That's Not The Way I Always Heard It Should Be
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 6:58 PM CDT
in Recaps
231 comments
This one had a chance. Really, it did. As I said to Mike after the 9th inning, today's game had already leaped into the top rank of all Cubs home openers after Kosuke Fukudome's dramatic, frenetic, amazing three-run homer that had Wrigley rocking tied the game.
But in the end, the thing that was supposed to be one of the most solid aspects of the 2008 Cubs -- its bullpen -- failed. Kerry Wood had good velocity today -- hitting 96 on the ballpark speed gun several times -- but bad command, hitting Rickie Weeks with his first pitch.
That was his undoing, as with two out, Corey Hart hit a two-run triple. We all thought the game was done, until Dome's incredible shot. Dome was, obviously, the Cub star of the game, singling, doubling, walking and hitting the HR.
The Cubs lost to the Brewers 4-3 in 10 innings today in a game delayed twice by rain, 40 minutes at the start and 50 minutes in the bottom of the third. It rained most of the time play was taking place, too; heavily before the delay in the third, less so after the second delay, although it didn't stop for good until the 8th inning.
So one dome team -- the Brewers -- plays in Chicago and wins. Another -- the Blue Jays -- were to play in New York and got rained out. When will the schedulers learn? Today, I heard that there are rumblings that MLB brass is threatening to fine players who complain about the weather. Shades of Bowie Kuhn sitting coatless at the World Series back in the 70's, pretending it wasn't cold.
It wasn't too cold today -- game time temperature was 44, but once the first rain blasted through, the wind shifted to the southwest and the temperature jumped into the not-uncomfortable mid-50's, though the gusts made it hard to hold on to the umbrellas we all had raised most of the time. Howard arrived promptly with the Jimmy John's sandwiches not long after the gates opened, but he spent much of his time during the first delay downstairs, while I watched the KC/Detroit game on the plasma screen across the street at one of the rooftop clubs.
Who says you can't entertain yourself during a rain delay?
During the pregame delay several Cubs walked across the field to hit in the batting cages beneath the bleachers. Guess who got the largest ovation? Mark DeRosa.
DeRo hit two fly balls that nearly caught enough of a wind gust to make the bleachers during the game; both wound up caught by Tony Gwynn Jr., unfortunately.
The usual lineup-along-the-baselines Opening Day ritual for both teams was dispensed with in order to speed along some of the other pregame activities, including a moment of silence for the NIU shootings, a nice touch, and the Cubs will fly a NIU flag on top of the upper deck all season. When the Cubs took the field, Dome ran to his RF position to a rousing ovation, and dozens of signs, including a huge section-long banner reading "FUKUDOME". He took off his cap and gave what in Japanese culture would be seen as a formal bow, very slight.
It was a much more excited and lively crowd that greeted him after the HR. He did do a curtain call out of the dugout, but also doffed his cap to the remaining crowd in RF.
For eight innings it was a pitchers' duel, starters Ben Sheets and Carlos Zambrano nearly matching each other pitch for pitch into the 7th. Sheets was yanked after giving up the single to Dome, and Salomon Torres hit DeRosa and walked Geovany Soto (good sign today: the Cubs drew four walks). While Soto was at bat, Dome got hung up in between 2nd and 3rd and had nowhere to go; DeRo took second, but Jason Kendall ran all the way out to near the SS position to tag Dome out.
That seemed to take a lot out of the Cubs; in the previous inning Z had left the game with forearm cramping. This has happened to him before, and having thrown 89 pitches, Lou took him out, likely as a precaution in the wet, sticky-cold conditions (my gloves finally got so wet I gave up and just put them away). I'm sure he'll be fine for his next start.
Carlos Marmol relieved and threw one pitch to finish the 7th, breezed through the 8th, and then, unfortunately, Wood and Bob Howry simply didn't do their jobs. But is this a disaster? (A certain local newspaper columnist will probably say so.) No, it's not. It's one game. Closers fail (and this isn't a blown save, since it wasn't a save situation). It's just as likely that Wood will throw great in his next six outings. I can quibble (and Phil was haranguing me in the bleachers all inning about this) about the choice of Howry to throw the 10th. Phil said Michael Wuertz might have been a better pick, and I think I agree.
Oh, and it didn't help that the first two spots in the batting order went 0-for-10, either.
One comment about the crowd, and I realize it was Opening Day and the weather was terrible -- but security in the bleachers was nearly nonexistent. I didn't see a single security person upstairs until after the rain delay; the new no-smoking-anywhere-in-Wrigley (mandated by the new state law) was being widely flouted by people smoking right in front of the many new no-smoking signs, and until several security supervisors came by, people were refusing to sit down in front of us during game action. It wasn't rowdy -- except down the LF line in the box seats late in the game where there was a disturbance -- but if this isn't addressed, it could get that way. Hopefully, this can and will be addressed soon.
It's late and I'm cold and tired and wet, but tomorrow I'll have some more things from the opener to post. Many of you liked the scorecard scans I posted last September and I'll scan mine and post it. Also, we at SBN are doing some test mobile audio posts. I recorded what I call some "Sounds of the Game" today on my phone and I'll put them together in a "mobile post" tomorrow afternoon.
Finally, it was nice to meet BCB's newest most prolific poster, Keystone80435, who stopped by and said hi. Thanks for the fries, incidentally. Several other BCB readers who didn't identify themselves, just said they read and like the site, stopped by to say hello -- thanks to all of you.
And despite the loss (hey, it's only 1 game of 162. Not worried), it was nice to feel home today. Home at Wrigley. Home to baseball. Now let's go get those Brewers on Wednesday.
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Hey, it's just one game of 162.
Get 'em Wednesday! Encouraging debut from Fookie. Let's hope he didn't set the bar too high. : )
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Mar 31, 2008 7:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Time to update the record Al :(
Old Style is the nectar of life.
by Mordecai on Mar 31, 2008 7:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I have no control over that.
It should auto-update at some point, but I don't know when.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pretty disapointed...
... in the overall team offense today. There were plenty of hittable pitches and the Cubs flailed away. I realize there is the "the pitchers are ahead of the hitters" stuff but the Cubs could have and should have gotten more hits and runs. Alfonso and Ramirez both missed very fat pitches and both reacted badly when they did.
Anyhow, game one is over and done with. I hate the day off post game one but whatever.
DmL
by dmlichte on Mar 31, 2008 7:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
yeah..
i feel about the same way you do al but........ we had all off season and it seems apparent jim hendry and lou didnt do their jobs all the way. were lacking one major thing on this team.
what is it???? little league fundamentals!! this shit has got to stop this year if we want a chance. this getting picked off base etc must be addressed somehow. i know it seems little but this kinda stuff absolutely killed us last year. they teach this stuff starting the 1st day of practice in t-ball on..
wasted outs make me sick. maybe they can come up with a joke of some sort like u gotta wear pink shoelaces or carry a pink backpack or something. but this kinda stuff has got to stop now. we can be our own best friend or our own worst enemy.
GO CUBS GO!!!!!
by cubsluver22 on Mar 31, 2008 7:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Did you see the play?
Although I cant stand these mistakes, this one was more of an unfortunate bounce than bad fundamentals. Fukudome read that the pitch took a hard bounce of Kendall and broke. The ball bounced off Soto and right to Kendall. Fukudome probably could have made it back to second but DeRosa broke on the play too.
by okiecubbie on Mar 31, 2008 7:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ironic
that probably the best fundamental player on the team ended up being out in that play.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Mar 31, 2008 7:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
please, please, please....
...stop calling him Dome. worst. nickname. ever. I much prefer Kosuke.
by jolietconvict on Mar 31, 2008 7:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Even if it's pronounced...
...Dough-may?
Don't mind it, or Fuku, as long as both are pronounced with a bit o' class.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 8:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
haha instead of fukudome
each time he gets a clutch hit yell fukyahdome! I know its alittle crude..
Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..
by Chanman25 on Mar 31, 2008 8:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very crude.
