Open Thread: Cubs vs. Astros, Saturday 4/5, 12:05 CT
by Al Yellon on Apr 5, 2008 9:00 AM CDT
in Game Threads
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PrintHouston Astros at Chicago Cubs, Apr 5, 2008 12:05 PM CDT
Seriously. You'd think the last four games were playoff games and the Cubs were down in a series 3 games to 1. It's April. Yesterday, there was some bad play that probably cost the Cubs the game. But I remind you: it's April. Relax. Unless this sort of thing persists for the next couple of weeks, this team will be just fine.
Bruce Miles quotes Lou on lineups:"I've never really had this many questions about lineups," Piniella joked with reporters prior to the series opener against Houston. "I think you all fantasize about lineups at night, I really do."And:
"It's not the most difficult thing to do in the world," Piniella said. "It's not as hard as doing the crossword puzzle of the New York Times, I can tell you that."Lou discusses the new mandate for base coaches to stay in the coaches' box, and the suspension of Larry Bowa for violating this directive:
The rule requires that a coach, "until being passed by a batted ball, must position himself no closer to home plate than the front edge of the coach's box and no closer to fair territory than the edge of the coach's box closest to the field."Piniella said the rule wasn't enforced during spring training.
"Maybe that's what happened with Larry," he said. "I liked having Larry on my staff because he was feistier than me."
The rule makes sense because of the death of Tulsa Drillers coach Mike Coolbaugh when he was hit in the head with a batted ball last year. Base coaches also now have to wear helmets (and many of them hate that). But I think the suspension of Bowa was a bit over the top.
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Stats are 2007 season stats
Lance Berkman absolutely kills Marquis: .514/.625/.784 with 5 doubles, a triple, a HR and 13 RBI in 37 AB. Better to walk him every time (already 11 of those, too). Mark DeRosa hits Oswalt well: .529/.500/.765 (that's not a misprint -- he has one sac fly and no walks, 9-for-17). Aramis Ramirez has 3 doubles and 3 HR in 54 AB, also no walks. In fact, of Cubs who will hit today, only Derrek Lee has walked (five times) against Oswalt.
Today's game is once again on CSN Chicago and FSN Houston, on the usual radio stations (thanks to XM for keeping the game on the same channel all week!) and at the MLB.com Mediacenter.
MLB.com Gameday (2007 version)
MLB.com Gameday (2008 version)
Discuss amongst yourselves.
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Comments
I would really
like to see the bats get going early today. This struggling to get on the board and playing from behind late is really bugging me. Plus, when you're playing from behind you're more apt to swing for the fences, which is trouble with this team.
But I'm not panicked. This team will hit.
Go Cubs!
Good quotes from Miles.
...and I agree, don't panic. The Cubs aren't a 100 W team. We have holes, but we have enough to win the NLCD (as do the Brewers). There was a race last year, right? It's going to be the same this year.
Going into the season the Cubs had weaknesses, an inconsistent offense that can be poor at getting on base and scoring, an IF defense that could be poor, and some reliance on injury prone and older guys on the pitching staff (higher injury risk), all of that in addition to the general lack of all-star talent. But every single team has weaknesses.
The Cubs are going to compete.
The one downside so far has been the comments from the players about new grass. Only the Cubs organization could find a way to disadvantage their team in this manner. I don't really mean disadvantage but you know what I mean (Murphy's law). Come on Cubs, it may be cold, but take extra practice in the field if you aren't comfortable with the grass yet. Geeze--maybe the former manager wasn't the only complainer/excuse maker or is this his legacy? Whatever it is, I long for the days when the Cubs stop making these excuses. The other team is playing on the same field.
Fast grass
It's not like the other team is playing in a different stadium when the Cubs are at bat...the other teams are just as disadvantaged. Though I guess the fast grass does hurt us more than some other teams with poor defense at 2B, SS, and LF.
poor defense at 2nd?
Bite your tongue. DeRosa is a good 2nd baseman.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions
DeRosa's defense is the least...
...of my worries. He may not be top shelf, but he is reliable.
It will be interesting to see how the Cub's (up the middle) defense pans out over the season. Pie is clearly a + defender, but I can't say the same for Theriot, DeRosa and it's too early to tell with Soto.
