Open Thread: Cubs vs. Diamondbacks, Wednesday 3/5, 2:05 CT

"Deep Goat" ????

I love it!!

:)

by Neifi Puppy on Mar 5, 2008 10:45 AM CST reply actions

Deep Goat

Al, is "Deep Goat" saying anything else, perhaps w/r/t the second big deal Crane Kenney has mentioned?

by John Q Freejazz on Mar 5, 2008 10:53 AM CST up reply actions

Nope.

No other info available right now.

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

by Al Yellon on Mar 5, 2008 12:50 PM CST up reply actions

You beat me to it

"Deep Goat" is the best pseudonym I've ever seen on this board

"It's that wonderul relief that comes when they stop hitting you in the head with a hammer."

by lostinthevines on Mar 5, 2008 11:17 AM CST up reply actions

Wild Bill is....

"Deep Goat"!! Just read his earlier diary.

Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.

by copes006 on Mar 5, 2008 12:00 PM CST up reply actions

Alfonso out 2 weeks

According to the ESPN scroll.

Lemon20Pie's 2008 PECOTA for Rich Hill: 204 IP 30 HR 75 BB 180 SO 1.35 WHIP 4.25 ERA

by lemon20pie on Mar 5, 2008 10:48 AM CST reply actions

Grain of salt -

ESPN also thinks Chris Singleton will be a valuable addition to Baseball Tonight

"It's that wonderul relief that comes when they stop hitting you in the head with a hammer."

by lostinthevines on Mar 5, 2008 11:21 AM CST up reply actions

Haha

Hey-o!

"We are going to light up the SB Nation server farm like a Christmas tree." - cwyers

by NittanyCub on Mar 5, 2008 11:43 AM CST up reply actions

originated from an Oriole source, this could easily just have meant that internally trade discussion was heating up as the O's decided who they want from the cubs. Hendry wouldn't talk to them until they had decided for sure who they want from the Cubs anyways. I definitely think this deal will still go down a couple weeks before the season starts.

Bill James Felix Pie 2008 Projection: .283/.333/.456 16 HR 21 SB

by kylejo on Mar 5, 2008 11:26 AM CST reply actions

re: seeing that the roberts rumor

I must confess, I've been wondering whether the Orioles just haven't scouted the Cubs very effectively, so they're waiting to watch a certain number of spring training games/at-bats to see how Gallagher, Cedeno et al. are capable of performing. Then, when he's good and ready, MacPhail will bring an offer to Jim Hendry. In this sense, Hendry isn't lying when he says, "There have been no active talks in any trade situation in the last five to six days." Of course there haven't. They haven't been talking, because the Orioles are still handling the merchandise. I feel dirty even discussing the Roberts deal-or-no-deal, and yet, I cannot help myself.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 12:10 PM CST up reply actions

I really doubt that

A few spring training appearances aren't likely going to change much.

I think they just haven't come to an agreement on the players involved. The O's probably want more than Hendry wants to give. If the deal gets made, it might be a matter of who blinks first.

Of course, the one other alternative is Angelos hasn't blessed it yet.

by rlpete on Mar 5, 2008 12:30 PM CST up reply actions

Rumors come from somewhere

Sometimes the source is the writer's imagination, but when Heyman and Rosenthal are behind it, you'd expect they are hearing something from somewhere.

Sometimes the rumor is misinformation to push a different club to up their offer, but I'm not hearing anything from any other club being interested in Roberts. Maybe the O's keep hoping some other club (maybe the Rockies?) will jump in.

But otherwise, the idea that the O's have decided to come down to Hendry's level of offers seems like a good read here.

Soriano must leadoff... to provide adequate protection for Big Z!

by DGU on Mar 5, 2008 12:42 PM CST up reply actions

Note to Rich: ...

...Hold the runner and keep your mind on the present pitch! No peeking ahead! - TL

"Why shouldn't we believe that we're going to win the World Series?" - Ted Lilly, 1/19/2008, Daily Herald interview w/Barry Rozner

by timlacy on Mar 5, 2008 11:27 AM CST reply actions

Today's lineup

Any visibility on who takes the field today?

by dwm on Mar 5, 2008 12:27 PM CST up reply actions

according to gameday

It is

CF Pie
SS Cedeno
1B Hoffpauir
LF Murton
RF Colvin
2B Fontenot
3B Cintron
C Blanco
P Z

We continue to stretch the definition of the word 'regular' for road games...

by berselius on Mar 5, 2008 1:25 PM CST up reply actions

Yeah, I don't even think we're trying anymore.

That's not stretching, that's ignoring.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 1:26 PM CST up reply actions

Well...

... with Ramirez, DeRosa and Soriano all out, who would YOU start?

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

by Al Yellon on Mar 5, 2008 1:32 PM CST up reply actions

J.D. Closser?

No, but seriously, I don't disagree with what the Cubs are doing, but they're playing with fire when it comes to the league rules on these sorts of things.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 1:52 PM CST up reply actions

What rule is that?

n/t

Prince Fielder a vegetarian? Run, carrots, run for your lives!

by TC Cubby on Mar 5, 2008 3:05 PM CST up reply actions

I say...

it's good that Lou keeps giving Cedeno more rope to hang himself with
it's making me nervous that Aramis hasn't gotten at least one AB yet (come on Lou...just a PH maybe?)
it's interesting that Colvin is hitting 5th today
it's still too long until these games actually count
this salad looks delicious

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 1:35 PM CST up reply actions

Anytime you can wrap your salad in...

...bacon, that's a sign of good things to come. - TL

"Why shouldn't we believe that we're going to win the World Series?" - Ted Lilly, 1/19/2008, Daily Herald interview w/Barry Rozner

by timlacy on Mar 5, 2008 1:40 PM CST up reply actions

Chuck Norris wraps his bacon in bacon.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 1:46 PM CST up reply actions

Ramirez...

... is supposed to play tomorrow.