I could do without that.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
agree
I like Fuke better. Easy to type, and say, and doesn't remind me of condoms...Domes are what we called them waaaay back when I needed such things...pre-surgery!!!
Soriano should hit 5th. Period.
by Canadian Cubs Fan on Mar 31, 2008 8:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Too much information.
n/t
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Isnt Dome what he wants to called?
by Madison Cub Fan on Mar 31, 2008 8:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
on a positive note
fookie made himself right at home today.
so who's got some design skills and is gonna make us a fookie monster t-shirt? at the very least, a fookie monster animated gif for game threads?
anyone?
by billywan on Mar 31, 2008 7:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm sorry, but if we're debating nicknames for Fukudome...
..."Fookie" has got to go. That makes him sound like a character on The Muppets. As Al said, Kosuke's preferred nickname is "Dome" (yes, pronounced "DOUGH-may), and I will be abiding by this as well.
Moreoever, as tempting as it might be, can we all collectively agree to resist the urge to associate the man's name with an obscenity? Is that so hard? We are, after all, talking about his name. Even if you're trying to do it in a positive way, it's still disrespectful. And, after what Dome did for this team yesterday, I think we can all agree that the man deserves our respect.
Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 1, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no problem with restraining from profanities
but fookie goes well with fonty and fonzy as discussed previously.
by cubsonWGN4ever on Apr 1, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, to be honest, I don't care for those much either, though I guess "Fonty" isn't horrible.
I never liked Fonzy. Why? This is Fonzy:
This is Alfonso Soriano:
I just don't want to reference Henry freakin' Winkler every time Soriano comes to the plate. Maybe that's a generational thing, though.
Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 1, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm with you
Can't stand Fonzie for Soriano, but I like "Fonty" -- it's jaunty.
Fookie - actually, Fookie could be a sort of minor sub character on Happy Days or Lavergne and Shirley. Someone who works in the brewery, no doubt. Does not fit a potential 21st Century Superstar like Dome, though.
Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson
by JohnM on Apr 1, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about calling Soriano this, like I do?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Apr 1, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ugh, I hated the idea of "Alf" as a nickname, too. I'm glad that one didn't catch on.
Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 1, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al
I don't know if you're going to read the game threads -- well over 1300 comments in the two of them put together -- but it's clear that some upgrades need to be made for the site to hold up under regular season load. :D There was a member of the site staff in the threads to watch, but can you keep us updated to what changes they might make?
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Mar 31, 2008 7:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
can you say "meltdown"?
I couldn't get back in for a while. The tech guy was there so maybe he will figure out a way to make it go smoother. One problem he identified was the posting of large files (pictures) and how they slowed the loading of the page.
by LT on Mar 31, 2008 8:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We are working on this.
I've got some ideas and I am going to discuss them with the tech team tomorrow on the off day.
The photos might have to go on fast-moving game threads.
It wasn't just BCB -- a lot of the baseball sites were slow today. I attribute that to Opening Day excitement. Hopefully, the servers will be upgraded to handle the load.
And no, I don't think I'll have time to go through these game threads, at least. I usually try to if I have time.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Question
I do not mean to sound rude...but who was this sue369 that started another game thread? Also a moderator for the new BCB 2.0? I thought that was really neat and great, thanks for doing it.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Mar 31, 2008 10:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sue is just another fan
but a Site admin promoted it to the front page so everyone could see it. The main thread was unusable.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Mar 31, 2008 10:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What I take from this game
is that the Cubs, aren't really an urgent team in general. You get what you get with Ben Sheets. No surprises. He throws a straight as straight can be fastball, and was sitting outer half. I cannot believe how a guy with the strength of Derrek Lee, is unwilling to go out and take it the other way. IF the Cubs offense struggles, I'll bet my bottom dollar they had poor pitch selection. You're a hitter, your job is to hit. A lot of time in the past, and especially today, I thought a few guys weren't willing to take what Sheets was giving. As for Dome getting picked off...maybe he doesn't understand "back" yet.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
by TCobb1911 on Mar 31, 2008 7:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'll take the patience
over the hacking of the last few years. If the cubs had taken the approach of the last few years, my guess is we would have seen a lot of quick innings and a complete game shutout by Sheets. I was heartened to see them stretch him out on a few occasions.
Sheets is an awesome pitcher, and on a cold day the lack of runs against him doesn't bother me. This loss goes to the bullpen, no less, no more.
by TC Cubby on Apr 1, 2008 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wish I was there in the 9th
the sound of the crowd chanting Fu-Ku-DO-Me was awesome, at least in front of my TV. What a great moment. And, after everyone worried about his hitting this spring look what he does today....player of the game is right! To be able to jack the ball out in the 9th, his first clutch hit as a Cub, WOW! If he keeps this up he'll have one hell of a season and keep the tradition of right fielders Dawson and Sosa alive to the right field bleacher fans. Great start, bad result. We'll get the next one!
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 Mar 31, 2008 7:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Loud, sustained applause.
n/t
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When I heard them
chanting that it gave me goosebumps. He certainly had a great day. Hope he has many more for years to come.
by sue369 on Apr 1, 2008 7:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I got back home
in time to see that. It was incredible.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 1, 2008 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can't Wait
to read the Japanese media's take on this.
"Heroic Fukudome Effort Frittered by Gaijin Pitcher"
The Artist Formerly Known as Chris
by 08Cubs on Mar 31, 2008 7:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Fukudome
had the greatest Cubs opening day since Tuffy Rhodes. Tuffy hit 3 home runs off Dwight Gooden and had only 6 more the rest of the season. He wound up in Japan, where he tied Saduharo Oh's single season home run record.
Hopefully the rest of Kosuke's season will be better than Tuffy's.
by Clark Addison on Mar 31, 2008 7:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Remember it well..
If I recall correctly, Hillary Clinton threw out the first pitch.. The team was never over .500
Wood for closer.
by wicubfan on Apr 1, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know it isn't what was meant, but...
Al, the end of your summary makes it seem as though you're predicting the Cubs to lose 162 games this season.
Security was pretty lax today, but everything on opening day seems lax. I cut a group of drinkers off for the first time in six years. Note: doing the sprinkler with beer in a packed house doesn't look good, nor does falling down, nor does trying to stick your head down your girlfriends shirt while trying to drink a beer. Security was not on thier game today.
I was wondering about the smoking policy-- nobody told us vendors anything. As gameday employees, we're not allowed to smoke in the ballpark. But, as a portable beer vendor, I ain't sayin nuttin. Smoking will shorten your life.
Dome hit a big big big homie. Reminded me of Ramierez's walk off against the Brews last year that's immortalized on the schedules. The ovation after that homer today lasted a long, long time. Gagne is toast.
Let's get em Wednesday.
"Trapled moss on your souls; changes all you're a part; seen it all, not at all; can't defend a (Cubs fan)"- pearl jam
by section229beer on Mar 31, 2008 7:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wow
So tell me...is it as cool as I think to be a beer vendor in Wrigley?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 7:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, probably, but...
it has occational downsides, like being in subzero temperatures for 6-7 hrs without a jacket or decent gloves trying to count money, or the whole 2006 season.
i've been very fortunate and blessed with a view of the field and a couple of great seasons recently. It's fun to justify spending (too many) hours a day during the offseason and now in-season reading and talking Cubs with y'all and justifying it as work-related.
"Trapled moss on your souls; changes all you're a part; seen it all, not at all; can't defend a (Cubs fan)"- pearl jam
by section229beer on Apr 1, 2008 12:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey Section,
If you see Bobby Shaw call him the "Bobfather."
I'll be in the park Thursday and Friday, I'll have to stop by and buy a beer from you. What type to you sell?
by Tangled Up In Blue on Apr 1, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I fixed the post...
... hopefully it makes more sense now.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Todays game
we lost because the Brewers pen pitched a little better then ours. But over the course of the season our bullpen will be a strength IMO, I just hope it doesn't struggle early like last year. I'm confident though Wood will pitch well if he's healthy 9 times outta 10 though. The offense wasn't very good but you know Lee, Ramirez, Soriano and DeRosa are going to hit. So if Fukudome is even close to the hitter he was today our line-up is going to be pretty good.