I tend to agree with the theory that it is important for good teams to be strong up the middle and how Soto comes along with play a factor here.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Yogi Speaks
Paraphrasing Yogi Berra, "It gets late early over there" in Chicago when it comes to Cubs baseball. Yep, it's only 4 games in ..... BUT .....
3 quality starts yield only 1 win
1 win occurs the only time the top of the order gets on base
Fundamentally unsound defensive mistakes abound
Terrible ABs abound
So, sure, relax, it's early .... take the advice of Alfred E. Neuman, "What, Me Worry?"
If It Takes Forever ....
Some patience at the plate..
..and some defense somewhere north of the bad news bears would be a good place to start today.
Looks like a beautiful day and good day to start winning games.
Let me get back to you, will ya, Charlie? I got a guy on the other line asking about some white walls.
Go Cubs!
Spring has been sighted or at least whispered on the News so enjoy the nice weekend eveyone.. Great day for a ball-game! 2 hours to go and going to procrastinate some more the things I really should be doing b/f then.. : ^ )
Cubs today need to score on Oswalt whenever you have a chance... I want to see the bats respond to being called out by Lou yesterday.. Said you can't win by scoring few runs and is pointing right at Fonzi right now.. It's time he started hitting Fonzi and I confidence you will.. Marquis, you are playing for your job and I think you realize that so let's bring it today... Beat them Stros' !
Great quote about lineups
Cubs fans here WAY overthink lineup construction. As long as you keep your better players near the top, and your worse players near the bottom, lineups really don't make much of a difference. Other than the mysterious affectation for batting Theriot 2nd Lou does this.
I'd imagine lineups influence the psychology of the player more than the actual outcome of the game.
Some former Cubs
I was listening to the Dodgers-Padres game on XM last night (And Ted Leitner was more than his obnoxious self... SanDiego Jazzman, how do people put up with him...). Glendon Rusch, who had a great spring by all reports, had a poor debut with the Padres. He allowed 2 ER over 1.2 innings giving up 4 hits, a walk and a WP. He also allowed a few inherited runners to score.
We've also had the opportunity to see Jacque Jones in a few Tigers games. Jacque got his first hit for the Tigers yesterday but he's hitting .091 and he left another 3 runners stranded. He also badly misplayed a flyball to LF, broke in before backing up and the ball sailed over his head, allowing a few runners to score.
The Corey Patterson leadoff experiment is working as well as we all knew it would. Corey finds himself with a .167 AVG and an even lower .154 OBP. But hey, at least he isn't clogging up the base paths, dude!
DmL
I agree that this team should and probably
will make it a race despite the terrible start. On the other hand-and I know some are going to say I'm getting ahead of myself-but I have no confidence based on the current make-up that they'll be able to do anything in the postseason again and, let's face it, that's what it's all about.
I'm clinging to the hope that Hendry will be able to put together a trade at some point like he did in '03 when he got us Ramirez, Lofton and Simon. If you remember that year, the Cubs didn't really start to turn it on until they added Lofton to the top of the order.
If Lou thinks...
The media stays up at night fantasizing about lineups, I wonder what he'd say if he witnessed some good ol' BCB lineup obsession/fantasizing?
"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
Front Loaded
Once again, let me concede, yes, it's early .... BUT,
-- the Cubs play a front-loaded schedule, 40% of our home dates in April and May
-- the Cubs finish with 16 of 25 on the road in September with the last 7 at NY for 4 and ending with 3 in Milwaukee
-- while obvious, wins now are exactly worth as much as wins in August or September.
So, getting off to a good start is ESSENTIAL for this team. A little sense of urgency and need to win today would be nice instead of "it's a long season and things will take care of themselves".
Ask the pre-season WS favorite of many Detroit Tigers about the need to begin the season strong after their 0-4 start. As was correctly noted on ESPN (sorry) yesterday, no team has ever won a WS after an 0-4 start.
The Cubs simply cannot wait until June or July to get their act together this year.
Yes, the Cubs are favored to win the division, as they should be. All that talk is nice but they still need to prove it on the field, after all, that's why they play the games.
If It Takes Forever ....
Disappointed, but OK.
I agree with everyone that it's not time to get out on the ledge yet. This team is too good not to compete, but I have to say I am really disappointed with the way this team has started out, after all the offseason talk about the importance of a fast start. It's almost like they're starting the season with the attitude of, "Hey, it's only April. He have six months left." instead of coming out of the gate like gangbusters, as we all hoped. Hopefully today turns this whole thing around. Don't dig too deep a hole.