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

by Al Yellon on Mar 5, 2008 1:43 PM CST up reply actions

Got it for PS2

I got it for the PS2 last night, and me and my buddy who often played MLB07 played it for about 4 hours or so. Things we noticed:

Hitting seems to be harder and its often hard to get low pitches into the air.
If you guess location, it doesn't show you exactly where the ball is going to be, but only that it will be in the area you guessed.
Fielding seems a bit smoother, but there are a lot more errant throws on the infield (in the dirt, high throws.)
The mound comes into play quite a bit. If a ball hits the mound on the side, it will often take a favorable bounce for the SS/2B.
It's much easier to turn on inside pitches.
Joba Chamberlain is really hard to hit. I consider myself a pretty good Show player, and my buddy was carving me up with him. He was throwing 96-99mph four seamers and two seamers, with a nasty hook to compliment them.

All in all, I thought the game play improved. I always thought it was way too easy to hit in the 2007 version. It's harder now, but definitely not an impossible task. I'll probably check out the improvements to the Road to the Show mode tonight if I get a chance.

by rambler19 on Mar 5, 2008 12:46 PM CST reply actions

oh wow

Totally wrong thread, I meant to post this in the MLB 08: The Show thread. Ignore!

by rambler19 on Mar 5, 2008 12:47 PM CST up reply actions

Scherzer

Saw him pitch at Mizzou when he was here--the kid is tremendous. Don't know what kind of shot he has to get on the roster at all this year, but he has got some nasty stuff...

One of the rare players on another team (especially the DBacks) that I actively root for...not today though!

Brian McRae's 5 O'Clock Shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Mar 5, 2008 1:00 PM CST reply actions

Max...

Pitches alot like Marmol I guess you could say. Fastball is usually mid to high 90's. He doesn't have the slider Marmol does, but when he would come back to practice here he worked on his cut fastball and it is just mean.

He could be used as a starter even heard he could be a closer or somewhere in relief. I guess he can pitch his way onto the team this year though. He's a great kid and I agree gotta root for him.

by dus22 on Mar 5, 2008 1:16 PM CST up reply actions

MIZ!!!

n/t

I'm the guy in the blue under armour shirt

by joeschmitt on Mar 5, 2008 3:03 PM CST up reply actions

ZOU!

haha I take it you're a grad?

by dus22 on Mar 5, 2008 3:20 PM CST up reply actions

'02 econ & poli sci

n/t

I'm the guy in the blue under armour shirt

by joeschmitt on Mar 9, 2008 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions

Mizzou

Wait...Mizzou has a baseball team? I hadn't noticed them in the Big 12 recently.

by matthew23 on Mar 5, 2008 4:34 PM CST up reply actions

#13 in the country

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/baseball/usatpoll.htm

I'm the guy in the blue under armour shirt

by joeschmitt on Mar 9, 2008 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions

Both lineups

Cubs
Pie, CF
Cedeno, SS
Hoffpauir, 1B
Murton, LF
Colvin, RF
Fontenot, 2B
Cintron, 3B
Blanco, C
Zambrano, P

AZ
Burke, 3B
Drew, SS
Hudson, SS
Young, CF
Salazar, LF
Upton, RF
Hammock, C
Brito, 1B
Gutierrez, P

by Bruce Miles on Mar 5, 2008 1:41 PM CST reply actions

Thanks Bruce.

by Tangled Up In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 1:44 PM CST up reply actions

Yes!! More Hoff Power!!

Old Style is the nectar of life.

by Mordecai on Mar 5, 2008 2:15 PM CST up reply actions

I'm drawing a blank.

What exactly are the league rules? A certain number of in-season starters must begin a game?

"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Mar 5, 2008 1:55 PM CST reply actions

Teams are required to start four regulars...

...on road games in the Cactus Leagues. Technically the league could fine them, but the Cubs and Mets have both had their transgressions overlooked so far. (I don't know if any other teams are doing it.)

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 1:57 PM CST up reply actions

re: four regulars

Murton
Pie
Blanco
Z

Sure, it's stretching the rules, but all of these players could be argued as being regulars. Murton was a starter a couple years ago, Blanco has played in almost 700 ML games, Pie will be a regular this season, and, well Z. I can't imagine this could draw a fine... Although I definitely see what you're getting at.

"Look, what's important is to be in first place on the last day of the season." -Lou 8/1/07

by 26.2cubfan on Mar 5, 2008 2:12 PM CST up reply actions

Position players.

Z's a pitcher, so he doesn't count.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 2:28 PM CST up reply actions

Fontenot counts, though...

with DeRosa out recovering from surgery, Fontenot would count as a regular, in my opinion.

by SouthernCub on Mar 5, 2008 2:34 PM CST up reply actions

Our old friend

Augie Ojeda replaces Drew at short today for AZ.

by Bruce Miles on Mar 5, 2008 2:05 PM CST reply actions

And to think...

...just two years ago, Augie was considering moving over to pitching.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 2:07 PM CST up reply actions

Huh.

Wonder what's up with Drew? See, the Cubs aren't the only team with hurt regulars.

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

by Al Yellon on Mar 5, 2008 2:19 PM CST up reply actions

3 up 3 down

in the first for the Cubs

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:16 PM CST reply actions

Does anyone have

enough free time to post semi-regular updates today? Maybe just let us know after each batter what happens?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 2:18 PM CST reply actions

I will attempt

but I'm using Gameday and it does it's own thing.

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:26 PM CST up reply actions

I guess I should think...

seeing as this game isn't on any radio or TV station...nobody can give us updates!

Duh!

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 2:27 PM CST up reply actions

3 up 3 down

for the D-backs in the first as well

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:19 PM CST reply actions

PBP (kinda)

Murton - Grounds out
Colvin - Out on Strikes (swinging)

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:28 PM CST reply actions

Fontenot out on strikes

3 up 3 down in the second

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:29 PM CST reply actions

Gameday tells me...

Fontenot just struck out on three pitches. Let the debate continue.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 2:29 PM CST reply actions

During spring training...

