Open Thread: Cubs vs. Diamondbacks, Friday 5/9, 1:20 CT
Arizona Diamondbacks at Chicago Cubs, May 9, 2008 1:20 PM CDT
Morning notes:
- Paul Sullivan says Felix Pie could get sent down -- but not for a pitcher. Instead, Andres Torres, who is hitting well at Iowa, could come up to be a bench player.
- More info on the proposed ISFA/Wrigley Field deal. They say "no tax money" would be used. Others have said a "tax increment financing" deal like this one means that other taxes might have to be raised. I'd like to hear more details about this. Also of interest in that article:
[Cubs Chairman Crane] Kenney also said the Cubs want to restore Wrigley Field to "its original look," which would include removing exterior chain link fences and concrete panels. The renovations also would include upgraded luxury suites and premium seating behind home plate that would require the destruction of the team's offices.
- Gordon Wittenmyer joins the Dead-Horse-Beating crowd with yet another rehash of TTTSNBN. However, he does raise a good point:
The guy whose name came up as part of every potential package for Roberts, pitcher Sean Gallagher, pitched so well at Class AAA Iowa in five starts (2-2, 3.10 ERA, .196 opponents' average) that he was called up to take demoted Rich Hill's place on the roster last weekend.
Now Gallagher and lefty Sean Marshall -- whose name was in and out of the Roberts rumor mill all winter and spring -- are considered part of the Cubs' much-needed starting depth and options for replacing more veteran guys who are scuffling.
On top of that, Marshall has been invaluable in a converted lefty short-relief role after rookie Carmen Pignatiello stumbled out of the gate and as the team awaits the return of Scott Eyre this weekend.
Enough. On to baseball this afternoon!
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The day that Dan Haren last faced the Cubs, June 10, 2004, was the day that I invented the Tomato Inning, which occurred when I accidentally dropped a piece of tomato on my scorecard:
Howard showed up late, with a sandwich of his own from Jimmy John's (I hadn't asked him to bring me one today) and he ceremonially dropped a tomato piece on my scorecard, right in the fifth inning.
You're saying, no, the Cubs scored the ten runs in the fourth inning, and you'd be right.
But by the time they reached the tomato square, which was at Derrek Lee's position, they had already batted around, and Lee's homer was the tenth run of the inning, and the square that I scored this in, was in exactly that place, in the fifth inning.
So, Howard and I are now completely convinced of the Tomato Luck.
The Tomato Inning worked pretty well through 2004 -- the Cubs didn't always win the game, but they did always score in the Tomato Inning. Perhaps we'll have a ceremonial drop today. In that inning, D-Lee, Aramis Ramirez and Carlos Zambrano, the only Cubs still on the team who played that day, all got hits. Alfonso Soriano is 5-for-13 (2 HR) vs. Haren in their time together in the AL.
When Ted Lilly last faced the Diamondbacks, this is what happened:
You can see Chris Young rounding the bases after his NLDS Game Two HR and Lilly about to slam his glove down. That enduring image is, unfortunately, one of the memorable ones from last year's NLDS. It was the first hit Young had off Lilly, who threw six decent innings against Arizona last August 25 at Phoenix. After a tough start Lilly is 2-1, 2.84 in his last three starts.
Today's game is on WGN and Fox Sports Arizona. The D'backs are in the forefront of what I think will become a trend among all teams -- all their games are on FSAZ this year, no broadcast outlet. More at the MLB.com Mediacenter.
MLB.com Gameday (2007 version)
MLB.com Gameday (2008 version)
Baseball-reference.com game preview
Today's overflow comment thread will post at 2:45 pm CT.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
0 recs |
749 comments
Comments
First
Time for a little payback today! Need to get to Haren early!
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 9:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Nice sig
just noticed that.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks bud
n/t
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
At least we don't face Webb, who threw a complete game yesterday, and looked impossible to hit.
Hopefully the Cubs are energized after the day off. Is it too much to ask for the sweep?
by dogcatratcheese on May 9, 2008 9:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
not at all
soriano will carry the team for a sweep this weekend.
by xene on May 9, 2008 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i like this thinking...
but taking the series will do.
You ARE freaking out MAN!
by crw89 on May 9, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The law of probability
says Soriano has to heat up soon. It’s nearly impossible to suck forever. He was right on the ball the last couple of games (when he didn’t strike out), so he has to be close to going on a tear! (Tear as in hitting streak, not torn ligament or something).
by walsh2317 on May 9, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haren
LIGHT HIM UP.
He will make you put the ball in play so hit it wheres its pitched.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 9:31 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Predicted lineup:
1.) Soriano LF
2.) Theriot SS
3.) Lee 1B
4.) Ramirez 3B
5.) Dome RF
6.) Soto C
7.) Derosa 2B
8.) Pie CF
9.) Lilly P
"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 May 9, 2008 9:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Like that
I thought it was time to flip 6 and 7 in the lineup
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah.
It’s time to move Soto to 5 and Dome to 2, IMO, but Lou doesn’t seem to think like me…which is likely a good thing.
