Finally! - Cubs 6, Marlins 3
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 8:28 AM CDT
in Recaps
206 comments
Before last night, the last time the Cubs beat the Florida Marlins -- anywhere -- was April 25, 2006, when that sorry team was actually five games over .500 at 12-7 and Michael Restovich (remember him?) pinch-hit for starting pitcher Sean Marshall.
We have come a long way, both figuratively and literally, from that date and time and place in Cubs history -- best forgotten now, I think -- and last night, coming home to yet another capacity crowd (passing the 2 million mark in attendance fastest in franchise history, on the 50th home date -- total attendance is now 2,030,517, an average of 40,510 per date), the Cubs beat the Marlins convincingly, 6-3, to maintain their one-game lead over the Brewers, who completed a four-game sweep over St. Louis (stupid Cardinals, can't even win when we want them to).
And besides the fine pitching of Carlos Zambrano, who also doubled in a run, raising his batting average to .356, Aramis Ramirez showed signs of coming out of his slump with two hits, including a two-run double which could have been a three-run double had Derrek Lee been just a little bit faster and beat a relay throw; there were also home runs by Ronny Cedeno and Henry Blanco, both playing because Lou wanted to give regulars Kosuke Fukudome and Geovany Soto the night off -- every single Cub (particularly Bob Howry) and Cub fan should give thanks to Mark DeRosa, whose flat-out, diving catch of Luis Gonzalez' sinking liner into right-center in the 8th inning prevented that inning from becoming a disaster (it took four relief pitchers to finish that one inning, and the Cubs were indeed fortunate to get out of it with only one run after the bases had been loaded with no one out).
A run scored on that catch, because the bases were loaded, but then Carlos Marmol came in and got Josh Willingham looking to end the inning.
And that brings me to the point of today's recap, because I'm sure none of you want to talk about anything except Marmol and today's expected recall of Jeff Samardzija (who, according to Gordon Wittenmyer, might even start this weekend, although I think it's more likely he winds up in the bullpen).
About Marmol, my totally unscientific, nonstatistical, seat-of-the-pants thought about his troubles is this: Marmol seems a sensitive sort, and whenever something little goes wrong, it seems to unhinge him. Case in point: the error (it was really an error, even though it was scored a hit) he made in the game on July 12, which helped the Giants erase a 7-0 deficit in a game the Cubs eventually won 8-7, seemed to rattle him to the point that he gave up two more hits and a walk before getting an out, and then hit a batter and gave up another hit before getting out of the inning.
Last night, after his K of Willingham (Howard said to me after that, "Marmol is BACK!"), he lost .187-hitting Jeff Baker on a very close call by plate umpire Bruce Dreckman. Again, that seemed to unhinge Marmol, who wound up walking the bases loaded and forcing Lou to get Marshall, one of only two pitchers (Scott Eyre the other) left in the short-handed bullpen, warmed up, before Marmol struck out Wes Helms to end the game.
As I said -- just my totally unscientific opinion.
About Samardzija -- well, the Cubs aren't paying him all this money to sit in the minor leagues, after having pitched better as he was promoted to each higher level. His six starts at Iowa have produced a 4-1 record in 37.1 innings (so averaging over six per start) and 40 strikeouts and only 16 walks. As Wittenmyer's article states:
The former Notre Dame football star might even start for the Cubs this weekend, though that could not be immediately confirmed. A Saturday start would push back Rich Harden's scheduled start to his sixth day -- a schedule that produced good results for Harden with Oakland earlier this year.
What I'd do instead is let Harden pitch this weekend, and if you're going to slot an extra starter in, slot him (either Samardzija or Marshall) next Friday against the Pirates. If you push Harden back this weekend, that means that Harden wouldn't face the Brewers, and I'm certain that Lou wants him to pitch in that series. Also, the Cubs obviously need bullpen help, especially after last night's near-meltdown, and Samardzija, in my opinion, is better suited to relief than starting at the major league level.
