A Lost Weekend: Cubs 1, White Sox 5
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:28 AM CDT
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383 comments
I woke up Sunday after a hot, sticky, stormy day Saturday and found myself transported into November.
That's what it felt like on the South Side of Chicago last night -- cold, windy, with nasty little rainshowers that kept poking at us, reminding us how dreary this series was. If that wasn't bad enough, the Cubs played like the weather, cold and dank, in losing 5-1 to the White Sox, completing the sweep of revenge for the Sox' sweep at the hands of the Cubs last weekend.
The Cubs' play matched the gloom and mist and fog that enveloped the Cell for most of last evening. There seemed as many, if not more, Cubs fans there than last year (when the Cubs swept), but there was little for any of us to cheer about; the Cubs weren't really in last night's game despite going into the bottom of the eighth trailing only 3-1, a lead that went from "maybe we can come back" to "forget it" when Jose Ascanio gave up a two-run homer to Jim Thome after retiring the first two Sox hitters in that inning on easy ground balls.
Lou Piniella -- perhaps wisely -- didn't stick around for most of it, getting himself tossed by substitute umpire Rob Drake for arguing a check-swing call on Joe Crede that went the Sox' way in the second inning. Replays showed that call could have gone either way, and Sean Marshall struck out Crede anyway. But by then the Cubs had already blown their best opportunity to get back in the game. Henry Blanco had a terrific at-bat, fouling off three Mark Buehrle pitches after running the count full, and then drawing a walk -- Buehrle was a bit wild early, and Blanco's walk loaded the bases. Ronny Cedeno, with a chance to be a hero and give the Cubs the lead, swung at Buehrle's first pitch and hit a lazy fly ball to center.
Meanwhile, Marshall was nearly matching Buehrle, except for two mistakes: the balls that Carlos Quentin and Brian Anderson hit out of the yard that gave the Sox all the runs they needed. Marshall threw 93 pitches in 7 innings and probably could have come out to throw the 8th; I didn't necessarily disagree with Alan Trammell's decision to put Ascanio in the game, but Marshall might have kept the score to a manageable 3-1, which would have made the two baserunners the Cubs got on base to lead off the 9th much more meaningful. Even at that, if Jim Edmonds' line drive goes two feet higher or to the left or right, it's a two-run double and the tying run would have come to the plate.
But it didn't, and so the Cubs head to the West Coast with their first four-game losing streak of the year. Let me play glass-half-full guy for a moment: the Cubs still have the second-best record in baseball (at this moment, the best record is held by... the Tampa Bay Rays, who moved into first place in the AL East with their win over Pittsburgh and Boston's loss to Houston). They still have a 2.5 game lead over the Cardinals. It's not just the Cubs who had trouble in interleague play -- only the Mets, Braves and Reds had winning records from the NL over AL teams in the just-concluded interleague stretch. The Cubs are heading to play the team with the worst home record in the majors (the Giants are 14-24 at home). And the injured players will begin to return soon, starting with Carlos Zambrano, who is ready to go for his scheduled start in St. Louis on Friday.
It would have helped if Derrek Lee hadn't had such a strange series (two GIDP on Friday, then 5-for-5 on Saturday, then three K's last night), or if Aramis Ramirez hadn't clearly had family troubles on his mind all weekend, probably contributing to his 0-for-13 weekend, and also causing him to miss the first three games in San Francisco.
Creativity points to the woman in my section holding up a sign which read: "CUBS: Enjoying your sentence at the Cell?" (Answer from me: no) And after two relatively peaceful days, fights broke out both in the left field corner and also on the third-base side in the upper deck, perhaps both fueled by too much drinking on a Sunday when fans could party all day before a night game. And to Sox management: there aren't enough restrooms; they can't handle a capacity crowd. Lines snaked far outside the women's rooms most of the night and I missed a couple of batters in the 5th when I got stuck myself in long lines for the men's room (sorry! couldn't wait till the 7th!). While it seemed there were about 35-40% Cub fans in the house all weekend (including Pink Hat Guy, who is normally seen on TV behind the plate at Wrigley Field -- how did I know this? He was wearing a pink hat reading "THE PINK HAT GUY"), we had little to cheer about, and by game's end last night, many Cub fans had left. To the Sox fans in attendance, credit to you too, believe it or not: there wasn't a huge amount of "Cubs suck!" chants in evidence, and the Sox fans actually seemed happier that THEY won that that WE lost -- as it should be, focused on their own team's success. Just as the Cubs have been superb at home this year, so have the Sox (27-11 at home), including a four-game sweep of the suddenly-hot Twins, so I don't think this series is necessarily any indication that the Cubs are in trouble.
Statistical oddity: how evenly matched are these teams? After 12 seasons of interleague play, each team has won 33 games. Each team has won 19 at home and 14 on the road... and the White Sox have outscored the Cubs by one run in the 66 games, 323-322.
Mike summed it up best when we talked before the game. "The circus is over," he said. "Let's get back to baseball." Amen. Till tonight.
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Tonight
is a must win,,,we are really hurting right now.
I'm a reader not a poster, but I'm also a poster so don't get any ideas.
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 30, 2008 8:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
So if we lose the season's over?
...there’s 80 games left this season. We’re stil in 1st place. And we get everyone back in 10 days. It’s not a must win. Though it sure would be nice to win the first game of this series. :)
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I needed to read this
Last night I got so mad….and really that puts it into perspective….
thank you
"I’ll try to do anything to win a game." - My Man....BIG Z
by akbeck98 on Jun 30, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No prob...
I’m certainly not a “kool aid drinker” and realize we have some issues, but I’m also thinking that we’ll be healthy the rest of the year and be at full strength down the stretch, when it matters.
The one “good thing” about the injuries, is that come September, we’re going to have a lot of AAA players that have had experience at the major league level (much like last year) and our bench/bullpen is going to be pretty damn strong down the stretch.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
not a MUST win...
however losing 5 in a row can start a slippery slide…..
I'm a reader not a poster, but I'm also a poster so don't get any ideas.
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 30, 2008 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I at least like
that some of the main players are getting rests. I think it can do nothing but help us later on, I’m trying to find something positive out of this recent slide.
I’m so glad interleague is over. I hate how the NL gets smoked every year.
Lets do it Cubbies
by slocs55 on Jun 30, 2008 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also Zito is one of their more beatable pitchers
whil ethere’s no such thing as a “must-win” in June-this is still a VERY important game that. win or lose, could set the tone for the rest of the trip
by bluekoolaide on Jun 30, 2008 4:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
One more thing:
absolutely atrocious baserunning yesterday, especially by Theriot and Derosa. The Cubs were bad at the little things all weekend long.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 8:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Theriot's been bad about that the last two years
DeRosa actually does this more than I’d like, too. Not as much as Theriot, though.
(Note to all Theriot defenders: I am not ripping him. Just pointing out something I’ve seen.)
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed on both counts.
This is a correctable problem, though, and I trust Lou will take steps to correct it. Some might say you can’t fix stupid, and normally I’d agree, but baserunning is something everyone can do if they work hard enough. If Theriot is really as gritty and hardworking as Bob Brenly would have us believe, he’ll get his ass in the film room and figure just what the hell he was doing and never, ever do it again.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope you're right
But it should have been addressed a long time ago.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
how hard is it to watch a batted ball and wait to see if it's made it through the infield?
I’m not trying to be flippant – it’s just that this seems like such a basic thing, I’m not sure what film room sessions can do to help this. You’re either aware on the basepaths or you’re not.
Now this high caught stealing rate… yeah, I would think that’s something that could be improved by film sessions and/or good coaching.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know what you mean.
It seems like something so basic….if Cedeno had done that, he’d be getting roasted in here.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
by gary varsho on Jun 30, 2008 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, in DeRo's case...
...I think it was simply a matter of seeing a comeback chance materialize and being too aggressive. As Al mentions in his recap, if Edmonds’ shot down the first base line had been two feet - even a foot - higher. DeRo scores the tying run. I think Mark just got caught up in the emotion of the moment. And, yeah, maybe it’s not fair, but I can forgive DeRo a lot more easily for such a mistake than I could Cedeno.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They were both pretty bad
...but the really dumb thing about Derosa’s baserunning mistake was that, down by 4, there was no reason to be in the same zip code as aggressive. He needed to be as absolutely safe as possible in that situation.
by Wreckard on Jun 30, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
speaking of base running
how bad is ryan theriot? he’s an embarrasement, he gets picked off some many times i don’t even remember. Everybody talks about his base running, and i know it’s terrible.
by lexmarklover on Jun 30, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His baserunning is almost as bad as his defense
I can’t remember what inning it was (the 2nd I think?) when Theriot dove for two balls he had no chance of getting. Both were balls a better shortstop would have gotten – especially the one that Thome hit to the right side with the shift on.