Fans are going to overreact about todays game, and treat it like it's a postseason game. But it's just one of 162 games, and just as important as some random game in middle or August. So even though we lost today there were some postives.
by cubsfan25 on Mar 31, 2008 8:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I was disappointed and bummed...
but I think this was only exacerbated because it was the Brewers. 161 more games like this one, we might have a problem... but the sky is definitely not falling.
by Great Odin's Raven on Apr 1, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
For the overreacting fan
it's just one game(it's not a playoff game), and means nothing towards our season. Here's a few examples
Cubs vs D-backs-05- Cubs score 16 runs and win 16-6
Finshed the season 79-83(4th place)
Cubs vs Reds-06- Cubs score 16 runs and win 16-7
Finshed the season 66-96 last place
Cubs vs Reds-07- Cubs score 1 run and lose 5-1.
Finshed the season 85-77 division champs
We lost today, there's nothing wrong with Wood, the line-up,the baserunning, Howry or whoever. Because you can't make that judgement after one game. We lost one game that could have went either way, but thats all it was, is one game. I wonder if Braves, Phillies and Tigers fans are freaking out like some Cubs fans are.
by cubsfan25 on Mar 31, 2008 8:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ha, if I was a overreactor
Id hug you.
BTW.. today was my secondday and first game living down kenmore and my girlfriend, 3ushers from the game and myself had to help a drunk guy get home after standing out front of my window for 45 minutes trying to get into a car that wasnt his. I watched him for that whole time bec ause I was worried Id have to run and grab his keys. I love LOVE LOVE/hate Wrigleyville.
The game was very exciting and I listened a lot at work and on the way home.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Mar 31, 2008 9:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think
people are overreacting in the vein of, "Wood is done. We suck. 0-162, here we come."
It's more like, "Damn. What a great Opening Day game to look back on years from now. It's just a shame we didn't win it."
You don't snipe in Carrington!
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 1, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if only wood didnt fuck up
and kosukes homer would have been a walkoff, making it the best opening day debut ever!!
by grathanial on Mar 31, 2008 8:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Watch your language.
n/t
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just one game, but two things concern me
One, Theriot looked just as helpless at the plate as he he did the final month and a half of last season. I like the guy but I continue to doubt he has what it takes to be a everyday leadoff hitter. Two, how does Z cramp up in 50 degree weather? Will he even be able to get through 4 innings come August.
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."
by DC Cubbie on Mar 31, 2008 8:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Take Brian Roberts' line
2/2 w/ 2 BB and a SB; replace it for Theriot's o-fer, and what does today's game look like? Add Lou's theory that having a lefty hitter up there before Rami and DLee will help take away that outside corner...
Sometimes the best trades are the ones you don't make, but sometimes...
by DGU on Mar 31, 2008 9:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That player you mentioned...
doesn't play SS, does he?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Does Ryan Theriot play an adequate SS?
Or is Theriot a 2B who gets enough dirt on his uniform to look adequate?
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We have a 2nd baseman
His name is Mark DeRosa.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm talking about batting position, not fielding position.
I still maintain that there's no way Lou leaves Theriot out there and DeRosa on the bench. If Theriot played a good defensive SS, it would be different, but he doesn't and there is no reason to ever play him against a right-handed pitcher.
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 8:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, for heaven's sake.
You can't do that on a game-to-game basis. What if that other player goes 0-for-5 in his next game and Theriot goes 2-for-4 with two doubles?
Possible, right?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wholly possible.
In the words of Norman Dale: "My team's on the court (field)"
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If I wasn't lazy, I could even take a look at the gamelogs...
...from last season and see if it happened. But yes, very possible. And perfectly meaningless.
I'm firmly convinced that we won't know any more about Ryan Theriot at the end of April than we did at the end of last season - it's very difficult to learn anything about a ballplayer in a month of play. It's even more true about a single game. If Theriot really doesn't merit being our starting shortstop, than that's so whether he goes 0-for-5 or 5-for-5 on opening day.
I understand that people are reacting to small sample sizes because that's all we have right now. But nobody should be changing their mind about Ryan Theriot because of one game.
by cwyers on Apr 1, 2008 1:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
first of all
you can't compare roberts day and suppose its interchangeable with what theriot did. secondly....I think its way to premature to start criticizing theriot. besides fukudome, no one hit today..it wasn't just theriot. It's the first game...let's be patient.
by cubsmania on Mar 31, 2008 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and if that second shot by Derosa
had gone even five feet higher...
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Mar 31, 2008 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
See, I think it's way too late just to be starting criticism of Theriot
Whether you are analyzing things statistically or reading scouting reports, Theriot does not profile as a player who will succeed as a regular every day lead-off hitter. I remember reading Keith Law's playoff analysis where he said Theriot looked like he was guessing last year at the end of the year, and it looked (to my untrained eyes) the same way today.
As for swapping Theriot's line and Roberts' line, yes, I know you "can't do that" as if Brian Roberts' line is just interchangeable ignoring pitcher, ignoring leagues, ignoring weather, etc. What you can do is look at what Roberts is likely to do - hang in there against tough pitchers and get on base close to 2 out of 5 plate apperances and what Theriot is likely to do - be totally overmatched by tough pitchers and generally make outs 2 out of 3 appearances - and then you can say, having Roberts was likely to make the difference between a win and a loss today. The difference between Roberts leading off and Theriot leading off is big enough that EVERY one-run game the Cubs lose, the question should be raised.
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 8:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ill agree
I don't think theriot should lead off...I would like to see him bat behind soto. I think it would give soto protection in the lineup and let soto see some better pitches. I think other teams are going to give soto junk and just try to get pie out. However, I still dont think we should jump to conclusions just yet on a day when everyone struggled against a good pitcher.
by cubsmania on Apr 1, 2008 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ha, he is a good player
but a tad bit weak for me. I wonder if Lou eventually goes with Cedeno. Lou knows baseball and Im sure that he knows in a "game of one on one" in baseball game between Theriot and Cedeno; Cedeno dominates him. To be continued.....
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Mar 31, 2008 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ronny Cedeno is awful
Don't even go there by suggesting that he will overtake Ryan Theriot at shortstop. If Cedeno is playing near every day then we have a crisis at shortstop. Cedeno has proven time and time again that he is a Triple A wonder with the baseball IQ of a hockey puck. Either live and die with Theriot or find somebody else available on the open market.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Ronny Cedeno awful?
Or just 25 years old?
Not saying today or any day should be the death of Theriot. But let's not give up on Cedeno.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cedeno
In my humble opinion, Ronnie Cedeno will eventually replace Theriot at SS (if there is no trade), and it could even be this year. Ask yourself this: Would you rather have a guy who really does have a lot of talent, but is short on IQ, or a guy who has very limited talent, and seems to be a gamer? I'll take the talent, because you can always learn. During the ST game where Cedeno hit the triple that tied the game (can't remember who they were playing) in the ninth, he was thrown a few 90+ MPH fastballs up in the zone, and I was very impressed by the way he was able to just throw his hands up, and foul them off. He looked really, really good. He does some small things that show he really can play.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
by TCobb1911 on Mar 31, 2008 9:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Think with an open mind
Who is a better 'baseball player' Theriot or Cedeno?
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Mar 31, 2008 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We already have a crisis at shortstop.
You're just picking between band-aids to put over it.
by cwyers on Mar 31, 2008 11:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The difference is
Ryan Theriot has no chance of being a good SS and Ronny Cedeno has a chance.
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Lou knows baseball
he knows that Ronny Cedeno DOESN'T know baseball.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Mar 31, 2008 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soriano needs to step up
Soriano drives me nuts. I expect more, a lot more, from a $136 million franchise investment. One RBI in all of April 2007, disapperance in the playoffs versus Arizona, swinging from heels at nearly every pitch...