"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 May 9, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
DOME 2nd and 5th
Im indifferent on it.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Dome's
ability to handle the bat works better in the two-hole, while Soto’s power/RBI potential fits well in the 5 spot.
"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 May 9, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's good, but
having Dome bat twice in nine men could present problems. Oh, unless we can use ghost runners.
I used to be "Jones," but I got swooped on the redesign.
by Mr Snrub on May 9, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Soto 5
but there’s too many right handed bats.
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd love to see..
Soriano
Dome
Lee
Ramirez
Soto
DeRo
Riot
Pie
Lilly
by SoTxCub on May 9, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just a tweak...
Soriano
Dome
Lee
Ramirez
Soto
DeRo
Cedeno
Pie
Lilly
Fixed.
"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 May 9, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
makes me uncomfortable
to see Onedec and Pie hitting back to back…. just running that up the flagpole.
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Out of curiousity,
why is that? I don’t think I’d want Cedeno infron of anybody else in that lineup….
"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 May 9, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Varsho's lineup right now...
DeRo is in a funk, inserting Cedano there might help 7,8,9 not be three easy outs for a pitcher like Haren
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
actually
he put Onedec in for The Riot.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we might see Derosa
come out of that funk in the next couple days. Just a hunch.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
your keyboard
baseball gods’ screens.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you're missing a "from" and a "to" here. :-)
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Abbreviations
Makes me chuckle how these things are getting longer and longer… “TTTSNBN” Really?
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 9:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Honestly, I don't even know what it stands for anymore.
Too many player acronyms these days.
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on May 9, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I belive you meant to say
TMPATD…..
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What does TMPATD mean?
Add it to the BCB Dictionary if it’s a keeper.
I haz show: http://hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on May 9, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not
Just a joke on what Dan put earlier. “Too many player acronyms these days”
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lets hope Haren pitches as well as he looks...
..in that photo above. Talk about a bad day…..
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 9:45 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Seriously
Why do so many of these photos look horrible? Isn’t there anyone from the team or media outlet saying, “this looks like crap, lets shoot another one”?
by TC Cubby on May 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Check out Doumit's photo.
It might be the worst of the lot. His eyes look completely black. He looks like a demon or something.
"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 May 9, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The size I put in...
... is exactly the size I get when I click “properties” on the photos. If I’m not doing this right, let me know how and I’ll fix it.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on May 9, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
seems like yahoo keeps them at 65 px by 85 px
you have 65 X 90.
by xene on May 9, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It always seems like it's been a while after an off-day since baseball.
Time to start a winning streak!
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on May 9, 2008 9:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Tomato innings..
Hope we have several of those today!
"The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball"
by Bump Bailey on May 9, 2008 9:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bruce Miles
saying on ESPN 1000 that Sean Gallagher is likely to be sent down to make room for Stevie Eyre.
"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 May 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Too bad.
I like Gallagher. They should send Fox down.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on May 9, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well,
maybe the thinking is (and let me say I don’t agree with this one bit) that he should be getting innings as a starter, so he’s being sent down to get starts. FWIW, I’d rather he get a start or two up here, but that ship has sailed, apparently.
"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 May 9, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree. Gallagher needs major league innings.
The Fox story is nice and all, but…c’mon…
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree...Fox is not a ML caliber pitcher any longer
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sigh
Will Lou please give Pie a chance. A real chance. Not a defensive replacement chance or a start then 4 days off chance.
So nobody has to see the scroll bar on my posts!!!!
by McRipper on May 9, 2008 9:59 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I gave up
I have realized that it’s not gonna happen unless Reed really starts to slip which I hope doesn’t happen. I just wish they would have given him 6 weeks from the start of the season.
Lets do it Cubbies
by slocs55 on May 9, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You and me both
So nobody has to see the scroll bar on my posts!!!!
by McRipper on May 9, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Reed has already REALLY started to slip.
He’s hitting .257/.336/.297 with an OPS+ of 66. I get ill just thinking about it.
by cwyers on May 9, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought Toche might be a Cubs minor leaguer I've never heard of.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or touchy
which is Cesar Isturiz’s nickname. KEEP YOUR HANDS TO YOURSELF
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
AND DON'T TELL ME NO LIES!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
isn't that Douchey?
I haz show: http://hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on May 9, 2008 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The MediaCenter link is a little off
Here’s today’s game: http://mlb.mlb.com/mediacenter/index.jsp#20080509
"I don't think anybody's paying attention to the Cubs." - Prince Fielder
by jasoniniowa on May 9, 2008 9:59 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Sending Pie down
is a bad idea. Let Pie Play!
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 10:01 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Agreed....
...as my sig says!
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cards vs. Brewers
Logically, we want the Brewers to sweep since we have 3 games on them. But how does everyone feel about that series? Who ya want to win?
So nobody has to see the scroll bar on my posts!!!!
by McRipper on May 9, 2008 10:03 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Honestly, I care
more about our team, that has been playing like one of the worst NL teams, instead of one of the best.
