job if I have ever seen it. i hate to say it but these guys looked like the Black Sox.

I also can’t believe I read an article from some sportswriter who obvs mailed it in on how Z didn’t step up. For a while it looked like Z was the only one who was trying to record an out.

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

The text in parenthesis explains the lunacy of the rest of the statement.
Theriot is a sure handed glove and I really think he could have made that play on the hit and run (and i love Theriot).

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

Since you guys insist on making this a Theriot-bashing zone

Anything negative about Theriot normally has zero credibility, so I have to append the comment with some Theriot love to balance it out.

Suddenly our entire infield turns into Dan Uggla?

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

I only say negative things when he does negative things...

and I say positve things when he does positive things. Now you know why I alwasy seem to be “basing” him.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

Does that cost money or is it free?

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Oct 3, 2008 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

You're basing him? Does he have a drug problem too?

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

LOL...free-basing Theriot...

Oh man…I can see colors that don’t exist!

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

actually sorry

you’re not really a Theriot basher.. i got you mixed up with the other people

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

Denial?

And I am the lunatic? At least I can admit I am a Theriot fan. I have been getting high on dimebags of theRiot all year.

Do you think that play last night was beyond his ability?

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

assuming there was no miscommunication...

…it was definitely beyond his ability – and most other shortstops as well. He broke to cover second, had to stop, reverse himself and run back and deep to get to the ball. IIRC, he got a bare hand partially on it and it flittered to the outfield.

I guess the [mostly] valid assumption one could make is if you are able to get a glove (or in this case, hand) on it, you should be able to make the play. So yes, I suppose you could say that he should have stopped it – but no way was he going to throw him out. Not even Shotgun Shawon would have been able to throw the runner out under those circumstances.

re: miscommunication… I forget who the batter is but Baseball 101 says if it was a lefty, then Theriot would cover second. If a righty, then DeRosa. But there’s all sorts of numbers within the numbers, and hit charts and tendencies, so maybe they did get their signals crossed.

I guess the only way to at least partly confirm this would be to go back and look at the video, but I have no stomach to do that and no way I’m going to ask anyone here to do that – although I suspect DaBard and Blue Mike probably already have their special “Manager’s Cut” DVD already in production for the holiday season… ;-)

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

by ballhawk on Oct 3, 2008 8:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

we should be proud... life goes on

perhaps the pressure is gone, since all believe they will lose. Perhaps the pressure shifts to the Dodgers, and they wont execute. 1984 Cubs.

lets leave the team alone, turn off the tv, get rid of the newspapers and internet and let them play and have fun. perhaps that will work

by BCB Vienna on Oct 3, 2008 9:28 AM CDT reply actions  

HOLY TOLEDO...

…Here I was looking forward to the recap by our fearless leader for re-assurance and I have to read THIS!!

Way to give on your team there, AL.

I think there is a DeBard Diary for you floating out in cybar space somewhere.

We have Harden and Lilly going Sat & Sun. if we can get back to Wrigley the pressure goes back on the Dodgers. Keep the faith, people. I know it has not been pretty, but you, AL, of all people have been saying this is a special team all year and now you give up after 2 games. Fearless leader? or DeBard in disguise?

by Seismic Stallion on Oct 3, 2008 9:29 AM CDT reply actions  

harsh

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

I have the strangest feeling

 that this will not be the worst we hear today.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions  

Taking your anger out on Al will not help,

direct it towards who you are angry with, the CUBS!

We are all fans of the Cubs and fighting among ourselves will not make the situation any better.

The fact is, the team stunk it up last night and lost. Now, we will see if they can rally.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Oct 3, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

a little, yes...

…just frustrated to see sooo many fans giving up on this team.

I will still believe until the last out is recorded and I way hoping that Al would share the same sentiment for his front page recap.

Re-reading this, yes, it does seem harsh. My apologies to those who are offended, but if you look at any of my posts, I am always looking on the bright side and just wanted some one to do the same this morning.

by Seismic Stallion on Oct 3, 2008 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

I’m sicking of reading the bile that spews out of certain fans’ keyboards.

by dr stabbingworth on Oct 3, 2008 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions  

Me too

But I think it is perfectly fine to voice our frustration without sounding like ledge jumpers. We might as well brace ourselves for the highlight reels on ESPN, because win or lose this thing, the two games that have passed will go down in history as horrible.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm with you man...

I refuse to say it over…

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions  

This might be for the better...

…the bandwagoners will be gone and the real fans can celebrate if we pull this out!!!

by Seismic Stallion on Oct 3, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

Just because

some of us are realists and realize that this likely means that we are done, doesn’t mean that we aren’t “real fans.” I will be shocked and amazed and rejoicing with you if they do pull this out. However, all that Al is saying here is that it doesn’t look good. We should begin to temper our expectations.

Just relax. We are all disappointed and upset right now. Give a little grace and don’t call someone who is willing to say, “This is probably it,” a "bandwagoner. That’s a bit over the top.

"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 3, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

NO question about that...

…but life-support indicates there is life!!

Don’t put that dream away quite yet. If we implode again on Sat., Sun. then we all can bury the dream, but until then I REFUSE to give up!
 
Boy, I think I have bruised that horse.

by Seismic Stallion on Oct 3, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions  

It ain't over ..

Keep Hope Alive!

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions  

Cut him some slack

Al is as positive as any Cubs fan and to compare him to DaBard is over top. We all feed personally let down as if we knew these players personally and they failed us. Someone who has followed the Cubs as long as Al (same amount of time as me) and who watches every home and playoff game in forever will feel that personal connection even more. And I’m not saying you had to experience 1969 to be a “real” Cubs fan. Hell, the 16 year olds on the thread last night know how it feels now.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, Im glad Al put this in a realistic perspective.

There is a point where you have to say this just isn’t going to happen, and when a team plays like last night you can realistically say that aren’t going to come back. It is pretty obvious. Lilly may be good, but so was Z, but you can’t expect Z to have scored 11 runs and thats what it would have taken since he was the only one who remembered how to play baseball last night.

by adam316 on Oct 3, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

It ain't gonna happen ..

IF the Cubs continue to play they way they have .. WE KNOW THEY’RE BETTER THAN THIS.

IF the infield again coughs up inexplicable errors .. Bizarre coincidences, NOTHING more

IF the bats sit quiet until the ninth inning after giving up 10 runs .. SHOWS WE CAN STILL HIT

IF the bullpen keeps offering HR’s up .. and that is probably going to be the hardest to endure

There ain’t no curse .. it’s the Cubs being way too uptight ..

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

beyond harsh...

I am guessing this was one of the hardest recaps he has had to write. But when Bosox came back and the Yankees did neither of them had played THIS BAD during the games they lost.

"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 3, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

Beyond Harsh??

Now I agree I went overboard a little comparing him to Debard, but when the first line is:

Put away your dreams, everyone. It’s over.

It seems a little over the top for me – an extreme optimist – when it comes to the Cubs. I don’t get that down after loses, cuz this is just a game that is played for entertainment purposes only. Yes it great when they win, but there is sooo many more important things in life than Baseball.

by Seismic Stallion on Oct 3, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hey, I'm probably more of an extreme optimist than you are.

I have invested, however, a great deal of emotion in the Cubs, particularly this team, which has brought us higher than any Cub team in my lifetime.

They have crashed harder than we ever thought. That’s why that opening was perhaps a little over the top. It’s the way I feel this morning.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hey, AL...

…I just want to warn you to remember where you put that dream, cuz I think you might be needing to find it again before this season is all over with!!!

don’t say I never gave you anything:)

Lets play ‘2’ in LA and get back to Wrigley!

by Seismic Stallion on Oct 3, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

All I can say is....

… I’ll be extremely happy if you’re right.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

...but not counting on it.

"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 3, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

It guess a cliche sums it all up,

Hope for the Best, Plan for the Worst.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Oct 3, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions  

Exactly.

I recall an interview with Billy Corgan after the 03 collapse that, roughly, said, “I don’t follow the team as closely anymore. After that, I just couldn’t put myself through that anymore.”

That’s how I feel this morning. I know I’ll be there with bells on come April, but I feel like I’ve been dumped by the love of my life.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

and all I’ll say this morning is, this sucks!

"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 3, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

If I had a girlfriend repeatedly crush my dreams like this

I would kick her out of my house and have a bonfire in the front lawn with all of the furniture that she “helped” pick out.

Who am I kidding …I wish I could quit you.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions  

I feel like they owe us all an apology

Yes, I know they are just professionals who play for a salary, and that the better team does not always win every game or even every series. But for what we have endured over the last couple of games, it is warranted.

by SuperContext on Oct 3, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

I didn't see the Yankees comeback but I did watch every game

of the Bosox posteason miracle and they played solid the whole time. They did not embarrass themselves or their fans. Watching them, you really thought they could pull it out.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

No one in Boston thought they would pull that series out.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

As an impartial fan (meaning I didn't care who won)

just watching on TV I really thought they would. Maybe because I was completely disconnected from Boston team, fans, everything, emotionally, it was easier to just see what was happening. Can’t watch the Cubs in that same mindset.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

Actually the Sox got destroyed in Game 3

to the point Wakefield volunteered to pitch in that game to save the bullpen, leaving Lowe (who had stunk all year) to start Game 4. Here’s the box

If the Cubs can win Game 3, pressure shifts to the Dodgers, because everyone will tell them they have to win and avoid going back to Wrigley. It just takes one game, just one to lift the weight off everyone’s shoulders.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

+ 10 Million!

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

And it's "DaBard" not "DeBard".

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

Not Giving Up On 2008 Dream Yet

The Cubs need one win to get on a roll. Maybe, the change of scenery will help the team.
Harden, Lilly, and Dempster are a good trio of pitchers. The Cubs have the ability to come back from this.

We can only hope that finally the Cubs will be the ones to make a miraculous comeback in postseason play. Keep hope alive!

"The big possum walks late." - Harry Caray

by memphiscub on Oct 3, 2008 9:30 AM CDT reply actions  

Seems fitting

The lyrics to “Yesterday” by the Beatles:

Yesterday
All my troubles seemed so far away
Now it looks as though they’re here to stay
Oh, I believe
In yesterday

Suddenly
I’m not half the man I used to be
There’s a shadow hanging over me
Oh, yesterday
Came suddenly

Why she
Had to go I don’t know
She wouldn’t say
I said
Something wrong now I long
For yesterday

Yesterday
Love was such an easy game to play
Now I need a place to hide away
Oh, I believe
In yesterday

Why she
Had to go I don’t know
She wouldn’t say
I said
Something wrong now I long
For yesterday

Yesterday
Love was such an easy game to play
Now I need a place to hide away
Oh, I believe
In yesterday

Old Style is the nectar of life.

by Mordecai on Oct 3, 2008 9:31 AM CDT reply actions  

Personally, I just keep coming back to one line by the Boss

“Is a dream a lie if it don’t come true, or is it something worse?”

Right now, it feels like something much, much worse.

by SuperContext on Oct 3, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

"That sends me down to the River"

where we all feel like jumping in right now.

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions  

Rush--The Pass

Proud swagger out of the schoolyard
Waiting for the worlds applause
Rebel without a conscience
Martyr without a cause

Static on your frequency
Electrical storm in your veins
Raging at unreachable glory
Straining at invisible chains

And now youre trembling on a rocky ledge
Staring down into a heartless sea
Cant face life on a razors edge
Nothings what you thought it would be

All of us get lost in the darkness
Dreamers learn to steer by the stars
All of us do time in the gutter
Dreamers turn to look at the cars
Turn around and turn around and turn around
Turn around and walk the razors edge
Dont turn your back
And slam the door on me

Its not as if this barricade
Blocks the only road
Its not as if youre all alone
In wanting to explode

Someone set a bad example
Made surrender seem all right
The act of a noble warrior
Who lost the will to fight

And now youre trembling on a rocky ledge
Staring down into a heartless sea
Done with life on a razors edge
Nothings what you thought it would be

No hero in your tragedy
No daring in your escape
No salutes for your surrender
Nothing noble in your fate
Christ, what have you done?

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

im just trying to find a way

to get myself excited about the game this weekend. I want so badly to believe that this isn’t the end of the road for this team and am doing everything I can to remain optimistic.

that being said, if Saturday starts like last night did I’ll be in the bar with a double jameson on the rocks by about 10:30

---AC 00 00 00 - Believe

by mjk83 on Oct 3, 2008 9:31 AM CDT reply actions  

Take it easy on the man!

Al is a truly knowledgeable Cub/baseball fan (as many of us are here) and we have been around long enough to know “when to say when”!

It’s time.

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 9:31 AM CDT reply actions  

Al, I feel bad for you

All the work you do here. All the effort. I also feel bad for all the fans that spent a ton on tickets for those two games to see a bloodbath.

Demp and Rich: proof that people that live in igloos and say "eh" can contibute!

by Canadian Cubs Fan on Oct 3, 2008 9:32 AM CDT reply actions  

I don't think its about giving up

Its just realizing that this team was not ready at this point in time to make it happen. Can they come back sure…I’m sure some Brewers fans think that they can too, but the odds are not in their favor. This Cubs team has surprised us before with stellar play, we’ll all be watching to see if it happens. But, I think most of us will not be shocked near as much as in the last two games if it doesn’t.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:33 AM CDT reply actions  

This is like a funeral wake for someone who a few days ago was full of life, enthusiasm and great promise

The emotions are an assortment of shock, anger and sadness all at once. As in “poof,” what was is all gone.

As said before you could not conjure up more awful script if you were a St. Louis Cardinal or Chicago White Sox fan who had hatred raging through your veins for the Cubs.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 9:33 AM CDT reply actions  

Great analogy

"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...

by Curtain Jerker on Oct 3, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

Truth.

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

Agree completely on the "poof" factor

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

totally agree

i was at game 1 with my dad, and right before the first pitch he turned to me and said, “remember this feeling of possibility, because in a few minutes something could go wrong and you’ll wish they could just start the whole thing over.”
how true.

by neifi on Oct 3, 2008 4:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

I must admit...

…when Martin hit that double last night and the bases cleared, I thought, “So this is how it ends.”

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

I had no thought

I just felt crushed.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions  

And even though Wrigley was packed

and there are hundreds of thousands of fans worldwide, and all you fine folks here…I felt so alone.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

I listened to P&R because I decided Dick Stockton might kill me

Ron’s voice was like my grief outloud.

It was horrible. I turned it off after Rami’s error. I couldn’t do anymore.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 4:58 PM CDT up reply actions  

I started that

but the radio was a good three seconds ahead of the TV.

Maybe I should’ve stuck with that and known the end was near all the sooner. There’s three seconds I’ll never get back.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

for what it's worth...

the groundball hit to Derrek Lee was NOT an easy play. I had seats in 219 and had a nice view up the first base line. The runner crossed in front of Derrek at the worse possible time and I’m sure blocked his view of the ball. Then to pick it up again, especially as hard as it was hit… well that’s tough to do.

Agreed on the Theriot grounder – just bad timing (covering 2nd on a steal). As for DeRosa’s… ughhhhh……

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

by ballhawk on Oct 3, 2008 9:33 AM CDT reply actions  

I dunno.

Someone as experienced as D-Lee is, someone who’s made tons of tough plays — he should make that play.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

And I'm sure Lee would agree.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

If DeRo would have handled the routine grounder, that ball would have never been hit to Lee...

"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 3, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

At least it was a great view from 'my' new seats

Guess the folks that were ripping on the team (that prompted the koolaid-sipping / Brady Bunch alternate game threads) were right on.

I almost feel like they just don’t know how to step it up in the playoffs. Unlike hockey were emotion and intensity increases (of course with some upper bound) can really elevate a team, baseball simply cannot be played that way and still come out on top.

The whole team is just lack of some sort of pizazz. I can’t even figure it out. Both D-Lee and DeRo heard me and others in my area after their gaffes. Suffice to say it was sobering but no one was vulgar or out of line.

So unless there’s some drastic turn-around, the only thing I can say is there’s 183 days to the season opener.

I feel more compelled now than just 48 hours ago to turn my focus nearly 100% to the Blackhawks. Hopefully they can improve this year like the Cubs have since 2006.

It’s going to be an interesting (and hopefully exciting) off-season.

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Oct 3, 2008 9:33 AM CDT reply actions  

I'm really tired of a group of us

being labled cheerleaders, koolaid-sipping, Brady Bunch, etc. We get just as disgusted with this team as any of you. We differ in how we handle that frustration and negativity. I don’t want to read 15 posts of mother f*$#ing Cubs. Don’t tell me to pass over them when that is printed in the headline. None of us should have to read that crap. It’s hard to have a conversation with others who feel the same way when all that other crap is being posted. It’s much easier for us to leave and discuss the game without calling the players names and all the negativity.

by sue369 on Oct 3, 2008 8:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Well if you're tired of it

think of how you can come across to others. If only positive thought is allowed in your world, what’s one to think? That action deems that label. I use the Brady Bunch label because in the end everything is always A-OK.

I’ve been on game threads at times and just ignore the crazy posts nearly all the time. And at the same time reply to others that have some thought put in to them, regardless of whether or not I agree.

So by doing this you essentially create a void where in by some comments that could have been read in the real game thread are then missed. Thanks…

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Oct 4, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

You can't have it both ways.

You guys bitch when we complain when someone comes in here for the first time in the 5th inning to post that the game is over. Now you complain because we leave and you can’t comment on our posts.

Good for you to ignore the crazy posts. If they were just crazy it wouldn’t bother me. When they are filled with such hatered toward the players that’s not crazy. It’s ridiculous. Like I said everyone shows their disgust differently. We don’t have to put up with the ridiculous.

by sue369 on Oct 4, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

I don't complain about that Sue

when someone comes in here and says the game is over. But when some do that, I have to ask myself (only) why on God’s green earth would they say that. I ignore it and based on a lot of your comments (which BTW, I do look for the Hawkeye symbol to read what you have to say) I can tell you’re way smart enough to just blow it off and move on.

I mean, come on who the hell cares if someone has hatred towards the players. You can’t stop it, I can’t stop it. I certainly don’t want to even try. But wouldn’t it be better for everyone if you (and others) were still part of the main thread?

I sometimes think its over early when they just look bad but usually I don’t post that. Just during Thursdays’ game when LA scored that 5-spot in the 2nd, I felt that way. But it was way too early to leave and I did pay $400 for our seats and didn’t want to just leave. But it was how I felt. Now, if I were home, and on the thread, I probably would not have posted that even though I felt, “here we go again!”

I just feel that you and some of the mainstayers could more than make up for the ledgejumpers but hey what do I know, eh?