Another disturbing trend which seems to have carried over from last year, at least so far: if the offense does not hit the first time through the order, it's going to be slim pickings for the entire day. I can't figure this out, but it's true. If they are going to have a good day offensively, they score in the first couple of innings. If they can't score early, it's not going to be a good day offensively. Strange, and that is something they need to correct. Break out the lumber boys, and kick some Ass-tros!!
"Don't complain to me about the stormy weather, boys. Just bring the ship into port." --Steve Stone, September 2004
Al, fitting words....
...hardly time to jump off the bridge after four games. Mass hysteria seems to dominate the game threads.
"You put up with a few minor inconveniences when you live in a condemned building."
by Reverend Jim Ignatowski on Apr 5, 2008 11:00 AM CDT reply actions
Not mass hysteria....
I still sense a lot of cautious optimism in most posts, but everything is speaking the truth when they say that a fast start is very important, and so far, we have not done that, which is disappointing. They can still do it, but you can't wait until you're 8 game out of first.
"Don't complain to me about the stormy weather, boys. Just bring the ship into port." --Steve Stone, September 2004
Wholeheartedly Agree
No mass hysteria, just no time like the present to play fundamentally sound baseball.
"The future's uncertain and the end is always near.", Jim Morrison, The Doors
If It Takes Forever ....
The Coaching Box /helmet Thing
I'm gonna change the subject.
I think the thing about the coaching box is interesting. Leave it to Bowa to get run over something stupid like that.
The helmets are another thing. While I think they are a good idea, we should note that it wouldn't have made a difference if Coolbaugh had been wearing a helmet, as he was hit in the neck, below the ear. The blow ruptured a blood vessel, which killed him.
http://sports.espn.go.com/minorlbb/news/story?id=2948605
The coaches are all wearing helmets without earflaps, which means that the exact same thing could happen again. The helmets don't really protect the temple, or much else, just the top of the skull.
If MLB really worried about the coaches, and umpires, protection, they would mandate wearing the hockey style catchers' masks that cover the whole head. But can you imagine the uproar if that was proposed? Maybe only ex-catchers would want to be base coaches.
As for the rest of the season, it is tough to get worked up over four games, unless those four games are a playoff series.
In the middle of a good time, Truth gave me her icy kiss. Look around, you must be joking. All that way, all that way for this -Oysterband
Helmets
Are just a cover-your-butt policy by MLB. Everyone knows that this isn't going to make a difference, and the Coolbaugh thing was just terrible, terrible luck. But they have to look like they're doing *something*. (For a further example, outside of baseball, see our economic 'stimulus' plan, also known as an election year bribe.)
Even still
Have to abide by the rules. Given that living is nice, suspension is valid.
No Pie today
Lineup:
LF Soriano
CF Johnson
1B Lee
3B Ramirez
RF Dome
2B Derosa
C Soto
SS Theriot
P Marquis
Interesting...
Still rather see Dome 2nd though...
"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 5, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions
I think it's only a matter of time...
...before Fukudome is in the 2-hole. I'll guess that Lou knows sluggers like Lee and Ramirez can take a while to heat up, and he wants Fukudome in that 5-hole as an RBI man until Lee and Ramirez start getting their groove.
It may take as little as a couple games or maybe 10, I don't know.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
IAWTC
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions
Good to see Theriot 8th
If it keeps Theriot out of the 2-hole, I'm okay with trying it. Theriot is an 8-hole hitter, so it's nice to see Loue put him where he belongs.
by John Q Freejazz on Apr 5, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions
Agree
Theriot is an 8 hole hitter. So, today's game aside, where do we put our other 8 hole hitter, Felix Pie, on days that both he and Theriot play?
If It Takes Forever ....
Here's an idea
LF Soriano
2B Derosa
1B Lee
3B Ramirez
RF Dome
C Soto
CF Pie
SS Riot
or,
LF Soriano
RF Dome
1B Lee
3B Aram
C Soto
2b Derosa
CF Pie
SS Riot
Both Good ...
but like the 2nd option more. Dome 2nd puts more speed at up near the top and DeRosa and his high OBP hitting 6th gives Soto some protection. DeRo should have a monster year for walks too, if he hits in front of Pie all the time, at least until Felix shows he can pull his own weight at the plate.