I am more concerned about our starting pitching. How DeRosa responds to a “rest”. Can we get the game to the late innings with a lead to see how Woody can bounce back with some consistency? Can we start getting some key hits with RISP. Can DLEE break out of his slump?
But that’s just me…
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brewers can win 2 of 3.
That way the Cardinals start to slip, but the Brewers don’t win TOO many games.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on May 9, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
hesitant to see the brewers 6 game skid halt anytime soon but the red birds need to cool off too.
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
lets win ours....
..and worry abiout them when we face them. They are both mightly flawed teams, the DBacks however are not
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
agreed
n/t
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, how 'bout that?
The Brew Crew’s winning percentage is going down faster than a can of Milwaukee’s Best in the Miller Park parking lot. They must be tearing their hair out over at the Evil BCB.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
my schedule shows it as a 4 game set
so how bout they split?
---AC 00 00 00 - Believe
by mjk83 on May 9, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al, what about the
“doughnut” thing from last year? Was that more effective than Jimmy Johns?
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 10:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Not really.
And it was kind of a one-shot deal because it was a Simpsons movie promotion, so I don’t think they’re even out there any more.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on May 9, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
speaking of which
I was in Mexico City in March and at a bakery (El Globo) they had a pink donut, like the Simpsons/7-11 cross-promotion. I walked up and, although I don’t know Spanish, read the label: “Donut del Homero.”
I used to be "Jones," but I got swooped on the redesign.
by Mr Snrub on May 9, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if those were the donuts that didnt sell here last summer?.. ;)
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They tasted just fine!
I used to be "Jones," but I got swooped on the redesign.
by Mr Snrub on May 9, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
those donuts
will taste just fine in 2525, when Cleopatra’s team digs them up.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is,
if man is still alive…
"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 May 9, 2008 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In hearing LOU on WGN
yesterday afternoon, he really is just going to play the hot hand. Wants players to catch the ball. They are looking at several possible changes internally.
I get the feeling he just is not pleased and “Will not take it anymore!” (except for Soriano who gets the Superstar pass)
This means that Pie. Fontenot. et. al.
Also, he stated he is unafraid to try people in our minor league system. HE singled out HOFF-POWER and he would have been called up earlier were it not for his injury. He’ll be up soon. Really wants some power from the left side…
His comment on LH power was that the Reds in ONE inning, has more home runs than all of our lefties for the entire season so far.
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 10:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Lou did this last year...
... with guys like Billy Petrick.
Where’s Hoffpauir going to play? He’s a first baseman, who could sort of play RF or LF if he had to, if you didn’t mind miserable defense.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on May 9, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And who's
getting kicked off the 40 man to make room for him? Or Andres Torres, for that matter?
I gotta say, as much as I’m down on the guy, Sam Fuld makes a lot more sense than Torres if Pie is going down. This is more ridiculous “hot hand” stuff.
It's a girl! Born 1-18-08. 2246 PST. 8 lbs. 1 oz.
by Josh77 on May 9, 2008 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hadn't thought of the 40 man issue,
but that’s a good point. Plus, I really think it would be a mistake for the Cubs to burn Pie’s last option.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or, y'know, Eric Patterson.
But Sam Fuld is also a better idea than Torres.
by cwyers on May 9, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Torres has looked awesome in AAA... I hope he sticks around for a while n/t
Help me Obi-ONEDEC. You're our only hope.
by IowaCubs- on May 9, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Guys in their 30s will on occasion look good at AAA.
It normally doesn’t mean anything.
The worst part is that Torres – I know he switch-hits, but he throws righty, and his MLB career splits show he hits lefties better than righties. Since Reed Johnson can’t hit righties well, either, we have two of the SAME halves of a platoon here. Our CF situation is a total disaster if this happens.
by cwyers on May 9, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps Torres is here to relieve slumping Johnson...
... not sure Fuld or Kroger would be any better
Help me Obi-ONEDEC. You're our only hope.
by IowaCubs- on May 9, 2008 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If only Micah Hoffpauir could play CF!!
Help me Obi-ONEDEC. You're our only hope.
by IowaCubs- on May 9, 2008 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lou's been wanting left-handed power for awhile
Still, I have hard time seeing where Micah Hoffpauier plays. Or how he possibly gets enough at bats to stay sharp. Remember this is a 28 year old journeyman. It’s a very tall order to all of a sudden ask him to be a Daryl Ward type at this level.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know...
just the messenger on this one…
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And for the record...
...if Micah Hoffpaiur is the answer, then you’re asking the wrong question.
by cwyers on May 9, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My question is
“who’s playing first base for the Seibu Lions next year?”
Is Micah Hoffpauir the right answer?
It's a girl! Born 1-18-08. 2246 PST. 8 lbs. 1 oz.
by Josh77 on May 9, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yesterdays Discussion about stats
Bill Simmons the sports guy had the founder of Baseball Prospectus on his podcast and they talked extensively about stats and there meaning in the game. Thought this would be of some use to some people here.