...Gameday only records four pitches per walk and three pitches per strikeout. Fontenot could have fouled off 72 pitches in that at-bat for all we know.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 2:34 PM CST up reply actions

Gameday shows

Gutierrez has yet to throw a ball. 12 straight strikes...

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:30 PM CST reply actions

Do you think...

Carlos is paying attention?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 2:31 PM CST up reply actions

re: Gameday shows

Crikey, you're right. He's like the anti-Noah Lowry.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 2:32 PM CST up reply actions

Then again

the three strikes to Fontenot were in the EXACT same spot. I would hope he didn't see three fast balls on the heart of the plate and whiff three times.... then again 'I hope'

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:33 PM CST up reply actions

PBP`

Young singles to right
Salazar walks
Upton lines into a Double Play (Pie to Fontenot)
Hammock flies out to right

Going to the third...

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:35 PM CST reply actions

My Gameday just updated...

...looks like Felix doubled Chris Young off second on a fly out. Sweet! End of second, no score.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 2:35 PM CST reply actions

Ah, the 8-4 double play.

Happens ALL the time.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 2:36 PM CST up reply actions

re: Ah, the 8-4 double play.

It could this season! Also 7-4 and 9-4.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 2:37 PM CST up reply actions

Alex Cintron up for the chubbies

with 4 RBI's in the bag so far this ST

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:36 PM CST reply actions

LOL

I think we're all sitting around waiting for Gameday to update.

"Oh well, there's always next year!!!" Every Cub fan

by McRipper on Mar 5, 2008 2:41 PM CST reply actions

HOME RUN BIG Z!

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 2:44 PM CST reply actions

Mine just did...

...the bad news: Cintron grounded out and Blanco and Pie struck out.

The good news: BIG Z HOMERED!!!!

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 2:44 PM CST reply actions

BIG Z

Homerun Zambrano
Cubs 1-0

"Oh well, there's always next year!!!" Every Cub fan

by McRipper on Mar 5, 2008 2:44 PM CST reply actions

HR

Zambrano! Cubs 1-0 Pie strikes out swinging to end the inning.

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:45 PM CST reply actions

5 Ks in 3 innings...

are we picking up where we left off last season playing this team?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 2:46 PM CST reply actions

Cubs are doing a pretty good job

getting them out as well. Fewer pitches, even. :D And Z just struck out Scherzer (I know, not that impressive) and the side is out like that.

Game Day is updating faster today. Yay.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 2:49 PM CST up reply actions

re: Cubs are doing a pretty good job

Wow, yeah -- nice outing by Z!!!

3 IP, 1 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 1 BB, 3 SO

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 2:51 PM CST up reply actions

Must be the snazzy uniforms.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 2:53 PM CST up reply actions

Who's got two index fingers...

and looks like a douchbag?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 2:56 PM CST up reply actions

Ahhh Cubs Fans

Sitting around waiting for Gameday to update. By the 7th inning we should have this down to a science.

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 2:46 PM CST reply actions

Z's HR

All I could do when I saw the boxscore and Z being the only one with a hit is laugh.

Pie with an outfield assist is helping his case for winning CF (if Fuld was really competition??)

by ak123 on Mar 5, 2008 2:59 PM CST reply actions

The Hoff...

HoffPOWER with a homer... 2-0 Cubs

"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 5, 2008 3:00 PM CST reply actions

REVENGE!

Take THAT, 2007! :P

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 3:01 PM CST up reply actions

Yes...

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 3:02 PM CST up reply actions

HAHAHA

I lol'd

"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 5, 2008 3:05 PM CST up reply actions

Lou's Tuesday comments

Just heard Sweet Lou's discussion with the media from Tuesday that was played on ESPN radio. The one thing I picked up on was desire for another outfield bat. And his exasperated tone when the subject of Matt Murton and his role / non-role with this ballclub is.

Clearly Piniella wants another stick. It seems logical it would be a platoon mate for Felix Pie in center field. I'm all for getting Marlon Byrd. Would Texas swap Byrd for Murton??? I don't know.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 3:05 PM CST reply actions

No.

The Cubs asked, the Rangers came back and said they wanted Veal or Ceda included.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 3:10 PM CST up reply actions

Pie..........

0 for 2 with 2 k's against a not so great rhp.
Anyone starting to worry that the offseason "work" on his swing/approach isn't going to work?

Staring to wonder if Marquis for Crisp isn't a good idea...............

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 3:15 PM CST up reply actions

Im not worried

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Mar 5, 2008 3:20 PM CST up reply actions

He also has two HR and a 2B...

in 16 AB this year. So no, I'm not too worried yet.

by SouthernCub on Mar 5, 2008 3:32 PM CST up reply actions

yet.....................

being the key word.........he's 3 for 16?.........ohhhhhhhhh for 3 today.

Don't wanna give up on him yet..........but methinks he needs to show Lou much much more

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions

i hope he doesnt bust

because if he busts this year, his trade value will be gone....Im worried that the cubs should have gotten what they couldve for pie when they had the chance.

by cubsmania on Mar 5, 2008 3:52 PM CST up reply actions

Its a shame about Murton

Lou HATES HIS DEFENSE, that has to be a big part of the reason besides Sori. I always thought Murton could turn into a Jeff Bagwell type with less power

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Mar 5, 2008 3:20 PM CST up reply actions

Lou..........

I don't think has forgiven Murton for dropping that flyball early last year

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 3:27 PM CST up reply actions

Well..

Hard to like Murton when he affords so little versatility. He plays one position on the field that is occupied by a $136 million franchise player.

The bigger point is Lou becoming frustrated with some things and wanting another outfield bat.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions

3-0 cubs

Z, HR
Hoffpauir, HR
Alex Cintron, RBI (Colvin)

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 3:07 PM CST reply actions

Crazy top of the fourth...