But all that is for later on. Today, savor another home win, raising the home record to 38-12 (.760), and be ready for this afternoon's game. The game thread will be up at 11:30 am CT.
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First!
Let’s do it again today. Marmol is scaaaaaaaaarrryyyy.
by bergs55 on Jul 25, 2008 8:31 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Missed it by THAT much!
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE! (#13031 on the Cubs season ticket waiting list...)
by Zeke on Jul 25, 2008 8:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
OK. I have to say I had my eyes closed in the 9th inning...
and my hands were over my eyes- and I was listening to the game on radio in a darken room!
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE! (#13031 on the Cubs season ticket waiting list...)
by Zeke on Jul 25, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kinda like that woman at the game...
...they kept showing on the Comcast broadcast last night. Anyone else catch that? She apparently had her eyes closed and her hands over (or near) her ears for the entire top of the ninth. I didn’t take things to quite that extreme, but I could certainly relate.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
She actually was breaking tension for me
She was demonstrating everything I felt like doing.
by JCD on Jul 25, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not so worried...
...about Marmol as I am about Howry. I was shocked to see the WGN-splashed stat that opposing hitters are batting over .300 against him on the season. I knew he’d been having his issues, but I had no idea it’d gotten that bad.
by Shawon O Meter on Jul 25, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In my uninformed opinion
Marmol’s problem is that he can’ t throw that fastball for a strike without it being a meatball. His slider is most effective when he can get strikes with the fastball and hitters have to swing at the slider instead of watching it drop for a ball.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 8:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I dunno about that.
He can throw 94-95 when he wants to and that fastball can be almost unhittable.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 8:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that's his perception.
He’s had a few fastballs end up in the stands and his confidence is down with it. I think early in the season he thought he could throw his fastball past people (and in most cases, he can) but I think he’s leery to throw it for a strike because he doesn’t trust it to miss bats anymore.
by Great Odin's Raven on Jul 25, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly what I was trying to say
He’s afraid of throwing it in the big spot right now, and when he does throw it he seems to be unwilling to put it in the strikezone.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Until the last batter.
I think the mound visit was a turning point. He was really battling that last at bat, and seemed confident in his stuff.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he was pretty pumped
when he got that last K.
’’If somebody had told me we were going to lose Soriano for eight weeks, lose [Carlos] Zambrano and Kerry Wood for a couple of weeks apiece, and then at the same time lose [Reed] Johnson, and then when we played the American League not have a DH [then-injured Daryle Ward], and be in first place by two games, I’d tell you we were pretty fortunate.’’ Lou Piniella (7/23/08)
by drewishdrewid on Jul 25, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I saw that too
and was very happy that Marmol didn’t do a K-Rod-esque dance thing.
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jul 25, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I agree about the velocity...
...but Marmol’s fastball is only unhittable because it’s usuall well out of the strike zone. Bob Brenly commented on this last night, too. If Carlos could just spot that thing a little better, we’d probably be spared ninth innings like the one last night. (Not that I’m dissing Marmol – I thought he showed remarkable guts in getting through the ninth, and I was really happy for him.)
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
did you watch the game last night?
all the balls were coming on sliders low and away
he threw his fastball repeatedly for strikes and hitters couldn’t do anything but foul it back because they’re all looking for slider
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm...
...I may have to fire up Gameday and check this out. I thought I was seeing a lot of fastballs out of the zone, and I’m almost certain Brenly commented on it. I could be wrong, though.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe i'm crazy then
since i didn’t listen to Brenly
but from what i watched he was repeatedly missing low and away with the slider and the Marlins were sitting on it in the 9th inning
going through gameday really quickly for just the 9th inning
i’ve got this
Sliders/Curveballs thrown = 24 (13 for balls)
Fastballs thrown = 10/ (4 for balls)
so he threw 60% of his fastballs for strikes in the 9th and 46% of his slider/curveballs for strikes
note gameday sometimes classifies Marmol’s slider as a curveball
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with this...