If It Takes Forever ....
CSNHD
Is showing a minor league game instead of Astros-Cubs. Is that because I'm going through Dish, or are other people seeing this?
2008: The year we put it all together.
it's on CSN
But not CSN HD. mutter.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm watching
on CSN HD...but it's DirectTV.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
now I get audio
but no picture. Sigh.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions
No MLB.TV Blackout!
Watching today's game on my computer with no proxy tricks at all. IIRC, MLBAM did this for Week 1 or Week 2 last year, so this may just be a one week thing.
infield single for pence..
what he heck was marquis thinking with that throw??
Marquis' near-error
sums up the Cubs so far this year.
NO attention to doing things the right way.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
CLee K's out...inning over
Soriano..Johnson..Lee coming up
welll....................
is it warm enough for Fonz?
How do you start whining
Before he even sees a pitch?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
now you can whine. soriano should be optioned to iowa
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions
Lee Harvey...
...doesn't seem to have his good heater today.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
man...................
we need a 3 run bomb so bad!!
How much weight did A-Ram lose?
Anyone hear?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
ARam has an awesome hand to eye coordination
I just wish he doesn't swing for the fences every damn time
HELP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Anyone else having trouble with direct tvs extra innings? All my games are blacked out except for washingotn cardinals but i think i am just getting that game cause i live in North carolina. anyone else havin problems?
Extra Innings Blackout
The MLB contract with FOX requires Extra Innings to blackout all Saturday games that start before 7pm ET. It should be like this all year long. MLB.TV is not blacking out games so far today, but that might be a one week fluke (like what happened last year).
I didn't
get blocked out on all the games last year though i dont think. Fox isnt even showing games yet why would they block out things already. This is a waste of my money if i am going to have a bunch of my games blocked out
First bad pitch...
...I have seen Fukudome swing at.
Your going to see that a lot with him - heat inside.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Then, I think we'll see him start to turn on pitches.
It seems to me that he'll be able to adjust.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
by buckmulligan on Apr 5, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions
Here come the boo-birds...
they've flown north early this year.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
the Orioles
leadoff hitter is at .375 with a .615 obp
Yeah yeah yeah.......it's 3 games
so you'll be leaving the thread then?
Cause we're good with that.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions
I think you get your jollies through the Cubs losing.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
yeah
right
,'
thats why I watch every inning. I guess you're only a fan if you blindly root for them no matter the effort or results
no,
but I don't think you're a fan when you declare games over in the second inning.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions
But all you do is complain.
And, I watch/listen to every inning too. I DO just blindly root for my team though. You got me there.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
What I'm trying to say is,
there's a difference between being critical and rooting against your team. From your comments, you do the latter every day.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
sorry
it's just disgusting at times.
Facing Oswalt today is the reason pissing away yesterdays game was so important.
Marquis vs. Oswalt is a huge mismatch
I agree.
But what I think I'm worn out about (and maybe some others) is the fact that your complaining just doesn't come "at times".
Sometimes it comes "every at-bat".
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
If the Stros...
...win this game with 2 runs, it will the offense you can blame.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I'll take a beating today
if it means Lieber takes Marquis spot
would you care to rephrase your statement?
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions
his sinkerballs
are up. They're not getting hit on the ground, they're up in the air. That's bad.
2008: The year we put it all together.
yeah, that was pretty good.
But really, he should have been able to tag all three runners out on his own. :P
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Only good pitchers know how to get quadruple plays
"We are going to light up the SB Nation server farm like a Christmas tree." - cwyers
I think we'd be able to get a quadruple play...
if we demoted Alfonso to short season ball.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Game over!
Yup, we're down 2 runs with 7 innings left. Game over.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
the problem with Marquis so far
is his control is WAY off. 21 strikes to 15 balls is not gonna get the job done
Finally!
Of any pitcher on the Cub's staff...
...it is critical for Marquis to get a lot of strike ones. If he doesn't, he becomes very vulnerable.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Would love to see DeRosa...
...go the other way a little bit, he could really do some damage.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Who is worse?
Carlos Lee or Ryan Braun in the outfield?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Or anywhere...