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Oct 4, 2008 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

Sorry, I can't stay

in here when it gets like it did on Thurs. night. Obviously there are several others who feel the same way too. For personal reasons I don’t handle verbal abuse well against me or others and that’s how those rantings feels to me. It’s better for me to move elsewhere.

I wish you could have seen a win Thurs. night but maybe they will get things going tonight.

Let's take three...starting today!!

by sue369 on Oct 4, 2008 5:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

+1

Fat , drunk , and ,stupid is no way to go through life son.

by alabebo on Oct 4, 2008 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions  

wow. keep your chin up al. it was an amazing season. 6 months of thrills, one week of crap. so it goes. the season is not quite over yet (even if it appears that it will be soon) – and there is still hope (even if only a small hope). i, for one, am still happy to be along for the ride……

"I'd rather win ugly than lose pretty," -- Lou Pinella

by anormal on Oct 3, 2008 9:38 AM CDT reply actions  

At least...

.. the other Chicago team may be able to come through for our city.

"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse

by ronsanto10 on Oct 3, 2008 9:39 AM CDT reply actions  

Yeah, Go Blackhawks!

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

heh heh ... very good indeed!

Oh, if I could ONLY be in town to get in Wrigley when the Hawks play!

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

One forward away from being in the top 4 of the conference

They unloaded that soft Russian goalie (thought it could cost as much as $6.75M but not a cap hit to do it) and if the kids I’ve been watching in Rockford for the last two years (well 2 years ago in Norfolk, VA) this is going to be a good season; maybe upwards of 100 points.

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Oct 4, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

They already did

It was called the 2005 World Series. They no longer have the same burden of expectations that the Cubs have.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

To any White Sox fans reading this,

I don’t care if your team wins or loses.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Oct 3, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

I am thinking the central division

teams in the playoffs as a whole will be wiped off the board in the next couple of days. Brewers and White Sox are both struggling, both tired and over worked. The Cubs were the only ones coming in as clear cut winners with days to prepare and rest and even that didn’t help. Too bad for all of us in the midwest.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions  

Symbolism of the futility has been the repeated hesitation of Cub fielders on pop outs and fly balls...

They looked like pee wee league players not confident in their fielding ability and not sure of the protocol of the infield on who should take which pop up. This has happened 5 times in two games by my eyes. It’s something you don’t see 5 times in an entire 162 game season for a veteran infielder where the players have good familarity with one another.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 9:40 AM CDT reply actions  

I wouldn't call it symbolic of futility but

I have to agree that they have looked like little leaguers on the pop flies. I even told my wife that on Derosa/Theriot ball last night; that’s exactly what it looked like. I think it was Sutcliffe on XM radio (which I think was an ESPN feed) said “It looked on that play like they had never met before.”

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

good post Al

This is what was needed today.

I just wouldn’t be able to stomach sunshine and rainbows today.

I just wouldn’t.

by rgonzale on Oct 3, 2008 9:42 AM CDT reply actions  

Another Failed Season...Maybe

I am not satisified with winning in the regular season…just like I know the players are not. I had some great memories from this regular season but those great memories don’t really mean much if in the end you fail.

I watched them for 6 months only to see them play their worst two games in a span of two days.

It is like having a courtship with the hot chick for 6 months…only to get dumped right before the prom. It was great during those 6 months but it sucked showing up at prom without her

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 9:42 AM CDT reply actions  

A great regular season means nothing without FINALLY delivering a World Series Championship

I’m not giving up yet on 2008, but if pattern holds same then this will go down as the most awful season of my 31 years of being a diehard. More awful than 2003. At least in 2003 for the first and only time since 1945 the Cubs had some traction of playoff glory before it all came to halting end on that notorious night at Wrigley.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions  

I have to admit

This really is the worst I have felt about the Cubs in my life of 28 years. Like Shanghi I invested alot this season…heck I saw the Cubs more than my sister and parents.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

I just want them to win

Since I live in STL, I take my fair share of abuse. Just one time…preferably when I can still walk into a bar and I have drink, I want to be able to say to an arch rivarly…shout up, we finally won

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

So do I.

Everyone’s been rather sympathetic today, though. Like I have lepresy and they don’t wanna get too near.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah weird huh?

I’ve got people coming into my office expressing “condolences” geez… Maybe I need to revaluate my priorites.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah.

My desk is adorned with Cubs figures, a stuffed bear with a Cub hat, my Cubs pen. Being a Cub fan is like breathing and, suddenly, I’m in the vacuum of space.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions  

My mother called me today

and asked if I was ok like she had heard I was gravely ill. I was still groggy and said why wouldn’t I be. She said well with the game and all….
I do kind of feel like I have a hangover, but didn’t drink a drop.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions  

Working from home today

So far the two week old newborn is sympathetic :)

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah same here

as far as the newborn being sympathetic anyway. Strange enough, our newborn is exactly two weeks old today.

by rambler19 on Oct 3, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions  

I live in StL also.

Its the same way here. I feel like the walking dead, who everyone is taking pity on.

by storkysm on Oct 3, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

Cards fan here....

Really, though a part of me enjoys your downfall (so far…and you know you’d be enjoying it at least a bit if the shoe was on the other foot), I also don’t think you guys deserve this. You’re a better team than you’ve showed over the last two days. If you guys are indeed going to lose, I hope you do so with honor. And if you somehow pull it out, I extend my sincere congratulations.
This reminds me so very much of the playoff collapses my Cards underwent in the NLCS in 2000, 2002 and 2005-you know you’re a better team than your opponent and you still play badly. It never gets any easier, either.
Still-don’t lose the faith. Your passion is what makes this rivalry so much fun!

by mattisnotfrench on Oct 3, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

thanks, man, for your perspective.

nice.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions  

We won't lose it.

And we’ve still got a game left.

But it feels like these baby bears need a loooooooong winter’s nap. See you in April.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

My bro the Cards fan

was beyond devastated when the Cards got swept in the WS. I thought the first couple of games were funny, And like you, I enjoyed them. But then I really felt bad for him. Swear he was almost in tears and he isnt the crying type. If being a Cubs fan has taught me anything, it’s how to handle bad situations, still be true to what you believe in, and always look forward to a better day.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

I gotta believe

my dad, a Cards fan, is giving me a buffer zone. He knows, as well as I do, that we play tomorrow night, and I’ll be there cheering my team on. But should it end, I know a few days later I’ll get a comforting phone call.

It’s odd, cos even though he’s been a Cards fan all his life, I think a little part of him wants the Cubs to win. His son is a fan, he’s watched a ton of games through WGN and when we lived in Highland Park for four years. He was in an airport bar when 2003 happened and he said he felt terrible.

But it ain’t over yet…

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

I *STILL* have nightmares about that series.

2006 will never kill that either, because it should have been the 2004 team that won it all. After that WS I have a tremendous amount of empathy for a collapsing team because I saw one of the worst, ever.

by mattisnotfrench on Oct 3, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yes

You guys had a great team in 2004, and a crappy one in 2006. Only in baseball…

by vonde6 on Oct 3, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm so jealous of you being able to write that paragraph.

I’d love to be upset over which team won it all. :-(

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 4:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

The Cubs need to take page from the Cards book...

…and get into the postseason repeatedly. Because the playoffs are, indeed, a crapshoot, you stand a better chance of winning the more often you roll the dice.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

No question about that

And I think they’re on the right track to do that.

They’ve got to perform better than this when they get there, though. They just look completely outclassed. The stunning thing about this is, I thought that they had that “look” after last year’s disappointment. I guess we’ll find out if they do or not.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

This is 100% correct.

It’s the only way that teams really have a good shot of finally winning. Bad luck isn’t the root cause of the 100 year fiasco…it’s bad teams. The more we get in the playoffs, the more likely we win.

by storkysm on Oct 3, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions  

Not as bad as '84 team

That team was up 2 – 0 and looked great doing it. Going into SD which was not the hot bed of baseball at that time. Droping the three games there was worse than anything you can fathom. This lay over and die team is just about average for the teams we have seen in past 10 years. Just dont feel the heart in a lot of these guys.

by rmonday557 on Oct 3, 2008 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

With time I'll be able

to look back on tapes of highlights from this season and enjoy them, much like the 2006 Bears season.

Not right now, though.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions  

At least the 2006 Bears did not embarrass themselves

Even though they were clearly outmatched against the Colts in the Super Bowl, they maintained some semblance of competitiveness.

I could handle this much better if the Cubs had lost two well-fought one or two run ballgames to the Dodgers. But right now they are a complete and total embarrassment to their fans, the City of Chicago, and possibly the United States of America and the planet Earth.

by SuperContext on Oct 3, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

hear hear

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

...and to the Milky Way Galaxy and the Known Universe as well....

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

Even the Gallifreyans....

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm not arguing against that.

I’m just saying that, with time, these games (don’t games require two teams?) won’t erase the rest of the season I enjoyed.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

Erase?

no I’m sure eventually I’ll remember it, but right now I feel like someone kicked me in the gut.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

I feel the same only slightly lower.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

It's like someone pulled the rug out, then decided to kick there.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

the offense of the Bears

was embarrassing- all they needed was one drive and the Bears would have won. Not even a scoring drive, just a drive where they didn’t cough up an interception or a fumble.

the game was close in score only

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

Outmatched? Hardly

they were not outmatched, Lovie was outmanaged due to 1 play: the first TD on broken coverage. He spent the rest of the game trying to make sure his team didn’t get burned on the same play and Manning took advantage of a Defense being stuck on deep coverage constantly. He stubbornly refused to change his defense again, lord only knows why.

Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#

by VegasCubFan on Oct 3, 2008 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

+1

Fat , drunk , and ,stupid is no way to go through life son.

by alabebo on Oct 3, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

The Next game

There was some debate on this site about what is a “Must Win” game. Last night was not a must win. The Next game will be. Hopefully, we’ll have two more “Must Win” games after that.

I’m thinking of the 2004 Red Sox. I thought they were done…

I will not be sad until it is truly over. Go Cubs – we all know what this team is able to do. They will do it.

by MolineCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 9:43 AM CDT reply actions  

It may not have been a "must win" literally (or mathematically)...

…but it was a must win in every other sense. The Dodgers now have three opportunities to eliminate the Cubs and, the way LA is playing, that’s more than enough.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

Call me crazy

but I’m a Cub fan, first and foremost. And I still have faith that we are going to win the next three games and move on to the next round. Maybe I’m naive, and maybe I’m too optimistic. On opening day I am convinced that we are going to win it all, and even today, I see no reason to think we won’t.

And if we don’t, it’s not the end of the world. I’m not going to say “I’m through rooting for the Cubs” because being a Cubs fan is in my blood. Losing sucks, and it’s hard watching them play poorly, but I think the team we watched the last 6 months is going to reappear and salvage this postseason.

But if they don’t, it’s okay. I’ll get over it and be cheering them on next year, because if it doesn’t happen this year, I am sure it will next year.

by DWChaney on Oct 3, 2008 9:43 AM CDT reply actions  

What a disappointment

I’ve had other things happen in real life this week/year that are worse, but I sure as hell could have used the distraction. It’s not about any of us as individuals, but it sure feels like piling on…

I invested a lot in this team this year — maybe more so than in the last 25. I’m not sure that I can do that again. I’ll never stop being a fan, but I don’t think it can be at the level that it was this year.

When I needed them the most in June, they turned to crap. When I need them in October, same thing.

Ugh.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 9:44 AM CDT reply actions  

I don't know if I've ever agreed w/ you more

and I cant even find a snarky comment to end it with,,, a sure sign of my disappointment :(

"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 3, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

What you’re dealing with this week is worse, but you heard from me on what I’m dealing with….I’m not ready to post that in a forum like this just yet.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

****Hugs*****

I only know the Cub, but as a fellow Badger sounds like you needed a hug.

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

my thoughts are with you, Shanghai

hang in there

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

I know but still wanted you to know that you put into words what I totally am feeling today :)

"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 3, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks....and thanks to Mike and Em

We’ll both get through our issues…and I’ll be better off for mine in the long run. But damn, a better showing from the Cubs would have helped at least a little bit.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

Shanghai

Forgive me if I am out of line, but wanted to pass along my best to you. I know what it is like to have that feeling of things “piling on.”

Hang in there. Before you know it the sun will be shining, hope will spring eternal and it will be time to begin anew.

by Tangled Up In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

Not out of line at all

Kind words seldom are. I appreciate the sentiment — thank you.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions  

I have no idea

what’s going on in your life right now but know you have my best thoughts. Hang in there.

by sue369 on Oct 3, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks, Sue

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions  

I know

the one time I really commit and go all in emotionally and everything, THIS is what happens?

And people wonder why I have commitment issues…

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'd laugh

but it just feels wrong.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

Careful, you'll make the Golden Retriever nervous.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Oct 3, 2008 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

Eh

She’s completely unfazzed. Plus the end of baseball means we’ll stop watching people play ball on tv and hopefully do more on our own. :-)

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

LA Games

I do have to keep reminding myself that Rich Harden has been amazing in almost every start for the Cubs this year (with only one hiccup I can recall). Ted Lilly is a pitcher designed for Dodger Stadium. As far as pitching matchups go, the Cubs have to be the favorites in the next two games. The issue is with the hitting and defense, one that is not going to be simple to solve at this point. I wish that Lou had thrown a tantrum a few weeks ago as that may have sparked a few of the slumping hitters.

by Qixotl on Oct 3, 2008 9:46 AM CDT reply actions  

Interesting footnote.

Ted Lilly was originally drafted by the Dodgers, in the 23rd round in 1996.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

He did...in STL

The O writting was on the wall. They really struggled in September. They got lucky in a few games in Sept. They really only had a couple of games in Septmber where I would say they dominated….

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

Harden is good, and the Cubs may win the next game.

And there is still a chance that they may come back to win the series. I’m still hopeful. Hope is good.

Of course, I am also realistic…..

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

I hope so,

I have tickets to game 5 and I want to cheer in person!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Oct 3, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

If the Cubs can win Game 3

pressure shifts to LA to close it out before having to go back to Wrigley.

Just take one game – at least that’s what I keep telling myself to keep from breaking down.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

To quote a Chicago-filmed movie:

“The night is always darkest just before the dawn.” – Harvey Dent (Aaron Ekhart) in “The Dark Knight”

I’m a Cubs fan, but I’m also a Northwestern Wildcat football fan. More times than I can even remember at this point, opposing teams have had their fat lady warming up to sing about a loss for the Cats….just to have the Cats improbably, impossibly clutch victory away at the last minute.

In 2000, I was in the stands when Northwestern was playing Michigan, with first place in the Big Ten on the line in a nationally televised game on ABC. It was an offensive shootout — the Cats could not stop Michigan, but Michigan could not stop the Cats either. In the waning minutes of the 4th quarter with Northwestern trailing 51-46, the Cats drove down deep into Michigan territory but stalled. On fourth down with blitzing linemen in his face, Zak Kustok lofted a ball into the end zone towards Damien Anderson (who had rushed for over 200 yards that day and a bunch of TDs) wide open in the end zone….and he dropped it.

I’ve never been more dejected and disappointed in my entire life. Michigan had the ball, and just needed one first down to run out the clock, and they had Anthony Thomas at running back — who had not fumbled the entire season.

As Cats fans, we did not give up. We cheered harder. We screamed. We prayed and hoped for a miracle.

On 2nd and 3 with 50 seconds left, Michigan gave the ball to Anthony Thomas, who broke through the Wildcats defensive line with NOTHING but daylight ahead of him. I felt my heart sink to my feet….he saw a sure touchdown ahead of him, and swung his arm back ever so slightly….

When Sean Wieber reached out, touched the ball, and forced Thomas’ first fumble all season at the Michigan 30 yard line, with NU recovering.

NU marched down and on a slant pattern to Sam Simmons took the lead and victory, snatched LITERALLY from the jaws of defeat, by the final score of 54-51.

I don’t know why I wrote all this, except to say believe. Root louder. Have faith. Know that something won thru adversity is SOOOO much sweeter than something won with ease. Believe in Rich Harden and Ted Lilly on the mound, the bats of Alfonso Soriano, Derrek Lee, Aramis Ramirez, Jim Edmonds, Geovany Soto and Mark DeRosa. Trust in Lou. Enjoy the hustle of Theriot, Fontenot, and Fukudome. Prepare yourself for Marmol and Wood shutting down the end of games.

Just believe. It CAN happen. And I think it WILL happen.

by Chadnudj on Oct 3, 2008 9:49 AM CDT reply actions  

I was at that NU-Michigan game

What an emotional roller coaster! I heard it was immediately replayed on ESPN Classic or something like that. And you didn’t even mention the Cats’ “first” touchdown that put them ahead 52-46—if I recall, it was called back, and they had to do it AGAIN. What a game!!

Can the Cubs pull off something similar? Well, honestly, I think they can, but I’m not expecting it. Just forget the last couple of days, and imagine having them sweep the Dodgers in a 3-game series. Not hugely likely, but certainly not impossible. I honestly expect them to win Saturday…I mean, look at the stats on the Dodgers’ #3 pitcher.

by jdb-44 on Oct 3, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions  

So confused

I feel like having home field has worked against the Cubs. Derosa and Lee both looked so tense trying to field those balls, hoping not to mess up

So many issues, why haven’t we seen Reed Johnson yet? Reed’s been one of the best guys all year with base runners. Fukudome again? Seriously if I have to see one more spinarama this year I’m going to puke. Leaving Demp in way too long in game one.

All I’m looking for is a chance, just win game 3 and let’s take our chances. When the Cubs finally do win it all, they won’t just walk to the World Series. It’s going to have to be very difficult and improbable, but to overcome this start, seems like too much.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 9:49 AM CDT reply actions  

Advanced Scouting

I know that I keep going back to the 2007 playoffs, but this team, which by in large is the same line-up, is playing the same way. I know that advanced scouting was done but either it was ineffective for the second year straight or the team has no clue how to put that scouting report to good use, whereas the Dbacks and Dodgers have done so against the Cubs.

I contrast this to 2003 where the Cubs faced a very dangerous line-up in Atlanta that included Chipper Jones, Gary Sheffield, Javy Lopez, Andruw Jones, Rafael Furcal and Vinny Castilla. It was a dominant line-up with seemingly little holes. Cubs pitchers had a spectacular gameplan and executed it masterfully.

Over this current playoff series and last year’s playoff series it just seems as though the Cubs have no advanced scouting. It might be there and perhaps the players are not executing it in the least. It just seems to me that when the dust settles, regardless of when the Cubs exit the playoffs, there are a lot of questions that need to be answered, ones that didn’t get answered last year after a quick exit.

by dmlichte on Oct 3, 2008 9:50 AM CDT reply actions  

The Cubs do have advance scouting.