Its on the espn.com homepage, scroll down a bit, in the bill simmons section, click on hardcore baseball. note: it is 48 minutes.
by Wad on May 9, 2008 10:21 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bill Simmons
Normally I don’t care much for his podcasts. But that one was quite interesting. Fit well with the theme recently on here.
by Madison Cub Fan on May 9, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's time for Lilly to bust the "Ghost of Playoff Past"

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 10:24 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
ba-bum, tssss
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very fitting...
...though, as I’ve mentioned before, Lilly looks enough like a young Bill Murray that you probably could’ve left the original image as is.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is a big series to state the obvious
The Diamondbacks are arguably the best and most complete team in baseball right now.
Worried about today. Dan Haren is wicked good. Look at his hits allowed, Ks, etc. Ted Lilly is going to have to pitch at the top of his game today. And very importantly, the Cub offense is going to have to EXECUTE…or in other words, replicate what Kosuke does in nearly every ballgame…move the runner over, hit the sac fly, make the defensive play, etc.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 10:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
IMO
These games are going to need to be played using “small-ball.” Sacrificing runners over, hit and runs, and solid defense. I think our pitchers match up well for this series. Keeping errors out of the boxscore will also be a big key to victory.
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the Cubs will take 2 of 3
I think the DBacks are overall the better team (unfortunately by more than just a little) but I’m not sure of Connor Jackson’s status ( he’s sat the past 2 games due to a nasty collision) although I imagine he’ll play, but the Cubs definitely have the advantage today with them having an off day yesterday and the DBacks not arriving ‘til late last night. Plus you have the Cubs ACE ( I feel comftorable saying that finally) in Z going Sunday and they should take 2 of 3 and hopefully maybe sweep.
Let me put it this way, if the Cubs can’t take 2 out of 3 against the DBacks under these circumstances, I don’t see how they ever could. Like I said, hopefully they sweep and get that early season swagger back, that has been missing for a couple weeks now.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah what you said
I would be happy/ok with a 6-4 homestand and very happy with a 7-3 homestand.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
7-3 would be oh so nice.
Yeah, I’d be happy with that as well.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have a lot riding on this one
My cousin I made a bet this Christmas that if the Diamondbacks win the season series, I have to shave my legs and vice versa. This is the sequel to our playoffs bet which put me in a blue dress for Thanksgiving when I opened up my birthday presents in front of the family. I’m not the hairest of all people and I do spend a lot of time in shorts…so yikes Cubs let’s win!
"You just don't know understand how frustrating this is"- Kevin Borseth
by TkGoUWGB on May 9, 2008 10:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Look out for these guys!

For 20 bucks I’ll call the guy a chicken-F…..
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot bunting?
I do not recall The Riot laying down a bunt for a single. Anyone else? Also, in several instances where there were fast people on 2nd and 3rd, with one out or less, Lou has not tried to utilize the squeeze at this point in the season. Any guesses on this?
La Russa relies on this more. In fact, last year by this time I remember a couple of instances – one involving Itzturis…
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 10:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I assume you're not referring to Cesar's bunt attempt...
with 2 out in the 9th last year.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Last year, with a runner
on third, prior to his trade, I believe he executed a successful squeeze – I was at the game.
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Against the White Sox, no?
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
To clarify, my comment...
...I believe Ryan Theriot executed a successful squeeze bunt against the White Sox last season. I could look up the game, but I really should get back to work here.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep -
Theriot squeezes home a run aganst the Sox @ the Cell. Nice memory:
“R Theriot Bunt Groundout: P-1B/Sacrifice (Short 3B Line); Pagan Scores; Hill to 2B”
I remember an earler one in the year that was successful as well. I also remember on Itsturis blew, as was mentioned above by santohasawoodenleg.
In Dusty’s last year, Maddux layed down a perfect one. A thing of beauty.
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You might be misremebering Neifi's
bunt in those circumstances, at least two years ago. Quoth Neifi on the failed bunt: “it’s my game”
"Is there anything he can't do?" ~Len Kasper, 4/5/08, on Kosuke Fukudome
by JohnM on May 9, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Memo to WGN / Comcast broadcast director and cameramen
I would pay money to have a camera fixed on Kosuke during one of Soriano’s at bats. I bet his facial expressions are priceless. And I would love to know how to speak Japanese to learn what he really thinks of his undisciplined, hacking teammate.
Soriano is the anti-Kosuke. And I’m betting that it pisses Kosuke off to have a guy like Soriano on the same ballclub.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 10:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Memo to SBNation / The Internet
MDBNIU is the anti-Al. And I’m betting that it annoys Al to have a guy like MDBNIU posting repetitive, insulting negative thoughts about the ballclub.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, it's gotten to the point where...
...he’s not satisfying with villifying Soriano directly. Now he’s projecting his hatred into other Cubs players—in this case, Fukudome. Ridiculous.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can pratically smell the hate in this photo:

"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 May 9, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm...
Looks like he could be stabbing him in the back! JK…. Kosuke doesn’t have the ability to hate, only get on base.