That was the play where Thome went to second on Fukudome’s ill-advised throw the third.
I just think it’s hilarious to see him diving all the time and coming up about 3 or 4 feet short.
by Wreckard on Jun 30, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
why isn't Lou addressing fundamentals like that?
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 5:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
DeRo wasn't the tying run
It was 5-1 at that time.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would have been the tying run if Ascanio didn't give up the HR to Thome.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, right. My bad.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. That atrocious base-running killed 2 rallies.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah.
That kind of stuff is really hard to watch, 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 Jun 30, 2008 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep. It's more disheartening than just making an out at bat.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've sent Kaplan e-mails about Theriot over the weekend
He sent me one on Sunday claiming it was a hit and run that Theriot got doubled off on. Hmm. Lee managed to get back in time before the first throw…
It really is starting to aggrivate me how Ryan gets a free pass. I’ve said this before—if you don’t have the physical abilities that star players have, you damn well better play the game the right way. Theriot doesn’t.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If it was, it was the most strange hit and run play I've seen.
I rewinded my DVR to check that and saw that Theriot was standing still when the ball was hit. He probably ran looking down and didn’t see the 3B coach until it was too late.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, it was just an excuse.
Theriot’s media friendly, so they protect him.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's our "Eckstein"
Gritty, scrappy, “makes more out of less” throwback type. Probably why he doesn’t get called out as much as other players when he makes a bonehead play.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The difference, though, is that Eckstein does the little things correctly.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, like tagging Ronny Cedeno out on a walk!
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
by JohnM on Jun 30, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
"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 Jun 30, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah.
He wasn’t moving. Either:
A.) Kaplan is just wrong
B.) It really was a hit and run, and Theriot just didn’t run.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe it was A
Otherwise, Lee wouldn’t have gotten back safely.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
The Theriot apologists who turn around and attack Soriano and Cedeno for doing the exact same things make me ill.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It Ain't Me Babe
I’ll get on anyone who makes dumb mistakes no matter how much or how little they make.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As it should be.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kaplan seems to be a HUGE Theriot fan.
Some put up that question on sports central or post game… and he tied into them then also.
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I heard that on Friday -- that's why I started with the e-mails
The first caller was lucid and rational, and wanted to see Cedeno get a chance. He shot him down and listened to virtually nothing. The second caller agreed with Kaplan and was quite blustery. Made goofy statements like, “We’ve got to win, we’re playing the White Sox!!” Who cares who the opponent is?
Kaplan used to be listenable, but he’s hard to take for more than 15 minutes or so. During the last west coast trip, he made some asinine statement that people weren’t real Cubs fans if they didn’t stay up to watch the games. Sorry, Dave, some people have actual responsibility and can’t get up at 10 AM every day.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I remember that.
I’m generally a supporter of Kaplan’s—I think he’s one of the more reasonable sports radio guys in town (though that’s faint praise, given his competition). But his biggest shortcoming is he does seem to fall prey to having a lot of, for lack of a better term, “mainstream” opinions.
His support of Theriot is one example, and he was all about the Roberts trade. And, yeah, that “if you don’t stay up late, you’re not a real fan” tirade was patently ridiculous. It would have been funny if he’d finally broke down and admitted he was joking, but he never did because he wasn’t—he was dead serious.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In Kaplan's defense:
Theriot is one of the league leaders in batting average. Therefore, there’s no way to sit him down. We have to take the lack of reach and the terrible base running with the rest because Theriot is the best we have for that position. Cedeño is not a consistent hitter and is also a terrible base runner.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure there's a way you sit him down.
You look at the total player, not just any one stat, especially not a stat as poor as batting average.
I’m sure it’s not easy to do, but let’s not make it sound like this isn’t a choice here.
by cwyers on Jun 30, 2008 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not even about sitting him down, necessarily
It’s about his stubborn refusal to listen to a differing point of view—and to make excuses for a player that he likes.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 5:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure the circus is over...
...but who’s gonna clean up after dem elephants? ;-)
[turns on SWL beacon…]
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 8:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Why so serious?
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Guys...I'm kinda busy right now with the "clean up"....
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 30, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's not a good job to have.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's one tough lady.
She doesn’t take any crap from anyone.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"trick or treat..."
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"trick or treat..."
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can say that again!
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Jun 30, 2008 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"all I got was a rock..."
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I get it.
I thought that’s where potatos came from.
by N Oakley on Jun 30, 2008 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I want to know why...
... MLB assigned two replacement umpires to such a big series.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I want to know why
MLB assigned two of the worst replacement umpires to such a big series. When almost every call unfairly goes against your team, it can probably dampen your spirits a bit.
by adam316 on Jun 30, 2008 8:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm trying
not to see it that way, even though many calls seemed to go against us and the umping was terrible. I don’t want to be the whiners that the Sox were after last weekend, blaming the umps and anything other than themselves (at least several of their fans acted that way, and well, with Ozzie you pretty much always expect some BS). Still, I share your sentiment.
"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young
by Kegler on Jun 30, 2008 8:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree that it sounds like making excuses.
But looking at the video of Rob Drake getting into Lou’s face, this is not the kind of topnotch umpiring that MLB should assign to a high-profile series. And TWO replacement guys? Why do they allow two regular umps from the same crew to be off at the same time?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah.
Throwing a manager out after the discussion is over and by an umpire who isn’t involved in it, who is standing behind the manager, several feet away, is unprofessional. I could clearly read Lou’s lips telling the home plate umpire “You stink.” I agree.
If they were to throw the manager out, the 1B umpire could have done it. It’s telling that he didn’t and the other ump had to come to mess the matter up.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree...
...but the biggest thing to me was that Lou had already turned towards the dugout, and was a few steps from it. THEN the home plate ump threw him out…it wasn’t like Lou was still arguing or fighting…
Dan
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The normal chief of that crew...
... is Rick Reed, a well-respected umpire. I can’t imagine why they’d have let him go on vacation when his crew was assigned to this series.
That left the senior ump on the crew as… Mark Wegner, the guy who tossed Lou last year.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Umps on Vacation
I’ve always wondered why the umps are allowed to take vacation. They work roughly 7 months a year and make at least $300K for their time and efforts. I’m guessing it must be a union thing but you’d think that MLB could clean that up. It’s always ticked me off and last night didn’t help.
by cubbot on Jun 30, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Umps are people too...
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Says who?
:)
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is rough
to stand out there and blow a couple of calls a night and think you are the all knowing. Even when you are wrong, you are right – sounds like my house.
A Cub fan in Cardinal territory.
by FSArkCubsFan on Jun 30, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that ump that tossed lou was wrong for doing it
although you’re not allow to argue balls and strikes, lou was heading back to the dugout. Was it just me though or was all the calls going to the White Sox way? That double play grounder by Cedeno coulda started a big inning.
by lexmarklover on Jun 30, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Add another crew or two
and make certain every crew gets at least one off day every 7-10 days that is not a travel day. They are human, but the crews need to be kept together.
by N Oakley on Jun 30, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Admittedly
Lou was looking to get tossed, and I’m sure Wegner knew that.
But those two replacement umps were terrible.
It's a girl! Born 1-18-08. 2246 PST. 8 lbs. 1 oz.
by Josh77 on Jun 30, 2008 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The 1st base ump told Lou not to go out to argue.
Lou backtracked and that ump didn’t eject him. The homeplate umpire had no business coming behind Lou and tossing him out, even if he thought Lou was trying to abuse the ump because he was a minor league replacement, as some managers like to do.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You must reat lips a little different than me
I seemed to read Lou as using a much less friendly word than “stink” lol. I think he was saying “You’re Sh!#” But I could just be lost in translation.
by adam316 on Jun 30, 2008 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you could tell he said a few other words too
lol
2008 Cubs: Who needs nine innings, when you only need a 7th?
by Chanman25 on Jun 30, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cant argue balls & strikes.automatic ejection
by cubbierc on Jun 30, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didn't Ozzie do it at Wrigley?
He didn’t get ejected.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 30, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
there is no such thing as an automatic ejection. ejections are at the discretion of the umpires.