He is trying to over throw his slider and/or trying to make it break with his body, thus ALL his misses are in the left handed batters box.
Close the front shoulder and trust that the ball will move the way you want it – and he will be back to the way he was. He is not trusting it so he is physically trying to make the ball move.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Jul 25, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I just looked at Gameday, too...
...and the only fastball called for a strike I can find was against Baker in the top of the ninth. It seemed like all of the other fastballs he did throw for strikes were fouled off. I noticed that about Gameday classifying his slider as a curveball – I guess that says a lot about the movement on that pitch!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I tend to agree...
...with you. He has good velocity on his fastball, but he has not had very good command of that pitch (either misses big time, or hits the middle of the plate).
Lastly, I think scouting reports have told hitters to just sit on his fastball and let the slider go. His trouble comes when he can’t throw his slider for strike one and they just sit on his fastball.
The good news is, when he is going good (throwing his slider for a strike) he is almost unhittable when he uses the same arm slot for both pitches.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jul 25, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al's take on Marmol
Al, I saw something a little different watching the game on TV. I’ll agree Marmol became unhinged…then he got a mound visit. Something that was said to him fired him up, because he started doing his best Zambrano impression—muttering, yelling in Spanish, etc. I think we saw a new level of Marmol last night.
I was lookin’, and I was likin’.
Just maybe something you didn’t see from the bleachers.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 8:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You're right, we couldn't see that from the bleachers.
I don’t mind him being passionate, as long as he throws strikes.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right.
I was saying, I liked it. Hadn’t seen this type of emotion from him. It seemed like whatever was said to him fired him up/gave him confidence, etc.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Marmol's. Arm. Is. Going. To. Fall. Off.
Even leaving aside his performance, can we all agree that Lou is overusing him?
I would have rather seen Howry, Gaudin or Cotts give up a run or two instead of seeing Marmol throw 40 pitches like he did last night.
Seriously, Lou has a lot of work to do to sort out this bullpen. Between figuring out who he can trust, to getting his relievers to simply throw strikes, it’s going to take some serious juggling.
*Synth intro to "Jump"*
by SouthsideCub on Jul 25, 2008 8:42 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Which is why Samardzija needs to go the pen, not the rotation.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Lou and Hendry might be thinking
that Samardzija’s five or six innings at the beginning of a game is worth more than 1-2 innings he might be able to provide as a reliever.
*Synth intro to "Jump"*
by SouthsideCub on Jul 25, 2008 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe...
You don’t want to miss having Harden face the Brewers next week though. If the Shark will start, it would probably be in Marquis spot on Sunday.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe they aren't telling us something where Harden needs the extra day
Or maybe they are about to trade Marquis and actually this is a way to skip his start and hold Marquis to face Bush in the 4th game.
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
by Ivy Walls on Jul 25, 2008 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"about to trade Marquis"
to dream
Sorry folks, parks closed. Moose out front should have told you.
by N Oakley on Jul 25, 2008 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I dunno, things are looking up.
I just got an e-mail from a Nigerian Duchess saying they want to give me 6 million dollars.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good for you.
My fortunes may be turning the other way. I get picked up at the office in an hour by the Wagon Queen Family Truckster for a weeks vacation with the family. I play the Chevy Chase/John Candy role.
To quote Clark Griswold: When I was a boy, just about every summer we’d take a vacation. And you know, in 18 years, we never had fun.
Can’t believe I am going to miss the entire Milwaukee series.
Sorry folks, parks closed. Moose out front should have told you.
by N Oakley on Jul 25, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh yes
Be sure to say “hi” to Aunt Edna for me.
And can you please send us a postcard from the world’s 2nd biggest ball of twine?
"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young
by Kegler on Jul 25, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Would, but she's dead.
Be back in a week (no sarcasm intended).
Talk at you then.
Sorry folks, parks closed. Moose out front should have told you.
by N Oakley on Jul 25, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Roll 'em up!
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Real tomato ketchup Eddie?!
"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young
by Kegler on Jul 25, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yet another reason...