The problem is, it doesn’t seem to make any difference. Does any of the info actually get used?

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

ya...

… I know they have advance scouing. I’m sure plenty of it. It just seems like when the Cubs took the field (both last year and this year), they had no idea how to take on their opponent.

by dmlichte on Oct 3, 2008 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

Well...

I am not sure their is advancing scouting report that says this is how you get around 2 freaking errors that should have ended an inning.

That was the game period…The only blemish on Z record is the Manny Homerun. W/O those errors he pitches at least 7 innings. Marmol and Wood probably pitch differently and we probably win the freaking game..

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

the offensive approach is just that

I was stunned when Billingsley threw Soriano a first pitch strike. Once he got to second, he HAD to score.

I was surprised that Theriot wasn’t asked to bunt him over.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions  

I thought the same thing.

After Wednesday, the Cubs needed a 1 run lead to start pressure on LA.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Oct 3, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

agree, we were all dumbfounded that Theriot didnt bunt there....

"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 3, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

not only that

but the riot moves runners… he makes contact
it was bizarro wrigley

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions  

he picked a bad time to have his worst strikeout ever.

that run would’ve been nice..

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 4:47 PM CDT up reply actions  

Even if it does get used...

…information doesn’t win baseball games, execution does. They could know every pitch to throw to every Dodgers hitter and know every tendency of every Dodgers pitcher, but if they can’t score runs and they give Torre’s team extra outs (and extra bases), all the scouting in the world doesn’t matter.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions  

It's all about

THE EXECUTION! When players don’t execute on defense, offense, pitching, they lose.

Plain and simple.

In other words, the coaches, scouts, etc did their jobs, the players just didn’t execute very well.

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

Al, are you giving us permission this morning

to give into the tempation to say " Here we go again!" Yesterday you didn’t allow it.

Dallas Green!

by SonnyJ9 on Oct 3, 2008 9:50 AM CDT reply actions  

Do it if you want.

But this isn’t a “here we go again”. This is a “this is worse than we could have imagined”.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

A Cub of a certain age

I had to chuckle a little in the midst of the doom and gloom when Al talked about fans “of a certain age” that remember Jack Bickhouse and the “hopeless early 60’s” since I fall into that category.
That is probably why I am probably a little less depressed than some of the other BCB’ers that have posted so far. I think that one becomes more philosophical about the Cubs after watching them year after year. I still watch the Cubs on TV or radio during the season but we only get to Wrigley several times a year since we now live in California. My wife and I were at Wrigley on October 14, 2003 when Bartman reached out for the foul ball. I thought we still had a chance but when when Gonzalez booted the grounder several plays later, I turned to my wife and said “We are toast again this year.” And that is exactly what I told her last night whiile watching game 2. When Derosa and Lee made their errors I knew we were toast again. I didn’t get mad. I didn’t put my foot through the TV. (I learned my lesson). I only repeated the time worn phrase known to Cub fans over the world: Wait until next year.

And Al, your site is important to all us regardless of whether the Cubs lose game 3 or never ever make the WS. You provide an opportunity for all us to vent and give our opinions on our wonderful Cubs. So thanks and keep your head up.

wccubfan

by wccubfan on Oct 3, 2008 4:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks for the recap. I was waiting for this to have closure on this loss.

Given the Cubs’ organization’s focus on the “Fans” and the lack of noise at Wrigley Stadium, maybe they will play better away from home?

Maybe all that silence in the stands is what is messing up the timing of our top 5 hitters in the lineup?

In any event, if we do win the next two, is possible for the Cubs to change game 5 to be played in LA? Maybe we can make up an excuse like more falling cement chunks at Wrigley?

by DudeVf11 on Oct 3, 2008 9:51 AM CDT reply actions  

Did you say "Wrigley Stadium" on purpose?

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions  

How about a Frank TV ad quote to make us all cringe

“Take me out to the ball park”

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions  

That guy could give me a million dollars and I still wouldn't watch his show.

In fact, the only way I would watch his show is if he found some way to ensure the Cubs would win their next three games.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm with you there, daver

who on earth decided that man had any talent? I mean, seriously.

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

His impressions are quite good....

…But get old. I liked him when he would only occasionally be on TV or radio programs as a guest, but this is over-exposure…And annoying.

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 3, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

A good example of how we accept less than mediocre as watchable TV.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

Playoff Cubs...

A good example of how we accept less than mediocre as watchable TV baseball.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions  

+10000000

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'll admit his Dubya is pretty good.

The others don’t really impress me that much. Then again, impressions as a whole usually don’t do much for me. Once you get over that initial “Hey! He sounds just like ________”, there usually isn’t much substance to the humor.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

Has home field advantage ever worked so hard against a team?

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions  

Please

no one blame for the fans for the lack of noise the last couple nights. I heard enough of it and it’s total bullshit!! Cubs don’t cheer just to hear themselves be loud, they cheer when the Cubs are doing something good, which over the last two nights, didn’t happen too often.

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

I was referring to

how it has seemed to make the team tense. I think we would have been better off if we started in LA.

I was there last night and I think the crowd was great despite the terrible game.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

Since they played tight last year when they started the series in Arizona,

I don’t think where they played the games made any difference.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Oct 3, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

They weren't nearly as good last year.

They needed to get off to a good start, beyond Derosa’s hr, nothing has been good. I think it would have been easier to overcome the Loney grand slam on the road then at a silent Wrigley. I’m not saying it’s right they have this problem, but something is there.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

I feel good about Harden and Lilly

But I also sense that the Dodgers know they have a dagger at the throat of the dragon and aren’t about to pass up opportunity to end it quickly. Joe Torre and the Dodgers have clear and realistic understanding of who they are and what their weaknesses are. They know on paper they aren’t as strong as the other teams, to include the Cubs. Therefore there is zero chance of arrogance entering the picture for them. I think they will approach game 3 with a ruthlessness to get the job done before the bully on the ground is able to get back up.

Plus, the stage is set for Manny to be a rock star of rock stars in Chavez Ravine. You just know he is going to rise to the ocassion to stamp his name in the Dodger history books now that they have gotten to this point. Plus he is playing for his next mega-contract and would like nothing more to stay with the Dodgers.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 9:52 AM CDT reply actions  

Nice mention in SI

Cracked me up when I saw that this morning!

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

I tend to agree...

…I sense the Dodgers are going to finish this thing off in 3 and Manny is just the guy (who doesn’t feel pressure) who will go off if you let him.

I will say this, if the Cubs could somehow win game 3, I think it puts pressure on the Dodgers in game 4, because they won’t want to come back here for game 5, after being up 2-0.

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

by MPH73 on Oct 3, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

LOL

Never before has a greater contradiction been put into words than “Manny” and “zero chance of arrogance entering the picture.” The arrogance is already in the picture - that’s why the Dodgers are winning. They’re riding Torre’s experience, Manny’s ego (well-deserved as it may be) and devastating starting pitching right into the NLCS. They aren’t playing humbly; they’re playing cocky – because they have the results to back it up.

I love the line “they have a dagger at the throat of the dragon,” too. All due respect to my beloved Cubs, this dragon looks more like a salamander to me.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

He may be an ass. He may be a preening fawning show off

He’s Broadway Joe Meets Mr. October with dreads ..

but all three men went to unbelievable lengths to make good their braggadocio .. If you flaunt it, you’d better be able to deliver .. and Manny, to our horror, did just that.

It’s time for the Cubs bats’ to do likewise .. The pitching hasn’t been the exclusively main problem ..

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

The usual Cubs' response after getting pounded for a couple games

They’ll win tomorrow 11-2 or something outlandish like that. But then lose the next game in a close one.

by Arbusto on Oct 3, 2008 9:53 AM CDT reply actions  

Cubs Lost 2 in a Row 17 Times This Season

Seriously, did anyone expect to go 11-0 this postseason? As bad as we feel as a fan base, how do we think the Cubs feel after the way they muddled around the last two games? If they are professionals, and I believe they are, they will get angry and step up for the next 2 games. I don’t believe that game 3 and game 4 will be close, Cubs win easy.

by vegasjs on Oct 3, 2008 9:53 AM CDT reply actions  

They didn't lose two in a row like those two.

Those are about the worst games I have ever seen ANY Cubs team play.

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

by Al Yellon on Oct 3, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

That felt like 1965 or something during the "college of coaches" years

Billy Williams last night was even quoted as saying “pitiful”

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions  

The only players that have looked like a professional out there the last two days

Edmonds (The Ex Card) and Zambrano (the Part time head case). The Character Guys (Lee, Dero and Aram) have wilted yet again.

If they don’t pull this plane out of this noise dive…can they ever think that they will do it with these core guys

Talk to Me Goose….Talk to me damn it.

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

Other than DeRo's booted ball

he’s been great this postseason. Easily our most productive on offense.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 4, 2008 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

Exactly.

It’s not that they’re losing, it’s how they’re losing.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

That Tampa series felt pretty bad.

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions  

Only two sets of those 17 games were they outscored by +10 runs combined

June 26 vs. BAL
June 27 vs. CWS

was the worst, but the offense was not so inept, the defense not as bad.

by IllinoisCubs on Oct 3, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

Cubs Batting Averages During Playoffs.

Soriano, .111
Theriot, .250
Lee, .429
Ramirez, .250
DeRosa, .500
Edmonds, .286
Soto, .143
Fukudome, .000

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 9:54 AM CDT reply actions  

How about number of runners in scoring position and success in driving in runners in scoring position...

Before last night’s 9th inning burp by the Cubs they were 2 for 34 with runners in scoring position if you count last year’s Arizona series and the first two games against the Dodgers.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

How about Sori?

Correct me if I am wrong, but is he the most expensive position player on the team?

I think his defense is fine lately, but he does not have a history of being a performer in the playoffs.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions  

I just heard on the radio...

…that Piniella went off on Soriano after the game – “to show more guts”.

Well, its probably something Lou should have done a while ago, and I’m not sure this is the right thing to do at this point. Lou is emotional and you take the good with the bad, but I don’t know about this one.

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

by MPH73 on Oct 3, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions  

Sori is very poor in the postseason historically.

Good for Lou.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

didn't he have a couple of good playoffs with the Yankees?

I seem to remember Soriano coming through big for them a few times, including a couple of walk-off hits…

"...the internet is not something you just dump something on. It's not a truck. It's a series of tubes." - Sen. Ted Stevens

by bobby h on Oct 3, 2008 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

He hit a homerun off Schilling that put NY up 2-1 in Game 7

but, unfortunately, we haven’t seen that one around here so far.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions  

Soriano

I believe he hit the last World Series homerun at Yankee Stadium

Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#

by VegasCubFan on Oct 3, 2008 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

We need something

Michael Barrett posters taped to Z’s locker?

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

In 5 playoff games they have a total of 11 runs

I don’t know what AVG w/RISP is, but that stat says it all.

by IllinoisCubs on Oct 3, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

That Lee stat is bogus

when they come in meaningless situations.

by CubFaninNY on Oct 3, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

The Lee stat is not bogus. That's his BA.

I agree with you though that his ABs are pretty pathetic. Not a #3 hitter anymore. Too bad.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

Of course it is his BA but what does it tell us?

Lee got a BB, 2 singles and a 2b, in 2 games. The 2b was in the 8th inning last night.

Lee has not been a complete zero but he has been disappointing. I appreciate that he’ll take BBs, he still has value but not as a No. 3 hitter. For whatever reason his power is MIA.

It isn’t all Lee’s fault either, Soriano has done far, far less, and Aramis has been bad, too.

by DudeVf11 on Oct 3, 2008 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

A-Rod has lots of Homers, too.

But most of the time they mean very little, because they come when they make little impact.

by CubFaninNY on Oct 3, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

or his GiDP stat

really pathetic
His wrist injury from 2006 prevents him from turning his wrist and hitting with any power. He’s effectively finished as a power hitter.

Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#

by VegasCubFan on Oct 3, 2008 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

Al, I would appreciate your direct take on Jim Hendry's criticism of the Wrigley crowd last night

As you know he stooped to lowest form of excuse making by taking a swipe at the crowd. I’m still stunned by what Hendry said to the point that if we had a real owner in place I would think right course of action would be to terminate Hendry on the spot.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 9:55 AM CDT reply actions  

Hopefully we'll get a new owner....

and I like the “Maverick” as our new owner (not the one running for Prez, the other one).

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hopefully the one running for prez

shows a little more fight than this team on Nov. 4

by MJMars on Oct 3, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions  

Probably

Would have made a better infielder for them last night — all 72 years and screwed up arms of him.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

Larry, Moe, Curly and Shemp...

would have made better infielders last night.

by hokie316 on Oct 3, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

He said

that because of the way the team played the fans seemed to be waiting for doom and gloom.

Wow he should not only be fired but shot.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

The crowd nothing to do with anything of this crap

anyone who thinks it did is a complete moron. Cub fan cheer when the Cubs do something good not just to hear themselves yell.

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

I thought the crowd was actually very supportive.

Chanting “Go Cubs Go” even in the late innings when their insides had been kicked in by the horrible plays.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

And "Let's Go Z!"

That was pretty cool, actually.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

it almost sounded louder

in the 9th after everyone left…I have never seen the stadium so empty during a game this year- losing or not

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions  

And neither was Hendry

And only an idiot thinks Hendry’s comments blamed the fans. In fact he was saying the teams play caused the fans to feel the way they did not the fans causing the teams play.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions  

I don't know about Al's response, but...

my response is that Hendry’s comments were LAME and real shot below the belt to all the Cub fans who have been more than loyal over the years!

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

It was a SoriDomeockery

BTW, I think Torre’s move to bring in Broxton in the 9th shows what a great post-season manager he is. The Cubs weren’t going to score 9 runs, but Torre knew that if the offense gained any momentum or confidence by putting up a 4-5 spot it could have carried into next game. That, my friends, is how you manage.

by BeltwayCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 9:55 AM CDT reply actions  

It ain't over til it's over.

The fat lady ain’t sung yet (though she’s had one hell of a tuneup).

Yes, that’s my attempt at a wee bit of levity and maybe get a laugh or two today. It’s a somber day indeed, only slightly upped by the fact that it was a blowout. If we blew a lead late, or lost by one I’d have been even more crushed. As it was, I’d kinda come to terms with this by the time Manny hit his bomb.

But you take it one game at a time. If we win tomorrow, that’s one game. Play Sunday. Win then, it’s tied, back to Wrigley. Longshot, I know, but hey, we’re Cub fans. We should be used to it.

Hope springs eternal. And remember, Cub fans…there’s always next year.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 9:55 AM CDT reply actions  

Remind me to break out my singing voice on Saturday

Ya know, just incase they can’t make it happen.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

I am a Cub fan. I have a high toleration for pain.

I just can’t shake the feeling that we are going to see them regroup.

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions  

I want them to win so bad on Saturday.

 I have never wanted anything more in all my 30 yrs on earth!

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions  

I felt like that both days...although getting to date Erin Andrews is a close second.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

At least today wasn't a total loss. I do like that picture.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think we have good SP matchups, too...

and the park plays to pitchers, so I still have a little bit of hope, but the offense and the D have been so bad that I can’t picture it happening. Plus, this teams seems mentally weak. They make excuses for everything. If Soriano is supposed to be our Manny, he’s just not even in the same galaxy (not saying Soriano makes excuses), he’s an undisciplined hitter that good pitchers seem to have no problem getting out.

by DudeVf11 on Oct 3, 2008 9:55 AM CDT reply actions  

How did you know I have

dinner plans at OCB on Saturday???

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

we are on

a two game losing streak. How many three game winning streaks did we have this year? PLENTY of them!

GO CUBS GO!

by brian custer on Oct 3, 2008 10:00 AM CDT reply actions  

First time I've actually believed in 'The Curse'

On a positive note, NOTHING can ‘kill’ me Cub-wise since 2003. That was the worst. I can deal with this – not like I…or we have a choice, but what can we do? We are TOTALLY choking… and at the worst possible time.

Wait a minute... who am I here?

by malicedoom on Oct 3, 2008 10:01 AM CDT reply actions  

I might believe, too.

True story:

My dad called me minutes after DeRo’s homer in game one. He just wanted to tell me to enjoy the playoffs and that he had just gotten home and saw the blast. However, my first thought, my VERY FIRST THOUGHT was, “Oh my god, Dad called me moments after Hester returned the opening kick in the Super Bowl. Shit…”

Seriously. That was my first thought. Wow.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions  

ha ha. it's deja vu all over again....

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions  

I have no words to describe my feelings right now...

this has been possibly the most pathetic display of baseball I have ever seen in my entire life. I hope mjk83 is right…i’m out.

You ARE freaking out MAN!

by crw89 on Oct 3, 2008 10:02 AM CDT reply actions  

History is being made

The best team in the NL has not lost this bad since the Division Series expanded.

I’m sure you would have to go even farther back to find a team that outworsed what the Cubs just did these past two days after being the best team all year long.

I like Harden, I like Lilly, I like Dempster for 3, 4, 5 but to win they would have to allow just one run for this offense to win.

by IllinoisCubs on Oct 3, 2008 10:02 AM CDT reply actions  

03 Giants

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

The Giants lost the series

but they stared with a 2-0 victory, lost the next game by 5, lost the next two games by 1 run each.

That’s hardly an embarrassing performance.

Also, the Giants weren’t the best team in the regular season. The Braves were.

by IllinoisCubs on Oct 3, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions  

They still won almost 100 games...right

They still lost to a supposed inferior team. The choked away a late lead and lost at a play in the plate in the final game…right. The scores don’t always tell the whole story.

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

They won a game

Something this team has failed to do in five postseason games now.

They also outscored the 07-08 Cubs five game run total in just two games, Game 2 & Game 4.

I’d kill for their offense at this point.

by IllinoisCubs on Oct 3, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

They have to HIT!!

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

I love that song

I have it on repeat any time I feel down. That and Straight Lines by Silverchair.

by mkacer on Oct 3, 2008 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

May this work for you ...

… like it worked for my favorite team when they needed to win 3 straight.


“Over? NOTHING IS OVER…”

Watch it here (unedited). http://tinyurl.com/4pb9hn
Listen here (ok for kids). http://tinyurl.com/3sj8kb

by DrCrawdad on Oct 3, 2008 10:05 AM CDT reply actions  

Ha!

This may be the week I have to start it!