"I'd rather win ugly than lose pretty," -- Lou Pinella
by anormal on Jun 30, 2008 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The calls on 1B were all against us.
But behind HP, that plate measured 2 feet wide, for both teams’ hitters. A lot of them had to chase pitches outside because otherwise, a strikeout would have been called. ESPN’s K-Zone showed this last night.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The 1b Ump looked like a deer in headlights everytime they showed him...
...He clearly isnt ready for the show. In both situations, checked strike (which Crede clearly went around, an amazing miss by the home plate umpas well) and the Ronny play at first he seemed to be looking for afirmation from his peers.
by JB 23 on Jun 30, 2008 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
that throwing replacement umps in there is ridiculous and that they indeed blew a few calls. Totally agree. I’m only saying that I don’t want to blame our losses on that. Was it wrong and stupid of MLB, and were the calls against us? Yes. Is that why we lost the series? No. We couldn’t hit with RiSP, we made too many baserunning mistakes, and it was one of those weekends where the ball seemed to never bounce our way.
"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young
by Kegler on Jun 30, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
True on all counts.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mulligan and Hanley
ripped MLB a new for that this a.m., but I don’t know that it made a big difference. The strike zones and calls at 1B have been inconsistent even with the big-league guys. Players have to adjust to this. The Sox players did, the Cubs players did not.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 8:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
boy
that home ump was LOOKING for a fight, too…
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 30, 2008 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, that's the thing...
another example of an umpire trying to make a name for himself. Like everyone said, the 1st base umpire told Lou, “You can’t come out here and argue that”, Lou said something else and started walking back. If Lou would have continued walking out there, the home plate umpire should have had a discussion with Lou, then tossed him. But for him to throw him out with Lou’s BACK TURNED, is just ridiculous.
But the 1st base ump blew that check swing bad. I thought the Ronny call at first was a bang-bang play. Yeah, he missed it, but it wasn’t as bad as the check swing.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wearing My Tinfoil Hat
I wonder if the bad umpiring, and MLB’s refusal to deal with it, is a passive-aggressive approach that Bud (and the owners) have taken to stick it to the players. Or if not, maybe it’s a situation where the league office is thinking “those players, whining yet again when we’ve given them everything they’ve demanded…so we’ll crack down on the umps when WE feel like it, not when they tell us to!”
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I don't agree....
......but in saying that, I was completely SHOCKED that they suspended (for 1 game) Runge the other night for bumping Jerry Manuel.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
some umps initiate the conversation
and they shouldn’t. they don’t play the game, they just call the game. No reason to argue back
by lexmarklover on Jun 30, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I Don't Think So Either
While I was just throwing out a conspiracy theory to add to the conversation, I do think that MLB is reluctant to overhaul the umpiring because other people are complaining. Remember when your dad always bugged you about cutting your hair, so then you wouldn’t do it just to spite him? Sort of that kind of thing.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And why is it...
That Ozzie can come out and argue balls and strikes at Wrigley and it’s ok, but when Lou does it, he gets thrown out?
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 30, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hometown Intimidation Sucks
Sure seems to me that umpires and refs really let the home crowd get in their heads when it comes time to make the difficult call.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought immediately of last weekend when I saw that
Definitely a double standard. But, I think Lou getting the boot will be a GOOD thing. Remember when they got things rolling last year after an ejection?
by salparadise23 on Jun 30, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed
This is difficult. For the first time this season, last night I sat watching the game just cussing and in a foul mood from the very first inning. That old feeling that had been tamped down with how well our team had been playing this year had bubbled back up to the surface. I’m sure many of you know that feeling, the “let’s see how we’re going to F this one up tonight” sense that’s been ingrained in our Cubbie psyches for generations. I so much want that to go away once and for all, but the only way for that to happen is this team, our team, needs to be the last one standing at the end of October.
Moving on….and hoping we reverse our fortunes on the road this week. I still believe we have the best team in baseball, even if we are a bit banged up or MIA (ARam) right now.
"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young
by Kegler on Jun 30, 2008 8:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I SO know what you mean
last night was the first time all season that I went into a game with a sense of dread. Up until then I think I was deluding myself into thinking the Cubs were good enough to put some genuine distance between themselves and the Cards and Brewers.
Obviously injuries have taken a big toll but good teams (re; the Cardinals) seem to find ways to ride these bad patches out.
On the other hand, it IS a long season and it’s still early. The Cubs are too good of a team to completely collapse-once we get healthy again I think the ship will be righted. But, at the same time, I don’t see the Brewers and es. the Cards going away. It’s going to be a long, hard fight in teh second half and it will most likely come down to what Hendry is going to be able to add by the deadline.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 30, 2008 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was in a foul mood all weekend
in regards to the Crosstown series. It started on Friday after Swisher hit the slam and got worse from there. For the first time this season, I KNEW we were gonna get swept. I really didn’t watch many innings because of the all the crappy TV broadcasters (Hawk and DJ, anyone from FOX, and the Joe (it’s all about me) Morgan.), I listened to Pat and Ron on the internet. I won’t say we lost last night because of the umps, but it just added to my disgust. The Sux were bombing jacks all frigging weekend and we just couldn’t contain their hitters at all. The 2 leads we had lasted, what, a half inning? I know we are banged up and we didn’t have Z for the weekend, but I would have hoped we could have eked out one victory. I guess tip your caps to the Sux for holding court as we did the week before. I am SO glad we won’t see them until next year.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on Jun 30, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I wouldn't mind seeing them in October...
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If we do meet them in October
the NL had better win the All Star game.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on Jun 30, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It occured to me this morning
That we only had the lead twice for a 1/2 inning each. Sad.
by Mapmaker on Jun 30, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So was I.
All weekend long, I had trouble coming up with any positive thoughts about the Cubs or this series. Maybe it was the actual dark clouds that kept strafing the Chicagoland area with rain this weekend, but I had a figurative dark cloud over my head the whole time. None of the games felt right. The momentum/good fortune all belonged to the Sox. I’m really glad it’s over.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And the sun is out this morning.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is!
But what’s the weather like in San Francisco? Eh, probably cloudy/foggy. But what else is new?
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The coldest winter Mr. Twain ever spent . . .
was the summer he spent in San Francisco
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
are we not riding the bad patch out?
we swept the Sox a week ago, rebounding from the bad three in Tampa. We took one from Baltimore, and should have had more. I don’t see us in free-fall or anything.
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 30, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we knew this was going to be a tough few weeks
hard as it is to lose 4 straight , I’ve always thought that this is where we’re at a white water point in the season. It’s hard on everybody but I’m waiting to see how we do against the Cards. That should give us a clear read on the team—especially once we get our key players back.
Onward.
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
by Emelie on Jun 30, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was trying to keep track
of how many times our favorite ESPN commentator dissed the Cubs as well as called Henry Blanco “Soto”, but I lost count.
by adam316 on Jun 30, 2008 8:39 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Since I didn't hear the game...
... any corrections made on the misinformation given last week? (I think I know the answer already.)
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The answer is no, of course.
Funny moment when Ozzie reacted to Jon Miller calling him Carlos Guillén, during the in-game interview. Miller corrected humself immediately. At least Morgan didn’t dissed the Cubs last night like he did the week before.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We are off ESPN till August, at least.
Probably for the best.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Too bad for me.
That’s where I watch the Cubs in HD.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can't get WGN/HD?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No.
Not even by satellite. I only get the standrad version of WGN. My cable system has only ESPN as a sports HD channel. They don’t even carry ESPN2. Dish doesn’t have EI, so it’s not an option. And Direct TV in Puerto Rico is completely different than the one in the states, with no HD channels at all and only 2 EI channels. So, it’s not an option either. And the network affiliates are not in HD, yet. Besides, Fox doesn’t let its local affiliate show the Saturday game, anyway. I have to watch it in Spanish, on Fox Sports, or through MLB.TV, whicjh is not blacked out here on Saturday afternoons. I also use a Slingbox, located at my son’s house in Florida. Best invention ever.
In summary, I envy you guys in Chicago. (Your TV choices, not the weather.)
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
At least you get the telecasts...
... and don’t get blacked out of some games that others can’t see.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How? Cubs / Cards next weekend!! Two best teams in NL...
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Check your Yankees and Red Sox schedules and you'll have your answer.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
#%8&^ubhiuf/2#$!!!!!!!
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no cardinal-cubs next sunday?