2008 had better not be a repeat of 2007 as far as Soriano goes. I expect a "money" ballplayer who delivers in the clutch for $136 million. One ballgame does not a season make. But the flailing and hacking away I saw in 5 at bats today was enough to make me ill.
DELIVER Mr. Soriano. Deliver.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 8:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Had a slow start last year, too.
But I agree with you. He needs to step up.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Would it be ok if he was paid less?
Soriano has been basically the same hitter since his rookie year. We offered him a huge contract based mainly on who he was- not what we thought he would become after he signed with the Cubs. Injuries aside, he is performing as he always has. I expect Soriano to play his game- $'s paid to players are a management function, if you expect more for the buck- talk to Hendry. Contract figures are just inflammatory in this context- not saying that was your intention. Soriano has delivered and will deliver again- just not every game. Remember last September?
"Baseball is like church- many attend, few understand." ~ Leo Durocher
by The Lip on Apr 1, 2008 7:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My reflections, watching it on ESPN
- A ton of fun to see a regular season game that had a lot of drama - baseball is back!
- They're still getting D-Lee out on that strike off the outside corner.
- Ryan Theriot looks completely lost at the plate. In Theriot's case, this isn't just one game; this is exactly what we were seeing at the end of last season. (As I'm typing this, i see DC Cubbie has the same impression.)
- Zambrano was pitching very well, and in a home opener. Good, good sign.
- Getting to see a little of the Reds-D'backs, I was struck wondering whose 1-2 hitters are going to make more outs, the Reds or the Cubs?
- No comments are needed for Fukudome. Well, done, Jim.
by DGU on Mar 31, 2008 8:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Watching the game at Wrigley...
I can tell you that Sheets was absolutely on, and really hitting his spots. Particularly on the outside corner. His fastball was actually getting better as the game went on, hitting low 90s in the middle inning. A number of Cubs hitters were late with their swings early on, and considering Theriots' natural swing, I can understand how he particularly looked overpowered.
As for Wood, I really hope people aren't going to read too much into this outing. It was cold, rainy, and VERY uncomfortable out there. Watching some footage I got, Wood had trouble getting loose early on, which is understandable.
by Damen Jackson on Mar 31, 2008 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
DRAGONFANTASTIC
Who is a poster here and lives in Japan mentioned that this is what he was called in Japan
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Mar 31, 2008 9:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think Lou
needs to put Soriano back at leadoff, Yes I know one game etc, etc.. However that is where he is comfortable. The guy is going to be in a Cub uniform until the year 2050 for goodness sake, put him there and get over it.
Theriot concerns me also, this I believe will have to be address some time in the next two months.
No concerns with the Pen they will be fine.
One loss, no biggie, get them on Wenesday,
And Dome, nice debut.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Mar 31, 2008 9:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
One thing about Lou.
If something doesn't work, he will change it. If Theriot can't handle leadoff, Lou will put someone else there.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't mind...
Seeing Soriano and Fukudome switch spots. If Fukudome can continue to get on base like he did today and in ST, he's perfect in front of Lee and Ramirez.
"The one that invent the light tried 2,000 times and finally he did it, we have light...I don't want to spend 2,000 times to win Opening Day" Carlos Zambrano
by CubsBullsBears on Mar 31, 2008 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But you can't!
You can't bat Soriano 5th. No way. No how.
You think he strikes out a lot now? Wait until he sees only junk in the 5 spot. He has to bat high in a lineup for protection because he's such a free-swinger.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
DING DING DING
We have a winner!
by Great Odin's Raven on Apr 1, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, I'm amending my previous comment, somewhat.
I think batting Soriano 5th COULD work... but you have to have someone hitting behind him that would make the pitcher think twice about pitching around him. DeRosa surely doesn't scare anyone, but that person COULD be Geovany Soto. If Soto starts slugging like we hope he can on a consistent basis, plug him in the 6 hole and Soriano will get pitches to hit... unfortunately, he's a rookie, you don't want to load that kind of pressure on a youngster so for the time being, I say keep Soriano at 1st or 2nd... but if Soto starts hitting, maybe explore the other options.
by Great Odin's Raven on Apr 1, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Now, then, could it look like this?
Fukudome
Soriano
Lee
Rammy
D-Ro
Soto
Pie
Theriot
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 10:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No
Mark DeRosa is not a # 5 hitter. And stacking Soto, Pie and Theriot in the 6 thru 8 holes is a recipe for futile offensive production.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 10:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree...
the lineup we had today works best. Better than the one I floated out there.
However, I stand by the fact that Soriano can't hit 5th.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 10:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Myth
Soriano can hit 5th. His career numbers (mostly with with Texas) on the 5th slot were:
5th: 583 AB, .268/.312/.513, 107 RBI
by Fraggin Judge on Apr 1, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Goody!
We can pay that much for a guy to hit .268!
I think this proves my point that Soriano can't hit 5th.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Apr 1, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No...
...you would be paying him to drive in 100+ runs, which he would have a legit shot at hitting fifth.
Let's all say it together - "Soriano is a slugger" and sluggers are there to drive in runs. And I do believe he has the talent to make the necessary adjustment to hit fifth, if you give the guy a chance to settle in.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Apr 1, 2008 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soriano is...
Soriano is Soriano. He doesn't fit any particular mold. He's not a slugger in the sense that a slugger drives in runs, because historically, he has had more trouble hitting with runners on base. He's not a lead-off man in the sense that a lead-off man gets on-base. He is a good hitter, and it's not worth getting upset about what he can't do, because he can do a lot. If the Cubs feel he can overcome his historical trends, then move him down in the lineup. But if he can't, then you might as well hit him lead-off, because what you gain having a different hitter lead-off is not likely to be greater than what you lose if his hitting continues to suffer.
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I say try him at 5th...
...and see what he can do. I still say he can handle it, despite the fact he has better numbers leading off.
The next best thing is to hit him 3rd or 4th, and that will handle everyone's big concern of him not getting enouph fastballs to hit, because he will have excellent protection.
I agree that Soriano does not fit any particular mold, but that is because no one has given him ample opportunity to maximize his slugging skills. His career numbers in the 5-hole are not bad by any means, and I think would only get better when he adjusts, because he is a more mature hitter at this stage of his career.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Apr 1, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soriano is problematic
I have been extremely disappointed in Alfonso Soriano. I guess it should have come as no surprise that he goes up to the plate hacking away. But what gets my goat is the profound negative impact he has on the entire Cub offense when he is in one of his "bad streaks." For $136 million I expect a primetime producer, not the Soriano I have seen so far in a Cub uniform.
I dont' know what you do with him in the lineup. I guess I'm inclined to put him back in the leadoff spot and hope for the best.
by MDBNIU on Apr 1, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My preferred, unrealistic option
is to trade him to the Giants, taking on enough of their bad contracts that we could also get Matt Cain (Soriano and Gallagher for Cain, Durham, and The Other Roberts?).
That being highly unlikely, I'm ok with trying him down in the order if the Cubs think it can work. I'm also ok with him hitting leadoff, if we can get a big OBP source in the 2 spot. At least Soriano creates runs. Soriano is a huge improvement over the Juan Pierre types we could see otherwise.
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
DeRosa may not be a "#5", but I think this is the best line-up we can put out there with the pieces we have. The only change I would think about is putting Lee and his OBP in the 2-hole and moving Soriano to 3rd.
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Mar 31, 2008 11:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
why we talking about line-up changes after game one? Nothing has changed from yesturday to today. I never liked Theriot and Soriano back to back, and always felt if you were gonna have one at the top, you needed to have a high OBP guy(either Fukudome or DeRosa second). But it's gonna take even Lou a few days before he considers a line-up change after one game. Because The line-up order wasn't the problem today, it was the fact the Brewers pitching shut everybody down not name Fukudome. If the line-up struggles to score runs against average to mediocre pitchers in Suppan and Bush then Piniella will look to maybe make changes. But today you gotta give the Brewers pitching some credit, plus their powerful line-up didn't do much better then us.