...to NOT visit East St. Louis.
by Shawon O Meter on Jul 25, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
The horror. The horror.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They might be able to find somebody,
to take on some of his money for next year, and if so… he’s gone.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that they've seen how good Harden is on 5 full days rest
and have decided they’d rather march Marshall, Jeff S., Lieber etc. out there every once in a while to ensure that Harden keeps up the amazing performances he’s been giving.
Me- I’m all for every fifth game being a crapshoot, if every sixth game Harden is out there blowing people away.
*Synth intro to "Jump"*
by SouthsideCub on Jul 25, 2008 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If we use a 6-man rotation
then every SIXTH game is a crapshoot, not every FIFTH.
by ChipSet on Jul 25, 2008 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I definitely agree with this.
Starting The Shark against the white hot Brew Crew in their home park seems like way, way too much pressure to put on any rookie pitcher – former college football star or otherwise.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
If you want to get Harden 6 days… then use Marshall in the rotation. Marshall has looked great in his previous starts.
I'm not going to even bother trying to update this sig everyday anymore... that's what the standings column on ESPN is for.
Updated on May 25, 2008
by SackMan on Jul 25, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's exactly what I was thinking
Marshall has been fine, so why waste him?
*Synth intro to "Jump"*
by SouthsideCub on Jul 25, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He was called on for a 4 out save.
Not sure what the big deal is, as long as we don’t use him tonight.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Won't have to.
We’ll be up by like 10, AL could come in an pitch to save the pen.
by Great Odin's Raven on Jul 25, 2008 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hope you're right
We’ll need to pitch in for Al’s Icy Hot though, I’m sure. No offense, Al.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
None taken.
As long as the Marlins can’t hit my 45 MPH fastball, we’ll be just fine.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al,
C’mon buddy, we’re all friends here. 40 MPH.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, seriously.
I have done the pitch speed thing within the last year. 45 MPH.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nah.
Just hand him a Hebrew National, tell him to rub some dirt on it, he’ll back and posting in no time.
by Great Odin's Raven on Jul 25, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
using him last night
wasn’t overuse. It was a save situation and he’s now our closer and we had used our next 3 best relievers in the game before him.
last night wasn’t abuse
using him today would be abuse, and that’s the problem Pineilla got into earlier in the year. He used Carlos (by my count) over 6 times in situations which he absolutely should not have been available based on previous usage patterns… having him throw 6 times in 8 days on 3 separate occasions did far and away the most damage
i’ll lead the charge on Pineilla overusing Marmol but last night wasn’t an instance in which you can really complain about. Now if he gets used today under ANY circumstance…. then i’ll be right there with ya
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and
i should’ve mentioned Carlos had only thrown once in the last 3 days and twice in the last 4 days, he was fine to be used last night
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely.
What Lou didn’t figure on, even when bringing him in in the 8th inning, was that he’d throw 40 pitches. Most closers can go an inning-plus several times a year—but on a 20-pitch outing, not a 40-pitch outing.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah, the days....I miss them so.
when Bruce Sutter and Goose Gossage would go three innings for a save and nobody would blink an eye…No LOOGYS….no set up men…..no specialists…no, “Oh his arm is gonna fall off…”
I truly miss that era.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jul 25, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Point taken
But it still bothers me that every reliever besides Marmol is afforded any margin for error.
Gaudin gives up two hits, one to a guy who is hotter than hot. Lou’s reaction- “GET HIM OUTTA THERE!”
Cotts walks a guy. Lou’s reaction- “GET HIM OUTTA THERE!”
The bottom line is Lou needs to make sense of this bullpen. There is too much quality in the starting rotation and in the bullpen to have the 7-9 innings turn into a circus every day.
*Synth intro to "Jump"*
by SouthsideCub on Jul 25, 2008 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Correction
it still bothers me that every reliever besides Marmol is NOT afforded any margin for error
*Synth intro to "Jump"*
by SouthsideCub on Jul 25, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if Cotts
is the LOOGY, he only comes in for one guy anyway.