''As long as he doesn't talk World Series, I'm happy.'' Lou Piniella on Ronny Cedeno.
by CubsBullsBears on May 9, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Precisely.
And if Dome does hate anything, it’s walking back to the dugout from home plate.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
except when he's also touched third.
Kosuke needs to get some hits this series. Let’s hope he gets fired up!
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh, please.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't think Lilly is slamming the glove down
in that shot, because he did the slam almost immediately after the ball was it. Young wouldn’t have been that far around the bases yet. This picture must be from when he picked up his glove.
Fascinating, eh?
"Is there anything he can't do?" ~Len Kasper, 4/5/08, on Kosuke Fukudome
by JohnM on May 9, 2008 10:51 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
the shot might be him picking up the glove.
I haz show: http://hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on May 9, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that's what I thought too
I remember seeing him grab his glove with both hands and begin to slam it as the camera panned towards Young as he ran the bases. I remember it so clearly because I was pretty shocked to see Lilly do that. He seems like such a reserved and quiet guy.
Baseball is an allegorical play about America, a poetic, complex, and subtle play of courage, fear, good luck, mistakes, patience about fate, and sober self-esteem. -- Saul Steinberg
by bluebythebook on May 9, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are pretty correct
Lilly slammed the glove down almost immediately after Young hit it. He knew he made a bad pitch.
by lamentir on May 9, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mark Grace on ESPN 1000 right now.
Today is apparently the 15th anniversary of his hitting for the cycle.
Does anyone know offhand if he was the last Cub to perform that feat?
"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 May 9, 2008 11:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It's wasn't Adam Greenberg...
in case anyone was going to guess that.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ouch.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats harsh
funny though
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I laughed for about three minutes after reading this
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on May 9, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
after that hit...
might think he hit the cycle.
I haz show: http://hotbeans.wordpress.com
by digitalbenjamin on May 9, 2008 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
HAHAHAHA!!!
Not with the Cubs, though. I think he did it once with Colorado.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep.
July 25, 1998.
The sun shines on a dog’s a$$ some days….
"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 May 9, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He was...and before that is was Dawson in 87...
...a`pretty rare event on the Northside.
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eyre up, Marshall down
I didn’t see this posted anywhere yet:
Surprising, or expected given that Marshall may need to be stretched out for the rotation?
by jmroe23 on May 9, 2008 11:09 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Not entirely blindsided, but still a bit surprised.
And Chad Fox still has a job!
by cwyers on May 9, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that's the theory.
Send him down, have him start more, bring him back up as an SP.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
I’m not a Sean Marshall fan (he is Neal Cotts redux). Regardless, this is a very surprising move. I would have thought for sure Chad Fox would be sent down. Or if not Fox then Sean Gallagher so he can resume his development as a promising starting pitcher in Iowa.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Of course you're not a Marshall fan!
He plays for the Chicago Cubs National League Baseball Club.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ba-bum, tssss
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, he's Neil Cotts redux.
Except Sean Marshall has 43 career major league starts and Cotts has 5.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wrong answer
But of course you knew that. What I am referencing is the pitching repetoire of misters Cotts and Marshall. Both are two pitch pitchers who don’t have the stuff or the stamina to get thru a lineup card more than once. Marshall’s highest and best use at this level will be as a long reliever. He simply isn’t that good, and stands strong chance of suffering the same fate that inflicts Cotts.
Thanks.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, you're wrong...and misinformed, as usual. But you knew that.
Look at this scouting report (dated 2006) and you’ll see Marshall throws:
In addition to his sinking fastball … two other plus pitches in a curveball and a changeup and is tinkering with a slider.
Saying he’s a two-pitch pitcher “simply isn’t that good,” in fact it’s flat-out wrong.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
FWIW...
...the BIS stringers that do the pitch identification for Fangraphs.com (and elsewhere, but Fangraphs is the place I find it at) say Marshall has five pitches.
by cwyers on May 9, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks!
I googled “sean marshall scouting report” and the link I posted was the quickest thing I could find.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You guys...come on...
can’t you simpletons understand what MDBNIU is saying here? All pitchers in his universe are “2-pitch pitchers”....
Balls….Strikes.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Too bad our 2-pitch pitchers
don’t get to pitch to any “hack guess hitters.”
"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 May 9, 2008 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Does someone need to enter...
HGH into the BCB Dictionary?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno, but I hear a few professional ballplayers entered it into their bloodstreams.
TIP YOUR WAITRESSES, PEOPLE!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Altogether now:
groooooooooooooan.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe we need
a special “Blue Mike/MDBNIU” addendum to the dictionary.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which makes Soriano's.....
.....”guess hitting” seem like a good approach!
"Baseball is like church- many attend, few understand." ~ Leo Durocher
by The Lip on May 9, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
...and that's why he is headed to Triple A !!!!
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with MDBNIU here
I have absolutely no problems with Marshall going back to AAA. They can stretch him out a some and maybe raise his trade value. I don’t know why all the hate for Fox, he hasn’t done that bad at all. He’s been pitching better than Wuertz.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You do realize that...