Every Cubs fan that is talking about line-up changes, worried about Wood in the closer role, or whatever else is being silly and overreacting. It's one stinking game, I bet nobody will pay nearly as much attention to game 77 or whatever, and they all count the same. If we won today it wouldn't have made that much difference either. 0-1 or 1-0 are both meaningless records because it's one game and has nothing to do with how your season will go. It's just funny because say Wood gives up just one run in the 9th and Fukudome hits the game winning HR. Everybody on this board would be talking about what a great game it was and praising Fukudome and Zambrano. But instead were talking about changing line-up and Wood pitching poorly. So I think we should see a little more of the line-up as is and Wood in the closer role before we make any judgements.
by cubsfan25 on Apr 1, 2008 12:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As I said in a previous comment elsewhere, I was saying these things long before today's game. Wanting to change the line-up didn't come about because of today. As I said in another comment as well, overall it's only a couple runs' difference regarding where different people hit in the line-up, but I'd like to see the Cubs' best hitters get the most ABs. The leadoff hitter gets the most ABs over the course of the season. Doesn't it make sense to give your best hitter as many ABs as possible? Ryan Theriot is emphatically NOT our best hitter.
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Apr 1, 2008 3:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not suggesting...
that we change the lineup. It's just always fun to go through and see how things can be done differently.
Not freaking out, but I suppose I gave a fertile hunting ground to those who are.
Let's get 'em tomorrow, eh?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Apr 1, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blame the offense...
5 hits isn't going to win many ballgames....
The best defense is a good offense
by kcjones on Mar 31, 2008 9:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Tip your cap...
To the starting pitchers. You had 2 Aces out there pitching in almost mid-season form. But you're right, 5 hits isn't going to win you a ton of ballgames.
"The one that invent the light tried 2,000 times and finally he did it, we have light...I don't want to spend 2,000 times to win Opening Day" Carlos Zambrano
by CubsBullsBears on Mar 31, 2008 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
See, I think of it...
...as a real GOOD baseball game was played today. Not a lot of offense, but you had two aces in tip-top shape. I don't really argue against that, and would much rather see a 4-3 game, being 0-0 until the 9th, than see a 10-11 game with chaos. Maybe it's just me.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Mar 31, 2008 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The big reason I'm not worried
is we were able to make a competitive game out of one where out 1-4 hitters were 1-18. If you would have told me that, I would have thought it would have been over in 9.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
by TCobb1911 on Mar 31, 2008 9:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Moral of the story
A healthy Ben Sheets is a very, very good ace-caliber starting pitcher in this league. There's no shame in being shut down by Sheets.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 9:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
It was a solid game and we had plenty of oportunities to win it. If DeRo's hit carried a bit more, if Dome didn't egt tued up on the base paths, etc. As long as the team is in a position to win, they will. now if we can just get Z to drink some water to stop the cramping!
by sdurst on Apr 1, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What I've always said
We are given 60 games to win and 60 games to lose. The other 40 games make you a division champion. We have 59 more games we can lose.
by ak123 on Mar 31, 2008 9:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
you and George Will.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 9:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
AL
Its funny you mention the security, where were you in relation to the TWO people that fell into the basket in LF, the one guy lost i believe where both of his shoes.
"I guess you had some lean years, and didnt have to beat it hard" - Craig Sager
by Galvan316 on Mar 31, 2008 9:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I didn't see that.
From where we are, it's hard to see the first row/warning track area. Sounds funny though.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 31, 2008 10:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
sorry
but i disagree with u guys
i grew up watching the true bleacher bums.....guys who enjoyed the cubs as much as they did their beer
like it or not these are your fellow fans
by cubsdsm on Mar 31, 2008 10:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Amen brother
The bleachers have become an embarassing freak show. The Al's of the world sitting in the bleachers are a shrinking minority. The Cubs need to crack down on the idiots at games. And kick out drunken frat boys who are polluting the entire ballpark. They care more about guzzling beers and being the life of the party than they do about the Cubs and the ballgame happening on the field.
I miss the days of the diehards, the bleacher bums and the average Joe out with his family making up the bulk of the crowd.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
uh oh
sorry you may have taken what i said incorrectly......the bleacher bums i talk about are the guys that stormed the opposing teams dugout when we won the division....i have an affinity for them
i grew up thinking the the bleachers were a place to party, not a place to bring your kids....heck in the old days the bleachers were half filled
the people who say why can't we have a place to bring our family are the same people that say there is no place for u!
by cubsdsm on Mar 31, 2008 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Stormed the opposing teams dugout when we won the division"?
When did THAT happen?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Apr 1, 2008 4:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My Brewers friend...
...sent me an interesting post the other day about Wrigley Field and its fraterization. No need to post the link here, it was pretty offensive to both Cubs fans and the Greek Community, but yes, this is an increasing problem.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Mar 31, 2008 10:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
woody?
this was not the right spot for him....so half the blame goes on lou and half goes on woody for not putting up
i love woody.....love....but i'll never understand how cubs fans see past his faults but never gave prior the benefit of the doubt....marcus girles, line drive off the elbow....all woody did was break down from over use, prior was the result of freak accidents
by cubsdsm on Mar 31, 2008 10:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
In the end
Woody came back and actually played baseball.
He was almost rock solid through spring training. He got rocked in ONE GAME -- a game that involved temperatures 20-30 degrees below what he last pitched in, in a situation that didn't exactly call for a closer, and the first game of what looks like is going to be the highest pressure situation the Cubs have been in for a while -- for the whole freakin' season.
IT'S ONE GAME. Jeez, everyone, put down the damned coolaid!
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Mar 31, 2008 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wait....
i thought these conditions were what pitchers wanted?! like i said i love woody, i just don't understand how people hate prior but can love woody.......
i agree it's just one game, but lou made the wrong call putting him in the show in that spot
by cubsdsm on Mar 31, 2008 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Woody is perceived
as being loyal, Prior is percieved as being a whiny baby.
I don't know if it's true or not; what I've read leads me to believe that Woody is VERY loyal, and Prior probably wasn't as bad as people say, but he was still kind of a jerk.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Mar 31, 2008 10:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
point given
kerry is loyal and prior left despite getting a better offer from the cubs
i think we (the fans) are partly to blame though for not giving him the same chance we gave/give kerry.....thats my only point
by cubsdsm on Mar 31, 2008 10:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mark Prior sleeps with the fish
and surprise, surprise....Prior is on the 60 day DL with San Diego. Fortunately the Cubs are no longer cutting checks for the worthless pile of ungrateful and unmotivated dung. He's the baggage of the Padres now.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 10:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wood
The open question mark is this...can Kerry Wood be an effective closer on a playoff caliber ballclub? Wood has forever been plagued with bouts of wildness and inconsistency. It's one thing to throw 96 MPH fastballs and quite another thing to hit your spots with those same fastballs. Frankly, I was very bothered by Wood's performance today. Not that he got lit up, but the manner in which he gave up the runs. I love Wood, but today I did not like what I saw of his composure and discipline on the mound. What I saw today was a patented Kerry Wood meltdown, only this time it was bullpen style. The margin of error for a closer is thin. If Wood can't get his fastball over and starts grooming pitches (the heat and curve) then he won't last long in the closer slot.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It. Was. One Game!
Cripes.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Mar 31, 2008 10:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
It's one stinking game, Wood has better stuff then ALOT of closers in baseball. He walked one batter in spring training. Today he hit the first batter, but it was also a cold wet day, and he wasn't the only pitcher to hit a batter in todays game. I have no doubt in my mind that Wood can be a good closer on a contending team if healthy. Anyone who thinks other wise because of watching him pitch today is nuts. People just really need to stop making these overreacting comments. We need to give these guys more then one game to make a judgement on anything.
by cubsfan25 on Apr 1, 2008 12:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What does this mean?
people were refusing to sit down in front of us during game action.
Are you not allowed to stand up or something? I'm going to my first game Cubs game ever this Sunday and I will sure as hell be standing up the entire game while I'm in the bleachers! Heck I stand up the entire time while I'm watchint it on TV.
by GoCubbies34 on Mar 31, 2008 10:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's correct.