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

Say it Ain't So Cubbies

Remember they went through…….. seems like a 7 – 10 game losing streak when they looked real bad back in early Sept or end of Aug……….. now is not the time to repeat it .. they looked like the pressure got to them and they played High School Baseball.

by nimblenikelfoos on Oct 3, 2008 10:09 AM CDT reply actions  

Compliments to most

Except for the morons calling for the team to be dismantled and the fire Hendry posts the posts here have been great.

The only hope I have is that this team has shown resillency all season.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:11 AM CDT reply actions  

Come Saturday

you may need a new name :)

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions  

I gotta put this series on Lou

A manager’s job is to motivate and Lou has turned into Dusty in one respect- he’s slunk into his seat in the dugout, hands in pocket, an occasional remark to Rothschild. How about some encouragement, how about clapping your hands, how about putting some faith into your team.

I stopped watching in the 6th innning.

I do not plan to watch either of the next two games. I’m not even sure I could stand to watch game 5, if we were lucky enough to get it.

This team is playing scared. Playing like they know they should lose.

I really and truly thought this might be “the year.” It’s one thing to get beat when you play well. It’s another thing to go out there and humiliate yourself with terrible play and terribel at-bats.

The callous gets thicker every year, and at this rate I’m not sure I’ll be able to get emotional about this team until the Cubs actually make it to the world series.

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Oct 3, 2008 10:12 AM CDT reply actions  

Lou doesn't hit, field, or pitch.

How do you tell Sori to hit above .150 in the playoffs? How do you tell Dome not to corkscrew? How can you field for DLee, or throw for Theriot?

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

But Lou should've been there for the whole team

after Theriot missed the grounder (that, for the record, wasn’t his fault). Z flailed his arm like a child (not an insult, cos I did, too) and Lou needed to gather the entire team and calm em down. It’s the Bartman situation all over again.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

-1

Cubs player are not executing. Period.

by digitalbenjamin on Oct 3, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

Those "win one for the Gipper" speeches only work in the movies

While Piniella has made a couple of bad tactical moves (playing Kosuke for two game while clutch hitting Johnson and Fontenot rot on the bench) I can’t pin much blame on him. This is a failure of the players on the field. And that failure has been total and complete in every phase of the game. As Lou said last night the last two games have been THE poorest played games of the season by this ballclub.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

I wish Lou DID behave like Dusty

The one truly great thing about Dusty is that he DID motivate players and made every single player feel like an important member of the team. He made guys like Karros & Simon as important as Sosa. Both Lou and Dusty are BAD in game managers but in a post season I actually prefer Dusty. Lou has coddled Sori, continued to play Howry even including two TERRIBLE losses in the final week.
This is not a way to “inspire” a team. Yes he had great success in the past but I think his style of managing by intimidation is a thing of the past. When did you ever really hear a player talk about Lou in reverental terms. Most everyone seemed to think having a hard ass manager was a great thing but I prefer the even keeled guys like Francona, Sciosa (sic) etc.

"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry

by Doggie Stalker on Oct 3, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

I hate to say it

But am I the only one if they’;re not going to come back and win would almost rather have it just be over with Saturday night.

Guys I did see Al last night. He really was dejected. I decided not to approach him. I waved not sure if he saw me or knew who I was.

Of course we are starting the Fire Lou idiots.

I have to check for sure but when the Mariners came back to beat the Yankees weren’t Lou and Torre the managers.

And again these are good players having a bad 2 games. They picked a horrible 2 games to be bad in.

calling them terrible players is one thing. Calling them bad players for a game is another.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:15 AM CDT reply actions  

one win would be nice just to know that they won

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 3, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed

atleast one win will somehow in a small way make this disaster still better than last year.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

For me if...

If they are not going to at least win the Pennant, the sooner the lose the better. I don’t need the stress. However, I would at least like for them to compete. They have failed to do that.

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hopefully this ownership situation gets solved fast

We need a new owner in place quickly so that we know how much money we can spend this offseason.

If we get Cuban, I fully expect money to be throw around left and right.

Sign Sabathia, sign Furcal, sign everyone.

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 3, 2008 10:15 AM CDT reply actions  

Cuban

Cuban would listen to the fans who are stupid enough to say trade everyone now and dismantle a 97 win team because the morons wanted it.

They had a 110 millionish payroll this season. Obviously money was not the problem.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

Money isn't the problem and neither is most of the team

I just want more money thrown around. Outspend the Yankees if possible.

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 3, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

The great Sabathia

The great Sabathia didn’t do any better than Zambrano yesterday it should be also pointed out.

In fact Sabathia did worse. He didn’t have to make 5 outs in an inning.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

Sabathia isn't the answer to our playoff problems and I realize that

Doesn’t mean he can’t help.

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 3, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

Our rotation

The rotation isn’t the problem. we may need a new #5 but resigning Dempster and we’re fine in 2009.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

I think we should go to a 6-man rotation

That way we protect Harden over a full season. Z and Marquis being decent hitters makes that a possibility.

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 3, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

marquis is a rock solid
  1. and we have smardzija on the back-burner’ just waiting to get his shot in the starting rotation

by brian custer on Oct 3, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

Spending

Spending money to spend money does not solve problems.

Where would we spend it? Furcal for SS would be the only one people mention that might be a good idea.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

Trying not to beat on the current roster too much

but just cause they spend money that does not mean that spent the money wisely. They really need to find that professional hitter..ala grace…who can compliment their power guys. I thought Dome was that guy….alas he is not.

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

I Thought

the Cuban thing was pretty much out of the picture.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

Then whoever else is the owner better be willing to spend a ton

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 3, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

Money is not the real issue, is it?

Seems to me that the Cubs have spent and spent alot the last couple off-seasons. I don’t know how someone could criticize the Cubs for NOT spending.

The Yankees and Boston spend too, and it just doesn’t always work. But the Cubs did win 97 games and they’re in the post-season and it’s not over, yet.

by DrCrawdad on Oct 3, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

I want more money spent

Offer stupid contracts to every free agent. I’m not saying they aren’t spending, im saying I would like to see some more spending, fully expecting that it comes off as an obnoxious comment.

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 3, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

Quit breaking my heart!

……wake up Cubs, we watched you all season long, hanging on every pitch and this is how you repay the fans… THIS?

If this team continues to play with no heart, they will lose mine….

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:17 AM CDT reply actions  

Got along

They got along with you before you came bandwagon jumper will get along without you now that you’re a Brewers fan.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

Thats awful presumptious...

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

And pretty uncalled for

This isn’t the time to “prove” how hopelessly devoted a fan a person is, we all are (or at least should) be disapointed.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

ANYONE

Anyone that would stop being a fan after this is not a real fan.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'll arm-wrestle you for a chance to hug Lynda Carter.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

Can't arm wrestle.

Not since I saw a video of a dude’s elbow popping. Scares me to death.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions  

Elbow popping? (shudder)

…Wait, does that mean I win by default?
ready to commence the Lynda-huggin’

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

Why not.

The video’s pretty intense. The dude’s arm goes full down like he lost, but his elbow stays put. He has an ungodly look of horror on his face as the ref stabilizes his arm and the opponent backs off in shock. I cannot shake that image when I think of arm wrestling.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

And

Anyone who would jump all over the frustrated comments made by a real fan is a jerk. I can say this because I am guilty of it too. Let people vent a little…who died and made you hall monitor?

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions  

Listen

I’ve been a die hard cub fan since I was 7, the game I watched last night made me sick. I’m not literally going to switch teams. I’m just like everyone else…..irritated.

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

And

And I overreacted to your comments. At least you’re not calling for the entire team to be traded and every person in the office down to Jim Hendry’s second assistant to be fired.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

Def. not a ledge jumper

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hmmm

I’m thinking jumping to that ship is worse…I’d go for something exciting and Blue.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

LA??

: D

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

LOL

Klassic KOW sentence structure.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm not one for internet memes...

But I just have one thing to say about this cubs team (they don’t deserve capitalization):

FAIL.

"And heeeere cooome the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on Oct 3, 2008 10:18 AM CDT reply actions  

Isn't this just an unbelievable nightmare?

I’ve read everything so far and jeezsh this is bad. Al, we’ve talked a few times, cheer up, this is not like you but I completely understand why. I’ve said before it’s never easy. This team has been a complete team all year, we’re just completely sucking together right now. We don’t have a real stud to rally around like a Manny, and we need one. I’m thinking this team needs to learn how to win. Lou got it turned around last year. This year, up until September 30, has been awesome. We have another step to go. We’re not a lucky team like say the Marlins have been where it just happens for us all at once. We’re going to have to learn the hard way how to win and have playoff toughness. It will take some tweaking, but realize we’ve taken two steps forward since 2006 and no one can take that away. It’s just the way we are trying to take this last step is so disgusting. Talk about turnoffs.

I know your are realistic Al, I’m with ya. But cheer up, there are things in life worse than the Cubs losing.

This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).

by mrcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:18 AM CDT reply actions  

Perhaps I'm hyperbolizing somewhat...

But from where I stand, those last two games were the worst baseball games I’ve ever subjected myself to. Ever. Worse than game 6 in 2003, seeing as these were a pair of crap factory games.

Nightmare doesn’t even begin to describe it.

"And heeeere cooome the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on Oct 3, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed 100%

For punishment they will make prison convicts watch those games.

This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).

by mrcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions  

you brought my first smile of the thread

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions  

Funny youtube video

you have to liste to the whole thing but it’s hilarious, George Brett telling a story…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqDWeQkL-HY

There are swear words so if that’s a problem, don’t watch it.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 10:19 AM CDT reply actions  

Lou

I didn’t like him when they hired him, I like him even less now. All the little things that got glossed over during the regular season are coming back to haunt us now.

Not counting his first season with the Reds his playoff record is 15-24. Yikes! For a manager with “experience?”

by goddess on Oct 3, 2008 10:21 AM CDT reply actions  

I think Michael Scott said it best:

It feels like somebody took my heart and dropped it into a bucket of boiling tears… and at the same time, somebody else is hitting my soul in the crotch with a frozen sledgehammer… and then a third guy walks in and starts punching me in the grief bone… and I’m crying, and nobody can hear me, because I am terribly, terribly… terribly alone.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 10:21 AM CDT reply actions   2 recs

+1

"And heeeere cooome the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on Oct 3, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

nice.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

Love it.

My grief bone is more like in mushy greif shards now.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, that about sums it up.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions  

Thats a great idea

think that belongs on my facebook and myspace

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

Heres something

Manny Ramirez are all his postseason homeruns as meaningless as the last 2 nights?

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:21 AM CDT reply actions  

They're not meaningless until after the game is over.

During the game, they’re valuable tack-on runs and invaluable psychological grenades thrown into the opposing dugout.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

A few things

1) I wrote this elsewhere, so briefly – Most analysts always thought this was going 5 and the first two matchups didn’t look good for the Cubs. Let this thing play out. We may get swept; we may sweep the next three. As a fan, our job is to keep cheering till they’re done playing. They’re not done yet.
2) Al wrote, “Virtually every single move that Jim Hendry and Lou Piniella made during the season seemed the right ones, were hailed by most of us here.” Yes, most hailed most of the moves. There was a solid minority, however, an excoriated minority, that said Lou was not managing to win in the post-season. Now is not the time to rehash the old debate or begin the post-post-season debate, but there were warnings.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Oct 3, 2008 10:22 AM CDT reply actions  

I think Lou is a fine manager. Not perfect, but who else would you choose?

He can’t force Sori to hit better than .150, he can’t swing for Dome, or throw for Theriot. He can’t field for DLee.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

Anybody

Anybody else would have kept Zambrano in longer last year and taken Dempster out earlier this year. Or not have a hitter who’s become a head case batting 2nd in the first game of the playoffs.

by goddess on Oct 3, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions  

fair enough. but do you really think that it is Lou's fault that the team played like a pathetic

bunch? Trust me, Lou is pissed royally now, and he’s gonna be screaming at those guys for the next two days. He’s lost it.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

Come on

Come on zev Lou is the magic morphing man,

He morphs into his players and makes the bad pitches and plays.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions  

Absolutely. People need someone to blame, so they blame Lou.

Lou isn’t perfect, but sheesh, those guys couldn’t hit or field last night.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

Let me be clear.

I’m not blaming anyone. I’m trying not to play that game. I’m noting something in response to Al’s claim that implied there was little questioning of Lou’s management decisions all season long.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Oct 3, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm not saying it's just him

But, he gets a full share. How about Lou saying he knew Dempster didn’t have when he gave up the double. Right after the grand slam. After he walked the bases loaded. Everybody here knew Demp was done in the second inning. He just didn’t have i and that’s on him. But, Lou needs to see and correct that before the grannie.

by goddess on Oct 3, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions  

how is saturday's matchup better?

Kuroda shut us out. I remember that game and our offense looked inept. Harden is a 5 inning pitcher and then we have to get 4 innings out of a bullpen that looks absolutely wretched.

by BeltwayCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

Kuroda has injury questions.

Harden will go longer in what may be his last start of the season.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Oct 3, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions  

he owned the Cubs that game

The Cubs had better sit in the clubhouse and figure out how they’re going to bat against this guy. He had their numbers and they’d better get his ..

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

When some of us point out the warts during the regular season we are torched around here

Exhibit A — the guess hitting hack who goes by the name Alfonso Soriano. He goes on wondrous hot streaks where he hits the living piss out of bad pitching and drives those sexy personal statistics on the back of his bubblegum card, but what does he EVER do when it most counts or against good pitching???

Exhibit B — as much as I like Ryan Dempster we all knew deep down he was having a career year and had good dose of luck on his side. Last year at this time Dempster was public enemy number one but to his credit he turned into a fine starter. But throughout the season he was prone to walking people and gave up lots of “loud outs” around his otherwise effective pitching. But to raise these points was to be classified as asshole.

Exhibit C — Kerry Wood

Exhibit D — the middle relief

Exhibit E — Felix Pie

The list goes on and on.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

Amazing

Amazing people who called Dempster and Wood crap now just love that they are down 2-0 in the postseason.

Now you claim you were right both suck because of the last 2 games.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

I didn't say Dempster or Wood was crap

Rather I said that throughout the season the warning signs and flaws of each player was pointed out to generaly scathing response. Because during the regular season by gosh Cub fans don’t want to hear ANYTHING contrarian to the viewpoint that key players are anything less that Greek Gods.

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions  

Wood didn't even pitch in a meaningful situation the past two days.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions  

And you didn't want to hear

that Lou had done anything wrong. Whatever.

The season’s not over for us yet. 22 other teams’ fans have nothing left of the season. We’re still going. There will be plenty of time to review and say who was right and who was wrong. We still have at least 1 more game to watch, cheer, and thank God for post-season ball.

I’m not afraid to predict that we’ve got more than one more game to watch.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Oct 3, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hey, genius, people get to disagree with you.

That’s kind of what a blog like this is all about. Just FYI.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions  

Go pound sand.

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 3, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

I did. About three times last night.

I’m not sure what’s more sore, my arm or my….uh, nevermind.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

LOL, what the hell have Kerry Wood and Felix Pie done wrong?

Hell, Pie drew a walk – AGAINST A MAJOR LEAGUE PITCHER – last night.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions  

Right, he walked

because he can’t hit ML pitching.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Oct 3, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

Ohhhhhhhhhhh, now I get it.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions  

In answer to your question in Exhibit A

Exhibit A — the guess hitting hack who goes by the name Alfonso Soriano. He goes on wondrous hot streaks where he hits the living piss out of bad pitching and drives those sexy personal statistics on the back of his bubblegum card, but what does he EVER do when it most counts or against good pitching???

CC Sabathia – Al was wonderful in those games against CC.

by vonde6 on Oct 3, 2008 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

One worry I had

One worry I had was clinching with 11 days before the playoffs started might take some of the fight out of them. I think sadly this is the case.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:24 AM CDT reply actions  

Well...

Clinching the last week did not help much in 07 either…

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yep, there must some truth in that

because there’s absolutely no fight in this bunch, none. One thing is for sure, they all quit after that second inning.

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions  

You guys are a bunch of pansies

Why are you bitching so much? It’s 2 damn losses, it happens.

The Cubs have Harden tomorrow. You know, the guy who has a 11.01 K/9, .187 BAA, and 2.95 FIP. I’m not saying they’re going to win without a doubt on Saturday; I’m going to say they put a fight.

And they put him up against Kuroda. And then hopefully on Sunday the Cubs put on Lilly, who has a 3.35 ERA in August, and a 3.30 ERA in Sept/Oct.

Put my dreams away? No thank you, sir. This is first game I’ll be able to see from top to bottom, since there’s no class to attend.

In short, credo quia absurdum est

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Oct 3, 2008 10:26 AM CDT reply actions  

Harden hasn't been pitching good

over his last few starts. Too many damn walks!! If he stays away from the walks, we’ll have a chance.

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

Ergo bibamus.

I’ll have a scotch please.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

I was told there would be no Latin.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

Losing fight is a garbage argument

I remember watching one of their wins they had the last week against the Mets (the 9-5 win) where they crushed them and recall thinking “if the Cubs can play this loose in the playoffs we are set.” But I knew it would never happen and that we would never see the team that loose when it mattered. And Pinella benching Dome now – 2 games in the hole – is kind of like Rocky throwing in the white towel after Drago had knocked Apollo Creed to the mat. The fatal blow has already been struck Lou – taking a hard stance against Dome NOW is two games too late

by BeltwayCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 10:28 AM CDT reply actions  

The 90s Braves

the 90s Braves often would clinch early and not make it even to the series even though they were the best team in the NL at least every year.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

2000-2005

The Braves only won one postseason series (2001 vs. Houston) during those six seasons. They are the only team to lose a postseason series against the Cubs (2003) since 1908.

"The big possum walks late." - Harry Caray

by memphiscub on Oct 3, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

Fundamental Flaws

At the end of the day, the Cubs are fundamentally flawed. Derrek Lee, typically stellar defensively, is WAY too patient at the plate. He routinely takes first pitch strikes on balls he could be driving into his favorite territory, the gap in right-center field. Manny Ramirez could have hit 20 home runs this year on pitches that Derrek Lee looked at for strike one — or strike three, for that matter. If I were a betting man, I’d say he’s hit less than .200 with the bases loaded, and he grounds into double plays in clutch situations with alarming regularity.

Alfonso Soriano, on the other hand, is unable to resist the opportunity to dig himself into an 0-1 hole, or worse. With two strikes, there’s not a pitcher in Welles Park baseball that could fail to set him down swinging with a 58-foot breaking ball. And my fingernails curl back every time I seem him make that ridiculous hop catching fly balls. He may be able to carry a time for short periods of time, but, at the end of the day, he’s not a lead-off hitter, and his baseball IQ is just too low for him to lead a team to a championship.