Groundball probably scores a run.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
MARQUIS!!!
Maybe he should learn to play a field position.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
I dunno
maybe Soto should have gone there? I can't watch the game, following gameday, but with Marquis at the plate, I think it should have been attempted
Finally!
The ball...
was caught about 15 yards into the outfield. Probably an exaggeration, but it wasn't very deep at all. Especially with our catcher running
hey hey marquis!
way to help your own cause
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 12:42 PM CDT reply actions
Was he got going...
...but he watches the ball too long in the box.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
i dunno about that....that ball was really sharply hit and it was a strong throw
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions
Soriano...
...is usually slow out of the box. I thought he may have a chance to beat that with his speed.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Is it me, or did Soriano
close his stance a little more in that AB?
"I can accept failure, but I can't accept not trying" - Michael Jordan, the one and only...
Im not complaining,
Im just curious. Maybe hes just desperatly trying to find a way out of this slump.
"I can accept failure, but I can't accept not trying" - Michael Jordan, the one and only...
Seriously.
It's not like this guy doesn't have a track record of starting slow, and then being an all-star.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
But this is the fifth game!
And there's only 157 games left!
"We are going to light up the SB Nation server farm like a Christmas tree." - cwyers
At the end of the year...
...he will have his numbers, but it will be a rollar coaster ride along the way.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
That's a tough play by Tejada.
n/t
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Will People Who Have Nothing Positive To Say
Just leave? This is supposed to be fun and I'm not having any. Thank You
"The Cubs can't be stopped" -- Me
Anyone remember J. Jones in his first year?
Started 0-16, then hit a GW GS on the sunday game to help sweep the Cards. Soriano will come around, its not unusual for a player to start bad. Its really getting annoying though, listening to all the naysayers.
"I can accept failure, but I can't accept not trying" - Michael Jordan, the one and only...
It'll only make it that much sweeter
when Soriano has one of those weeks when he hits .500.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
If Pie or Soriano
had failed to get Soto home from third like Theriot did, people around here would be screaming for their heads.
No kvetching at all on Theriot. Just saying.
It's a girl! Born 1-18-08. 2246 PST. 8 lbs. 1 oz.
Its all ROI..my friend.
If I buy a ferrari..it better be way better than my chevrolet
Except Pie
makes the same as Theriot. So that can't be the answer.
It's a girl! Born 1-18-08. 2246 PST. 8 lbs. 1 oz.
by Josh Timmers on Apr 5, 2008 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't think Theriot is garbage
But I also don't think Soriano or Pie is either.
It's a girl! Born 1-18-08. 2246 PST. 8 lbs. 1 oz.
by Josh Timmers on Apr 5, 2008 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions
I take that back..I agree..
Theriot..DeRosa aren't terrible..but they shouldn't be in the starting line up of any serious contender..
DeRosa
is a starting player. Period.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions
I strongly disagree.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions
he hit
.293 last year. You really want that bat on the bench?
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions
2006 Cardinals
started Aaron Miles and So Taguchi.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
haha lol.
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
by ARAM FOR MVP on Apr 5, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions
Maybe we could have two game threads...
The BCB Good-Karma thread
and
The BCB Armchair Player's thread
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
we did that
towards the end of last year. Certainly, I didn't mind...
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:51 PM CDT up reply actions
Quick Question
Im watching the FSN Houston Broadcast here in TX, and they just showed a picture of Towles doing a handstand near homeplate from yesterday's game, was that just a timing photo from like a collision or was he jsut dicking around in pre-game? (was at work so didn't get to see yesterday's game)
"Never lookin back or too far in front of me, the present is a gift and I just got to Be" -Common
he was dicking around.
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
by ARAM FOR MVP on Apr 5, 2008 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions
Was after he got hit in the knee, and he did a weird handstand to stay off of it.
n/t
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
he got HBP on the knee
and nearly fell over trying to avoid it. ended up doing the handstand to keep from falling over.
He was auditioning for You Got Served 3
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions
ground ball to DeRosa..doesn't bobble this time
inning over..
are you going to say "doesn't bobble this time"
every time De-Ro gets a grounder and makes the play?