’’If somebody had told me we were going to lose Soriano for eight weeks, lose [Carlos] Zambrano and Kerry Wood for a couple of weeks apiece, and then at the same time lose [Reed] Johnson, and then when we played the American League not have a DH [then-injured Daryle Ward], and be in first place by two games, I’d tell you we were pretty fortunate.’’ Lou Piniella (7/23/08)
by drewishdrewid on Jul 25, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But he faced a right handed batter
And his numbers against righties are as good as they are against lefties.
*Synth intro to "Jump"*
by SouthsideCub on Jul 25, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but that was after a pinch hitter came up..
Wasn’t there a lefty that was supposed to bat before they brought in Cotts? I didn’t watch but i thought I remember seeing that on the gamecast
"Go Cubs Go"
by mkcubs21 on Jul 25, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he was brought in
to face a left, and then the batter was switched.
’’If somebody had told me we were going to lose Soriano for eight weeks, lose [Carlos] Zambrano and Kerry Wood for a couple of weeks apiece, and then at the same time lose [Reed] Johnson, and then when we played the American League not have a DH [then-injured Daryle Ward], and be in first place by two games, I’d tell you we were pretty fortunate.’’ Lou Piniella (7/23/08)
by drewishdrewid on Jul 25, 2008 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even leaving aside his performance, can we all agree that Lou is overusing him?
No.
’’If somebody had told me we were going to lose Soriano for eight weeks, lose [Carlos] Zambrano and Kerry Wood for a couple of weeks apiece, and then at the same time lose [Reed] Johnson, and then when we played the American League not have a DH [then-injured Daryle Ward], and be in first place by two games, I’d tell you we were pretty fortunate.’’ Lou Piniella (7/23/08)
by drewishdrewid on Jul 25, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. I don't feel Lou has been overusing Marmol lately.
And, of course, it should be noted that the Cubs primary closer is on the DL right now. Thus, Carlos is now the closer. He’s going to see action – in fact, let’s hope he sees action.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes...
I was at the game and was pissed that we brought in Marmol in the 8th.
I would have let Howry finish the inning
Plus then LOU leaves only two pitchers left….
Thankfully disaster averted….
" I played in college, albeit a small one, but darn it I still played and you didn't, so that qualifies me as an baseball expert allowing me to complaing about the Cubs as I see fit"
by Reed's Johnson on Jul 25, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cuck the Fardinals
They are 4 games out and old news.
Howry wasn’t horrid. He could have escaped unscathed had Blanco caught that pop-up. Even so, bases loaded no outs and only give up the one run and get two outs?
I’ll take it.
Pluto will always be a planet to me!
by DaBard on Jul 25, 2008 8:44 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree...with your assessment of Howry.
I thought Howry pitched pretty well last night. He gave up an absolute rope, but D-Ro caught it, and it was after Blanco dropped a foul ball (it was a TOUGH play, to be fair).
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I also agree
But I thought Ramirez should have called off Henry on that one. He’s coming in and has the better glove for the job…
I was pleased to see Howry look like he could get ML hitters out again.
by 26.2cubsfan on Jul 25, 2008 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I missed that play...
Did it look like A-Ram had the better angle than Hank?
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jul 25, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They should be like 6 or 7 out....
But we suck on the road :(
I'm not going to even bother trying to update this sig everyday anymore... that's what the standings column on ESPN is for.
Updated on May 25, 2008
by SackMan on Jul 25, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Two things
Didn’t get to watch the game, but the highlights sure made it look like it was a fun game to watch. What a catch by DeRosa, he proves his worth to this team on a daily basis.
Finally a day game!! It seems like it has been too long.
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jul 25, 2008 8:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It has been 12 days...
... since the Cubs have played a game in sunshine. Six dome games and a night game. You bet. Way past time!