Fukudome is history. I don’t know WHAT happened there. Word of how to strike him out by flailing at a pitch right through the heart of the strike zone either spread like wildfire around the league sometime in June, or he was riding a crest of sheer luck for the first half of the season. It’s mind-blowing to think that this was the same guy whose three-run homer in the bottom of the ninth prolonged the season opener against the Brewers. (By the way, I believe that one of the TBS announcers last night erroneously described that as a “walk-off” home run. Either that, or he hit a walk-off homer some time, and I missed it.)

Jim Edmonds had a fantastic career and a decent, but fleeting, run as a Cub. If fielding were more highly prized, he’d be a Hall-Of-Famer in my book. But despite his 20 homers this season, he has clearly lost a step. He gets slow jumps on balls that either bounce on the warning track or fall in Texas League territory. Indeed, both these things happened in Game One, and also happened a number of times during the regular season. He also swings just a little late, or swings and misses, on pitches that, as a Cardinal, he would have deposited into the right-center field seats. The Cubs need a center field solution next year. Considering that Reed Johnson made the greatest catch I’ve ever seen against the Nationals and seems to be gritty as a player (not to mention being the nicest and most down-to-Earth guy in the world), perhaps he should be given a shot to play in a non-platoon situation.

In the meantime, Micah Hoffpauir needs to go to Arizona to work on playing right field. He caught a ball during the final series in Milwaukee that he turned around three times on before he tracked down. Ugly, but he definitely has potential. And I like his bat.

As for the pitching staff, let’s not make any changes. I love them all.

But at this point, curses are calling, and AC0063101 is just around the corner.

Z.Z. Zoot

by Zooty Zoot on Oct 3, 2008 10:30 AM CDT reply actions  

wake up buddy

bc odds are Its gonna happen

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 3, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

At least Mizzou plays Saturday night...

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 3, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions  

Crap...

That could be its own fiasco for me…a Nebraska fan!

by storkysm on Oct 3, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

Should be a good game...

You guys own us in Lincoln….

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 3, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions  

I hope its a good game.

I don’t know how I’ll react if the Cubs and the Huskers BOTH get smoked in the same week. I may just sit and cry! LOL (kind of)

by storkysm on Oct 3, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, they will win Game 3

but lose Game 4 in some strange heartbreaking fashion

by PhillyCub on Oct 3, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions  

No, I fear

they will win games 3 and 4 and then lose game 5 in some strange heartbreaking fashion.

A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson

by tucsoncubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions  

LOL.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

ewwwwwwwwwww

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

This would be a twist far worse than what has all ready happened

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

From your keyboard to the mountaintop...

…then in and out of DeRosa’s glove and…well…three runs score.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

only 3?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

Odd

I predicted the Cubs would have one series in the postseason like the 04 Red Sox. Hopefully this is their version of the 04 AL championship series.

And who was the manager of that choking Yankees team?

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:33 AM CDT reply actions  

This strapping young gentleman

Man— nevermind, Joe Torre is one ugly son of a bitch. I can’t even joke about that one.

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Oct 3, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

Guessin' the Steinbrenner boys are a wee bit pissed they got rid of Joe Torre, eh??

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

He played Joe the butcher at Satriales

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions  

Oh, yeah

try the veal

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

It's funny how his nose has grown so much bigger relative to his face.

that’ll probably happen to me too unfortunately.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hey, he's the rapist in the artists' impression sketch

from the post a few days ago; maybe yesterday

Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Oct 3, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions  

Just heard

that Rich Little was signed to play Joe Torre in a Lifeteime original movie

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions  

Faith

I am usually the MOST PESSIMISTIC of cubs fans. They lost opening day and I think the seasons over. I never think they will come back. I had no faith in game three last year in the NLDS at all. Still, I really feel like the cards are in their favor for this one. Tonight, they have their most talented and dominant pitcher on the mound. I know that we all love Z and he has been our guy, but there is no question that when healthy (I know, im as sick of those two words as anyone), he is the best pitcher on our team and probably one of the best 5 in the league…certainly better than Huroda.If we can get through tonight, we have the our best pitcher of the past month in Lilly. He took a no hitter into the 6th at least twice last month and once in august against the reds. If we can win these games, as we should, and bring it back here to chicago, there is no doubt in my mind that Dempster will redeem himself. He wasnt that bad all year and theres no way it would happen twice.

I refuse to give up. I haven’t seen Al that pessimistic and must say that I didnt expect it. After the 2nd last night I just sat on my porch without watching the game. I could still hear the cheers a block from the stadium and wondered, what the hell do they have to be cheering about. But then I remembered this is what its all about. And none of us should be giving up. It wouldn’t be as fun if we werent down 0-2 to come back. And if we don’t hey, you know what we say…wait till next year. But i don’t think we will have to say that this year.

"i, hate to see you cry
lying there in that position,
there’s things you need to hear,
so turn of your tears, and listen

pain throws your heart to the ground
love turns the whole thing around
no it won’t all go the way it should
but I know the heart of life is good…"

by KButler on Oct 3, 2008 10:33 AM CDT reply actions  

LOL

"I’m expressing my inner anguish THROUGH THE MAJESTY OF SONG! "

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions  

This almost feels like '84 in reverse...

if we can win Game 3, maybe the “pressure” all shifts to L.A. – maybe we’re the Padres and they are the Cubs?

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

by DKT on Oct 3, 2008 10:38 AM CDT reply actions  

Do you think Harden is on a pitch count tomorrow night?

If he is pitching well, and the Cubs are in the game, will Lou leave him out there? I mean, at some point, the best interests of next year need to be in the back of the mind, right?

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 3, 2008 10:38 AM CDT reply actions  

I would like to say that Lou will keep Harden on a pitch count

and that he will have Ted Lilly warming up in the bullpen if Harden gets in any kind of jam smelling anything like the debacles the past two days

I say then that Demp will start on Sunday if we survive this round and Z warming up in the bullpen at the same time.

And that Marquis will pitch if we come back to Wrigley

Course, if things go the way they are, Bob Howry will pitch relief in every darn situation and give the games right back to LA ..

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

We should just start Howry.

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 3, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

uuuggghhhh!

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

TBS briefly showed Howry warming up in the bullpen last night...

…and I swear I heard a fan in the crowd yell, “SAVE US, HOWRY!”

Fortunately, the network did not censor his sarcasm.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

Maybe by some cosmic twist of fate

Howry would’ve been awesome and saved the fledgling team.

God, I’m so depressed I don’t even know what I’m saying anymore.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

You guys are killing me. I haven't laughed this much in months. I guess

misery really does love company.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

Haha, he comes to bat

and homers

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 3, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

It worked for the Spiders game...

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

we'll always have the Spiders game...

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

I want to thank Al

for allowing divergent points of view to post at his blog.

We ALL want the same thing, when it comes down to it.

While many of you were putting your World Series lineups together, and talking about who we’d play in the NLCS, three weeks ago I posted that we’d make the Playoffs and be
One and Done" once more.

Why?

The pressure.

Honestly, after this flop, I do not know if any Cubs team can perform under the pressure of the “100 year drought” (soon to be 101) that they hear about at every turn.

The best team in the NL has been out-pitched, outhit, out-MANAGED, out-fielded, for two games and Al said it best. Its over as far as I can see.

by The E-Man on Oct 3, 2008 10:38 AM CDT reply actions  

And

And you are so happy you might be right. So you aren’t a Cubs fan.

A

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

Bullshit!

You cannot tell another person what “being a fan” is to them!

I am a Season Ticket holder and SAW THEM LOSE in ’69, ’84, ’89, ’98, ’03, ’07, and ’08

Bitch.

by The E-Man on Oct 3, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions  

Amen brother

There are no more excuses, rationalizations, analysis on paper, extrapolation of regular season performance, examination of the statute of limitations on certain curses, whatever...

by MDBNIU on Oct 3, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

A litter saltier

than my comment but probably more effective.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions  

OH - I left out

2004 – when we SHOULD have been the NL Wild Card Rep.

by The E-Man on Oct 3, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

I hate when 1 person tells another they aren't a fan.

That is the dumbest shit, heard last night at the game when two fans were arguing.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

A fan

A real fan isn’t happy his team loses because he predicted it.

And only someone happy about his prediction would be crowing about it.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

I don't care why,

I just thing it’s stupid to tell someone they aren’t a fan.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions  

You chastise him for "acting superior"...

…but, then, isn’t that what you’re doing? Because you are a TRUE fan and are pointing out those who aren’t? Give me a fucking break.

Should be an interesting off season....

by carmen_fanzone on Oct 3, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions  

You wanted to be right

You wanted to be right more than you are a Cubs fan.

You couldn’t wait to crow how you predicted this.\

Okay you’re a Cubs fan but you are so happy you might have been right,.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

Do you know E-Man personally?

Because, otherwise, you’re making some huge assumptions…

Should be an interesting off season....

by carmen_fanzone on Oct 3, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

If he wasn't happy

If he wasn’t happy he wouldn’t be crowing about it and telling us how much better he is than us.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

From the above post? Really? Didn't really come across that way to me...

Methinks you’re a bit sensitive. Or have an ax to grind with Eman.

Should be an interesting off season....

by carmen_fanzone on Oct 3, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

(This story was produced by BCPDnewservice. Our motto: If you don’t like this story then suck it!)

by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Oct 4, 2008 12:39 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hey

Can you stop trying to strip people of their Cubs fans “stripes”? We all love the Cubs but we also should be able to temper that with an ability to see the faults and rightfully be upset with them. It doesn’t change our feelings for the team. I try to keep blind faith with no questions for religion and political stuff — not baseball.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

Thank you

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

Fat , drunk , and ,stupid is no way to go through life son.

by alabebo on Oct 3, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

Fans

I don’t think real fans are happy they might be right that their team probably will lose the series because they predicted it.

He’s crowing about predicting we’d lose and coldn’t be happier.

It seems like we only hear from him when the Cubs lose too.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

I detected no joy in the post that you're referring to

I detect frustration, anger, disappointment.

Not joy.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

It was crowing

It was crowing how right he was. Crowing is usually joy. And he also didn’t type he was hoping he was wrong.

He thinks he’s superior to us because he predicted they’d lose.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

Now that you've officially repremanded him Sheriff

can we move on?

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

I disagree

On the contrary, you appear to think you are superior to us because you fail to recognize the faults and utter lack of skill presented by those players on the field. Look, they get paid to perform, they may all be great guys or whatever but that does not change the expectation. I enjoy getting to know the lighter side of players and sure you develop emotional attachments to your favorites…but at the end of the day whether or not I think DLee is a cool cat, it doesn’t change his horrible lack of offense or defense shudder displayed.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

Anyone that would crow about it

My only worry is that theeman might have stumbled and broken his leg in his hurry to crow about the loss.

If he had said he was sorry he was right it would be different but he couldn’t wait to rub it in our faces.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 7:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

Eman

Eman is happy they might lose the series because he can come here and crow about being right.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

You don't have to listen to my suggestion

But it appears you made your view known and people didn’t agree with it — now all this is doing is making people upset. Let it go.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Oct 3, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks guys -

He obviously did not read my opening thanking Al for allowing the divergent viewpoints, which is what makes this Country awesome.

And, I stick to my guns that no one has the right to tell another how to be a “fan”.

We all have our own way – and believe me – I feel I have certainly earned my way, financially and emotionally, since 1968.

by The E-Man on Oct 3, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

Deez guyz MIGHT!

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 3, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hope

Hope you didn’t hurt yourself running to your computer to brag and crow that you were right.

Maybe I overreacted to your post but you didn’t seem to be sad at all to be shown to be right.

And you also showed what kind of person you are by calling me the b word. That is a word no decent person ever uses.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 7:50 PM CDT up reply actions  

You would have been useful

in yesterdays VP debate, you’ve said “crow” about as many times as Palin said “Maverick”.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Now gosh darn it Joe, there you go again..........

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

There were points during the game

when I was waiting for the middle of an inning so I could switch back.

Then I just started switching back whenever I damn well felt like it.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

Maybe we should have started Sarah Palin at ss. Couldn't have been any worse.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

No thanks.

I think the Cubs are already on the Bridge to Nowhere.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

Dont forget to tip your waitress!

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions  

Or maybe

Or maybe we need hope and change to lead us!

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 7:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

Me too

At least I was spared the Frank TV commercials.

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

+1

(This story was produced by BCPDnewservice. Our motto: If you don’t like this story then suck it!)

by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Oct 4, 2008 12:41 AM CDT up reply actions  

I think it is a reaction on his part...

to all the “Flower Power” going on around here!

Nobody is HAPPY at the latest CHOKE JOB we have just witnessed!

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

Yes

None of us are happy besides the one who predicted it.

If he didn’t come here to crow and then proved what kind of person he is by using the word of the scumbag the bword I’d feel different.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 7:54 PM CDT up reply actions  

LOL - and the KOW is out of the barn.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

heh

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hendry's comments

since the Score isn’t hashing and rehashing it all morning I knew the bozos were overreacting to Hendry’s comments.

He said the fans seemed to be expecting doom and gloom. And pointed out the teams play was the reason they might have been!

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 10:39 AM CDT reply actions  

In an odd way

I think the pressure is somewhat off for the Cubs now. Everyone now expects them to lose and just cash it in. So, the power of low expectations takes the weight off their shoulders, they play looser like they have all season and all of a sudden we win a game and the pressure starts to shift even more. I really think this could happen.

by epcub on Oct 3, 2008 10:41 AM CDT reply actions  

Never underestimate

the soft bigotry of low expectations…

"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...

by Curtain Jerker on Oct 3, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

Intersting perspective!

I like it!

If you think you've seen it all...just wait!

by CubFanSince1970 on Oct 3, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

AMEN brother

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

I still believe

I believe in Rich Harden against this Dodger team
I believe in this team playing loose away from Wrigley
I believe in the therapy of an off-day and road trip

I believe in a 97 win team, not the last 2 games
I believe in Ted Lilly over any forth starter
I believe in playing with no pressure

I believe in this team, and I will regardless of what happens Saturday.

Let’s go out, win Game 3, and see what happens.

Go Cubs.

"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...

by Curtain Jerker on Oct 3, 2008 10:41 AM CDT reply actions   1 recs

Thanks

I trust this team to win game 3. To paraphrase what my good buddy in AA says: One game at a time.

"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...

by Curtain Jerker on Oct 3, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

It's as if people don't understand that it's only a 2-game deficit

Many 3-1 series have come back. Don’t many off the top of my head, except for that silly one with the Marlins in ’03

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Oct 3, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions  

Many?

in a 5-game series?

Think again.

And, its the Cubs not playing the Pirates.

by The E-Man on Oct 3, 2008 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

Let's mark the words where I said "5-game series"

and I’ll give you 3,000 dollars. So reread what I wrote, and then respond.

Think again.

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Oct 3, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hmmm...

So – perhaps your choice of words, to not mislead the readers, could have been – “other teams down 2 in SEVEN game series have come back, so the odds in a FIVE game series while nearly astronomical, and it has been done a couple times, the Cubs could do it.”

by The E-Man on Oct 3, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

That "3-1 series" part was very misleading

Because in a 5 game set, they always play again just for shits and giggles.

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Oct 3, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

Will be back around noon-ish

to anguish more with everyone and regroup before Saturday’s game. Oh, and to get on Cubs.com for my NLCS ticket opportunity. Hardy har har

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 10:46 AM CDT reply actions  

You really can't count all of the mistakes

There is so much blame to go around, you would run out of paper. This is a total melt down. you really can find blame for all of the starters.
 Had to bowl last night, Cub gear on, just finishing up and the infamous second inning occurs and I wanted to just get sick. People dogging me, and you know that crap is really getting old, the say old garbage that we all hear, black cat etc….. Just bullshit.
 Just so disappointed in the resolve of this team. Just lost for words.
 I will be pushing hard for the Cubs to get that one win that will give them some drive, some energy, So Harden take the ball, and Cubs bust your ass, and get some life.

"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"

by Grockcubs on Oct 3, 2008 10:47 AM CDT reply actions  

A lady in my office that is about 65,

very sweet lady, knows nothing about baseball comes in at about 11. She always wants to talk about the Cubs, I might punch her in the face today. I don’t want to but I don’t know if I’m going to be able to control myself.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

Post of the day!

Thank you for the laugh on a tough morning

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions  

It didn't happen unless we see the pics. :-)

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

I withstood the urge,

she was nice as normal but I became very itchy, with a slight twitch when she came in the office to talk Cubs.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

I had this feeling last night and will likely face it again today.

Some of the cops are Cards fans. They figured out how to page the whole phone system in the PD and yell annoyingly, “Cubs win! Cubs win! Cubs win!”. Then there was evil laughter. Too bad the have guns, tasers, and pepper spray….

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

I feel like Coach John McKay when he coached the

Tampa Bay Bucs in the earlier years. A reported asked coach McKay what he thought about his teams execution. Coach McKay replied “I’m all for it.”.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 10:49 AM CDT reply actions  

And McKay was a great coach

at least at USC he was.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions  

There is no curse

The only curse is the weight the players feel of 100 years of expectations. They were clearly tight in each game. Momentum is a funny thing. Red Sox were cursed right up until Dave Roberts stole that base. The Super Bowl is often a blow out. Not becuase one team is 40 points better than the other but because they play loose and have momentum.
Al it a great writer and he has put down on paper what many of us feel. its over we tell ourselves because it is less painful. but deep down, we hope. hope, that Harden lasts more than 5 innings. Hope that ARam sees just one mistake fastball with runners on. Hope that Soriano can stop swinging at every slider. Hope the bullpen stops throwing cockshot fastballs to mediocre hitters. Hope there is a moment that gives the Cubs momentum.
Its over…..see you for game 5.

Lets Play Two Today

by RTGrules on Oct 3, 2008 10:56 AM CDT reply actions  

Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things...

…and no good thing ever dies.

"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...

by Curtain Jerker on Oct 3, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions  

What a set up this could be

I’ve sat behind my keyboard all season long and read Al’s posts about “just when you think you’ve seen it all” and “magical season this and that.” Taking two games in LA would be about par for the season. I’m getting past the sadness and going to believe. Harden and Lilly are still not a bad way to go. Lets take it 1 game at a time.

Keep your heads up!

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 10:57 AM CDT reply actions  

At this point... even if they took both games in L.A. and LOST game 5...