Because you're going to wear out your "b" key.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
the hole
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
by ARAM FOR MVP on Apr 5, 2008 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions
nice inning by marquis
maybe he's the exact opposite of most pitchers and needed to be out on the bases to settle down (one can only hope)
"Never lookin back or too far in front of me, the present is a gift and I just got to Be" -Common
i cant wait til samardzija comes up to replace marquis.
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
2010 is a long way away.
n/t
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
they're using him as a starter i thought?
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
by ARAM FOR MVP on Apr 5, 2008 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions
They've been saying that he'll be in the 'pen
"We are going to light up the SB Nation server farm like a Christmas tree." - cwyers
tie game
lee hr
"I can accept failure, but I can't accept not trying" - Michael Jordan, the one and only...
BANG
Too bad it doesn't count since the game ended in the 2nd, right?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
D Lee
HR to right center
"Never lookin back or too far in front of me, the present is a gift and I just got to Be" -Common
ok ok
I pledge to do my best to be POSITIVE
geeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeez
See, knew you'd come around.
All we can ask...
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Man, I'm glad I didn't stop watching the game and follow the other lemmings.
.... Edit: We're gonna go 160 and 2 this year, I can feel it!!!
Aramis, can you please stop swinging at the 1st pitch?
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
well
it was a quick hr, anyway.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions
That walkaway thing by Fuku was awesome
the man's a stud even when he takes pitches :)
"The Cubs can't be stopped" -- Me
Lee
Looks rock solid, like before the injury. He is going the other way a lot, love it.
They call me MISTER Fukudome!
Chill out...
...you don't want to fry your pen this early in the season.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Wind blowing out..
we can weather Marquis giving up 3-5 runs, eating up 6 innings.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Berkman leaves the game with neck spasms...
...according to Pat.
a little OT, but I know someone
who played with Iowa last year and he told me Pie has absolutely no confidence. He's got all of the talent in world.
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
marquis vs. lieber
what is you guys feeling on why he made the rotation.
a)he whined during spring training saying he wants to be traded if he doesn't start
b)cubs have to start him to gets some trade value out of him
c)there payinig him too much to sit in the pen
d)or hes better than all other options
my guess is b
Trade value...
...it's all about trade value.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
that's what I think
put him in the rotation, hope he pitches well, and that someone becomes interested in him.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions
healthy mix of...
a and b
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Plus, Marquis
USUALLY starts hot.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
but it's usually cold out early
his body thinks it's June
another freaking broken bat
can we make some bats out of rubber or something?
2008: The year we put it all together.
Yah.
Plus, only a handful of looks for Soto at Oswalt. Let's not forget that we're hitting a REALLY good pitcher right now.
Well, not this inning...
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Theriot expends all his energy and hits a weak grounder
to Oswalt...inning over
hate to say it
but I think all the Theriot non belivers are right
That's a little strong...
...but he is a classic super-sub.
He is one of the guys that gets exposed when he gets a lot of AB's.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
He's just the best option available right now.
Who else could we have moved on to play SS?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
I really don't care about Marquis trade value...
... everyone else knows he stinks too so why play him? Just hope we score 5 or 6 runs everytime hes in?
Bleeding Cubbie Blue since 1985.
HEY!
Nice. See, this is more fun, right?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Will you believe in good/bad karma
if he does?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Explain this to me...
Everytime someone gets an out on a first pitch swinging, they're a bad player.
But when Carlos Lee or Rickie Weeks hit monster home runs off of us, they're good?
Maybe it's just that swinging at a first or second pitch is a strategy, and that watching 2 might not always be a great idea.
.... Edit: We're gonna go 160 and 2 this year, I can feel it!!!
can't agree more
we seem to take 1st pitch meat balls right down the middle for a strike and seem to swing at pitches 15 feet from the K Zone
it also really depends on the pitcher
With a pitcher like Oswalt pitching you're not dying to see Soto go up and swing at the first pitch he sees with a runner on base, you want to make Oswalt work out of the stretch, use pitches, anything to get him out of the game quicker. Also Oswalt is not likely to throw a get me over fastball when he controls his pitches so well. Marquis on the other hand, is likely to do so, swinging at the first pitch isnt a bad idea
"Never lookin back or too far in front of me, the present is a gift and I just got to Be" -Common
That throw was ridiculous
haha
"Never lookin back or too far in front of me, the present is a gift and I just got to Be" -Common
wiggenton
throwing to the upper deck... Marquis goes to second.