When you are in the bleachers, you have to sit down if you're in a seat. I don't know why you think otherwise. It's rude to the people sitting behind you if you stand up.
So you're saying you're always rude?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Apr 1, 2008 4:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm saying I like getting into games
A quote that I like to take to heart is "if you can't see, stand up"
Oh well. Looks like I'll be sitting this sunday.
by GoCubbies34 on Apr 1, 2008 6:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Suggestion
Last row in the back.
Everybody happy?
Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson
by JohnM on Apr 1, 2008 6:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can get into the games.
Just don't block someone else's view. Deal?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Apr 1, 2008 7:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theyll make you sit down
or theyll make you leave.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Apr 1, 2008 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who needs security in the bleachers?
Just give Al a taser and billy club. He'll keep them in line.
by Great Odin's Raven on Apr 1, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if anyone's watching
the astros/padres game, there really is something worse than joe morgan doing a game. these fools are killing me. it's mcdonough (who's fine) with candy maldonado and that dude from the backup baseball tonight shows....estrudo or whatever.
just terrible.
by billywan on Mar 31, 2008 10:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Turned it off after it was obvious that...
the Candyman can't.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
by Bildo1805 on Mar 31, 2008 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if i had any self respect
i'd turn it off. but i'm so baseball starved, i'm watching this and the braves game.
by billywan on Mar 31, 2008 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
joe morgan
the only guy that loves talking about his playing days more that bb
by cubsdsm on Mar 31, 2008 10:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Joe Morgan...
...the only guy who feels the need to advocate for African American ballplayers 24/7 in his commentary. We get it Joe. You're a successful black athlete who believes that black baseball players past and present aren't afforded enough respect. Move on Joe. You're paid to provide color commentary of the baseball game, not color commentary of race relations in professional sports.
by MDBNIU on Mar 31, 2008 10:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Does anyone else despise the new
Cubs.com front page? What the deuce, I don't like anything about it.
"We are going to light up the SB Nation server farm like a Christmas tree." - cwyers
by NittanyCub on Mar 31, 2008 10:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Zambrano Update
http://chicago.comcastsportsnet.com/media/video/cubs/ZAMBRANO_16%20x%209.wmv
Lou and Big Daddy Z (my new nickname for him) speak briefly. Doesn't seem like there is much a concern on here since we saw this last year but I thought I'd share this video link.
by ak123 on Mar 31, 2008 10:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
No concern at all
He pitched like a twenty game winner out there today but alas got a no decision. In control the full 6 2/3 innings, lots of movement on the ball, it's unfortunate he cramped up. Didn't give up any walks or runs in the first few innings like the 'old' Z in years past.
Am looking forward to his next start and hope the rest of the staff look as good as he does.
by JFCubFan on Mar 31, 2008 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for that...
...for a guy that lives in Lawrence, Kansas, home of the Jayhawks, it is hard to get Cubbie info. Thanks for posting that.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Mar 31, 2008 11:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not today...
... because it couldn't have been seen under the three other layers I had on anyway.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Apr 1, 2008 4:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
observations to object to
i've read for a while but i've finally become ambitious enough to comment - please feel free to agree to object.
- Talent should dicate the 9th inning over anything else; I stood for Woody with hundreds of students at Legend's, a partisan Cubs bar at U of Illinois throughout the '03 playoffs, but Wood as the closer in '08 is a bit like the Bears getting Jim Miller as their QB this year: it's too late for an old guy i appreciate, so i go with talent over nostalgia.
- A middle infield that will likely hit a combined .280 avg; 20 hrs; 85 rbis; 30 sbs; and score 120 runs is unacceptable. Somehow NL West teams (aside the Nats) manage to have one outstanding SS or 2B in the lineup - how do we get past that?
I watched the game today and loved all but 18 fateful minutes of relief pitching/defense in the 9th and 10th. There is a lot to like, but I'm worried that we need an upgrade at either middle IF or a change in relief pitching to meet our ever-annual goal.
by fitzky on Apr 1, 2008 1:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Disagree on both points...
Congrats for joining and posting. It's fun and you'll enjoy it!
That said, I disagree with both of your points:
- Wood had one bad game. It happens. He looked great this spring. He also happens to have as much talent as anyone in the pen, with the possible exception of Marmol. More importantly, the only guy who might have more talent is pitching in a more important role. Marmol is the guy we use to get through the dangerous situations in the 6th/7th innings with runners on base. We need our best out-getter there. So compared with everyone else in the pen, Wood is hands-down the best available to close. I'd give him a lot longer leash than one game.
- First, I'll be SHOCKED if the middle infield combines for only 85 RBI and 120 runs. Last year (in less playing time than they're likely to get this year), the two combined for 117 RBI and 144 runs. That's acceptable, especially considering where Theriot bats. Theriot is most certainly a below-average baseball player, but MANY teams have less pop in their middle IF.
If we fail to win the division, it won't likely be because of the lack of production from the middle IF or because of the back end of the bullpen.
by SouthernCub on Apr 1, 2008 6:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with you
BUT, the most important pitcher in the bullpen is the closer. Thats why Gagne gets 10 mil, Riviera gets 15 mil etc.....if the 6th and 7th inning guy was the most important hed be getting the money. AND UGGG, I hate to agree with Dan Bernstein
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Apr 1, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jay Mariotti
Anyone else hear that Mariotti disabled comments on his webpage? Go figure.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Apr 1, 2008 1:44 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Comments were disabled there.
But I don't know if it was at his request or at Sun-Times management's direction.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Apr 1, 2008 4:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Translation of "Chance"
I watched Dome's 9th-inning-game-tying-3-run homer on YouTube before my sattelite channel start the game program tonight - and it's too, too funny to found somebody in right-center bleacher shows up a board in Japanese, that reads "Guzen Dazo".
I guess he or she made it a translation of "it's chance!", but it actually means "It's only a fluky hit!". Many of Japanese weblogs are laughing out loud on this right now...
I don't think the homerun was a fluky hit and he or she, who should be a lovable Cubs fan, were trying to mean "It's chance", but it was too funny....
Next time, pls use this - hopely he of she can see this before going to next Cubs game.
by dragonsfanatic on Apr 1, 2008 2:15 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
...and this is it.
He might be a Brewers fan?
by dragonsfanatic on Apr 1, 2008 2:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
HEY!! Dragonsfanatic!
Good to see you around, and good to see your boy pull through for us today! It was magical, that's for sure. I don't remember the last time the crowd was that into it, chanting, just pure excitement. Thanks for lending him to us and for your fantastic insight into your culture. You truly are an asset to BCB!
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Apr 1, 2008 2:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anybody...
...got any idea how to save this to my computer? I'd love to keep it and watch it again and again.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Apr 1, 2008 3:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am watching...
Dragons-Giants game while recording Cubs-Brewers game, and Dome's 3 hits came up as a highlight reel - all the commentators were laughing out loud on "Guzen Dazo", and also told they hope Dome understands that's a funny mistake....
by dragonsfanatic on Apr 1, 2008 5:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
might be....
Somebody kindly told me it might translation of "It's gonna happen".
Anyhow, even though Google translate it as "Guzen dazo" in Japanese, it still reads "it's only a fluky hit"...
If so, you can use this - "It's gonna happen in Theater Wrigley". This is a modification of famous phrase for Kawasaki stadium - where Leon Lee, father of Derrek Lee played for Orions and Derrek was running around before every game when he was a small hyper kid, and too many miracles happened in dramatic fasion in their games.
by dragonsfanatic on Apr 1, 2008 2:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What does...
...the "Theater" part mean? Is that how "Field" translates??
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Apr 1, 2008 3:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theater
It's not the translation of field.... Because there was too many miracles in Kawasaki Stadium, fans rather call it a (great) theater rather than just a field at that time (early 80's). I just respected it.
by dragonsfanatic on Apr 1, 2008 3:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
its gonna happen?