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nothing better than a 1:20 start
I miss living in Wrigleyville as an undergrad. On the other hand, that was during the putrid 2006 season, still the worst Cubs team I’ve ever seen.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermatrician...
by Curtain Jerker on Jul 25, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The post game comments from
Derosa and R. Johnson were funny….did anyone catch em?
I'm a reader not a poster, but I'm also a poster so don't get any ideas.
by cozmotaylor123 on Jul 25, 2008 8:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Can you inform us what they were?
I know Lou was having fun with some reporters last night. He also had one moment of brief anger
Reporter “You used one pitcher for seven innings and then 4 for two”
Lou “We won the game didn’t we?”
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I saw the post-game press conference...
...and Lou definitely went after whichever reporter asked that question. (Was it Paul Sullivan? His voice sounded familiar.) It was pretty sweet.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was George Castle.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you happen to know whether he and Lou have a history?
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
George Castle annoys EVERYONE!
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jul 25, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I Liked His Book
/ducks for cover/
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jul 25, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Johnson looked over to DeRosa just before that
catch and gave a head motion like he was about to fall asleep(Johnson had said he was tired and the game was moving slow) DeRosa thought he was signaling to move closer to centerfield,, had he not moved over he would not have made that catch
I'm a reader not a poster, but I'm also a poster so don't get any ideas.
by cozmotaylor123 on Jul 25, 2008 8:55 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Anyone have a link for this?
This is hilarious.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't have a link that shows....
...RJ nodding off. But you can watch DeRo’s fantastic catch in the Gameday video highlights.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I meant to the quote.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it was on post game sportsnite
I'm a reader not a poster, but I'm also a poster so don't get any ideas.
by cozmotaylor123 on Jul 25, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brilliant!
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Marmol is the type of pitcher who needs ...
consistent work on the mound to keep his control. That is why Lou continues to use him, even though everyone thinks he is overusing him. When Marmol was a starter, he pitched many more innings than he ever has as a reliever.
The Shark is here. He should slot fine in the bull pen. He’ll give Lou another needed arm down there. I expect he will see action today.
A day game. What is this Wrigley Field? Go Cubs!
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 8:56 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree about the Shark
He is gonna get thrown in the fire today. I can’t imagine Howry is going to be able to go today. Lou has Gaudin and Cotts in his doghouse (doesn’t mean they won’t pitch). The Shark will get some action today.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Shark should.
He’s been hot in the minors and he’s here. Last year Lou’s use of Hart showed he’d give the ball to the young guy, maybe the Shark will be the bullpen upgrade Lou wants.
Sorry folks, parks closed. Moose out front should have told you.
by N Oakley on Jul 25, 2008 9:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree on the Shark
no idea why you’d push Harden back and have him miss the MIL series… and given Marmol should absolutely be unavailable today and if Howry is used today he needs to be unavailable tomorrow (that would be 4 times in 5 days if he throws today)... we need help in the pen
for the life of me I still can’t figure out why our 3rd best reliever is in AAA….
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 9:02 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wuertz?
If he is our third best bullpen guy then we are in some big trouble
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wuertz does have a sub 4 era
and kept opponents to a .269 average when up this year. I doubt he is referencing Piggy, Hart or Ascanio.
Sorry folks, parks closed. Moose out front should have told you.
by N Oakley on Jul 25, 2008 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wuertz era is misleading
Lou has such a short leash on him, and Wuertz usually just jacked up everybody else’s ERA. I don’t think Lou wants to see Wuertz around for a while.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I completely agree.
Just speculating on Mr. Dartmouth’s assertion that the 3rd best reliever is at AAA and assuming that said Mr. Dartmouth would base his argument purely on stats ‘cause that’s the way he rolls.