...Wuertz has pitched 16 innings so far and Fox has pitched, like, 2. (Actually, baseball-reference shows Fox as having 1.7 IP. Am I missing something here? What does that mean?)
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
1 and 2/3
Or 1.666666666666666666666666666666666666
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, OK. Thanks!
I guess I’m just used to seeing 1.2 or the like in box scores. And sometimes my natural aversion to math really shows through!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Other than I despise Wuertz and I think his arm is about to fall off
......no, you’re not missing anything
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not really Fox hate
It’s just that the percpetion is that the only reason Fox has a spot is because the CUbs feel like they owe him something for ruining his arm. He’s not really pitching well, either, which only exacerbates this perception. Maybe it’s wrong to see it that way. In fact, it probably is. And I don’t have a problem with Marshall getting stretched out, either. Anything that means less Jason Marquis in my life, I’m for it.
"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 May 9, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All I know is
That so far, I’ve liked what I’ve seen with Fox and that’s all I really care about. He’s throwing pretty good. Now, he’ll probably get hurt or start to not throw the ball well, but for now, I think he’s throwing the ball well and I like his demeanor out there on the mound.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He does seem to have a good mound demeanor,
and what he did in that game where his arm was falling off is one of the guttiest things I’ve ever seen, but I fear it’s only matter of time. We’ll see. I hope you’re right. It would be nice to have an alternative to Wuertz while he’s struggling.
"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 May 9, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, that's the best you can do?
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You just made my ignore list
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just now??
Where have you been? :D
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm.
Well, it is what it is.
Eyre’s minor league ERA was not pretty.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well maybe
Gallagher will get a start. And they will put Lieber in the spot he has been valuable all year—the bullpen.
by Unique on May 9, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lineup per Espn 1000
Soriano lf
Theriot ss
Lee 1b
Ramirez 3b
Fukudome rf
Soto c
DeRosa 2b
Johnson cf
Lilly p
by lance dickson on May 9, 2008 11:16 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
They should swap Lilly and Johnson in the lineup.
Lilly’s walk rate sucks, but he’s got more of a chance of hitting for extra bases than Johnson does.
by cwyers on May 9, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Someone got their wish!
Soto is hitting in front of DeRosa!
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 11:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
IF that was yours
I’m all for it, too…
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 11:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Anyone know the weather forecast for today's game?
Its raining cats and dogs in philly, and i thought i saw a weather map where the eastern half of the U.S. was covered in rain, including Chicago
by philadelphiacub on May 9, 2008 11:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Interesting opinion put forth
on the irrevelant WSCR:
The D-Backs are a measuring stick now for our Cubs, presumably. IF they fall flat in this series, does this in any way motivate management to seek a player (players) in a trade?
discuss…
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 11:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ill give you a topic
MDBNIU is neither a Cub nor a Cubs fan—-discuss
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What has this
got to do with the D-Backs thread? Clue us in?
by The E-Man on May 9, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The only thing it has to do with it
is that its in it. Thanks
Go Cubs
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes, but will
the front office trade him?
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, if the Cubs take 2 of 3 the pundits will say..
...”Cubs got lucky by missing Webb”...(especially the buffoons on the Score/Mariotti)
If they go 1 for 3 in the series, you’ll here that Cubs aren’t any good.
No way to satiate the media unless there is a sweep
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it's
still early. Especially considering the market.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here' a little nugget to chew on for a bit...
From Jayson Stark at ESPN
• Sori about that: Not that it’s all Alfonso Soriano’s fault, but it’s hard not to notice that the Cubs went 10-5 with Soriano hurt—and then went 2-5 in the first week after his return. Soriano’s defense in left has been so unsightly that scouts have questioned why he didn’t go out on a brief rehab option before he came back. But the buzz is that Soriano sent word that he wasn’t too interested in even a quick minor league cameo, so the team decided not to press the issue.
Worst idea so far this season.
by Damen Jackson on May 9, 2008 11:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That was discussed on TV when it happened
It’s not uncommon for veterans to say that after a relatively short DL stint. Obviously Soriano could have used some time in the minors. I’m only saying this to show that Soriano isn’t any different than a lot of players.
by rlpete on May 9, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
funny....if your Hendry and your paying him 100m +..I think you have earned the right to press any issue a little bit...
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Naw.
Hendry is only firm with Rich Hill and Felix Pie. Everyone else gets to do whatever they want.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I beg to differ.
-Cedeno
"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk
by NittanyCub on May 9, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, yes.
"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 May 9, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah because Rich Hill and Pie
Have done sooooo friggen great. I’m not saying I agree with the move, but I find it hard to believe the whining around here for these 2 guys.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmmm.
In the dictionary under “non sequitur,” it says “see: cake.”
"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 May 9, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lou
Did anyone notice that Lou couldn’t remember Ned Yost’s name during that interview on WGN? I like Lou and it’s not a big deal, actually funny but man does he stumble through interviews.
Lets do it Cubbies
by slocs55 on May 9, 2008 11:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Well...