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
should have read further done to before i asked
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How many times did Morgan
go over how good the pitching adjustments are against Ramierz? Jeeez, he analyzed it at every single at bat he had.
by SoTxCub on Jun 30, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No kiddin'
They bypassed replaying hits and close plays in favor of showing week-old pitches.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was yelling at the TV
after the second time they did this. It was really rediculous.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
by tucsoncubsfan on Jun 30, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL AL
As soon as the game began and Morgan was speaking I thought to myself “Damn, they didn’t listen to Al’s advice and fire him immediately.”
by adam316 on Jun 30, 2008 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
Yet another example of them not listening to me.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Joe Needs Drinks
Then when he starts getting fresh with Erin Andrews like when another Joe started hitting on Suzy Culber, ESPN will HAVE to pull the plug on that sawed-off bitter ex-jock.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd hate to see Joe Morgan getting fresh with Peter Gammons.
;-)
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 30, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And the claim by Morgan
that the White Sox have the best bullpen he has ever seen, ever seen!!.
Is that true? Goodness, Bobby Jenks is OK, Cubs actually hit him well in the last two games of the series. Off the top of my head, Yanks with Rivera in the 8th and Whettland to close is better, I can’t recall the rest of the Yanks pen.
But Joe, stop smoking the pipe.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Jun 30, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tidrow & Sutter
in 1979 was one of the best combos I’ve seen over one season.
Also Aurelio Lopez and Willie Hernandez for the 1984 Tigers, and the “Nasty Boys” of the 1990 Reds.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lidge-Dotel-Wagner
Best bullpen I’ve ever saw
by TheRamZamDLEE on Jun 30, 2008 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thw White Sox bullpen in 2005 was pretty good, 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 Jun 30, 2008 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
Our guy Neal Cotts was a big part of their success.
by TheRamZamDLEE on Jun 30, 2008 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah.
he and Politte were incredible that season.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd have to go with the Nasty Boys - Dibble, Myers, and Charlton
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good call.
But wasn’t Charlton technically a starter? He made 16 starts in 1990 and 11 starts in 1991, after all.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What a difference a week makes
last Monday at this time I gobbled up all the papers reveling in our magnificent team’s success. This week, that old feeling that the other shoe is about to drop returns. It is hard believing in the Cubs, they always give you reason to doubt. I’m having that same feeling I did in 04. The talent is there but something is always missing. Good pitching never occurs on the same days we are hitting and vica versa.
by mgfabc on Jun 30, 2008 8:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I never thought I would
actually be glad that I was too busy to watch the Cubs’ games this weekend. Seems I didn’t miss much.
We’ve got the giants starting tonight, let’s at least take 2 of 3.
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jun 30, 2008 8:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Knew I shoulda checked first
let’s take at least 3 of 4 then
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jun 30, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Zambrano....
Why isn’t he going to rehab in AAA?
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse
by ronsanto10 on Jun 30, 2008 8:47 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Cuz he threw 60 pitchers yesterday and is set to open the series @ St. Louis
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
60 PITCHES, not pitchers; that would be awesome, however...
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
great visual though!
Geovany Soto you're my Hero
by love the ivy on Jun 30, 2008 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sweet
I knew Rich Hill was good for something!
by salparadise23 on Jun 30, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because the Cubs need him NOW.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why rush him back?
Better to be safe than sorry.
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse
by ronsanto10 on Jun 30, 2008 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because he was probably ready to go last week.
Z didn’t want to go on the DL at all—they had to put him there to make him rest for 2 weeks. That’s all he really needed.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
pitching=pitching
Doesn’t matter where you do it. I’m assuming “rather be safe than sorry” refers to trotting him out to pitch too soon after his injury for health reasons, rather than outcome.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jun 30, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was only a short stint.
IIRC, Peavy didn’t throw any minor league innings when he was hurt this year, either.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07
by gary varsho on Jun 30, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"They tried to make me go to rehab...
...I said No No No”
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ahhhh..they gotta turn this around, and not slump out…..i just want the all-star break.
by mahossa on Jun 30, 2008 8:49 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Soriano
Would Soriano need rehab?
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse
by ronsanto10 on Jun 30, 2008 8:51 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes. He will have been out a minimum of four weeks.
Wheter he takes it, however….
They’d said he would, but now he’s talking about the All-Star game…
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe a game or two, just get his timing down.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
does he go back into the top of the order with no rehab ???
I've been bleeding double blue Cubbies & NY Rangers
by parrotinct on Jun 30, 2008 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably.
Lou likes him there, he likes to be the and he performs well in that spot. I don’t see any reason not to put him in there, rehab stint or no. That said, I think we’ll see him sent on a week-long rehab stint before he comes back.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do the minor league
teams play during the allstar break?
If so, it would be awesome if Sori could do his rehabd stint then so he doesn’t miss too many Cubs’ games.
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jun 30, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I suspect it won't be a week...
... probably a weekend. I think Soriano would like to be back for the Giants series at Wrigley. That way he can make his All-Star start.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As good as the Cubs are at home,
I want Sori making that All-Star start! Damn you, Bud Selig, for making that game count.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure, NOW there's an outcry (LOL)
No one thought my idea of voting for A.L. scrubs was worth it when I posted it . . . .
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn't see that!
That’s pretty funny.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I probably did it too soon
Was a fan post that I put up right after the voting began. I figure if enough of us did that, it would do away with this asinine format.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Triple A teams
have their own all-star game the same week. The game will be played July 16.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
by tucsoncubsfan on Jun 30, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Missing 2 batters
Yankee stadium is the worst for bathroom lines, you miss at least 1 full inning usually more, I know there is a ton of history there, but the house that “Ruth Built” is so the “unfriendly confines”
I've been bleeding double blue Cubbies & NY Rangers
by parrotinct on Jun 30, 2008 8:53 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps the new Yankee Stadium will be better.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wrigley's lines aren't any better..
..also Handicap access is horrible. I took my mom to a game and there was only one elevator, someone had taken our Handicap seat and we spent 2 innings getting it straigtened out. More reasons for a new Wrigley or whatever they want to call it.
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse
by ronsanto10 on Jun 30, 2008 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wait a minute....
You didn’t just say…... Did he really just say that?
by adam316 on Jun 30, 2008 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are you kidding?
One of the best things about those stupid troughs is how many people they’re able to accommodate at once. Wrigley has some of the quickest bathroom lines I’ve seen.
by sackings108 on Jun 30, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But to the poster's point
If you need handicap access, the trough probably doesn’t cut it.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the handicap access issue was separate from the restroom issue.
Read his post again.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you're right -- I was just following the replies -- sackings replied to ronsanto10
should have read the whole thing
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that sucks
I’m going to be there next tuesday to see the Rays play them.
2008 Cubs: Who needs nine innings, when you only need a 7th?
by Chanman25 on Jun 30, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
anyone else?
a little worried about sori playing the all star game? he sounds too excited for a guy just coming back from an injury, i’m worried he’s going to try to wow the audience on the big stage and do something stupid to re-injury himself…..
by cubswynn on Jun 30, 2008 9:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm hoping...
one at bat, 2 innings, grab the bench, Fonzie.
I’m more worried about Z this weekend being too excited and trying to do too much.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and I'm sure since Lou is now a coach...
...he’ll be in the Rockie’s manager’s ear after the 2nd inning.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Incentive Clause?
Does Fonz get more $$$ for appearing in the ASG?
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't know if that's in his contract or not, but even if it is,
I think just getting voted in would be enough to trigger it. I don’t think he’d actually have to appear in the game to collect.
That being said, I think his biggest motivation, besides just wanting to get back and play, is to do something in front of the Yankee fans and management.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
my point exactly
that’s what’s got me nervous….he seems to mention that in every interview
it’s like girlfriend who can’t stop talking about her ex, kinda makes me jealous haha
by cubswynn on Jun 30, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soriano gets $250K if he's the top vote-getter in All-Star balloting
and 6 premium tickets for the All Star Game if selected.
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
by flachimesa on Jun 30, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Source?
Is there a website the tracks this kind of stuff? That would a great read!
"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 Jun 30, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."
by flachimesa on Jun 30, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Awesome.
Thanks a million. I will now get no work done today!
"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 Jun 30, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
PH duties, plz.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jun 30, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All Star game..
Wouldn’t it be better if the AL wins the All Star game? Here is my logic. That way if the Cubs get into the WS, then they will have a chance to sweep the Series and close it out at home! What better way to celebrate a Series win? They can even afford to lose Game 1 or 2 and still win it at home. Look what happened to the Red Sox in 2004 and 2007-they had to win it all in St. Louis and Denver.