2008: The year we put it all together.
he short-armed it
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions
soriano showing patience....good sign
------ TheRiot Squad ------
NO!
was Marquis told to run? What the heck. It wasn't that DEEP!
2008: The year we put it all together.
See, I'll agree with you there.
It has been frustrating to see us not do the little things correctly and make good baseball decisions.
Slumps I can deal with.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Marquis/Quade
What is he doing???
Good thing a hot Reed Johnson and D-Lee weren't going to come up with him on 2nd.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
wouldn't have happened at all if soriano hadn't hit a pathetic popup to cf
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions
but you have to read the play.
He knew it wasn't getting hit well; he tried to TAG on a pop-out to short center???
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions
It was classically stupid Cubs.
They miss an opportunity on the Soto tag up (though I understand the decision), but then they compound their running errors by sending Marquis. This is nearly unwatchable.
Something needs to change quickly. They need a dramatic win or something to just change the momentum; otherwise, this team might be 5 or even 10 games below .500 before long.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
So, Soriano can't hit the ball to the right side
and Marquis, I guess trying to make something happen, makes an inexcusable running error. This is pathetic.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
Johnson GO's out and more cubbery
to come after the break
he is a very good player..but with the way our line up is constructed
he is not a good fit for our team
Explain how he's not a good fit for our team...
..assuming you know what your saying
Bleeding Cubbie Blue since 1985.
by Bricks and Ivy on Apr 5, 2008 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions
he can't hit, and we're looking for guys that can hit
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions
and don't forget can't play LF, can't run
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions
give me a break.
come back when you know something.
He hit FOURTEEN HOME RUNS LAST SEPTEMBER! That's a home run EVERY OTHER GAME!
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions
one question..to save my time and effort..
have you been watching our games lately??
Have you been watching Soriano the last several years?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
did you read my comment?
for the last several years..soriano wasn't on our team..see the difference? its simple..he is very good..someone might be able to afford his streakiness.but with the way our lineup is constructed we can't afford to put him at the top .(we do not have a true leadoff hitter)..we have two sure outs at SS and CF...etc etc
Pie has been hitting
pretty well, actually...
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions
agreed
he is a GOOD player ........................at times very good
but........at 18M and without a true defensive position and a good spot to hit he is an enormous waste of payroll. That's what pisses me off. I had no idea he could look as bad as he does at times
Agreed...
He is a GREAT individual player... but does not fit well in this TEAM game of baseball.
"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 5, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions
whats frustrating is we treat like a middle of the lineup guy
not asking him to drop down a bunt, is mismanaging a speedy leadoff guy for the heart of your lineup
"Never lookin back or too far in front of me, the present is a gift and I just got to Be" -Common
That drives me crazy.
He can't be asked to do anything but hack away from the leadoff spot. He should at least by asked to hit the ball to the right side.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
In the words of Ron Rivera...
The Cubs are playing like mental midgets
"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
Are we ever going to throw someone out?!
Seems as if the past 4 years we have been stolen on quite a bit.
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
Blame Rothschild
Our pitching staff is so slow to the plate. It's not our catchers.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Would a classic Lou blow-up get this team hot again?
your thoughts?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
I doubt it, but it would make me feel a little better.
These guys look terrible.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
thats a question you ask in june, not april
"I'm like the tide baby: I come and go as I please." --Johnny Drama
Bitch bitch bitch
Sounds like the ledge-jumpers are out in full force today. (Not that Marquis' baserunning was a good decision, but ...)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Apr 5, 2008 1:27 PM CDT reply actions
actually
i thought it was a good decision. it was going to take a perfect throw. not many outfielders have strong AND accurate arms
"I'm like the tide baby: I come and go as I please." --Johnny Drama
A little deeper fly ball, maybe
Bourn made a great throw, no doubt. But with the meat of the order coming up, I'm not sure it was worth the risk.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Apr 5, 2008 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions
A good decision?
With the heart of the plate coming up and one out? No, there was nothing smart about that decision. Just another bad example that Jim Hendry knows how to play fantasy league ball but he doesn't know how to build a team.
DmL
This isn't exactly a Marmol situation...
down 3?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
that is NOT a happy crowd
------ TheRiot Squad ------
This is horrible
"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
heh
with your tag line, I laugh... :P
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on Apr 5, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions
Marquis is a horrible, horrible player. Always has mental mistakes.