Ned Yost is on the cusp of being fired, so it might not matter whether Sweet Lou remembers his name. Yost is the Scott Skiles of major league baseball. The personality of formica who inevitably grates on his players so badly they commit a mutiny (hey, sounds a little bit like my presence here !!).
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
n/t
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't worry
I can take on all the pasty-skin 98 pound weaklings who alternate between hanging out on BCB and playing Nintendo games in their mom’s basement 24/7. Bring em’ on. They might attack, demean and throw cyber slings but I am too smart, too diehard and too strong for them all.
Viva the cause !!! Defeat the sabermetrician geeks and Comic Book Store Guy clones !!!!
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are you trying to be serious or funny?
Sometimes…it hard to tell.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Either way...
...that post reveals more about his inner psyche than any of us ever wanted to know.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All serious, all the time
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Remember that one time....when you said (posted)...
I’ll say what I want so long as it doesnt’ attack, demean and seek pathetic comedic effect (hint).
I wish you would have meant it.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Remember, this is his face when typing a post

He told me not to tell anyone, but I couldn’t help myself.
"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk
by NittanyCub on May 9, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know you of old.
TechnoHawk
Mike
The Hawk
Blue Mike
Only a matter of time before you whip out the “beer-from-the-can, Slipknot disciples” crap and get booted from this blog, too.
"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 May 9, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
slipknot disciples?
???
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's part of his anti-stat rhetoric.
He hasn’t started it here, as it’s mainly aimed at the guys over at ACB, but it’s only a matter of time. It’s gotten him banned on multiple Cubs blogs.
"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 May 9, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what about slipknots
is anti-statistic?
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's a long story,
best not told here. It involves a lot of stupidity and f-bombs.
"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 May 9, 2008 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT
I just found myself on my work website trying to scroll down to the bottom of the page by hitting “Z.” Maybe thats a sign I’m on here a bit too much :D
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 11:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I work with Adobe Acrobat Professional a lot...
...and I’m constantly hitting ‘z” when I try to scroll through comments.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I do that ALL the time now.
the wife says “STOP TAPPING THE KEYBOARD LIKE THAT!!!”
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Accoding to ESPN 1000
Marshall sent to AAA and Steve Eyire coming back….
Marshall to get streched out as a starter…
Felix Pie must play everyday!
by JB 23 on May 9, 2008 11:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Sounds good
Marshall wasn’t doing so hot in the big leagues. Might as well send him down so he can get regular starts, instead of arbitrary appearances from the ‘pen.
"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk
by NittanyCub on May 9, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"stretched out as starter"
Becoming the new Cubbie catch phrase for pitchers who can’t get the job done and have been sent down….Kevin Hart, Rich Hill, Sean Marshall. I wonder when they send Felix Pie if they’ll accidentally say the same thing…
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Holy shit,
you might be the worst person ever.
"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk
by NittanyCub on May 9, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I infinity-dog-dare you to go the rest of the day...
without making a snide comment about the Chicago Cubs players, organization, or fans.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ba-bum, tsssss
I’ve been a diehard way, way longer than you. I’ll say what I want so long as it doesnt’ attack, demean and seek pathetic comedic effect (hint). Later Shecky.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL.
99.9 % of the comments you make here “attack, demean and seek pathetic [read: hateful] comedic effect.” And don’t give me that die-hard BS. That doesn’t give you the right to be constantly negative and endlessly repetitive.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well
I have very rarely attacked a person on this blog. I might poo-poo the, ahem, baseball knowledge expressed by some. But never do I attack the person or their right to free speech on Al Yellon’s blog.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right, just keep telling yourself that.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would like to know
how you have been diehard longer? But then again Im on your ignore list.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Time to lighten this up a bit
Ahhh memories….

One of the most disturbing images i’ve ever seen. Enjoy!
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Track marks?
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
so
what you’re saying is that you NEVER say what you want?
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This should be a game inside this blog
Find any news about the Cubs – from the Bigs to any farm team – that’s as neutral as possible, and see how long it takes for the Debbie Downer to Debbie Down it.
I’m saying it’ll take five minutes for Downer to Down any news another poster gives about anything Cubs-related
"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk
by NittanyCub on May 9, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My game is this
I start reading the comment before looking at the name. I try to see how many words it takes me before I think to myself “This must be MDBNIU.”
My average is 4.
by TC Cubby on May 9, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't recall anyone ever saying Rich Hill was being stretched out as a starter.
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on May 9, 2008 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kerry Wood throwing a screwball?
Isn’t that the most dangerous of all pitches in terms of injury given the unnatural movement of the wrist? Not sure what to think about this.
by smitster2008 on May 9, 2008 12:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yep
Fernando Valenzuela and Burt Hooten have been the only pitchers of recent vintage who have had success throwing the pitch AND haven’t screwed up their arm in the process. Real, real dumb idea for Kerry Wood to me messin’ around with the screwgie.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I heard it was a "back up" slider
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Read the article first
Its a slider that backs up on him ITS LIKE a screwball but not a screwball.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's always a good idea...