These signs were handed out yesterday by the annoying Its' Gonna Happen guys - one side is english, the other is the obviously incorrect japanese translation. Glad to see they got it wrong - and also glad it isn't something offensive!
by gp1966 on Apr 1, 2008 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Its a fluke!
as i got my morning coffee all the morning news outlets in japan were all over this sign (it seemed like there were several) and the audacity of it. one guest figured its just how cut-throat the cubs faithful are, that they would prepare such a sign in advance to try to keep kosuke from getting puffed up in case he did well in his debut. but it was later cleared up that those poor fans just got a bum interpretation of the word chance (i.e. chance as in fluke, rather chance as in oppurtunity).
its been the running joke of the day at the office today though. like hey, i heard you got that new acount? GUZEN DAZO!!
LMAO
聖なる牛！カブスの勝ち！
by CUBBY on Apr 1, 2008 2:47 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Funny stuff
Just wondering, though, if the sign-writer might have meant "good luck"? "It's chance" doesn't really mean anything.
Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson
by JohnM on Apr 1, 2008 3:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ROFLcakes!! haha that is great.
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Apr 1, 2008 3:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Changes will be made
I can't think that the Theriot leading-off experiment will last more than a month (unless he gets absolutely hot). Putting your worst hitter at the top of the order is just not smart baseball. I thought they tried this alingment because they thought they'd get Roberts and they wanted to see Soriano bat second. Now with no Roberts it just doesn't make sense.
I'm crossing my fingers on Pie. Some minor league numbers aside, his approach at the plate looks too similar to Mr. Patterson for my liking. And btw, Dusty is hitting Patterson leadoff again. The guy never ceases to amaze.
And yes, as Al pointed out, Wuertz should have pitched the 10th. As soon as I saw Howry I had a bad feeling. I'm not concerned about the bullpen though... Lou will find the people who are performing and will insert them in appropriate part of the game.
To a poster above who talked about Soriano earning his 136 million. I say this: Soriano isn't worth that amount because of his production. He's worth it because Hendry gave him that money. He is not a clutch player by any means and nowhere near guys like Manny Ramirez who make a similar amount. He is an undisciplined hitter who will sometimes get very hot and hit everything and sometimes will repeatedly swing and miss at balls in the dirt. When the pressure is on (big games) or the game is on the line (situation) he is not the guy you want up there. Sad, but true.
by Luis on Apr 1, 2008 4:06 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Tigers: 0-1
Cubs: 0-1
Angels: 0-1
Red Sox: 1-1
Atlanta: 0-2
Philadelphia: 0-1
I'm not concerned..
Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..
by Chanman25 on Apr 1, 2008 6:45 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Not a bad start
Cant really complain for the first game of the season. Dome was impressive and that can only mean good things for the cubs. Hopefully wood shapes up his act and can recreate another 20 K game this year. its a long season
by chicubs75 on Apr 1, 2008 7:55 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wait till next day
I ask why bring Wood in on a cold winter day.... and Grandma said its for the fire stupid.... I said Grandma
I think the Wood needs to be protected for when we
really need it.... I think Grandma mumbled somthing
about FUKU U.........
. We need a Batting Order that makes sense.
Riot
DeRo
Fonse
DLee
Aram
Fuku
Soto
Grandma
by nimblenikelfoos on Apr 1, 2008 8:21 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I still don't see how batting...
...one of the weakest hitters on the team in the lead-off spot makes any sense. Personally, I'd stick with Ol' Faithful:
1. Soriano (yeah, I said it)
2. Dome
3. DLee
4. ARam
5. DeRo
6. Soto
7. Pie
8. Theriot
9. Pitcher
Against "tough" lefties maybe a lil' somethin' like:
1. Dome
2. DeRo
3. DLee
4. Aram
5. Soriano
6. Johnson
7. Soto
8. Theriot
9. Pitcher
If Theriot is really the OBP threat he's supposed to be, let him get on base in front of the pitcher. With less than two outs, you bunt him over or he steals and puts the better hitters in a position to drive him in.
Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 1, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Uniforms
I don't know if anyone else feels the same way I do, but I hate the way Fielder and Gagne wear their uni's. They look like crap. It is pretty bad when and ump has to come out and tell you to tuck in your shirt tail.
by 23Ryno on Apr 1, 2008 8:22 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Horrible...
Everyone I was watching the game with was just shocked that this happens with professionals. I usually only see this kind of crap with high school kids wearing baggy shorts during basketball games. I wouldn't be surprised if MLB starts fining players for this stuff the way the NBA and NFL does.
"The one that invent the light tried 2,000 times and finally he did it, we have light...I don't want to spend 2,000 times to win Opening Day" Carlos Zambrano
by CubsBullsBears on Apr 1, 2008 8:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Completly agree
I dont agree with the NFL being SO STRICT, but come on, look like a ballplayer.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Apr 1, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if you want them to look like ballplayers
then get rid of the long pants, and go back to the stirrups, and make them curve their cap bills properly.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 1, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sounds good.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Apr 1, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Amen brother
Bud the Dud Selig needs to crack down on players dressed like slobs. Wear the uniform the right way...like Alfonso Soriano and Felix Pie for example. Enough with the baggy and too long pants. And for crying out loud, tuck in your blinkin jersey and undershirt.
If you think Gagne and Fielder are bad then get a load of CC Sabathia in Cleveland. Disgusting lack of respect for the uniform and the game of baseball.
by MDBNIU on Apr 1, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They need to wear their uniforms like Kyle Farnsworth.
by daeviant on Apr 1, 2008 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Their pants were too big
I think Brenly asked if Fielder and Gagne were last in line when they were handing out uniforms.
by daeviant on Apr 1, 2008 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Japanese HR call?
After reading a few morning articles today mentioning the Japanese play-by-play guy's reaction to Fukudome's HR and double, I would love to hear these. Anyone (Dragonsfanatic?) got a link?
"The one that invent the light tried 2,000 times and finally he did it, we have light...I don't want to spend 2,000 times to win Opening Day" Carlos Zambrano
by CubsBullsBears on Apr 1, 2008 8:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Re: Japanese HR call?
I don't find any footage, but I got one in my HDD recorder - the NHK commentator uses traditional ones "Haittttaaaaaaaaaaaa!!" (means it goes into the bleacher).
by dragonsfanatic on Apr 1, 2008 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Horrible....
You nailed it, they are "Professionals" and look nothing like it. I hope MLB steps in, cause that needs to go.
by 23Ryno on Apr 1, 2008 8:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Question for Al
Were you sitting at the game with some other guy under a huge, white-and-blue-striped umbrella ?
by Fraggin Judge on Apr 1, 2008 9:21 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes.
n/t
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Apr 1, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought so.
There was a close-up shot of you two for about five seconds on the ESPN broadcast, during the bottom of the eight inning, if I remember correctly.
by Fraggin Judge on Apr 1, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone Else Miss..
the pitch speed they used to display on TV? WGN's new graphics doesn't show that info anymore. Bummer. Always liked that. I also think the graphics could be a bit more muted in terms of color. Too bright and distracting for my taste. One positive is that they now show OBP for hitters.
Stats spelled backwards is statS!
by digitalbenjamin on Apr 1, 2008 9:42 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The lineup
Here is the lineups I'd like to see. Not ideal, but the best I think under the circumstances. Of course subject to additional change if things don't click. They are crafted under the belief that one of the "big 4" must hit in the # 5 hole and that Derosa, Soto, Pie, Theriot stacked together in the second half of the lineup is recipe for offensive futility.
vs. RHP
1. Theriot
2. Lee
3. Fukudome
4. Ramirez
5. Soriano
6. DeRosa
7. Soto
8. Pie
vs. LHP
1. Johnson
2. Lee
3. Fukudome
4. Ramirez
5. Soriano
6. DeRosa
7. Soto
8. Theriot
by MDBNIU on Apr 1, 2008 10:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't see how you decrease overall lineup futility by
putting the Cubs worst hitter against RHP (except for maybe Henry Blanco) in the leadoff spot. If we feel like we absolutely must split up Pie and Theriot, then bat Pie first and at least have a left-hander there (and, no, I don't want Pie batting leadoff, but if it was a choice between Pie and Theriot, the answer is easy).