Sorry folks, parks closed. Moose out front should have told you.
by N Oakley on Jul 25, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh ok
Well then my issue is with whoever thinks Wuertz is undeserving of his AAA trip
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yep
my opinion is Wuertz is our 3rd best reliever and its not based purely on this years numbers, as you mention correctly his ERA is misleading
Wuertz has been REALLY effective as a major league pitcher since breaking in
and this year while he’s had more struggles than other he’s been our 3rd most reliable guy in “close and late” situations (based on OPS allowed)
he’s been our 2nd best reliever vs. lefties (based on OPS allowed)
and is just behind Cotts as our 3rd best reliever in OPS allowed for the season, with Cotts having pitched a bit less
add in how good he’s been throughout his career (ERA+ of 127, K/9 of 9.3) and I don’t think he’s deserved how often he’s shuttled back and forth between Iowa and Chicago. There’s NO WAY you could make an argument that Kevin Hart was or is a better pitcher than Michael Wuertz unless you were desperate for long relief
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kevin Hart is in AAA with Wuertz for a reason
Wood, Marmol, Eyre, Cotts, Gaudin, Marshall, Lieber, and Howry are all better options IMO when compared to Wuertz, not to mention Lou HATES Wuertz.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
now he is
but when Wuertz was originally sent down it was for Kevin Hart, so the comparison at the time was strictly between Wuertz and Hart.
I have no idea how you could consider Eyre better than Wuertz when he’s been worse than Wuertz in almost every statistical way since coming to the Cubs.
I’d echo those same sentiments for Marshall and Lieber, and Wood is currently hurt
Cotts and Wuertz have been a wash this year and Wuertz has been better than him throughout his career, so I’d again lean towards Wuertz there.
Marmol, Howry (though debatable with Howry’s performance this season), and Gaudin i’ll give you. Which would make Wuertz our 4th best relief option right now
and i’m not sure Lou hating someone makes for an adequate point of analysis…
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lou hating someone has a lot to do with the on the field stuff
That statistical analysis can show whatever it wants, and usually I’m pretty open to that stuff, but I think his short leashes and inability to get outs in big situations has made him a non-option for the time being.
I do think he will play a big part for us down the line (August and September), but if he were here right now Lou would never use him in a big situation.
Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs
by nji232 on Jul 25, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the inability to get outs in big situations
is a myth
check out the “close and late” numbers…
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But Myths Are Still True
The feats of Hercules and Odin may not have been factual but the message or spirit of the tale are nonetheless true. Ergo Michael Wuertz will not be put into “get a big out” situation.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jul 25, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks
Often the facts are incongruous with the reality because perception gets passed off as reality. At least in my travels and travails it has been!
Lou perceives Wuertz as less than a slam dunk so the reality becomes “Wuertz can’t get big outs”. I dunno, maybe if Wuertzie grits his teeth more or goes nuts on a Gatorade cooler he’ll see more action.
Potential Dumb Question: what’s “n/t” mean?
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jul 25, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's a posting oxymoron - it means "no text", yet it is text. cue twilight zone music
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jul 25, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
CaliCub is just a normal poster.
He states his opinion, he moves on. But one day he stumbles into a forum of unimaginable potential. A forum where thoughts and ideas transcend normal boundaries. A forum that rests, quite comfortably, in the twilight zone.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who is that?
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermatrician...
by Curtain Jerker on Jul 25, 2008 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Was at the game last night...
....my first this year (we try to make it least one a year). Great game. Fun atmosphere. Some pretty exciting moments. The last time I sat anywhere but the bleachers was probably 15 years ago, it was weird. LOL.
Had a great view of DeRosa’s catch, since we were in the box terrace down the right field line. Amazing.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jul 25, 2008 9:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Glad you had a good time Carmen.
That would have been a great game to go to. I haven’t been to a night game in 3-4 years! I love day games though, so I’m not complaining.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks Jimmy...
Yeah, that’s the first night game I’ve been to in about 8 years….Love the day games, especially in the bleachers, where we usually grab a ticket.
Nobody cares about your fantasy league team
by carmen_fanzone on Jul 25, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Enjoyed this quote...from Dero
“But despite the ongoing reminders of the 100-year drought, the pressure on the Cubs to win it all is neither media-driven nor fan-driven, according to Mark DeRosa.