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
What's most frustrating is that we've gotten to oswalt, but once again the guys are playing like little-leaguers, making bush league mistakes.
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions
i would
make Marquis finish the game even if it takes till tommorrow
that's why your not the manager
Bleeding Cubbie Blue since 1985.
by Bricks and Ivy on Apr 5, 2008 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions
well...that and...
n/t
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
o boy
i like the decision to keep him in. I think the coachs are secretly hoping he implodes and gives up 10 so they have another reason to not start him.
3 runs isn't that much
with the wind blowing out. We're still in this.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
maybe
he'll blow a ligament out and we'll be done with hin
How good is Fukudome?
n/t
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Wow...
What a catch by Dome!!
"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
This is where running out of an inning becomes even more frustrating
Oswalt only has thrown like 56 pitches and now he has a lead, hopefully we start to work counts instead of swinging for the fences while trailing late and get Oswalt out of the game
"Never lookin back or too far in front of me, the present is a gift and I just got to Be" -Common
i don't know
i've been amazed at how many pitchers get away with near complete games at under ten pitches an inning. it's very frustrating, but they also rarely change their approach as a team in the middle of the game.
by dogcatratcheese on Apr 5, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, you've got a worn out bullpen?
Come to Chicago.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
He's very good.
He can play RF and be posting on BCB with his MIND.
It's so frustrating how we always start out slow..
and blame the weather as the main cause. It's not like the other team is playing in the same weather.
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
Who has
blamed the weather today?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Yeah...
Lieber looked good yesterday.
"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 5, 2008 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions
When Marquis gets the ball up
By grandma would be a better pitcher. And she's dead.
"Confidence is what you have before you understand the problem." Woody Allen
next start?
please no unless it's for Boston, or Baltimore.....or anaheim?
We need to make Oswalt work this inning...
Only 56 pitches so far.
"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
I love him in the 'pen
n/t
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
mmm...
Rammy
Fuku
D-Ro
Soto
coming up with 0 out, lee on 2nd...
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
I think he's finally confident in his wrist
IMO
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
DOME!!!
"Is there anything he can't do"-Len Kasper
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Wow Wow Wow...
I love this guy... Dome is the epitome of a GREAT baseball player. He is the anti-Soriano.
"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
Amen..rather than..
"I only hit home runs..and I am not hot now.."
And Fukudome's business-like approach
versus Soriano's grandstanding.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
The guy is my hero.
Plus, Brenly is literally campaigning for Fukudome as leadoff man.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
just typing that.
Would love to see him hit 2nd, not sure about leadoff though. I think with Dome behind Soriano, Soriano may see some better pitches.
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Yeah right. It's not the pitches, it's the approach.
Plus, Soriano's one-dimensional. He has to move down.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
Dome
is why i love baseball.
They call me MISTER Fukudome!
He's one of the few sources of joy right now, no doubt.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
The guy might win ROY and MVP if he keeps this up.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie
Damn...
Tejeda's still got it over there... That B12 is some magical stuff
"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
do the astros have anyone in their BP that we need to worry about besides Valverde?
Devin Hester, you are rediculous! -Jeff Joniak
Does it really matter?
We can make Sampson look like Clemens...
"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 5, 2008 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions
Time to make the jump?
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
roy
i was just looking through the rookie of the years and i came across todd hollandsworth who won it in 96 and felt alittle sick. what a bust he was....
he was already well past peak when he made it to the cubs
------ TheRiot Squad ------
by RightFieldSucks on Apr 5, 2008 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Might as well jump
Haiku-a-Day for Fukudome, helping Fuku understand the American game, 17 syllables at a time. Visit cubshaikus.blogspot.com!
Oh my gosh
He's back.
-Ron Santo on Lee
They call me MISTER Fukudome!
KOSUKE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
AHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Soriano a lo profuuundo-NO-NO-NO-NO! (Spanish for "Soriano hits a home run!)
A little offense....
goes a long way in covering up the "warts".....
The best defense is a good offense
oops
Better DFA Howry!
j/k
"I lof to hit de home ron!"
Thats the way to go out....
and hit the other teams ace....instead of "tipin caps"...
The best defense is a good offense
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