The problem is that Lou pigeon-holed himself by saying he was moving Sori down in the order to save his legs. Now he has to have someone who can steal in the leadoff position.
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No matter how you slice it...
...the Cubs probably don't have an adequate leadoff man on the roster. We know what Soriano is and it just isn't what you want in your leadoff guy. Theriot has the legs, but he needs to improve quite a bit to give you a high enouph OBP to be a decent leadoff guy. He may surprise everyone and be that guy, but I think that is wishful thinking.
There is a reason the Cubs went hard after Roberts. They know they are vulnerable in that spot and they are hoping that hole doesn't end up costing them games in the W column. Time tells all, and it will in this circumstance as well.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Apr 1, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs have a good leadoff hitter on roster
and his name is Matt Murton. He gets on-base at a nice clip, hits for average and can run well enough if not great. Too bad he can't play SS.
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 3:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He would be better...
...then some, but to me he is by no means near a complete leadoff hitter.
I like his OBP, but he does not have enouph speed to create concern for the other team and he also seems to lack base running instincts.
Actually, I think Murton is the 2nd best 2-hole hitter on the roster behind Fukudome.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Apr 1, 2008 4:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I tend to think a base-stealing lead-off man
disrupts your hitters as much as the pitchers, as long as those 2-4 hitters are good hitters (and not Neifi Perez). Murton has enough speed for the hit and run and to move around the bases. On the other hand, when you have a guy who hopes to get 40 SBs or more, your 2-3-4 hitters are sometimes left watching a good pitch go by, just so the speedster can pad someone's fantasy stats.
by DGU on Apr 1, 2008 6:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's one view...
...but I tend to think good hitters take advantage having a speedy runner on because;
-it tends to affect what pitches a pitcher may throw
-makes them speed up and could affect their natural delivery
-pitchers make more mistakes when their mind is also on the runner
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Apr 1, 2008 7:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was a pleasure!
Despite the outcome everyone had a pretty good time I think.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 11:55 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What was your take during the...
Dome HR??
by bap on Apr 1, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was one of the most exciting
things I've experienced at a Cubs game. The stadium exploded. The right field fans went crazy when Dome came out the next inning. I think it helped his confidence in a big way. He's gonna like being a Cub.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Random Question...
Is the stocking-cap over the hat allowed, like Gwynn Jr. was wearing before the delay in the 3rd? I don't think I have ever seen that and didn't expect it, especially when a lot of the players were wearing short sleeves.
Brian McRae's 5 O'Clock Shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Apr 1, 2008 12:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bruan was doing that too half the game.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
anyone at the game yesterday...
and get caught in the mob scene that was the concourse during the rain delay? holy crap that was the most obnoxious experience i've ever had at a game...
Can't quiet THE RIOT! (www.riotshirts.com)
by RIOTSHIRTS.com on Apr 1, 2008 12:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I didnt see that
Not much cover at Wrigley. I was in the bleachers with my $3 poncho
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder who feels worse
about their closer: Brewers fans or Cubs fans.
by daeviant on Apr 1, 2008 1:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
IT HAS TO BE THE BREWERS
IMO
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer
by Hammer on Apr 1, 2008 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Has to be the Brewers
They dont have any other options. Turnbow is horrible in the closer role. At least the Cubs have options....but I'm not worried one bit. It was really tough conditions. I dont know how the wind effects the pitching at Wrigley but it was howling out like I hadn't seen in a while.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
T-bow
He is horrible and I hope to never see him in the closers role, but Mota and Riske both looked pretty solid.
For the cubs, Why was Wood ever considered for the closers role when Marmol is so much better?
by brewfan2 on Apr 1, 2008 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably because Marmol can go 2 innings and Wood can't.
by daeviant on Apr 1, 2008 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eric Gagne is awful
He's an out of shape ex-steroid abuser with a tired arm. And to think that the Brewers paid $10 million for the privilege of him serving as a gas can in 2008.
by MDBNIU on Apr 1, 2008 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
HA!
kinda like us spending $13 mil on Kendall last year.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kendall...
IIRC, i think that we only picked up around $1mm of Kendall's salary last year... the rest was picked up by the A's and Pirates.
by bobby h on Apr 1, 2008 3:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
good to know
I looked at last years payroll and he was at the top. If he only cost the Cubs $1mil then nooo problem.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
from USA Today
since i'm bored (aka at work) i decided to check my memory...
The cash will cover a portion of his $13 million salary, which had been being paid by both the A's ($8 million) and the Pirates ($5 million).
So...not so bad... especially considering the Brewer's are paying him $4.25mm to catch gagne...how's that for a $15mm battery?
by bobby h on Apr 1, 2008 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jason Kendall
Well, Kendall is a quality receiver who works very well with a pitching staff. And he's historically been a useful offensive player. His achilles heel is the inability to throw at this stage of his career. But there are a lot of catchers around the NL that I would rank lower overall versus Kendall. He can be a definite asset to Milwaukee.
by MDBNIU on Apr 1, 2008 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I heard last night on ESPN Radio...
on the Jay Hood Show (forgive me, but I can't remember the exact number) but something like 300 pitchers make between $5 mil and $12 mil. If this is anywhere near true, than you can see why the Brewers would pay $10 mil for Gagne.
Not saying this is justifiable, but it shows just how out of whack salaries have become. IMHO there aren't 300 quality pitchers in all of baseball.
by Tangled Up In Blue on Apr 1, 2008 3:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not bad at all.
I think he's a good player but not a great player. Didnt he break his ankle when he was youger. He was supposed to be a stud but really never broke out into superstardom.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 5:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Keystone
Kendall had a freak accident running to first base when he was with the Pirates. He had a compound dislocation of his ankle. Pretty gruesome injury.
He is a lifetime .297 hitter, and before the injury was a leadoff hitter who could steal bases. Eceptionally rare in a catcher.
He handles a staff very well, but is clearly on the downside of his career.
by Tangled Up In Blue on Apr 1, 2008 6:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ohh yea
thats what I was thinking of.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 6:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and i remember Alou doing the same damn thing.
Poor Matty Murton....
by Keystone80435 on Apr 1, 2008 6:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kendall
I can still remember when he broke that ankle, top 5 most disgusting sports injuries I have seen.
Lets do it Cubbies
by slocs55 on Apr 2, 2008 8:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My least favorite injury
was when Robin Ventura, then with the White Sox, slid home and caught one of his cleats on home plate and broke his ankle. His foot was pointing in the wrong direction. I nearly threw-up when I saw that one. And then, like with anything on TV, they proceeded to show five or six replays. It was awful.
by gwood on Apr 2, 2008 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tough Loss
It was undoubtedly a tough loss, but considering the fact that our 1-3 hitters went a combined 1 for 15 and our bullpen sucked, the fact we only lost by 1 run really says to me that we are going to win a good amount of games this year. Besides Fukudome and Zambrano, no one really impressed me. Theriot seemed uncharacteristically extremely late and slow bringing his bat through the zone, it still seems like Lee's wrist is well enough because he couldn't turn on and inside pitch today, and both Wood and Howry were huge disappointments. I hope Wood becomes a good closer, but honestly they overhyped him out of spring training. People are forgetting that Carlos Marmol left Mesa with an even lower ERA than Wood. Howry shouldn't have complained about how he deserves the closer job because this Opening Day proved to be no different than any other April. The guy has to pitch better early in the season. I think they should leave Wood at closer for a couple weeks more, and if he blows a lot more saves, I don't see why Piniella should hesitate to bring in Marmol because even though Kerry is great, truly Marmol was the better candidate to be this team's closer in the first place.
by kram354 on Apr 1, 2008 7:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
HBP....
was wood's hit batter in the ninth a retaliation from when dero was hit?if it was what a bonehead move!!
by goatstew on Apr 1, 2008 9:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
No, I'm sure it wasn't.
That'd be really stupid in the 9th inning of a 0-0 game. The pitch just got away.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Apr 2, 2008 4:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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