…I’d consider that a ‘victory’ compared to what I’ve seen the last 2 days.

Wait a minute... who am I here?

by malicedoom on Oct 3, 2008 11:01 AM CDT reply actions  

I painfully agree.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

I just want the postseason losses to stop,

that is 8 in a row dating back to 03’

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Oct 3, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

+1

But I have a ticket to game #3

by vonde6 on Oct 3, 2008 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed.

It would be great to at least get a game.

by The E-Man on Oct 3, 2008 11:05 AM CDT reply actions  

like pity sex from an ex-girlfriend.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions  

Still, it's my favorite type of pity.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

LOL

That is a FANTASTIC analogy. HAHA!

No photo needed!

by The E-Man on Oct 3, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions  

Sorry but I have to

(This story was produced by BCPDnewservice. Our motto: If you don’t like this story then suck it!)

by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Oct 4, 2008 1:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

That is about the best analogy I have heard today. That

is one sick feeling you never forget. That sick feeling in your stomach when you are searching around for your underwear. GOD I HATE THAT FEELING!!!!!

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

Can I have one more, please?

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

Not as good as conjugal visit sex, but close.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

The official order is -

1. Conjugal visit sex
2. Makeup sex
3. Pity sex

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions  

Approved.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions  

"I'll be right here waiting for you."

“Oh, I know you will.”

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

Hey Peter, watch out for your cornhole bub.

But the wind blew me back via Chicago, In the middle of the night

by N Oakley on Oct 3, 2008 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

On the brightside....

I just saved a bunch of money by switching to Geico.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 11:10 AM CDT reply actions  

Playoff win...so easy a Manny could do it.

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

But have you dyed your hair, and played Viva Viagra?

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions  

If I see one more goddamn Viagra commercial...

…I just might lose my – ah, forget it.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions  

If it lasts for 4 or more hours, consult your doctor.

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions  

Just so long as you aren't watching Frank TV.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Oct 3, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

Saturday

What would be good is a dramatic win Saturday.

Momentum building kind of win.

Why does it have to be a 9 pm start? 34 hours away.

I wish I was working today. Would make the day go quicker.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 11:11 AM CDT reply actions  

Santo is supposed to be on ESPN 1000 pretty soon

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 11:14 AM CDT reply actions  

5-1 Odds

he drops and F bomb!

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

Len was on XRT this morning....

…he sounded pretty perplexed about the last 2 games, had no explanation or thoughts on what needed to be done to turn it around.

Should be an interesting off season....

by carmen_fanzone on Oct 3, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions  

This team needs and enema!

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions  

LOL

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions  

I guess not, they said he wont be on and that Dan Plesac is coming up.

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

Groundhog Day, eh, Al?

Seems fitting.

(So… if I change my life and get someone to fall in love with me before Saturday night, the Cubs will win? Is that how this works?)

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

by hip2bsquare on Oct 3, 2008 11:20 AM CDT reply actions  

Cubs will win a game

All streaks come to an end!

Cubs win on Saturday. We squeek one out on Sunday – come home for a game 5. You heard it here!

Favorite Game - 'The Sandberg game" June 23, 1984

by Cub Fan Mike on Oct 3, 2008 11:25 AM CDT reply actions  

It's time to bust out Rally Paulie, pre-34 hours.

This guarantees at least one victory. Just one.

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Oct 3, 2008 11:26 AM CDT reply actions  

I've decided to drown my sorrows...

in one of these. Anyone else care to join me?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 11:27 AM CDT reply actions  

Does that cone with a portable de-fib machine?

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

For the man (or woman) who has everything.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions  

After pounding all this sand...

…I need one of those.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions  

Ha ha!

Hey but did you notice BM was actually pretty engaging today – even responsive?

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, that's because he's happier when the Cubs lose.

It makes him look smart and he gets more attention that way.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

True

It was weird though…so used to him just spouting off and ignoring people posts. Well here’s to getting the old Blue Mike back!

by StevenABQ on Oct 3, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

He and the e man

He and the e man should get together and party.

Thngs of worth are worth fighting for regardless of the odds.

by puckishcubsfan on Oct 3, 2008 7:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

that sounds glorious

im going to have to try one.

---AC 00 00 00 - Believe

by mjk83 on Oct 3, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions  

That looks amazing.

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 3, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

I really wish I could cook right now

that thing looks delicious, but I know that if I tried to make it I’d butcher it

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

by hip2bsquare on Oct 3, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions  

just got my chloresterol readings... sorry, have to pass

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

Wow, a blog about burgers.

Brillant.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

Not as good as

this one.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Oct 3, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

The horror.
…all between a “bun” made of a sliced Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnut.

The horror.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

Dude

It’s the greatest thing in the history of mankind. Seriously, if you have no heart issues, try one.

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

I would, actually.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

Try one and develop heart issues.

wow!

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

The Suicide Burger.

Kill yourself with a smile.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

If SOMEHOW they COULD actually WIN on Saturday...

… and get that damn monkey off their backs, I’d say the last 2 games are truly “anything can happen”. But they’re so snakebit right now, I can’t see anything but a sweep. Sure hope to hell I’m 100% DEAD WRONG.

Wait a minute... who am I here?

by malicedoom on Oct 3, 2008 11:27 AM CDT reply actions  

Maybe the next time....

they should skip blessing the dugout with holy water (sheesh) and bring in a sports psychologist who could advise them on what it takes to win, ie: do what they did all year long.

Federer
"It's like deja vu all over again"
Chicago 2016

by tigerperson on Oct 3, 2008 11:33 AM CDT reply actions  

Losing is a disease. As contagious as syphyllus.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

The batting helmet broke.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions  

DING, DING, DING, DING!!!!!

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

you know it's bad when that picture doesnt cheer me up :(

"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 3, 2008 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm sad

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Oct 3, 2008 11:39 AM CDT reply actions  

Since everyone is giving up, can I have someone's password for NLCS tickets?

I still have faith.

I have tickets for NLDS Game 5 and hope to use them.

Go Cubs Go!

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Oct 3, 2008 11:40 AM CDT reply actions  

ooooooooooooo .. very astute move young grasshopper

embrace your pain .. wear your rally jersey .. and get the tix as cheap as you can

man, you’re good!

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

He hasn't looked very happy recently. Kind of like someone in psychological trauma.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions  

I am actually finding several reasons to smile as I read through everything today :-D

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

They just recently played "All The Way" on the radio

How could they do that? Sunk me even lower than I already am.

by AndHart120 on Oct 3, 2008 11:47 AM CDT reply actions  

right after the sand

and directions say repeat steps one and two

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

Oooh, that sounds worse than sand.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

now I know why I don't like that song ..

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

We know the words....

“Do they still play the blues in Chicago/When baseball season rolls around/When the snow blows away/Do the Cubbies still play/In their ivy-covered burial ground/When I was a boy/They were my pride and joy/But now they only bring fatigue/To the home of the brave/The land of the free/And the doormat of the National League.”

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions  

Still have faith.

I do have to agree though that it is looking pretty grim. I can’t even put it into words how horrible I felt last night/this morning thinking about the game last night.

I do like the Harden and Lilly in Dodger Stadium. God willing, Dempster will get another shot at home. I hope Lou lit a fire under everyone last night and today. There is at least one more game of the ’08 season and I will be yelling and cheering just as loud as I would have been if we were up 2-0. Anything can happen, I guess.

by Tangled Up In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 11:50 AM CDT reply actions  

I'm not sure it would be honest of me to say I "have faith."

All I can muster at the moment is: “I’m open to a miracle.” In fact, I think I’ll make that my sig line.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

LOL!

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

That is pretty freaking funny...Daver

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

Sadly, the truth usually is.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

After further review...

I have to agree with you Daver. In fact, I might put a sign on my door reading “Now Accepting Miracles.”

by Tangled Up In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

I can't believe that I am thinking about this, but

If, by a miracle, the Cubs win #3 and #4, I would pitch Z in game #5. He pitched well, Dempster did not.

by vonde6 on Oct 3, 2008 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

the prospect of getting on the cubs site in 15 minutes to order NLCS tickets is laughable

I feel like entering my password is kind of like paying paying to have my credit monitored after someone steals my identity.

by BeltwayCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 11:52 AM CDT reply actions  

Agreed

Gotta do it anyways

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

i hear you...but

my wife and I decided that we still have to do it.

anybody know if you get credit toward tix next year or anything if the tix are ‘unused’?

by JCD on Oct 3, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

I was under the impression you get a refund

Seems that Al had to wait a long time to get money back last year, but that was also from the Rockies club I think. Hard tellin how it will go with the Cubs site.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions  

yeah, it aint about the money

it is more about how dampened the excitement would be of getting tickets if they were up 2-0 or even if it was 1-1

by BeltwayCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions  

Your credit card is credited back the cost of tickets

You may not get back service fees

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Oct 3, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions  

It's not the money.

It’s like buying shoes knowing your legs were about to be cut off.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions  

They certainly have a

tough hill to climb now but I’m not giving up on them. The losses are devastating but this team has surprised us too many times this season. If I don’t have faith I have nothing.

by sue369 on Oct 3, 2008 11:56 AM CDT reply actions  

My favorite song

Proud swagger out of the schoolyard
Waiting for the worlds applause
Rebel without a conscience
Martyr without a cause

Static on your frequency
Electrical storm in your veins
Raging at unreachable glory
Straining at invisible chains

And now you’re trembling on a rocky ledge
Staring down into a heartless sea
Can’t face life on a razor’s edge
Nothing’s what you thought it would be

All of us get lost in the darkness
Dreamers learn to steer by the stars
All of us do time in the gutter
Dreamers turn to look at the cars
Turn around and turn around and turn around
Turn around and walk the razor’s edge
Don’t turn your back
And slam the door on me

It’s not as if this barricade
Blocks the only road
It’s not as if youre all alone
In wanting to explode

Someone set a bad example
Made surrender seem alright
The act of a noble warrior
Who lost the will to fight

And now you’re trembling on a rocky ledge
Staring down into a heartless sea
Done with life on a razors edge
Nothing’s what you thought it would be

No hero in your tragedy
No daring in your escape
No salutes for your surrender
Nothing noble in your fate
Christ, what have you done?

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

Artist?

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

Rush

The Pass
From 1989 “Presto”

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

Wow. That's an obscure Rush reference if I've ever heard one.

Today’s Tom Sawyer he gets high on you
and the Spacey Invaders get by on you

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

Nah

Obscure would be quoting “The Necromancer” or “Cinderella Man.”

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, I only know the more well-known songs from back in the day.

I’m old enough to remember “Temple of the Syrinx.”

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

Our great computers

fill our hallowed halls.

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

I don't think

I’ve heard that before.

by sue369 on Oct 3, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

One of my favorite songs also

This also gets at it:

“Hes got to make his own mistakes
And learn to mend the mess he makes
Hes old enough to know whats right
But young enough not to choose it
Hes noble enough to win the world
But weak enough to lose it —-
Hes a new world man…”

by epcub on Oct 3, 2008 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

Amen.

Knew I could count on you Sue!!

by Tangled Up In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions  

Losing 3-1, 4-3... OK fine. But these last 2 games?

They should take the lineup card down in the dugout and replace it with a “First Aid For Choking” poster.

Wait a minute... who am I here?

by malicedoom on Oct 3, 2008 11:57 AM CDT reply actions  

Well, hello VWR

lets see how this goes

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 11:59 AM CDT reply actions  

Don't drink the virtual coffee.

It’s three days old.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

copy and paste the web address into a new

browser window but change the room id on the end. I started out in room 5 but also was in 2, 3, and 4. Got through pretty easily on the first game. best seats still avail were sec 206. not too bad for $60 each

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

link, please

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Oct 3, 2008 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

Won't help without a password

http://frontline.protected.tickets.com/buy/MLBOnsale?agency=MLB&orgid=21570&poid=12437&roomid=4

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

True

And to think how excited I was about the prospect of buying tickets today. I was jumping around like a moron at work yesterday screeching when I got the e mail. It feels like a hollow victory at this point though.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

i too was thrilled yesterday

and my wife was figuring how we could get babysitter for our 3 month old so we could go.

24 hours later, I’m figuring that I’m paying 20 bucks for a printout that says I would have gone to a game if it had occurred.

But, Ernie may inspire me to keep the chin up.

by JCD on Oct 3, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

At least you got to cheer!

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

absolutely. go for it.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

as did I

havn’t bought the plane ticket yet, don’t think id get my money back from them

Its a funny story actually.

by Wad on Oct 3, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

I know. It brings back memories of February

when I stayed home to buy tickets.

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Oct 3, 2008 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

Please post a link to the VRW

I want to play along

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Oct 3, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

* VWR

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Oct 3, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

Time to switch out the Geo photos in the pregame thread

But who shall we substitute him for?

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:05 PM CDT reply actions  

Ronnie Woo Woo

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

Soriano's BFF?

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ah, reverse psychology.

So ghastly and contradictory, it just might work.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

+1

n/t

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm willing to try anything at this point.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

I like the idea. Lets get a poll going for Woo Woo

Although I think Al will shoot it down…

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

Who cares what he thinks. It's like he runs this place or something.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah in that case

no words, or matchups, just a string of Pics. Add in there TLR, Daley, Ozzie, Joe Morgan, the Brennamans…… any others?

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Oct 3, 2008 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ted Lilly

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ted bowling thru Molina

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Oct 3, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

If we can get Ted into the series

His stare would make Manny’s dreads fall out.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think that would

be a great picture to put up in the pregame thread. Show we are not going down without a fight. I like it.

by sue369 on Oct 3, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Oct 3, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

I was at that game!

Gotta figure a way to get that as my cellphone wallpaper.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

I like that idea.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

I uploaded it to myxer.

Go to http://m.myxer.com/dl/12498932/204348490/ on your phone and you can download it.

Makes me smile a little today.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

related

realizing yesterday that I’m hoping for SBN to get a better mobile phone interface. Was out running errands for work in the afternoon yesterday and I wanted to check BCB. My blackberry didn’t likey

by JCD on Oct 3, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

it's not the greatest

but what browser were you using? I do ok using Opera Mini. If you haven’t yet tried it out, it’s definitely worth having something other than the original browser that comes with the phone.

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Oct 3, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

Fontenot

Should be an interesting off season....

by carmen_fanzone on Oct 3, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

Pre bloodshot eyes

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

Pre-Puberty, too, it seems

This looks like his little league photo

Should be an interesting off season....

by carmen_fanzone on Oct 3, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

he looks funny without a mullet

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions  

Kind of has that Opie Taylor look, doesn't he?

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

He looks likes he muttered

“Ready to go fishin, pa?” more than once.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

last night some DeRo pics

were suggested. He has done better than just about everyone else thus far in the post season. I thought that sounded like an all right idea.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

actually, i like that idea.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed

Get Johnson in the game…..

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

TWSS

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Till he choked and cost them the game, great idea!

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions  

time for another bizarro pre-game thread tomorrow?

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

You betcha

adrawkcab!

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

!SSWT

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

LOL

yes that is spelled backwards…

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

no..that would be...

ti.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

gah...

taht.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

(:

t/n

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

Not necessarily.

Demetri Martin’s 224 word long palindrome:

Dammit I’m mad.
Evil is a deed as I live.
God, am I reviled? I rise, my bed on a sun, I melt.
To be not one man emanating is sad. I piss.
Alas, it is so late. Who stops to help?
Man, it is hot. I’m in it. I tell.
I am not a devil. I level “Mad Dog”.
Ah, say burning is, as a deified gulp,
In my halo of a mired rum tin.
I erase many men. Oh, to be man, a sin.
Is evil in a clam? In a trap?
No. It is open. On it I was stuck.
Rats peed on hope. Elsewhere dips a web.
Be still if I fill its ebb.
Ew, a spider… eh?
We sleep. Oh no!
Deep, stark cuts saw it in one position.
Part animal, can I live? Sin is a name.
Both, one… my names are in it.
Murder? I’m a fool.
A hymn I plug, deified as a sign in ruby ash,
A Goddam level I lived at.
On mail let it in. I’m it.
Oh, sit in ample hot spots. Oh wet!
A loss it is alas (sip). I’d assign it a name.
Name not one bottle minus an ode by me:
“Sir, I deliver. I’m a dog”
Evil is a deed as I live.
Dammit I’m mad.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

that is really cool

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

What happened between Lou and Soriano?

I heard Lou said something in Spanish? What was that all about?

Wait a minute... who am I here?

by malicedoom on Oct 3, 2008 12:07 PM CDT reply actions  

Translated from Spanish:

“Look, they’re breaking balls. They’re not going to land over the plate. You can swing at them all you want, it won’t do you a damn bit of good. Now get your mind off your Hummer and that skank with the Facebook page and start being more selective!”

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

+1

Exactly

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ha!

Note to Dodgers:

Please stop throwing low and outside. We’d really appreciate it.

Signed, Every Cub Batter

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

Note to Cubs:

Please stop swinging at pitches low and outside.

Especially when everyone in the stadium knows a pitch low and outside is coming.

Thanks!

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

by DKT on Oct 3, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions  

You would think the never saw a freakin' slider before.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

Haven't seen anything

and I can’t read lips when Spanish is probably being mangled. But I know what I would’ve said…

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

So...I think we should re-sign Howry

and put him in the rotation next year. ANy takers?

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 3, 2008 12:07 PM CDT reply actions  

Oof Wah

just got my email from Ernie. Signed it “Let’s win three”.

not sure if this will work

by JCD on Oct 3, 2008 12:10 PM CDT reply actions  

nice.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

That's really cool!

Thanks!

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 3, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

Salt meet wound...

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

Big cheers for that!

Ernie says it, it’s gonna happen.

Go Cubs.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

Very cool!

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Just got the same email.

Oof Wah indeed!

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

by Blue W on Oct 3, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

We Can do it we can win three..I would much rather see them go to L.A. down 2 and win three than go to LA up two and lose three. Its not the Cubs if they dont make it exciting and I think that would be a perfect way to make this very exciting.

by texascubfan on Oct 3, 2008 12:13 PM CDT reply actions  

They should add chat room to the playoff tickets virtual waiting room

at least that way we could all talk about how much time we are wasting sitting here

by BeltwayCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 12:19 PM CDT reply actions  

Dayne Perry is an idiot...

Evidently Zambrano was missing his spots last night….did he even watch the damn game. He actually blames Zambrano for last night’s mess. I am not a huge fan of Z but I can at least tell when it was not his fault

The Idiot Manifesto

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 12:23 PM CDT reply actions  

Jeez.