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse
by ronsanto10 on Jun 30, 2008 9:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Let's not get too far ahead of ourselves.
There are many, many regular season games yet to be won.
If the Cubs are to win the WS, I really don’t care WHERE they do it.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think we are there quite yet...or at all
1/2 season to go
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What They Should Do
Whoever wins the ASG gets to choose what form of punishment is bestowed upon Uncle Bud:
1) Kiss Donald Fehr
2) Lift the Saturday blackout
3) Watch a replay of Game 7 of the 1982 World Series
4) Daytime playoffs and World Series games
5) Insert Your Own Here
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is it wrong...
for my wife to tell me last night that if I didn’t stop cussing at the TV, I would be banned from watching the game. I had a bad feeling about this weekend. Being sentenced to the cell for three days was a bad experience. Felt like Ofc. Joe did an exam in the never-never land without any vasoline.
1/2 the season over and 2 1/2 games up, that is good. With everything that has happened in the last month, I am happy with the position we are in.
A Cub fan in Cardinal territory.
by FSArkCubsFan on Jun 30, 2008 9:44 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
As I said above,
I was having the same reactions last night. Usually my wife tells me to calm down or I’m not allowed anymore. Lately though, maybe because of how well the Cubs have been playing, she’s been much more understanding of my frustration when things don’t go so well. She understands, though she’s much better at keeping this all in perspective than I am.
"Just because you've had enough/ doesn't mean you wanted too much." -Dean Young
by Kegler on Jun 30, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I Smelled Trouble
after Friday’s contest so I made sure to TiVo the other two games and keep busy with chores, homework, etc..
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jun 30, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You guys are wusses...
Stand up and be the man of the house like I do. Of course, I am divorced now..:)
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 30, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't cuss much
but last night I did repeatly @ my radio. First game that truely got under my skin.
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Same here..
I think it was a combination of having to listen to Morgan and the fact that we haven’t been playing too well.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 30, 2008 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I cuss too much
and this whole weekend was no exception.
by sue369 on Jun 30, 2008 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Forgive me I am trying to work but
Pink Hat Guy actually has a hat that says “Pink Hat Guy”?
If so does this mean he knows that we all refer to him as PHG?
Calm down.
by Kinky Reggae on Jun 30, 2008 9:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Apparently so.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wish I'd have had a camera handy.
I’d have taken a picture.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
does phg
know green sox shirt, green sox hat guy from last night? wow he trying the threads crazy last night…..did we ever decide if he was mentally handicapped or just a normal sox fan?
by cubswynn on Jun 30, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm no expert
But by his mannerisms and the the way he spoke/yelled (yes he was that loud), I really saw nothing wrong w/ him aside from the fact he was extremely ANNOYING.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
by Jayo525 on Jun 30, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
WELL HELOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO PINK HAT GUY!
If you’re reading of course! please join our conversations some time.
Calm down.
by Kinky Reggae on Jun 30, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ok, from now on, you all can call me Ball Hawk Guy, or BHG for short
Of course, if you should catch me when I’m not wearing a hat, Bald Hawk Guy is perfectly acceptable too.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He actually refers to himself as that
I’ve heard him call into the WGN post-game shows several times. Jim Anixter I believe his name is.
Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.
by Jayo525 on Jun 30, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The guy isn't exactly a master of subtlety
makes me want to call him something else…
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
by Emelie on Jun 30, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just to interject some positivity into the discussion...
...I’d like to take a moment to congratulate Sean Marshall.
7 IP, 5 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 1 BB, 5 SO, (and, yeah, the 2 HR)Argg!!! Way to go, me hearty! For a guy throwing only his second major league start of the season – and doing so against a red hot AL team – he pitched admirably. I’ve always liked Sean and still have some hope that, at some point, he may find a lasting place at the back end of the Cubs rotation.
Having said that, I’m not sure where he’ll fit in this season. I’d rather see Sean Gallagher continue to get starts because I think he has a higher ceiling than Marshall. And, according to this Sun-Times article at least, maybe (just maybe) Rich Hill will be back in the mix later this season.
But, on a rainy, losing Sunday night, Sean gave me a little something to cheer about. He just got beat by a veteran pitcher who, like his team, is in the midst of a ridiculous hot streak.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 10:22 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Well, at a minimum, he just became a much more valuable trading chip
Certainly him alone would be overpaying for Maddux.
Dome-san!!
by Goat Whisperer on Jun 30, 2008 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And someone said
he wouldn’t make it past the 4th inning.
by sue369 on Jun 30, 2008 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lemme guess...
...that someone’s initials are M-B-D-N-I-U. Am I close?
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Question?
With Chipper Jones headed to the DL, what does that do for the all star game? Will Ramirez get to go in his place since he’s presumably the second place vote getter for 3B?
"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 Jun 30, 2008 10:39 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It's not automatic.
But yes, A-Ram could be selected to replace Chipper if he’s on the DL, and then it’s up to Clint Hurdle as to who would start.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I see
thanks
"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella
by Lou In Blue on Jun 30, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pink Hat Guy bidding on Cubs
The “Pink Hat Guy” is Jim Anixter, who is part of one of the groups bidding on the Cubs. He also competed to buy the Cubs from the Wrigley’s in ‘81.
by stucook on Jun 30, 2008 10:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Holy Cow- true!
Here is an ESPN article that confirms it!
Sam and Mathew Zell are on the board of his company to boot!
"Baseball is like church- many attend, few understand." ~ Leo Durocher
by The Lip on Jun 30, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That last bit is interesting.
I wasn’t aware of the relationship between Anixter and Zell. This might make Anixter a front-runner. That’d be OK with me—Anixter’s a Chicago native, longtime Cubs fan with deep pockets. Don’t mind the appearances on TV with the pink hat, because he doesn’t flaunt it.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Front-runner?
Sam Zell is known for two things: Getting incredible value for suspect businesses, and being very good to his friends. I think, in this case, calling Jim Anixter a front-runner would ignore both of these traits.
by stucook on Jun 30, 2008 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm.
Haven’t you contradicted yourself?
If Zell is good to his friends, wouldn’t Anixter qualify? And wouldn’t that give him a leg up?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Read between the lines...
Just like in baseball, that’s all that really matters.
by stucook on Jun 30, 2008 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Long history
Sam Zell bought Anixter Intl. from Jim Anixter’s father in the early 80s. Jim’s, and his late-brother Scott’s families have nothing to do with Anixter Intl. Scott formed Anicom in the early 90’s, but was forced out and would have likely gone to jail if he hadn’t passed away. Jim was never involved in any of Scott’s suspicious financial activities.
Much of the history of Sam Zell and the Anixters was widely reported by the Trib throughout the 90’s. A quick search of the archives can reveal more details.
by stucook on Jun 30, 2008 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
question
so here’s my situation with mlb.tv
i work at a dealership with free wifi….so i was bringing in my laptop and watching games via the wifi and everything was working fine
however last week i kept getting blackout messages and then i would go home, with the same laptop about 10 miles away and the games were no longer blacked out
can anyone think of whats going on?
by cubswynn on Jun 30, 2008 10:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The sales guys are messing with you.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
name that quote
“There’s no laws in this place! ANYTHING goes! It’s THUNDERDOME!!!”
by cubswynn on Jun 30, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, that sounds really familiar, but I got nothin'.
Anyone?
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Costanza!
"Baseball is like church- many attend, few understand." ~ Leo Durocher
by The Lip on Jun 30, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aw, man. And here I consider myself a Seinfeld fan.
Eh, it’s Monday.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
IP address?
Mlb.tv determines whether or not you are blacked by the location of the ip address that you are logging in from each time. So, if for whatever reason, the wifi providers ip changed to a blacked out one- that could do it. I’ve never heard of it though. Likewise, using a proxy from somewhere that isn’t blacked out works around their restrictions- not that I have any personal knowledge of that- I just heard the bad kids talking about it a recess.
"Baseball is like church- many attend, few understand." ~ Leo Durocher
by The Lip on Jun 30, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
interesting
thanks for the help…...i guess if the worst case scenario is that i have to listen to pat and ron, i consider myself lucky
by cubswynn on Jun 30, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's God's way of telling you...
...you should be actually working at work. :)
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Time for these guys to take stock in themselves
Let’s see how they handle things. Not the end of the world but this team’s character will come out these next 7 games. Injuries galore, guys missing games for various reasons, 6-9 AL record the last 2+ weeks; let’s see what happens.