...with two outs, Colvin strikes out but takes first on a wild pitch. He then scored on two successive singles by Fonty and Cintron. Hank White then ended the inning with a FO to center. 3-0 Cubs, bottom four, Filthy Rich in to pitch.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 3:07 PM CST reply actions

Hill

is killing me.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 3:17 PM CST reply actions

Cintron...

Is making a strong case this ST to make the team as that utility infielder over Cedeno

"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 5, 2008 3:18 PM CST reply actions

Couldn't agree more.

I know it's early, but if things progress the way they are, Cintron looks like he will make the squad. Know I am getting ahead of myself, but he may turn out to be a pretty valuable signing.

by Tangled Up In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 3:21 PM CST up reply actions

Cintron...

... had a pretty good year as AZ's more-or-less starting SS in 2003, and regressed in 2004 (that 2004 D'backs team lost 111 games).

Since then he's been a part time player, and not a very good one. He neither strikes out nor walks very much. Can play SS, 2B, 3B, which I know Lou likes (versatility).

I'd say unless he starts sucking, and/or Cedeno starts actually NOT sucking, Cintron's going to be the utility infielder.

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

by Al Yellon on Mar 5, 2008 3:24 PM CST up reply actions

I can't figure the Cubs are anxious to lose...

...Cedeno, who's out of options. I think (unless a trade happens between now and the start of camp) the bench will be as follows:

Ward
Blanco
Murton
Cedeno
Cintron

With maybe one more player if Lou decides he can get by with 11 pitchers for a while.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 3:26 PM CST up reply actions

Agreed.

I can't say I was too exicted about the addition of Cintron, but if it's between him and Cedeno, well...

Not exactly the position battle I was hoping to follow this ST, but hopefully one of these guys can add some value in the regular season.

by Tangled Up In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 3:27 PM CST up reply actions

If the choice was between...

Cedeno and Garth Brooks I still wouldn't want Ronny. At least Garth could do TMOTTBG justice.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 3:32 PM CST up reply actions

LOL!

Garth was in camp with the Padres a few years back....

by Tangled Up In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 3:35 PM CST up reply actions

What the...?

Hill walked three straight batters in the bottom of the fourth, one of which ended up scoring on a fielder's choice. He eventually got out of the inning with a strikeout. 3-1 Cubs, Top 5.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 3:19 PM CST reply actions

has z ever been this good so early in st?

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Mar 5, 2008 3:23 PM CST reply actions

Figueroa!

4-1 cubbies

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 3:25 PM CST reply actions

What's the line on Figueroa?

He's impressed me. Seems smart and fast. Who is he? Does he have any chance of making the team?

by zevkalman on Mar 5, 2008 3:28 PM CST up reply actions

Figueroa

........he is 34 yrs old and has 16 mlb at bats with 2 hits. Ummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm......no

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 3:35 PM CST up reply actions

well he is 34

and he really has only faced Minor league pitching. I think he'll survive first cuts though

and Augie is playing!

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Mar 5, 2008 3:37 PM CST up reply actions

Looks like Hill...

...either settled down or enjoyed some luck in the bottom of the fifth. A ground and two fly outs for a 1-2-3 inning. 4-1 Cubs, Top 6.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 3:29 PM CST reply actions

Filed into the "HOLY CRAP...

...YOU CAN BE SERIOUS" Category.

Dmitri Young reported to Spring Training at a whopping 298lbs!

Ed Lynch is STILL on the Cubs payroll, as our D-Backs scout in Phoenix. Lynch attends all 81 D-Back home games with a notepad in hand. Really paid off for us!

by SackMan on Mar 5, 2008 3:32 PM CST reply actions

d'meat hook!

gettin bigger! definately not helping his chances..

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Mar 5, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions

the bears may be looking for some help at D-tackle

just saying.....

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Mar 5, 2008 3:38 PM CST up reply actions

Looks like somebody is using that new contract

to hit every single fast food joint in DC.

Old Style is the nectar of life.

by Mordecai on Mar 5, 2008 3:40 PM CST up reply actions

Guys...

he's not an athlete...he's a baseball player. Big difference.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 3:41 PM CST up reply actions

... hold up...

agree he's not an athlete. But the same article that reported the 298 lbs number also reported that he was diagnosed with diabetes in 2006 and has been struggling to lose weight with the medication he's taking.

Maybe that's just an excuse, but he claims to be eating healthier and still gaining weight, so the doctors are switching up the meds. Its all in today's Washington Post, but I'm too lazy to link to it.

Point beging, maybe he deserves some slack.

by Orval Overall on Mar 5, 2008 3:48 PM CST up reply actions

Mr. Baseball

BIG HIT HAPPY BODY.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Mar 5, 2008 3:51 PM CST up reply actions

Cubs go 1-2-3 in top of fifth

Despite scoring a run, Tyler Colvin is not having a good day at the plate. He's 0-3, all Ks. Cubs 4-1, bottom 5, Rich Hill still pitching.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 3:36 PM CST reply actions

Needs

Cubs need an outfield bat and they need a better solution at utility infielder. Murton, Cedeno and Cintron all need to go.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 3:38 PM CST reply actions

Go where? For what?

This isn't fantasy baseball where you can just drop players onto the waiver wire and pick up guys you like better.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 3:43 PM CST up reply actions

Yeah...stick to

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 3:46 PM CST up reply actions

pinches self

dammit, you're right! This IS my wife and kids. This IS my beautiful life.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 3:46 PM CST up reply actions

I think.........

they will upgrade the 4th outfielder spot but Cintron will be the primary bakhup infielder.........until Derosa takes that spot if/when you know who arrives

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 3:47 PM CST up reply actions

agreed

i think an upgrade at the 4th outfield spot is needed....however i dont see it happening. Byrd is too pricey, and crisp wants to be a starter. I don't know who else there is that would help us much.

by cubsmania on Mar 5, 2008 6:20 PM CST up reply actions

Rich Hill

has settled down. D's go down 1-2-3 in the bottom of the 6th. Koyie Hill replaces Blanco.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 3:43 PM CST reply actions

I had the inning wrong above...