Z got a standing ovation for a reason.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

According to my foggy, sadness-laden recollection...

…the only two really bad pitches Z made last night were the bases-clearing double to Russell Martin and the solo home run to Manny. And giving up a solo home run to Manny Ramirez, under any circumstances, is completely forgivable. The pitch to Martin? Well, that was just a damn shame.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions  

And that pitch to Martin is never thrown

if the Cubs get the double play one of the two times they could have.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Exactamundo.

Or maybe it’s thrown the following inning and does little or no damage.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hell, it may have come 2 innings later if the orginal DP ball was fielded cleanly.

would have been 8-9-1 coming up the next inning for LA.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

or if he throws strikes and doesnt get to 3-1.

But I agree Z earned his money last night.

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

he wrote that before the game

even started- revisionist history!

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

as billingsley said in the post game interview

You pitch different when you are staked to a 5 run lead. He said he could be more aggressive and go after hitters. Our fortunes will not change until the offense take the pressure off our pitchers and lets them stop feeling like any mistake will cost us the game

by BeltwayCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 12:26 PM CDT reply actions  

OT: House just passed fiscal rescue bill 263-171

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 12:26 PM CDT reply actions  

700 billion dollars shot to hell.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

both

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

actually more than 700 billion dollars

there was a sh*t load of pork-barrel stuff that was added to the bill, like that rum factory in the Virgin Islands (or was it in Puerto Rico?).

I like rum, so wtf….

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

Pork barrel. Sound really tasty. doesn't it?

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

Especially when you're drinking Rum!

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions  

Puerto Rico

Get your pork barrell spending right. There is also the wood for the children’s bow maker in Oregon.

"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry

by Doggie Stalker on Oct 3, 2008 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions  

When I heard that

this morning I thought “what the hell?”

by sue369 on Oct 3, 2008 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 12:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

Now we'll see if Bush follows McCain's advice

and vetoes it. Even after McCain himself voted for it.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

ALTO!

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

President George W. Bush

“The great thing about America is everybody should vote.”

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

ESPN is submitting a bill this afternoon about that.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

i'm sure tbs is just hoping for one competitive game

other than BOS-LAA the games have been pretty one sided. Ugly for ratings

by BeltwayCubsFan on Oct 3, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

Them and Fox

Trust me when I say this…MLB and TV executives fear a Dodgers/Rays WS. They want the Cubs in at least the NLCS.

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

Unfortunately, the Cubs never got that memo.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

But the took them to call a Greek Orthodox Priest...

Sort of OT…but what the hell was that. The Chairman of the team made that decision. That is like building an airplane and right before you sell it off, ask a priest to put holy water on the enginee, wings, tail, to route out any curses.

No wonder people outside of the Cubs Legion think we are the village idiots

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions  

Wow...I just made about 4 grammer errors there..

Damn team is rubbing off on me

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

lol

Five. It’s spelled “grammar.”

:D

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

Damn it...

I have sausages for fingers

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

That reminds me.. I haven't had lunch yet.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

hhhmm

I forsee a pic of this being posted shorthly….

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Thats funny

n/t

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Technically

a spelling error, bringing that back down to 4….

Judges?

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yes

n/t

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Somantiks.

But yeah, you’re right.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

We have met the enemy...and we are him.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

With that kinda money...

…maybe the Cubs could pick up Barry Bonds for Game 3 and bribe Bud Selig to let him play. Not that I’m suggesting that. Because I would never do such a thing.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Faith and Despair

We believe in something. Something that matters very little in the grand scheme of things. And yet when our friends and neighbors, our coworkers and family tell us that it is "just a game" we look at them as if they are crazy. I am sick to my stomach right now. Literally sick. Yesterday I listened to "Go Cubs Go" as I walked towards the bar to watch the game. This morning I played it again and cried, just a bit. There is a gaping hole in the soul of Cubdom today. No balm can truly salve it except…well, I believe the term miracle applies.

I, however, do not believe in miracles. But I do believe in resilience. I have seen it many times in my life. And these Cubs have it. Do I think it will happen? Honestly, I do not. Do I think it can? Obviously. This is baseball and just about anything is possible.
And right now all I am trying to do is find that little wellspring of hope that resides somewhere deep inside my soul. I don’t want too much, just enough.

Go Cubs!

They call me MISTER Fukudome!

by brokenland on Oct 3, 2008 12:27 PM CDT reply actions  

Sports Talk Radio

Whats everyone hearing out there in Chicago on sports talk? I’m in Denver and only get brief snippets of info.

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:36 PM CDT reply actions  

I'd rather poke my eye out

than listen to sports radio here right now, or for the next few days for that matter. Sorry.

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Can't blame you for that...

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

there is a lot of talk about the cubs on the score. check out the score

it streams….

http://www.670thescore.com/

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

Listen at your own risk. There's a maximum IQ.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

Steve Stone is the guest now....I once liked the guy....

and of course he says that he was always thinking that the Cubs would have trouble with the Dodgers….and the Cubs are big boys and should know how to play in the postseason.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

Someone needs to introduce him to LBR

Big boys my ass….

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

TWSS
Big Boys my ass…

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

Big? Boy's my ass.

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

TWHSIP

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions  

He just said that LBR has as many HRs as Dome....

and LBR is much cheaper…..

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

Premium beer.

Good stuff. Very refreshing.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

That's 'Original" LBR

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

For the last time Fontenot=Little Babe Ruth

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

In Stone's defense, he did say that the other day. But he also said they would make

the WS, so he covered his bases as always.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

Don't you mean he covered his ass?

Oh, crap…now someone’s going to post that picture.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

My IT dept.

frowns on streaming media on my computer. :( But thanks!

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

On 96.5 ESPN in Peoria, IL

They were reading off e mails. There was one that was a follow up to a top ten list the emailer apparently sent a few days ago. Very dramatic about washing the losses down with an Old Style, folding up the W flag, and the last one was checking in on how the Bears are doing. ha. ha.
There were some from hate filled Indians fans to Brewers fans about how happy are they now that they got stuck with CC. Totally stupid. I gaurantee they are still thrilled to have him. No post season at all without him. Just a lot of spoutin off. Really annoying.

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

...for it's root root root for the Cubbies--everybody--

if they don’t win it’s a shame…

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

by chr15 on Oct 3, 2008 12:41 PM CDT reply actions  

Breaking News.....it's a shame.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

and mighty Casey has struck out.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions  

At dodger stadium......

where you are given a full body cavity search before entering.

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

no, no, no.....

Cause it’s 1,2,3,4 errors you lose….
in the second….playoff….gaaaaaaaammmmme!

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

My sister called from Boise and wanted to know how my trip was

" besides than the Cub games" . I responded " other than that Mrs. Lincoln how did you enjoy the play ?"

"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry

by Doggie Stalker on Oct 3, 2008 12:49 PM CDT reply actions  

rim shot anyone???

http://www.instantrimshot.com/

Have fun with this one!

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

followed by salt

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

Folks

Thanks for some of the comic relief today. It has helped to cleanse my baseball soul. I don’t have a lot of faith that they will turn this train around…but in the words of Daver “I am open to a miracle”

Off to eat my hot pocket and actually get some work done today…

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Oct 3, 2008 12:49 PM CDT reply actions  

HOT POCKET...

Hot pocket inside of a hot pocket…

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

Just gotta keep chugging.

I’ll keep my Believe bracelet throughout the weekend. I’ll be up in Green Bay so chances are I won’t be in front of the TV. If the Cubs win these games with out me, then my summer of Cubs is over. It was defintely a summer to remember, but if I have to miss out on the greatest comebacks in playoff history because the Cubs won without me close to a TV, so be it. I’m known to be a superstitious fan. I don’t play as the Cubs on MLB 2k8 on gamedays, dont wear cubs stuff within 2 hours of game time, victory laps after runs, K Dance after strikeouts, have not worked. I really hope the Cubs can do it just because of people like that 104 year old, my grandma, my dad, and all of you guys. It’s been a rough 2nd half of the year with my dog dying while I was in Madison for a job interview, losing my job, etc. For some reason though, I keep hope because barring anymore death, I can’t see it getting worse.

Go Cubs Go.

"You just don't know understand how frustrating this is"- Kevin Borseth

by TkGoUWGB on Oct 3, 2008 12:56 PM CDT reply actions  

Why do I feel the need to listen to sad, broken-hearted songs?

Waiting for tomorrow night feels like waiting for the executioner right now.

That said, hopefully Governor Harden will grant the Cubs a stay.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 12:57 PM CDT reply actions  

Atleast you get a good dinner before your execution

I will be at work, so more likely a hot pocket for me while I listen to the game!

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

i'll be working, too.

watching collegiate volleyball and hoping someone saves me a seat at the bar for later that night

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

The team is now flying over Missouri

I hope they get in, relax and try to be loose. United Flight 9907

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 12:58 PM CDT reply actions  

Maybe do some '86 Mets style damage to the plane

that ought to loosen them up.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions  

Lou should tell them...

…they have an opportunity to redeem themselves after their hoseshit performance so far and you have a choice of rolling over and playing dead, or showing what you are all about. Then, let them know their is a mandatory team meeting at the hotel bar and no one leaves until he says they can.

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

by MPH73 on Oct 3, 2008 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

for those that are taking their distress out on each other today...

Guys, guys, guys!
                   
Don’t you see this is just
what the terrorists want us to do?
                    
The war is out there, man. Out there.
Now, pull it together.

"Without spikes, psychologically it plays havoc with the other team, when they realize I don't even wear a uniform--they don't know what to expect." Bill Murray

by billmurrayforowner on Oct 3, 2008 1:00 PM CDT reply actions  

Reading your screenname

reminds me I happened to see Bill Murray briefly on the Today show when I was getting ready for work. No mention of the Cubs but he looked depressed and didn’t talk a whole lot.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

he was at the game last night as well

saw him on tv around the 5th or so…it did seem as though he was trying to lighten the mood of those around him.

"Without spikes, psychologically it plays havoc with the other team, when they realize I don't even wear a uniform--they don't know what to expect." Bill Murray

by billmurrayforowner on Oct 3, 2008 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, I saw him, too.

He was goofing around and smiling late in the game. He’s been through it before…

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

anyone know...

where you can get a clip of bill murray subbing for harry in ’88 or so? it used to be on you tube, but i imagine mlb pulled it due to licensing

"Without spikes, psychologically it plays havoc with the other team, when they realize I don't even wear a uniform--they don't know what to expect." Bill Murray

by billmurrayforowner on Oct 3, 2008 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

Not sure.

I remember seeing those clips on YouTube, though. They were awesome.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

Well

it kinda didn’t work Wednesday…

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

Been done.

This team and its fans have killed more goats than an Indian restaurant.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

I knew we should have gotten a live chicken.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

do gyros count?

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

by Andre Fonseca on Oct 3, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ya know what the Cubs need?

One of those 5-run innings they are so famous for…

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

by DKT on Oct 4, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

Puto

And I can type synonyms all afternoon…

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

Puto

Suddenly I’m back in High School….LOL.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

Single Greatest Swing Moment in the Game

Was Theriot not laying down a bunt in the first inning. I don’t care if they haven’t done that this season…the call should have been made from the dugout or by theriot himself. He was obviously just trying to hit a grounder to the right side. Why not lay down a bunt and make it a sure thing. They score first it’s a completely different game.

"Look at it this way: If you're a Cubs fan, the Greatest Day of Your Life is yet to come." ~ Cubs Forever

by IvyOnTheWall on Oct 3, 2008 1:05 PM CDT reply actions  

As it was

Lee and Ramirez still didn’t even advance Soriano, much less score him.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

You're right

But instead of trying to get a base hit…Lee would have simply been looking to make contact. The dodgers probably wouldn’t play in in the first inning so a grounder would’ve scored soriano. or a fly ball.

"Look at it this way: If you're a Cubs fan, the Greatest Day of Your Life is yet to come." ~ Cubs Forever

by IvyOnTheWall on Oct 3, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

Coulda, shoulda, woulda.

We had a chance to make a statement in the first and we failed.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

From the latest Sports Illustrated:

“Cubs fans, who, let’s face it, have a right to be edgy about these things, were equally irked when they saw their third baseman, Aramis Ramirez, gracing the cover of SPORTS ILLUSTRATED last week, bringing the supposed SI jinx into play. MDBNIU wrote on bleedcubbieblue.com, "Thanks jackass New York—based editorial board of Sports Illustrated.” Sorry about that, MDBNIU. How about we send you a fleece and call it even?"

Full article

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 1:07 PM CDT reply actions  

Blue Mike is famous! Good job, MDBNIU!

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, someone also posted this...

…in one of the 10,000 fanposts that have popped up in the last three hours. My only response is: In case you were wondering, there is no justice in the world.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'll be

He’s bad, he’s nationwide.

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

by chilango2 on Oct 3, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

I know, of all people!

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Oct 3, 2008 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

Lou Piniella: "From now on I don't want to hear about Fukudome anymore"

“I’m gonna play Fontenot or Reed Johnson or somebody else….”

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 1:08 PM CDT reply actions  

think lou's lack of trust will continue into next year?

he seems to hold a grudge for quite some time (a la eyre)

"Without spikes, psychologically it plays havoc with the other team, when they realize I don't even wear a uniform--they don't know what to expect." Bill Murray

by billmurrayforowner on Oct 3, 2008 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yes

I think it will.
The real question is, what will his offseason be like? Clearly he needs to find the best hitting coach he can and try to get it back. Hell, I know stars don’t play winter ball…but maybe he needs it.

by chitownhawkeye on Oct 3, 2008 5:17 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think he's going to do everything possible to turn it around

he strikes me as a humble man who loves the game and who knows he’s better than this season.

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

As do I

I just don’t know what he’ll need to do. But he’ll work hard at it, that I have no doubt.

by chitownhawkeye on Oct 3, 2008 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

.... he shouted, opening the door to starting Bobby Howry in game 3.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, from opening day to this. The mighty have really fallen. Next thing

you know, he’ll be outside of Wrigley selling tasteless T-shirts.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

When I see those shirts

I no longer think, “That’s offensive, take that off!” Now I think, “A Dome shirt? Really?”

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

Kosuke heckled at O'Hare

From the Trib:

Kosuke Fukudome’s downfall has led to booing at Wrigley Field, and now he’s getting no respect.

Passengers at O’Hare Airport were surprised to hear his name being paged over the public address system in Terminal B on Friday morning.

But it turned out that it was all a joke.

“Paging Kosuke Fukudome, paging Kosuke Fukudome … Please report to the Cincinnati Reds. You have been traded for a player to be named later.”

Some of the passengers waiting for flights laughed, while others cringed.

Either way, it looks like Chicago’s love affair with the Japanese star is officially over.

by southloop on Oct 3, 2008 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

wow. interesting....

I wonder if a Japanese ballclub can buy back his contract….no, Japanese clubs don’t pay that much for their players.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 2:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ouch.

That’s a bit harsh. He’s just as disappointed with himself as we are.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

He also said,

“The guy is really struggling” in between the two statements you have quoted.

by sue369 on Oct 3, 2008 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

Dont lose heart Cubbie fans!!!!

Look I am a Cardinal fan and proud of it, but I am rooting for the Cubs to do well!
I am sick of the way the media always bad mouths the Central and I am rooting for Central teams to kick some butt!
Dont lose heart! when you have a good team sometimes it takes quite a few years of losing in the playoffs to get your team to the championship.
Cards lost in 00, 01, 02, 04, 05 before winning in 06 so keep the faith! You may not make it this year but as your players get playoff experience they will have less and less pressure on them and they should win!

"Even when the rain falls, Even when the flood starts rising, Even when the storm comes, I am washed by the water!" -NeedToBreathe

by Calhoun on Oct 3, 2008 1:11 PM CDT reply actions  

A pep talk from a cardinal fan. The last vestige of a scoundrel.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Oct 3, 2008 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks, man, much appreciated.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks for the kind words.

It’s lookin’ like the Cubs and Brewers are about to make a mockery of the NL Central.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

Cheers.

Your shoulder is comforting.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

Thank you.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 4:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

I actually heard...

The most inspiring words last night in a bar from one of the waitresses, who happened to be a Cards fan. She was really nice to me in the midst of my sadness….

She said that even though she was from near St. Louis, when the Cards are out and the Cubs are in the playoffs she always cheers for them because she makes more money if they do well…

by Hilary Lee on Oct 3, 2008 1:20 PM CDT reply actions  

I am sad to say

that I too think this thing is over. The resemblence to last years series against the Dbacks is eerie. I hope I’m wrong, and I’ll be watching and rooting Saturday night. I don’t hold out much hope though. The team looks completely lost.

by qccub on Oct 3, 2008 1:30 PM CDT reply actions  

This is worse than last year against the D-Backs

This year the Cubs look like a AAA club (and a poor one at that).

by SuperContext on Oct 3, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hanging Tight Here In The Holy City .. Believing, Bracelet And All

Mi familia ain’t giving up .. GO CUBS!

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Oct 3, 2008 1:46 PM CDT reply actions  

That's cool

Not sure how much I’m believing but I will be in Wrigleyville on Sat night, because that’s where I feel I have to be.

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Oct 3, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

OT - My Car Was STOLEN!

Jesus, what is the deal. Just finished filling out paperwork with the police. Cubs down 0-2, and then my car gets jacked…. GRRRRR! Talk about adding insult to insult.

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 1:55 PM CDT reply actions  

sorry to hear that

hopefully, that’s rock bottom.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

now that just stinks

sorry about that, Lou

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

Oh, man. Really sorry to hear about that. Best of luck.

It didn’t look like this, did it….? (cue blues brothers)

ps: didn’t mean to joke, but….just gotta laugh sometimes…

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed

There are worse things in life ie. Al’s most recent post.

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

Wow, Cubs fans are dying, cars are being stolen.

Isn’t there a superhero we can call or something?

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

locusts will start swarming...

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 5:49 PM CDT up reply actions  

Aw man.

That is awful.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

From Derosa's Blog last night @ 1:37 AM

Game 2 wrap
You’ve got to let this flow over you and consume you for a couple hours. You have to. “Z” was pitching a great game, he’s feeling good, the double play gets turned, we go back into the dugout and the whole game is different. Our offense is able to relax and it’s different.

But when you find yourself down 5-0, a team that has a 1-0 lead in the series, they’re able to relax, Billingsley is able to pound the strike zone, their hitters are a lot more patient, a lot more calm. They’re trying to have good at-bats and tack on runs. We’re trying to press to get the score tied and take the lead. For me, this is terrible. I don’t know — I’ll be up for awhile tonight.