Think of it this way, if the Cubs were now 26 games over instead of 16, you’d think Hendry and Lou would be planning NWT moves as hard? I don’t think so.
This is actually good for the Cubs in the long run. Z even though he missed “only” 2 starts, should be stronger come the stretch and hopefully deep into October. The rest of the injured guys, the same holds true, especially Soriano. I know his hand has no true affect on his legs not getting the proper workout. But face it, his legs are not getting game action for some 6 weeks. That can only help out with him. Here’s to hoping the Domer, Jimmy, TheRiot and Reed all can nurse their injuries back to 100% health.
In the meantime, the team has to deal with A-Ram out for three for his personal stuff, and the rest of the team has to play hard.
Make no mistake, the happenings these past 2 weeks has exposed some holes in the armour. Let’s see Mr. Hendry go out and patch those holes sometime in the next 4-4.5 weeks.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Jun 30, 2008 11:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Anyone else wondering what is going on with this team?
I mean sure there are always injuries with different teams but now Ramirez is leaving for undisclosed personal reasons. I don’t believe in curses (just bad management) but this is such bad timing. I hope everything works out for A-Ram since he’s one of my favorite players but this just seems so strange. I just don’t picture this happening to Braun or Pujols. Are they/we just unlucky. I guess just one time I’d like to see the Cubbies dominate from start to finish without any “Cubbie Occurences”. I know that’s unrealistic but hey, we’ve all been waiting so long.
On a side note I’m really hoping the DL stint for Z can be like an extended mid-season rest and he’ll come back ready to pace this rotation for the rest of the season.
by Mapmaker on Jun 30, 2008 11:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You don't picture it happening to Pujols?
You are aware that Pujols just came back from a fairly lengthy DL stint, right?
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
bad timing? just unlucky? "Cubbie Occurences"?
Dude – do yourself a favor. Click here and scroll down a bit.
Feel better?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah I felt even better about a week ago.
You?
by Mapmaker on Jun 30, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I feel about the same.
Baseball is a marathon, not sprint. As Lovie Smith says, “Don’t get too high with the highs; don’t get too low with the lows.” Stretches like this happen. It’s part of the game.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
There’s a lot of peaks and valleys in baseball. Like you say, it’s part of the game.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 30, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I feel great
Our big slugger (Soriano) has been out for awhile now
Our even bigger slugger (Ramirez) just went 0-for-a-series and is now going to be out for 3 games
Our ace starter (Z) has been out for awhile as well
Our CF-of-the-present-and-future (Pie) flopped and is now treading water in the minors
Our CF platoon (when healthy) consists of a Jays reject (Johnson) and a Padres reject (Edmonds)
Our arguably #2 pitcher before the season started (Hill) is working through mental issues (as they relate to baseball, not him as a person) in the minors
Our #3 hitter (Lee) is on pace to break the ML record for GIDP
Our starting SS (Theriot) should be playing 2B if he starts at all
Our best fielding SS (Cedeno) sits on the bench…
AND WE’RE STILL IN FREAKIN” FIRST PLACE!!!!
Hell yes, I feel great. And if you’re still not getting it, then take a cue from that great Cub fan, Friedrich Nietzsche: “That which does not kill us makes us stronger”
So that makes us strong, baby. Really strong. Like 100 freakin’ years strong!
[pause while he refills glass with blue koolaide…]
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
lsa!
Nietzsche FTW!
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 30, 2008 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nietzsche?
I thought that was Kanye West :)
by madeindetroit on Jun 30, 2008 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just threw up in my mouth a little
by Mapmaker on Jun 30, 2008 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have a glass of warm milk and lie down.
You’ll feel better soon enough.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That which does not kill us....
only prolongs the inevitable.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 30, 2008 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah..Pujols just got back from the DL
I read somewhere this morning that Bruce Levine reported that ARam’s wife is due for delivery tomorrow. We will be ok.
by cubsnlinux on Jun 30, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
she's in DR not in Chicago w/ him?
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where did you read this?
If the official word from the Cubs is “family obligations” [which may be intentionally vague] I have a hard time believing something more specific without a reliable source reporting it.
Ryan Theriot: Worst Water Polo Punter Ever.
by bluebythebook on Jun 30, 2008 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also
Alexei Ramirez of the White Sox was just on leave for his wife’s birth. It’s possible that someone confused our A. Ramirez with their A. Ramirez, especially as both have now taken family leaves very recently.
Ryan Theriot: Worst Water Polo Punter Ever.
by bluebythebook on Jun 30, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nothing's going on with the team.
I am not so much into losses as we cannot win everything. But I am more concerned about how we lost on a given day. I am more concerned about base running gaffes and other fundamental mistakes than about splitting the inter league series with another division leader. I am more worried and disgusted about TheRiot’s repeated base running gaffes. The more I watch TheRiot the more I am convinced that he hurts the team more with his mental mistakes, lack of range etc etc than he helps. The only thing going on for him so far is his Batting Average.
by cubsnlinux on Jun 30, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cwyers
applauds. :D (So do I)
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 30, 2008 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
cwyers is commenting by proxy now? lol
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Jun 30, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think it's not exactly a secret...
...how I feel about Ryan Theriot’s skills of a baseball player.
by cwyers on Jun 30, 2008 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
your as big of a fan of his as sue and i are of geo right????
””giggles evilly”“
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry, but I believe giggling and being evil are mutually exclusive.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
really?
see: Dr. Evil
"We expect to win. We go out to win. So we're just living up to our own expectations." Derrek Lee, 5/29/08
by drewishdrewid on Jun 30, 2008 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
First of all, I don't giggle. I cackle.
Second, can I please get some frickin’ sharks with frickin’ laser beams?!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Positive side
i know there was alot of negatives aganst the Whitesox, but there is some good news. It appears that Rich Hill COULD possibly redeem himself. I know it was just a simulated game, but I think Hill could make some return. The chances are slim but you never know. Hill may not be the SP that we expected him to be, but I do think if he does get his head together, then I expect him to put up similar numbers like last year. Maybe slightly worse numbers than last year, but I think he still has a chance to come back and post an ERA close to the 4’s.
http://www.suntimes.com/sports/baseball/cubs/1031205,CST-SPT-cub30.stng
by Geo4MVP on Jun 30, 2008 11:51 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
count me in too.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 30, 2008 11:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
you guys are thinking too much about this slump
What’s going on with this team? Need I remind EVERY team in MLB will go/already went through a slump. The Redsox went through it, D Rays went through it, the Angels will go through one etc. I expected this team to go on a slump sooner than later because of the injuries this team has to sustain. I knew once RJ hit the DL that our depth will be heavily effected. This team is going through pains and slumps, but the Cubs are extremely fortunate this is happening now than later. They still have a 2.5 game lead on the Cards and I am glad the Cubs are facing the mediocre Giants. Still, I hope the Cubs play smarter baseball, but with Zito on the mound I like the Cubs chances.
by Geo4MVP on Jun 30, 2008 11:56 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Just a tough stretch
Cubs got the DL bug, take out two All-Stars, “Z” and Sori, and very solid CF in Reed Johnson and Eyre who really was until recently automatic outs in the pen, and you have a few bumps. Cubs go 4-3 this week, and I will take it, Giants have great pitching outside of ZIto, they will not be a pushover.
Hang tough guys, long ride to go.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Jun 30, 2008 12:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I know this is minor
but except the cubs to call up Ben Broussard because he does play left and well the cubs don’t have anybody to play left except DeRo and E-Patt. But we saw how that played out. Ben’s not hitting that well in AAA .216, but he does have 3 HRs, 13 RBIs
by lexmarklover on Jun 30, 2008 12:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Broussard isn't on the 40-man roster.
So, someone else would have to go before that could happen. (Chad Fox could be moved to the 60-day DL, for example.)
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I kinda wish they would do put Fox on the 60-day DL.
I mean, seriously, is his shadow really going to darken the pitching mound again this season? Scott Eyre could barely get a pitch in edgewise before he got injured. Fox’s story is inspiring and all, but couldn’t his roster spot be put to a more constructive use?
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Okay...
So Fox goes to the 60 day (not a bad idea), but is Aramis going on bereavement leave? If not, he will still fill a place on the 25 man and someone else will need to move.
by N Oakley on Jun 30, 2008 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, bereavement leave is longer than three days, and...
... they’d have said so.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unsolved Cubbie Occcurences
1) Aramis Ramirez’s family/personal issue that is not a breavement and probably not childbirth
2) The cause of Ryan Theriot’s swollen hand
3) Matt Murton’s purpose in life
Any others?