...it's now the end of six, and Hill just worked another 1-2-3. Still 4-1 Cubs.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 3:44 PM CST reply actions

top of the 7th,

cubs go down 1-2-3.

This will be Rich Hill's third inning, no?

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 3:52 PM CST reply actions

He already threw 3

4th, 5th, & 6th. I expect someone from the pen now

by philadelphiacub on Mar 5, 2008 3:54 PM CST up reply actions

Weurtz

and that was fast

by philadelphiacub on Mar 5, 2008 3:55 PM CST up reply actions

never mind

Fuld replaces Pie
A Blanco replaces Cedeno
Wuertz replaces Hill.

And Wuesrtz retires the side. Two Ks.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 3:54 PM CST up reply actions

Damn, this game is flying along!

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 3:55 PM CST reply actions

Ladies and gentlemen, Andy White at the plate!

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 3:55 PM CST reply actions

Pie

Another 0-4 day. Hitting .222 in ST

Lou really, to this point has not solved the CF situation.

- sigh -

It is great to be able to hit in the Dominican, or AAA.

But, the Majors is "The Show".

IF Pie can't hit .250 in MLB, he will have a tough time getting a starters gig, and rightly so.

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Mar 5, 2008 3:56 PM CST reply actions

You're saying...

... after seven games, not all of which he has played in, the Pie experiment is a failure?

Man, you're hard to please.

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

by Al Yellon on Mar 5, 2008 3:59 PM CST up reply actions

Al..he was ready to call it...

before ST started. Let him vent.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions

No where did I say

"he's a failure" did I?

I stated the obvious, that is all.

Please read again and do not construe what I said.

Thanks.

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Mar 5, 2008 4:02 PM CST up reply actions

or - MIS-construe

either...

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Mar 5, 2008 4:03 PM CST up reply actions

You stated the irrelevant.

Hardly the obvious.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 4:03 PM CST up reply actions

That's about right.

Spring training performances are mostly useful for confirming biases, as opposed to learning anything new about players.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 4:03 PM CST up reply actions

Oh please.

Spring training batting average is about as meaningful as favorite food or spouse's height and weight when it comes to predicting how someone's going to do in the regular season. You are making a mountain out of a molehill - and first you made the molehill. This is pointless.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 3:59 PM CST up reply actions

You forget that

he had a special tutor come and work with him twice this offseason.

HE played Winter ball.

One could think that (and Len has mentioned this on the air last week), these players are further along than the "meaningless" situations you allude to.

HE ain't helping his cause much yet.

I am only saying at some point soon its gonna have to turn on for Pie. The talent is there.

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Mar 5, 2008 4:06 PM CST up reply actions

It's not about being further along...

...or such. It's about the fact that batting average is a crappy stat anyways because it's so unstable, and when you start trying to use it to evaluate spring training, you have far too few at-bats to get batting average to stabilize.

Take a look at this list and see if you can gain anything meaningful from it in aggregate. Nobody's freaking out over Derrek Lee's .250 batting average, because everyone knows that would just be stupid. So why is Pie's batting average so much more meaningful than Lees?

It's nothing more than simple confirmation bias.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 4:11 PM CST up reply actions

There certainly

are some encouraging signs.

For instance, he dragged a bunt for a hit yesterday, or the day before.

We will all see soon enough.

He is being given every chance to seize the CFers gig.

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Mar 5, 2008 4:18 PM CST up reply actions

I don't see the problem, incidentally.

Pie was hitting .286 (4-for-14) coming into today's game. He went 0-for-4. Amazingly enough, sometimes players go 0-for-4!!!

He's now 4-for-18 (.222). Let's say he goes 2-for-2 in his next game. That'd move him up to 6-for-20 -- Wow! He's hitting .300! He must be doing great!

Let's wait till two months have gone by in the regular season before we make any judgments about Felix Pie.

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

by Al Yellon on Mar 5, 2008 4:25 PM CST up reply actions

relax

fukudome went 1-7 and he seems fine now..i'd give him atleast a week

Live is boring until March 31st strolls by..

by Chanman25 on Mar 5, 2008 4:00 PM CST up reply actions

Ha

2 days ago DOME was hitting 143 now he is hitting 400. Its a week into ST, I dont care if they were all ofer---well maybe I would care. GET OFF THE LEDGE

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Mar 5, 2008 4:03 PM CST up reply actions

Middle 8, 4-1 Cubs

The good news is, Colvin made contact, bad news is he flied out. Murton picked up a single.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:03 PM CST reply actions

Colvin is still probably two years away

He still has a ways to go. I expect he'll be sent down in the first wave of cuts.

by rlpete on Mar 5, 2008 4:10 PM CST up reply actions

re: Colvin is still probably two years away

Yeah, let me clarify that I'm not giving up on Colvin in any sense -- just needlessly dwelling on the fact that he's having a rough game.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:13 PM CST up reply actions

I'll say it...Felix Pie ain't goin' to cut it.

My critics who claim I am Mr. Negativity will need to indulge me. I'm going to say it right now. Felix Pie is not the answer in CF. And given that Tyler Colvin is not yet ready to challenge for a major league job this means Jim Hendry needs to find a solution in CF for 2008. It doens't have to be fancy. But this is a team that is constructed to get the monkey off it's back and WIN NOW. We are not a develomental league for the privilege of Felix Pie. The young man isn't going to hit major league pitching.

There. I've said it. You can throw the messenger under the bus all you want.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:08 PM CST reply actions

Well

The bus I want to throw you under I already used to throw Les under.

Really, I hope and you must hope that you are wrong. I would be happy with .260 avg and for him to throw out the potential tying run at the plate and the Cubs win the WS

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Mar 5, 2008 4:11 PM CST up reply actions

That makes four now

Add Pie to Cedeno, Cintron and Murton that need to go.

by rlpete on Mar 5, 2008 4:11 PM CST up reply actions

But...

if we only replace them with one player...we'll be -3!

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 4:13 PM CST up reply actions

Must I throw you?