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Oct 3, 2008 1:59 PM CDT reply actions  

Confession.

Up to this year, I didn’t really appreciate DeRo sufficiently.

This year, I’ve come to realize what a class act the guy is, both on and off the field.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Oct 3, 2008 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed

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

by MikeOxbyg on Oct 3, 2008 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'll see you all Sunday in LA!

I am going to the USS Midway in SD with my Cub Scout Pack to spend the night tomorrow, Saturday, so I will miss Rich Harden’s gem beating the Dodgers in front of their loopy posuer fans, but I will be there Sunday night to watch Teddy Ballgame go for the tie and then my brother Mike (Milton) and John will have to bring them home Tuesday night so I can make my plans to see the Angels (they need to get going) and Cubs play out here on 10/22, 23 and then to Wrigley for 10/25-27 to finish them off at home. This is a special delivery for all the Cub fans, past, present and future and the hope that we all have for our beloved Cubbies. Hey, anybody can have a bad Century, but those two games were the worse games I have seen the Cubs play all year…it won’t happen again!

Mike=Milton+Eamus Catuli = AC000000

by Cub's Paperboy on Oct 3, 2008 1:59 PM CDT reply actions  

And "Jump" comes on 80's on 8 on XM

and I’m ready for another game. Let’s get one back tomorrow.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 2:19 PM CDT reply actions  

Oddly enough

I havent heard them take the field with that song all season

by AndHart120 on Oct 3, 2008 2:20 PM CDT reply actions  

They did at the beginning of the year, then crossed into the Bon Jovi "I Love this Town"

I maintain Jump is a better song. And much better for baseball.

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

from SportsNation

Nick (Chicago, IL): Jerry, tell me why I should continue to be a baseball fan? I’m a die-hard Cub fan who spent the past 6 months following them and then in the matter of about 30 hours it’s all going to be over? Is this fair?!

SportsNation Jerry Crasnick: Nick, Hey, if it makes you feel any better, I’ve been a Cleveland Browns fan since I was a kid, even though I grew up in New England. I feel your pain, and this has to be tough to watch for a Cubs fan, but don’t give up yet. Maybe it’ll take some pressure off for them to leave Chicago and go to the West Coast. And if Harden can win Game 3, they’ve got Ted Lilly going in Game 4. He’s been awfully good lately.

by brian custer on Oct 3, 2008 2:26 PM CDT reply actions  

Memo to Cubs

re: Crappy azz play

Derek Lee: For God’s sake, please stop swinging at balls a foot off the plate. What are you thinking? And then you let strikes right down the center of the dish go by. And most importantly,…relaaaaaax. Seriously.

Soriano: Oh man..where do I start. Look, the highest level of baseball I played was Little League. And I can tell you can’t hit a slider or a breaking ball to save your life. LAY OFF THOSE PITCHES UNTIL THEY THROW YOU A STRIKE. How difficult is that?

ARam: You’re out of sync like your teammates. Relax. I can see you gripping so hard when you’re at the plate. Think hard hits,…not home runs.

DeRosa: Wow…shades of Alex Gonzalez all over again. Alligator. Right hand meets the left hand. Gather the ball…make the play.

I truly believe that the players saying the ‘curse’ or all of the crap doesn’t enter their mind….is entering their mind. How do you explain the errors? They need to relaaaaaaaaaaaaax. All at once now…RELAAAAX.

If “It’s gonna happen”…like I see the signs at Wrigley say, then it will happen.

I still think if Harden is on tomorrow, we win that game. Lilly gives us a decent 7 innings..we hit, it’s back at Wrigley. Big ‘ifs’…btu what else do we have?

Donut jokes are not funny. They're way past funny. They're frickin' hilarious.

by MaTheMeatloaf on Oct 3, 2008 2:36 PM CDT reply actions  

They are big 'ifs' but they're not crazy

The pitching is lined up to start a comeback and get this series back to Chicago. If the bats follow, it could happen…

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Great name...

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks, Ma.

I'm open to a miracle.

by daver on Oct 3, 2008 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

maybe they'll be so bloody ashamed of themselves

they come back with a vengeance.

Maybe.

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 4:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

I was going to write this is a fanpost but so many fanpost are already up so..

This is my take and recap of the game… too long for the fanpost probably: Ignited Thoughts

WOW WHAT A SEASON!

by SouthsideCUBSfan on Oct 3, 2008 2:47 PM CDT reply actions  

CHANGE`

Raise Wrigley Field. Change (transform) uniforms. Kill this curse.

by questdoc on Oct 3, 2008 2:47 PM CDT reply actions  

not to be a smartass

but it’s raze

Linus: Life is rarely all one way, Charlie Brown. You win some, you lose some. Charlie Brown: Really? Gee, that'd be neat.

by CyberCyclist on Oct 3, 2008 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm so confident

that I went ahead and told my boss last night that I need off Tuesday night, bc this is going to Game 5. I saw some hope last night in the 9th and I think we’ll carry that over to L.A. with us on Saturday and Sunday. Go Cubs!

by cvan84 on Oct 3, 2008 2:48 PM CDT reply actions  

Isn't there an Amber Alert out on Hope?

If you see it again, please detain it!

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 6:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

CHANGE

I’M so upset I spelled it wrong “RAZE”. Tear it down. New uniforms. No more cute Cubbies! Play as dirty and pissed as possible on Saturday

by questdoc on Oct 3, 2008 2:51 PM CDT reply actions  

sorry

ignore my above post

Linus: Life is rarely all one way, Charlie Brown. You win some, you lose some. Charlie Brown: Really? Gee, that'd be neat.

by CyberCyclist on Oct 3, 2008 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

Don't ya hate when being a smartass backfires?

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

it's one of the smartass ramifications :D

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

by Emelie on Oct 3, 2008 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

OT - Nintendo resurrecting Punch-Out! for Wii

yet another reason to buy a Wii, if you haven’t already. linky

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 3:11 PM CDT reply actions  

sweet!

well, that is something exciting for this old school nintendo game lover

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 6:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

In 2004 I told a friend of mine that "IF the Red Sox win game 4

they were going to beat the Yankees in 4 straight" (we were in NYC at the time in a taxi). I thought this was a pretty bold call since it had never been done before.

I have that same feeling now: IF the Cubs wake up and win game 3, we will win the next two after that. The big question is, can the Cub put this crap-tastic play behind them. So far this year, the answer has always been YES! The Cubs have always followed a beat down with some of their best play.

I do think the Dodgers will tense up with each passing inning IF the Cubs win game 3. The same thing happened to the Yankees in 2004. The pressure switches as soon as the Cubs win one.

I think it is great that Lou let them sleep in their own beds last night and they will have normal sleep/rest for this next game. It is good that they didn’t spend the whole night on an airplane dwelling on the losses. We will see what these guys are really made of Saturday night. This special season resumes…

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 3, 2008 3:13 PM CDT reply actions  

As much as it pains me...

the truly Cub thing to do will be win games 3 and 4 and then lose game 5 with a lead in the late innings.
We’ve been jilted more times than

http://endtimepilgrim.org/runaway28.jpg

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

by cubfever7 on Oct 3, 2008 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

durn it

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

by cubfever7 on Oct 3, 2008 3:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

Well, I always felt that like the RedSox

we would face major despair and “cliff-jumping” at some point in the year we finally break through. So this type of start doesn’t surprise me. Now we just need the comeback finish.

Let’s see what our boyz are made of…

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 3, 2008 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

I don't know what they're made of

but its obvious our IF has rocks for hands.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

no, they were wearing boxing gloves instead of mitts, didn't you notice? :-(

Lou told them to come out fighting and they took him literally.

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 3, 2008 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions  

Part of me wishes Ted were going tomorrow

You know he’s gonna come out and roll up his shirt & kick some ass.

Gotta see it from Richie.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

Keep the faith.

Or maybe a Jedi mind trick.

He will pitch Sunday.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

Been a hard day on the job today

It’s all quizzes, all day, but I feel like I am sleepwalking through it. A few students mention the Cubs, and I just say ’The less said, the better," and thankfully, they understand.

It’s just been depressing today, knowing we should be up 2-0 or even tied, and aren’t.

I said after ‘03 that I was through, that I was no longer a Cub fan. Of course, I stayed on. And I’ll continue to stay on. But, damn, after 25+ years, it gets harder to endure.

What say we have another 1984, this time, our way?

/vent

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

by spoiledcubbage on Oct 3, 2008 3:37 PM CDT reply actions  

Milton?

I’m not comfortable with the fact we might not get another Milton sighting. Maybe Milton should make a pregame picture!

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 3:37 PM CDT reply actions  

...appearance

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

He did in the game thread

last night and look where that got us.

by sue369 on Oct 3, 2008 4:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

Really???

Someone posted him early huh? I missed last nights discussion…

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Oct 3, 2008 4:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

I miss Milton

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

Late to this Post

But I have to say I read this at the airport on the way home this morning, and it was like a second punch in the gut to read Al’s assessment, which I always (and still) respect as a straight shot. It was honest and I can’t factually disagree with very much of it. But although there is no denying the spot that we’re in, I’m still holding out hope that things can be turned around. If not, there will be all winter to dissect what we’ve just witnessed.

by 08Cubs on Oct 3, 2008 3:40 PM CDT reply actions  

That's good...

because it’s not over….they still have to lose one more game.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Oct 3, 2008 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

I second that

This team realizes it can either lay down and die or come out mad as hell. I go with my gut. And my gut says they bring this series back to Wrigley.

MAKE THE ADJUSTMENT ALREADY. THIS GAME IS ABOUT ADJUSTMENTS.

by MaTheMeatloaf on Oct 3, 2008 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

I've started typing

3 times…and each time, I don’t know what to say. I’m not mad. I’m not depressed. I’m just, I don’t know, disappointed?
I don’t believe in curses, but I do believe in teams that wilt under pressure. I didn’t think this was one of those teams, but so far, it has been.
So I’m done. The towel went in in the 2nd yesterday. I know they can’t win the next 3, but I’m also aware that I knew they would win game 1 once we took the lead. I’ve been wrong before, and I hope I’m wrong here. But my heart and brain say we’re finished.
Thanks for the great year folks.

by chitownhawkeye on Oct 3, 2008 4:57 PM CDT reply actions  

I continue to believe that if we win one, we win three.

Saturday is the big hill to climb, obviously. This team has to believe in itself again. But I really do believe that if it wins one, it wins three.

I do think the pressure totally switches to the Dodgers if they have to play Sunday. As I said above, we will learn what this team is made of on Saturday. I continue to believe that this is the team that came back against Colorado and beat Milwaukee with two out in the 9th.

I won’t believe otherwise until I see which team shows up on Saturday.

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 3, 2008 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

We've won 3 in a row before.

We’ve won 3 in a row against the dodgers before!

3 has never looked so daunting before.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

It is daunting.

Which is why you gotta take one game at a time. Focus on winning Saturday and only that. Should that happen, move on to Sunday.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:17 PM CDT up reply actions  

Plus

a team with nothing to lose can be very dangerous.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:17 PM CDT up reply actions  

How about 3 outs on defense with no dramatics?

That’d be a nice 3.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

I forgot what that's like.

It’s something like “3 up, 3…” but it’s been so long I can’t recall.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

3 & out?

No wait. Thats the Bears offense.

What a great weekend to look forward too!

::grumpy::

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

Weee

Don’t remind me. At least I have…um…looks around
well, how about…
Crap. All outta sports teams I care about :-(

by chitownhawkeye on Oct 3, 2008 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

Blackhawks are in training camp.

If you care about hockey.

I don’t really. Great games to watch in person, hell to watch on tv.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

No thanks

I’ve got arena football, but that’s not till Feb.

by chitownhawkeye on Oct 3, 2008 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

24 comes back in January

I’m excited about that.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hey Jimmy!

How you doing?

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm preparing myself for tomorrow and Sunday's games.

All Cubs fans have now been confronted with the ultimate test of faith in our team. Is is possible for them to win three in row? If they do, then the momentum that will be generated will likely be enough to push them into the World Series. Just like everyone else, I’m looking at Sat. as the key. Gotta win just one, then put the pressure squarely on the Dodgers. If we can just get this back to Wrigley, then the Dodgers are toast- I promise you.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Oct 3, 2008 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

At least someone still believes.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm a die hard Cubs fan...

I never quit, I never stop believing, I never give up. Even in the face of this terrible situation, when everything I see, everything I hear; tells me that I’m a fool to believe… I still believe.

I believe for those who have no faith, I believe for those have no hope, I believe for those who have given up. I believe because I want to believe it will happen, and I’m praying that it will be willed into existence.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Oct 3, 2008 5:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm gonna try

But right now, my faith-o-meter is running on empty.

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 6:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

I agree with Jimmy

I believe the Cubs win both LA games.

Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#

by VegasCubFan on Oct 3, 2008 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions  

No thanks

I’ve got arena football, but that’s not till Feb.

by chitownhawkeye on Oct 3, 2008 5:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

No thanks

I’ve got arena football, but that’s not till Feb.

by chitownhawkeye on Oct 3, 2008 5:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

No thanks

I’ve got arena football, but that’s not till Feb.

by chitownhawkeye on Oct 3, 2008 5:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Let me get this straight...

You got arena football…but it’s not til Feb?

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Really?

Why didn’t you tell us you liked Arena Football in Feb?

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

I was totally unaware

of arena football starting up. But not til Feb.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

Bears are tied for first.

That’s something.

But, yeah, my weekend looks pretty shit right now. I’ll spend tomorrow trying not to get my hopes too high and completely fail that as I put everything on the line come 9pm.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:34 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yep

That all sounds very familiar.

Football’s on tomorrow. At least I’ll have something to keep my attention. :-P

Sometimes even hope isn't enough...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Oct 3, 2008 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

I got an apartment to clean

that prolly won’t be cleaned.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Oct 3, 2008 5:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

We've won three in a row....

alot more than we’ve lost three in a row this year.

Federer
"It's like deja vu all over again"
Chicago 2016

by tigerperson on Oct 3, 2008 6:58 PM CDT up reply actions  

Maybe Lou has to rent the 40 Year Old Virgin tonight

because getting his first play-off victory probably feels similar to Steve Correll’s journey.

If that doesn’t work, he can try Spank-travision, But Lou needs to get his first play-off victory with this team and NOW. We are not going through another 12 months of getting the best record in the NL for this type of let down.

Find your inspiration Lou…

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 3, 2008 5:58 PM CDT reply actions  

Spanktravision

that’s a pretty girl in the pool there……sinner…..

Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#

by VegasCubFan on Oct 3, 2008 6:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

Who's your favorite little rascal?

It has to start some place. It has to start some time. What better place than here. What better time than now. ~Rage Against the Machine

by love the ivy on Oct 3, 2008 6:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

who's your favorite baseball team?

Check out my Cubs shrine: http://picasaweb.google.com/vegascubfan/CubsRooms#

by VegasCubFan on Oct 3, 2008 6:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

is it alfalfa?

or is it spanky?

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 3, 2008 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

six outs in an inning.

that’s a sin!

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 3, 2008 6:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

The Cubs had their share of 3+ game winning streaks all year

and this would be a helluva time for another one. Then 8 out the next 14. That’s all I ask. They’ve done it before.

by ChipSet on Oct 3, 2008 9:03 PM CDT reply actions  

I don't know if this will get read

because of the late hour. My wife and I got home a few hours ago from a trip to Europe. I read the USA Today at the airport and talked to my brother on the phone this evening, along with reading this thread tonight.

Initially, after reading the paper, I felt sick. This is (so far) the worse I have ever felt as a Cubs fan. To play as well as we had in the season to totally forget what got us to the post season is maddening. This team is just like the Braves’ teams in their glory years, great at winning the division, can’t seal the deal in October. At least the Braves had such a long run that they did win a WS. If we get swept again this year, now what? I was happy as hell we wouldn’t be playing the Snakes again. I don’t care how lousy the D Backs were this year, they have OWNED us since their inception.

IMHO, the Dodgers are not all that great. If they were in any other division in both leagues, they aren’t even here. The only reason they won the division is that AZ gave it to them, not that the D Backs were the juggernaut they were last year, but the division was theirs to lose after The Rox and Pads started off so shitty and never recovered.

The one positive about the Cubs is that they can rattle off 3, 4, 5 wins in a row like nobody’s business once they get going. They have to get going today (as it is 3:26 in the morning as I am typing this).

If they bring their normally good fielding with them and get good AB’s going, they can do it. 3 in a row or more for this team has been their MO all year. I want to watch them next year here at HoHoKam with a good feeling, not with this rock in my gut that will last all winter.

"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse

by BigJohnAZ on Oct 4, 2008 5:30 AM CDT reply actions  

welcome home, and sorry you didn't arrive to better news

but yes, momentum starts with one good game, and if the Cubs can get that ball rolling, pressure shifts to LA, and anything can happen…

I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg

by Bill Potter on Oct 4, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks

and to quote the immortal words of Bluto…you know the rest.

GO CUBS! You are better than this!!!!!!!!!!

"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse

by BigJohnAZ on Oct 4, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions  

LA weather...a sign?

we are having light rain in LA this morning. Chicago weather? Certainly not LA weather in early October.

A sign that change is coming! In the end, the Cubs have to make their own “luck” tonight, but I do like the changing weather.

GO CUBS!!!

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 4, 2008 11:02 AM CDT reply actions  

I have had a blast this summer, thanks to this team.

I said I loved them a week ago. That has not changed because of a couple of clunkers. The Cubs will win this series. Continue to “enjoy the ride”.

by Rick B on Oct 4, 2008 11:38 AM CDT reply actions  

Couldn't agree more

I said repeatedly during the season regardless of the outcome it was worth the ride. I still think so, although I had hoped against hope that we’d be far more competitive in the end game. Who knows? Maybe this really is the miracle Cubs. It ain’t over until the last out, as Lou likes to say.

This hurts.

by Emelie on Oct 4, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

kind of a tired retread, though, wasn't it?

black cats, blah blah blah… although reading it I hoped those blasted HOF voters would take notice and finally give the man his due.

This hurts.

by Emelie on Oct 4, 2008 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

I think the rest of the country doesn't appreciate the great

career that Santo had in spite of his handicap. I wish the article would have focused more on that. But I do think the article highlighted how Ron is not shy about living and dying every pitch of every game, and how the is emblematic of Cub fans everywhere. For that, I put up with the rest of the NY media crap.

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Oct 4, 2008 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions  

Fair enough

he’s an inspiration and a remarkable story. Any way it’s told is better than not telling it at all.

This hurts.

by Emelie on Oct 4, 2008 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

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