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
by JohnM on Jun 30, 2008 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The source of Geo Soto's amazing awesomeness
Formerly NO100
by jerry morales rules on Jun 30, 2008 4:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would be in TOTAL agreement with that one :)
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You agree that it's unsolved?
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
by JohnM on Jun 30, 2008 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Divination
can never truly be understood, only admired ;)
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
by Emelie on Jun 30, 2008 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's another mystery
Why does Emelie’s avatar change every 2 hours?
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 30, 2008 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And there is no charge for awesomeness...or attractiveness.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 7:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rich Hill
"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 Jun 30, 2008 4:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The minimum time for the bereavement list is...
3 days, the maximum is 7 days. I believe a player can be placed on the bereavement list due to a family illness or death (in their own family or spourse’s).
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jun 30, 2008 4:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Replacements can be called up for bereavement list players. Correct?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think they'd call the Hoff back up before they do that.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 30, 2008 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Samardzija being stretched out as a reliever now?
"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 Jun 30, 2008 12:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
as a starter*
"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 Jun 30, 2008 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed he is...
...and you can read about his first win as a starter in Triple A right here.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This Rotation would be the best possible situation for the Cubs:
1. Carlos Zambrano
2. C.C. Sabathia/Rich Harden/A.J. Burnett
3. Ryan Dempster
4. Ted Lilly
5. Rich Hill
I wish Rich Hill would just return back to his normal self. It would just be a major boast to this team.
by lexmarklover on Jun 30, 2008 1:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
So would Lou have...
CC, Rich and A.J. all pitch 3 innings every 5th day? That would be awesome.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 30, 2008 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's the only way to keep Harden and Burnett healthy.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm glad you're back, I see the bat-call worked
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Jun 30, 2008 2:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm with you up until #5
I too wish Rich Hill would return to his 2007 ways, this is just not likely this year.
That said, I’m okay with Gallagher as a #5, would be even more excited with a certain pitcher from San Diego at #5 and Gallagher in the pen.
by N Oakley on Jun 30, 2008 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gallagher would most likely be traded for a Sabathia deal to arise
It’d be awesome if they kept him, though. I’m not completely against the idea of Theriot or DeRosa being traded for Sabathia. I really like Cedeno(and his arm) at SS, and wouldn’t mind him starting if Theriot was moved to 2b, or was traded.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry Estes is still on the DL
That is the SD pitcher you were referring to right ?
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
by Doggie Stalker on Jun 30, 2008 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let's not forget Bedard for the #2
Formerly NO100
by jerry morales rules on Jun 30, 2008 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seems more likely than Burnett
Who the Cubs reportedly have no interest in, and who has an awful contract that the Cubs should want no part of.
by Wreckard on Jun 30, 2008 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heard on Espn Classic News Deportes that the Yankees have
interest in Zambrano, Lee & Pie and might part with Joba, but only Joba, to make that happen.
by N Oakley on Jun 30, 2008 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's soooooo cute of them
Maybe they could throw in a dozen “I heart NY” t shirts?
Formerly NO100
by jerry morales rules on Jun 30, 2008 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, please.
Ridiculous, just like most Yankee trade demands.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry. Jerry Morales and I were
having some sarcastic fun.
by N Oakley on Jun 30, 2008 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd rather have
Boba.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Awesome.
Too bad he was designated for assignment in the Sarlacc’s Pit.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 4:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
picky, picky
For those of you wanting to win the World Series on our home field, a quick quiz. When was the last time either Chicago team won the World Series on it’s home field?
"It's a funny old world. Man's lucky if he gets out of it alive." W.C. Fields
by KedzieKid on Jun 30, 2008 3:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
1906, when they played each other.
That’s the ONLY time.
1917 and 2005 White Sox won on the road.
Cubs won BOTH their WS on the road.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 3:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Zito
LIGHT ‘EM UP!
(in the spirit of Hammer)
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Jun 30, 2008 3:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You're a little early,
the pre-game thread isn’t up yet ;)
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jun 30, 2008 3:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've just been looking forward to this series for a while.
Personal reasons. : )
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Jun 30, 2008 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How far are you from San Francisco?
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jun 30, 2008 3:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably about 3 hours.
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Jun 30, 2008 5:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tried to access your game
but the site, if I navigated correctly, just gave me music. It was highlighted in blue so color me confused. Are the Foresters a minor league team?
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
by Emelie on Jun 30, 2008 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not to be Captain Obvious, but there probably wasn't a game on at the time. The schedule can sometimes be .... off.
I believe the next game is 7 PT on Wednesday, and then 5 PT on Thursday.
And the Foresters are a team in the California Collegiate League, which is basically a summer wood bat league. Think Cape Cod. Ryan Spilborghs (COL), Matt Garza (TB), Delwyn Young (LAD), Kevin Frandsen (SF) and Rebel Ridling (CHC) are a few alumns.
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Jun 30, 2008 6:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
gotcha
I thought the blue highlighted games were archived. In any case, I’ll check in post Wednesday.
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
by Emelie on Jun 30, 2008 6:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I don't know about that. I was told they were but didn't check it for myself.
Correction: Wednesday’s game is at 6 PT.
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Jun 30, 2008 6:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I looked @ your site last night
Didnt listen yet thro.
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
She must be a real looker :-D
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
by Emelie on Jun 30, 2008 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, she used to be until she ran into the arms of a Giant fan.
Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager
by northsider on Jun 30, 2008 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wrong
The resurrected Hammer confirmed last night that the correct format is
ZITO (all caps, no punctuation)
LIGHT EM UP (as above)
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
by JohnM on Jun 30, 2008 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So when is the official Hammer Style Guide coming out?
I usually stick to AP, but I’m willing to make a change.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 4:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's it, right there
He read Strunk & White.
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
by JohnM on Jun 30, 2008 4:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Point of clarification...
Zito, although admittedly out there with his surfin’ guitar playing zen-like approach to life, is singular.
“Em”, which I assume is short for “Them”, is plural.
Is this not a conflict in grammar?
I needs to know…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 30, 2008 5:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I win! I win! ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 5:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This has been observed but not explained
It’s just the way he does it.
Every freakin time.
''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella
by JohnM on Jun 30, 2008 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"observed but not explained"?
He must work for the Government… ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Baserunning
Hey, I don’t get to watch the games on TV, I have to follow on the web. What makes me want to scream is that we never get from 1st to 3rd when someone hits a single behind us or even score on a single from 2nd. Since I’m not actually watching the games I have no idea why the runners are holding up. We leave so many runners in scoring position and have so many crummy atbats with the bases loaded that I just wish we would be more aggressive on the basepaths. Any thoughts?
by wsunick on Jun 30, 2008 3:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
A slow baseball team
that has proven to not be very adept at running the bases. That’s a bad combination.
"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 Jun 30, 2008 4:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wheels or no Wheels
I guess the obvious answer comes from cwyers.
Here is a partial tally:
Edmonds – A gamer but no more wheels
Lee – Used to have wheels but not anymore?
Ramirez – No
Soto – No
Cedeno – Slow? or just a crummy basreunner?
Theriot – See Cedeno
Soriano – Banged up wheels
Fukudome – Banged up wheels
Derosa – Slower than he should be?
Blanco – No
Tonight I’ll try not to slap my computer when Theriot stops at second on a single by DLee or Soto only makes it from second to third on a single from DeRosa.
by wsunick on Jun 30, 2008 4:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eh.
I took a look at it at the end of last season. The best baserunner left on the team from last year? Matt Murton. No, I’m not especially proud of that.
Cedeno has speed if nothing else. Theriot doesn’t really have speed – if he had speed he might end up with more than two doubles a month. DeRosa is actually a pretty good baserunner; he doesn’t have speed but he at least has a head on his shoulders most of the time. I don’t have data on Dome but presumably he’s a skillful baserunner, at least that’s my impression. Lee’s been poor on the basepaths for the last 2-3 seasons, IIRC. Before that he had a decent amount of speed, especially for a first baseman.
But we have a poor baserunning team, by all accounts, and that’s highlighted by the problems Soriano has had.
by cwyers on Jun 30, 2008 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully no yelling at the radio for me tonight. b
If I do I will make sure I have the windows closed tonight
"We have a pretty strong belief that we are going to win those types of games. It's our confidence. "--Cubs pitcher Ted Lilly
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 30, 2008 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ballclub is in slippery territory right now
The pitching is going to hell in a hand basket. And all of a sudden St. Louis and Milwaukee are coming on like a locomotive. I am no longer buyin this crap that the Cardinals are a fluke. Fact is they have been far from 100% yet keep winning baseball games. And now they have the best hitter in baseball back in the lineup. Milwaukee has Ben Sheets to go along with the best collection of young hitters this side of Tampa Bay.