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:11 PM CST up reply actions

I'd rather be hit by a CTA bus

I might bounce off a hippie bus given that I am made out of steel and leap tall buildings in a single bound.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:14 PM CST up reply actions

No bus...

I'm concerned myself, just not as pessimistic. I'd love to see a Randy Winn type to back him up this season, but as long as Felix is above the Medoza line in the 8th spot, I think you can give him a couple of months to figure it out.

by Damen Jackson on Mar 5, 2008 4:16 PM CST up reply actions

Disagree

The Cubs are going for all the marbles in 2008. This isn't Pittsburgh or Kansas City who can afford a lengthy investment period in a toolsy player. Come to think of it, I don't think ANY TEAM can afford to have an automatic out in the lineup. Especially from the outfield slot. Right now there is already enough offensive concern with a projected 5 thru 7 in the lineup of DeRosa, Soto, Theriot.

Pie struggling to hit .200 for 3 months is not what this team can afford. He has to be able to reasonably pull his weight against right-handed pitching in a platoon situation. If he can't do that then the best thing for the Cubs is to ship him back down to Triple A where he can continue to hit the tar out of the vagabound pitching at that level. In fact, he can keep Ronny Cedenon company in Des Moines in this regard.

I'm sorry, but 100 years is enough. And with Tyler Colvin coming up through the pipeline my patience with Felix Pie is not open-ended.

Hello Marlon Byrd? Hello Coco Crisp? Hello Sam Fuld?

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:27 PM CST up reply actions

You know...

Sadly there is never really a good time to break prospects in. I mean few teams have the sort of depth and team talent to really allow for a prospect to flourish (or flounder) at their own pace. But it has to be done. You have to balance the short-term goals of the team against the long-term sustainability of success. So, it is what it is. And in the grander scheme of things, this is a great situation for bringing him up. Decent supporting cast. Weak division ensures you should stay competitive from the start. Enough talent pool to grab someone in trade if need be. Give him a chance.

Besides, what does it say to prospects in the organization, and future signees if you're perceived as not giving them a fair shot at the Majors?

by Damen Jackson on Mar 5, 2008 4:34 PM CST up reply actions

No

It comes down to organizational assessment of what the young player's realistic future performance is.

Remember Corey Patterson?!? We invested a whopping 1,400 at bats in that miserable experiment.

I want Hendry, Minaya and the scouting department to be honest with themselves on Pie. It is my opinion that the Cubs are signficantly souring on Pie. You can disagree with that.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:40 PM CST up reply actions

Omar Minaya?

What in blue blazes does he have to do with it? Did we get traded to the Mets in a convoluted three-team fan swap all of a sudden?

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 4:43 PM CST up reply actions

Well, I'm not a big Pie fan...

although really, I just don't like rookies. Cause well, they're rookies. That said, I think we agree on the sample size and playing time. You've got to give these guys at least a season worth of ML at-bats before making these assessments.

And you mention Corey, but I think Rich Hill. Sometimes they figure it out. Gotta go. Got class.

by Damen Jackson on Mar 5, 2008 4:46 PM CST up reply actions

Get this man a scouting job...

You could be the greatest scout of all time. You MUST know something that other people don't. By declaring after 177 sporadic at bats throughout last season, that Pie IS NOT going to hit major league pitching. Ignoring the fact that he has adjusted and basically dominated at every level he's played while being barely 23 years old.

Do you have any other bold and baseless statements to make?

"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 5, 2008 4:17 PM CST up reply actions

Just wait.

by sue369 on Mar 5, 2008 6:24 PM CST up reply actions

hoping you are wrong but.........

I think you're right on the $

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 6:23 PM CST up reply actions

Cub Pitching has so far limited the Dbacks to only

one single hit through eight innings. Good!

by zevkalman on Mar 5, 2008 4:09 PM CST reply actions

Good Point

n/t

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 4:16 PM CST up reply actions

you JINXED IT!

:P

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 4:32 PM CST up reply actions

cmon, gameday...

pick it up! I need to leave in 30 minutes!

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 4:18 PM CST reply actions

LOL, me too!

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:18 PM CST up reply actions

EVEN BETTER

WE GET TO LEAVE IN 30 minuts.

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Mar 5, 2008 4:23 PM CST up reply actions

Something tells me...

...Campusano is having a bad inning. Gameday hasn't update in quite a while.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:18 PM CST reply actions

Okay people.

Before we start freaking out and everything, let's take a look:

.286/.375/.786

That's what Felix Pie was hitting before the start of today's game. I'm too busy to recalculate the stats, but I'm sure his slugging is probably still above .700. Seriously.

CHILL THE HELL OUT.

Thank you.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 4:21 PM CST reply actions

I'm cool...

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 4:25 PM CST up reply actions

Me? I'm chillin' like Bob Dylan...

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:27 PM CST up reply actions

I'm so rope, they call me Mr Roper

Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson

by JohnM on Mar 5, 2008 4:37 PM CST up reply actions

I'm like Sam the Butcher, bringin' Alice the meat

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:40 PM CST up reply actions

I'm not James at 15 or Chachi in Charge

Why does everybody stand up and sing "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" when they're already there? ~Larry Anderson

by JohnM on Mar 5, 2008 4:49 PM CST up reply actions

I was chillin like

until the infection was gone.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 4:37 PM CST up reply actions

bottom of the 8th.

Casey MgGee errors, leading to 2 runs. And there's the third. Tie game. Pete's SAKE. And still only one out.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 4:21 PM CST reply actions

And now it's 5-4 Dbacks

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 4:22 PM CST reply actions

UGH!!!

I called it. Campusano and Lahey have given up the Cubs lead. At the end of 8, it's now 5-4 D'backs.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:22 PM CST reply actions

Trot Nixon Sighting!

LOL

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Mar 5, 2008 4:22 PM CST reply actions

and just like that...

that's the game.

Wow.

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 4:24 PM CST reply actions

And just to think...