....no i didn’t read the article and only heard about it on the radio out here.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
way to
rtfa.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought the curveball was worse on your arm than a scewball?
n/t
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on May 9, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
screwball=scewball
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on May 9, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nope, the screwball is
much worse. It goes against the natural movement of the bones and other parts.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on May 9, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I used to throw a screwball in batting practice
when I was coaching Pony League baseball. I loved all the reactions from the hitters :)
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on May 9, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"It goes against the natural movement of the bones and other parts"
Throwing a baseball is exactly that. Thats why you see girls softball pitchers pitching every game sometimes, its the arms natural motion.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Screwball is worse.
only because it’s so hard to throw consistently the same way and not “over compensate” for the inconsistencies.
Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen
by lemon20pie on May 9, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think he's throwing it like a true screwball.
I heard the same thing but he throws it more like a slurve. The screwball is such an unnatural motion it be career suicide for Wood to be throwing it. I read a story of a screwballer who threw it so much, his hand was turned palm out if he rested his arm to his side. Not sure who it was.
by NOLA_Cub_Fan on May 9, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Carl Hubbel
He was the guy who threw it so much his palm faced outward.
by NOLA_Cub_Fan on May 9, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wood must be placing his fingers on the opposite side of the ball
to make it go the other way. The ball will come out of his hand the opposite way as compared to a slider. This way he doesn’ tactually have to turn his wrist over and all that career-ending nonsense.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on May 9, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he threw the slurve, didn't he? :P
But it’s not really a screwball anyway, as you’ve read.
2008: The year we put it all together.
by drewishdrewid on May 9, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Back to our regularly scheduled programming
Ted Lilly. Suffice to say today is a monster test for him. Going up against the best team in baseball and one heckuva good opponent on the mound. I predict he has the best performance of the season today. And that the Cubs win a 2-1 type ballgame.
Lou, stop being obstinate...bat Soriano # 6.
by MDBNIU on May 9, 2008 12:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Who are you?
And what have you done with MDBNIU?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
See? You can do it! YOU CAN DO IT!

Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
WTF?
Agreed
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fox
They had to change tomorrows game didnt they? At least if Im out late tonight I dont have to worry about getting up.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on May 9, 2008 12:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Jesus.
He looks like crap.
Hay ya’ll.
"Anything under 5 pitches is a bad at-bat."
by Fukumania on May 9, 2008 12:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It's not because you can't pay your bills.
"Anything under 5 pitches is a bad at-bat."
by Fukumania on May 9, 2008 12:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
?????
Whiskey Tango Foxtrot?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Were you not just watching WGN?
I’m crazy funny.
"Anything under 5 pitches is a bad at-bat."
by Fukumania on May 9, 2008 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Uh, no. I'm at work, slacker. (Kidding!)
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nope...hence my confusion.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sierra Foxtrot Hotel
"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 May 9, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Love that album.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I do to,
but that’s not what that means.
"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 May 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sounds like someone's breaking up with his girlfriend...
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not you its me...
lol
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey!
You can’t use that, it’s Costanza’s line!
"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 May 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah it is!
He invented it.
So nobody has to see the scroll bar on my posts!!!!
by McRipper on May 9, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
GO CUBS GO!!! I'll be happy with 2 out of 3. Think we can?

---
Wait a minute... who am I here?
by malicedoom on May 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Think we can punch one of the DBacks in the face? Certainly!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Michael Barrett:
Too punchy.
"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 May 9, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Valverde is gone...
He’s the only one I’d like to see get bopped by Big Z….
''As long as he doesn't talk World Series, I'm happy.'' Lou Piniella on Ronny Cedeno.
by CubsBullsBears on May 9, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't mind taking a swing at Augie Ojeda.
I’m pretty sure I could take him.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Juan Cruz
is my pick!
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on May 9, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't pick on the elderly.
"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 May 9, 2008 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But he's so small!
It’d be like punching a dwarf!
"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 May 9, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not above that.
Actually, wouldn’t it be funny if Theriot and Ojeda got into a fight? It would be like the polar opposite of the DLee v. Chris Young matchup last season.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"I'm not above that"
This might be the funniest thing I’ve read all week.
"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 May 9, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ha ha, thanks!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
NLPATT Zone Alert!
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on May 9, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If someone can put a highlighting "ONEDEC"
on that .jpg whenever Barrett makes contact to Pierzynski’s face(cough cough SANTOScough), then you will be a God among men.
And my hero.
"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk
by NittanyCub on May 9, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm drunk.
I should preface that much.
"Anything under 5 pitches is a bad at-bat."
by Fukumania on May 9, 2008 12:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
LETS GO CUBBIES!
"Anything under 5 pitches is a bad at-bat."
by Fukumania on May 9, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Drunk at half-past noon? I salute you, my friend!
(Quick, somebody grab his keys.)
Nanika Ga Okoru!
Oh, and remember, folks: Alfonso Soriano is NOT batting leadoff. He's batting first.
by dat cubfan daver on May 9, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm Irish
and even I think it’s bit early…
"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 May 9, 2008 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

by 