It’s gut check time for the Cubs. Couple people on that pitching staff need to suck it up and come through. It’s no surprise a number of the hitters are cooling off from magma hot starts. This is the point of the season where pitching needs to come through.
GET Rich Harden !!! 11 starts, 5-0, 57 IP, 83 Ks, 2.15 ERA !!!
by MDBNIU on Jun 30, 2008 4:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I say we try to get Rich Harden. That ought to fix it.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 30, 2008 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pitching is king my friend
Quality pitching is what separates the pretenders from the contenders. Right now our starting rotation scares no one. Our bullpen outside of Kerry Wood and Carlos Marmol is dubious at best. We don’t get this pitching staff rectified AND upgraded in a hurry, then we will be a 3rd place ballclub in a matter of weeks.
GET Rich Harden !!! 11 starts, 5-0, 57 IP, 83 Ks, 2.15 ERA !!!
by MDBNIU on Jun 30, 2008 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree, the pitching staff has been horrid as of late
Dempster may soon cool off seeing this is his first year starting in a while, lilly usuaslly gives about 4 runs a start, marquis is a joke, and gallagher is still a rookie. We need a sabathia/harden type of pitcher
"This is why Major League Baseball does not need instant replay, because then every single play will then be reviewed." -- Joe Morgan, 5/18/08, referring to an umpire ruling a Carlos Delgado homerun foul when replays showed it hit the foul pole.
by CubsBall2202 on Jun 30, 2008 5:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Umm
You mean the locomotive that just lost 2 of 3 to Minnesota and the other locomotive that was recently swept at home by Kansas City? Thought so.
Face it, if the Cubs are flawed, the Brewers and Cardinals are similarly flawed, and by all accounts more flawed than the Cubs. That’s easy to see.
Eighty-five percent of the f*ckin' world is working. The other fifteen percent come out here. -- Lee Constantine Elia, 1983.
by krummy12 on Jun 30, 2008 5:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What happens when Milwaukee lands CC Sabathia....
You can be dismissive and arrogant about the Cubs situation in the NL Central all you want. All I know is that we don’t have the quality of starting rotation nor bullpen to be serious playoff contender. It’s not about just getting to the playoffs, it’s about actually doing something in the playoffs.
Pitching is KING. We don't add a frontline starting pitcher and a quality bullpen arm then this season will have yet another sad conclusion.
by MDBNIU on Jun 30, 2008 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Call it a season, guys
I mean, what’s the point of even playing another game? Look at the “locomotives” from Milwaukee and St. Louis coming down the track, and there’s just no way the Cubs can compete.
Yes, this team needs another starter. And it’ll get one.
But these panic-stricken clairon calls of desperation I’m hearing from some quarters are hyperbole at its worst.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 30, 2008 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've waited for the....
MDBNIU vs. Not Bruce thread for sooooo long.
(grabs a beverage and popcorn)
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 30, 2008 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Clash of the titans?
I don’t think anybody’s disputing MDBNIU’s main point. How it’s presented, however, is leaving a lot to be desired and, indeed, represents a mind-set that among some Cubs fans is going to have to change if the Cubs culture is to do the same.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 30, 2008 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's the problem Professor
I have been a diehard since 1977. The 2008 Cubs have the best chance of any Cub team in decades to actually make it to a friggin World Series. The National League generally sucks to go along with the fact that we have several star caliber players at the zenith of their careers. The lineup is loaded. Add to that Carlos Zambrano, Carlos Marmol and a healthy and dominant (for now at least) Kerry Wood.
What’s in the way of this team capitalizing on its best chance in decades? Pitching, or lack thereof. This team has SCREAMING need for a frontline starter. We’ve already cornered the market on number four type starting pitchers. What we NEED is somebody to tag team with Carlos Zambrano. It has also become apparent that this team has deficiencies in the bullpen which will only become exasperated as the season wears on with our cadre of 6 inning starters.
I’m not happy right now. I’m not going to close my eyes to the reality of the situation and let another season go down in bitter disappointment. I want a fuckin World Series, and I want it right fuckin now.
Pitching is KING. We don't add a frontline starting pitcher and a quality bullpen arm then this season will have yet another sad conclusion.
by MDBNIU on Jun 30, 2008 5:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, if we're going that route,
I attended my first Cubs game in 1971. So, kid, let me tell you what I think:
The Cubs aren’t going to have a new starting pitcher tomorrow. Or the next day. Or the day after that, either.
They will have another one soon, probably right around the trade deadline.
I don’t need to be reminded in blaring headlines every day about that. And you know what? If that pitcher isn’t named Sabathia or Harden, I still think the Cubs will win.
I am enjoying this Cubs season more than any other in a long time. And I’m not going to let Chicken Little loudmouths like yourself ruin it for me.
And you can’t have an “f-in” World Series until the end of October, anyway. So cool your jets a little, hotshot.
This waiting-for-the-other-shoe-to-fall, sky-is-falling attitude among a certain, sizeable segment of Cubs fans has got to stop.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 30, 2008 5:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
Remember all the so-called experts who said the NL race was over when the Mets got Johan Santana?
They don’t look so smart now, do they?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 5:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al, as soon as you figure out this game,
let me know, will you? :)
Never lose sight of the destination, but never forget to enjoy the journey, too.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 30, 2008 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Holy cow Not Bruce
I think I love you.
by sue369 on Jun 30, 2008 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This waiting-for-the-other-shoe-to-fall, sky-is-falling attitude among a certain, sizeable segment of Cubs fans has got to stop.
Well, really it doesn’t have to. The Cubs will win or lose regardless of how much hyperventilating the fans do.
by cwyers on Jun 30, 2008 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
True
But if Cubs culture ever is to truly change, this aspect must change with it.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 30, 2008 6:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey - go easy on Blue Mike
Did you notice his new tag line? He’s come down on his pitching demands quite a bit – instead of Rich Harden, now he wants Ray KING… ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 5:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Ray King is available
Bet he comes cheap.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 30, 2008 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ya gotta love a guy...
...who quotes HIMSELF in his sig line.
LAME.Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 7:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
not just lame...
...Pirate Gray Bar lame. Arrrrrrggh!!!
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jul 1, 2008 12:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm calling it.
With this line:
So cool your jets a little, hotshot.
Not Bruce WINS round one of the Not Bruce v. MDBNIU postdown. Stay tuned for Round Two!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 7:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LSA
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Jun 30, 2008 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The White Sox have been great at home
Ditto Rays; and the Orioles aren’t a bad club. So although it feels like things are falling apart, it could just be a confluence of playing some tough opponents on their turf, and playing a shockingly not terrible Oriole team.
by AceCubbie on Jun 30, 2008 5:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs should have won the first game vs. Baltimore.
The error by Patterson and the failure to score in the 9th were two things we haven’t seen much this year. Most days, the Cubs win a game like that. Had they taken 2 of 3 from the Orioles, I think we’d feel a lot less panicked right now.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jun 30, 2008 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tell me again...
who exactly is panicking?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 30, 2008 6:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Pattersons should strongly consider giving up on baseball
They are both terrible at the major league level
"This is why Major League Baseball does not need instant replay, because then every single play will then be reviewed." -- Joe Morgan, 5/18/08, referring to an umpire ruling a Carlos Delgado homerun foul when replays showed it hit the foul pole.
by CubsBall2202 on Jun 30, 2008 6:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
St Louis hacks leading again 1-0 in the first
This team is winning at least 90 this year
"This is why Major League Baseball does not need instant replay, because then every single play will then be reviewed." -- Joe Morgan, 5/18/08, referring to an umpire ruling a Carlos Delgado homerun foul when replays showed it hit the foul pole.
by CubsBall2202 on Jun 30, 2008 6:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Care to make it interesting? $20 to Project 3000 says you're wrong.
Witness?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jun 30, 2008 6:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
just a note on my feelings right now...
PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC PANIC – i’ll be all right though
- CF
by nervousCUBlover on Jun 30, 2008 7:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
in love with the ledge much?
We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez
by Emelie on Jun 30, 2008 7:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Panic has no place in June
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Jun 30, 2008 8:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I love that song!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jun 30, 2008 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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