...we can look forward to more errors like that from McGehee all season long. The Cubs need to go out and get a third baseman, stat!

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 4:25 PM CST up reply actions

I thought we had one.

Where's ARAM?

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 4:32 PM CST up reply actions

It's over.

Koyie Hill gives up a GIDP to end the game. D'backs win 5-4. Oh, well...at least the pitchers who gave up the lead don't stand a sno-cone's chance in hell of making the 25-man roster.

Ladies and gentlemen, your 2008 Chicago Cubs starting outfield: Soriano-Pie-Fukudome. Let it be.

by daver on Mar 5, 2008 4:25 PM CST reply actions

I don't like the idea of Koyie Hill...

...as our everyday catcher. Hendry needs to put down the donut box and make a trade for someone RIGHT NOW.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Mar 5, 2008 4:27 PM CST up reply actions

Or, better yet,

just "go get somebody." Like, yesterday, Jimbo.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:28 PM CST up reply actions

Trying to channel MDBNIU, are you?

n/t

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

by Al Yellon on Mar 5, 2008 4:28 PM CST up reply actions

I hear there's this guy

Geo Soto... :P

Worst to First in 2007, brought to you by Lou, Sori, A-Ram and D-Lee.

by drewishdrewid on Mar 5, 2008 4:33 PM CST up reply actions

Paging Brandon Inge

Can help at 3rd, CF, Catcher. With Ramirez' nagging injuries becoming chronic? With the looming crisis we have in CF? With us placing a lot of faith in a rookie catcher? You darn right I am interested in finding out more about Brandon Inge becoming a Cub. Michael Wuertz or Ryan Dempster to make it happen???

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:30 PM CST reply actions

You mean the Brandon Inge that

has worse career numbers than the (deservedly, for he stinketh) perennial whipping boy Ryan Theriot? Yeah, let's get right on trading for a guy whose got a .241/.304/.394 career line. That seems like a great idea.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:32 PM CST up reply actions

I dont think

letting Wuertz go for someone like Brandon Inge is a good idea. Wuertz had done nothing but be a stable reliever.

http://www.baseball-reference.com/w/wuertmi01.shtml

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Mar 5, 2008 4:33 PM CST up reply actions

Ooof.

Jacque Jones, 2007: .285/.335/.400

Brandon Inge, 2007: .236/.312/.376

No thanks.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:35 PM CST up reply actions

Inge

You tell me a guy with his versatility and offensive ability to help a ballclub is somebody who can't help the Cubs off the bench. Again, we aren't talking an everyday ballplayer but rather a guy who snags 250 at bats playing across several positions.

SEASON TEAM G AB R H 2B 3B HR RBI BB SO SB CS AVG OBP SLG OPS
2001 Det 79 189 13 34 11 0 0 15 9 41 1 4 .180 .215 .238 .453
2002 Det 95 321 27 65 15 3 7 24 24 101 1 3 .202 .266 .333 .599
2003 Det 104 330 32 67 15 3 8 30 24 79 4 4 .203 .265 .339 .604
2004 Det 131 408 43 117 15 7 13 64 32 72 5 4 .287 .340 .453 .793
2005 Det 160 616 75 161 31 9 16 72 63 140 7 6 .261 .330 .419 .749
2006 Det 159 542 83 137 29 2 27 83 43 128 7 4 .253 .313 .463 .776
2007 Det 151 508 64 120 25 2 14 71 47 150 9 2 .236 .312 .376 .688
Total -- 879 2914 337 701 141 26 85 359 242 711 34 27 .241 .304 .394 .698

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:37 PM CST up reply actions

Hmmmmm....

Matt Murton, 2007: .281/.352/.438

Brandon Inge, 2007: .236/.312/.376

Ronny Cedeno, 2007: .202/.231/.392

Brandon Inge, 2007: .236/.312/.376

He's bad at hitting the baseball. No thanks.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:41 PM CST up reply actions

Hmmm....

Matt Murton can't play the field and is restricted to left

Ronny Cedeno has been granted multiple big league trials and has looked clueless offensively and non-impressive defensively

Brandon Inge can help out at 3rd, Catcher the outfield...and brings some pop and ability to drive in runs

=

Thanks for playing our game.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:43 PM CST up reply actions

Shifting the goalposts.

You'd trade defensive versatility for an auto-out in the lineup. Thanks for failing to grasp how the game is played.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:45 PM CST up reply actions

Well

I played the game through sophmore year in college if you're done attacking my knowledge of baseball. Thanks.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:46 PM CST up reply actions

Yeah, and....

You think Brandon Inge is a good ballplayer. So, yes, I will attack your baseball knowledge.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:48 PM CST up reply actions

Cedeno plays the game professionally...

and I wouldn't say he's knowledgeable about baseball. Your baseball playing exploits mean nothing with respect to rating other baseball players.

For example, Dave Duncan was a terrible professional baseball player. So was Leo Mazzone. They're both a lot more knowledgeable about the game than Dusty Baker, who was an outstanding player.

by SouthernCub on Mar 5, 2008 4:58 PM CST up reply actions

If you have a lower SLG than Cedeno,

you're bad. Period.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:42 PM CST up reply actions

You ever used...

the preview button? I can't make heads or tails of that. Maybe you should just post the link to his career stats.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 4:43 PM CST up reply actions

That link

might be the most disturbing picture you've posted here.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:43 PM CST up reply actions

wtf

I leave to talk to HR and it's 4-1. I come back we've lost 5-4...somehow I'm gonna find a way to blame this on les.

j/k

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Mar 5, 2008 4:38 PM CST reply actions

Darn D-Backs

Old Style is the nectar of life.

by Mordecai on Mar 5, 2008 4:39 PM CST reply actions

Or, perhaps

Matt Murton, 2007: .281/.352/.438

Brandon Inge, 2007: .236/.312/.376

Ronny Cedeno, 2007: .202/.231/.392

Brandon Inge, 2007: .236/.312/.376

He's bad at hitting the baseball. No thanks.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:40 PM CST reply actions

Crikey

Again, we are talking about a versatile role player coming off the bench who maybe grabs 250 at bats across several positions. You're trying to confuse the matter by saying "My God, we can't have Inge in the everyday lineup!!!!!!" Get a grip.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:42 PM CST up reply actions

I don't want Brandon Inge

dusting off the batrack before the game. His ineptitude with the bat might rub off.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:43 PM CST up reply actions

Instead

You want to keep Matt Murton to serve as DH coming off the bench. Lovely stuff. I toss up the white flag to lunacy.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 4:45 PM CST up reply actions

There's no DH in the NL.

I may be a lunatic, but I can grasp the basic rules of the sport.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:47 PM CST up reply actions

I think he's referring to...

Murton's lack of defensive versatility.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 4:48 PM CST up reply actions

Poor punning

is no excuse and Murton's liability on defense is overhyped. He's not great, but he's no Adam Dunn, either.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 4:50 PM CST up reply actions

After seeing the stats on Inge

I'm starting to think he is a Dusty-type guy. I heard yesterday the Reds fans were livid that Dusty just signed Corey Patterson and Jerry Hairston. Can Neifi be far behind? Maybe Dusty might like Inge...he's a veteran.

by zevkalman on Mar 5, 2008 4:48 PM CST up reply actions

So having him...

suck for a couple hundred ABs spread out across the season is OK because he'll never get a chance to suck for a month straight?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Mar 5, 2008 4:45 PM CST up reply actions

THE SKY IS FALLING! THE SKY IS FALLING1

Love,

Chicken Little

Santo Forever!

by BeerCub on Mar 5, 2008 4:50 PM CST reply actions

No

It's not falling. But if we aren't open and honest about the shortcomings of this ballclub then we are fools. Fortunately I am convinced that Sweet Lou and Hendry don't suffer from delusion as we sit in the Spring of 2008. I think they both realize that there a handful of issues to address with this roster.

This ain't Kansas (City) Dorothy. Cubs are goin' for it in 2008 and we aint' about to let a few holes go unsolved.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 5:03 PM CST up reply actions

Of course the club has shortcomings

but you are already proposing that Cedeno, Cintron, Murton and Pie go. As mentioned yesterday, this isn't fantasy baseball. Hendry cannot just trade in players and get new ones.

Some want to pawn off Marquis to Boston for Crisp. Does Boston want Marquis? Hendry just can't make the trade by himself. Roberts? Obviously, that has been discussed but Hendry just can't make it happen by himself unless he makes a ridiculous offer that Baltimore can't reject (Pie, Colvin, Gallagher, Marmol). Do you know what Baltimore is asking for? Inge? In addition to the fact that he's complaining about playing time, is he really much of an upgrade over Cintron? Last year's numbers don't show it.

by rlpete on Mar 6, 2008 8:39 AM CST up reply actions

No

It's not falling. But if we aren't open and honest about the shortcomings of this ballclub then we are fools. Fortunately I am convinced that Sweet Lou and Hendry don't suffer from delusion as we sit in the Spring of 2008. I think they both realize that there a handful of issues to address with this roster.

This ain't Kansas (City) Dorothy. Cubs are goin' for it in 2008 and we aint' about to let a few holes go unsolved.

by MDBNIU on Mar 5, 2008 5:03 PM CST up reply actions

shortcomings solved

Roberts 2B Bench
Crisp CF
Lee 1B
Dome RF Derosa
Ram 3B
Soriano LF Blanco
Soto C Cintron
theriot SS Ward
Murton

I'm sure I get ripped for this but go ahead....it's a better lineup than now and a better bench

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 6:33 PM CST up reply actions

Actually, while this lineup

is likely a pipe dream, Crisp has really good number hitting second. In 598 career AB's in the 2-hole, he's hitting .303/.353/.460/.813. Where do you have Pie, though? Minors? That seems like a waste. Moreover, Murton likely goes to B-More if Roberts is here.

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

by gary varsho on Mar 5, 2008 6:57 PM CST up reply actions

Pie and a pipe dream

....you may be right......but I think Roberts will come .....and Crisp for Marquis doesn't seem farfetched either to me.

As for Pie........other than some nice minor league numbers I just don't see much I have liked alot. Maybe I am jaded from so many "5 tool" cubs flops in the past but I agree with MBDNIU that Pie ain't gonna cut it......not for a team trying to win NOW. Obviously I feel he gets traded or goes back to Des Moines......if they think Colvin's gonna be a good one and with Dome and Soriano locked up long term I can't argue with trading Pie. The strikeouts scare me with him.
I truly hope I am wrong here and that Felix becomes the player some here project him to be but I just don't see it......just my opinion here.

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 7:17 PM CST up reply actions

So

did you steal that lineup directly from Mike Murphy? Because that appears to be the same lineup that nearly made me drive off the road the other day.

Love it when 2 of our best hitters are batting 5 and 6, and unproven is batting 4th and, WELL jeeeeese

Go ahead and flame me for not backing it up with my onw lineup, but Ill leave that to Lou

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry "I strongly dislike Steve Stone." ---Hammer

by Hammer on Mar 5, 2008 7:10 PM CST up reply actions

Ram........

has indicated a preference for hitting 5th. And other than leadoff (where he clearly doesn't belong) where else can Soriano fit in the lineup while flailing away at 58 ft breaking balls?

by plenz on Mar 5, 2008 7:19 PM CST up reply actions

Guess LOU believes

that Spring Training means something, even if it means "nothing" to some here:

""I don't like the idea of our pitching staff getting hit around, whether it's Spring Training or playing tiddly winks," Piniella said. "I guess I'm naive in a way. I've been doing this for a long, long time, but I see these guys throw on the side, and you say, 'My gosh, what a nice collection of arms,' and the games start and they start stepping on their toes. You'd like to see them do better."

Wait 'til next year. And the next. And the Next. And the next after that too.

by TheEman on Mar 5, 2008 10:39 PM CST reply actions