“This is my best shot I’ve ever had to win it,” DeRosa said. “I think that’s the pressure. We realize what we have in this clubhouse.”
It is comforting to know that these guys don’t feel like they are chasing history
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Jul 25, 2008 9:08 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
They never have...
That’s for fans and media. Players couldn’t possibly care less.
Pluto will always be a planet to me!
by DaBard on Jul 25, 2008 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Finally figured that out....A
Fans, short for fanatics, have a purpose but the game is not played for them even though they are there to enjoy the game, even identify with it….but the game is not played for them. It is no different than Little League, or Pony League or American Legion or High School ball——even college ball. The game is played for THE PLAYERS….
It is not the black & white world you elude to being that the players could or couldn’t care less, it is that they can’t care, they got to care about their own careers, the team they are on. Fans are fickle, unaccountable, stupid and sometimes not even serious fans at all. How many fans at Wrigley are actually fans, in your sense of the word and how many are simply enjoying the recreational experience?
Now the owners purpose is to own (and reap financial rewards or take financial risks) and the media is to report on the game in the parasitic function of using the game to make a living or make money.
Now, winning a championship is a big deal for every team and every athlete. The pressure is the same regardless of the fans or media applying some other consequence to it. Now….feel better now that you know this.
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
by Ivy Walls on Jul 25, 2008 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You misunderstand...
I think the players care very deeply about winning a championship.
I don’t think the players ever thought they were “chasing history.”
Put it this way. Say the Cubs won the World Series 15 years ago. Do you think DeRosa or the other players, most of whom weren’t out of high school or college then, want to win a World Series any less? Or say the Cubs LOST in 1907 and 1908? Do you think DeRose wants to win more?
Some of them probably think it would be cool to be on the first team in a century. And every team, once in a while, gets the player who grew up a fan of the team and has a special perspective.
But by and large, they couldn’t care less about history.
Pluto will always be a planet to me!
by DaBard on Jul 25, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Know this...
Every member of that team knows that they will become instant legends if they finally bring a WS Championship to the Cubs.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Every member
of the team that finally breaks the drought will be enshrined, in some manner, in the Cubs baseball hall of fame (should that building ever be completed ;)
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jul 25, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why Sh!# Happens
Great posts and perspectives. IMO, I think that situations such as 2004, 2003, 1984, and 1969 happen because players begin to give into thinking about other stuff aside from the play at hand. Whether they’re thoughts of “oh God, here we go again” or “I’m going to rewrite history with one swing of the bat” or just “I can’t let my teammates and manager down here”, that lapse in total concentration tends to open the floodgates.
I’m OK with players who say they don’t give a crap about me and other fans because I just want them to do their jobs. In exchange, I will support their best efforts. But by the same token I will voice my displeasure with a dumb at-bat or baserunning gaffe. I don’t boo so much as I yell “Get your head out of your hole” or “Just hit a single and tie it up next time”. Confident concentration is what I expect…as I’m sure the players do of themselves.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jul 25, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, for the most part
maybe its just hyperbole in your comment, but I think the players give a crap about us fans. But I agree with DaBard that we aren’t their sole inspiration. They want to win for themselves more because that is what they like to do. But, I do also think the players see the level of devotion we have for this team and want to repay us with effort and wins, and a World Series.
Otherwise, I agree wholeheartedly with what you said. I don’t particularly like to boo either. I am more of a get ‘em next time kind of a person, like you seem to be. I am more of a “get your head out of your hole next time” person too.
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jul 25, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Admitting to Some Hyperbole
The only guys I ever heard say “I don’t give a shit about the fans” were out here in LA – Benoit Benjamin and Andruw Jones. Certainly they don’t speak for the entire NBA and MLB.
I’m flattered that players want to do right by us fans because we love the team so much. But the best way they can do so is by forgetting all about me and just making a good pitch or not oversliding second base or forgetting your sunglasses back on the bench.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jul 25, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
I am amazed at the ability of these players to drown out 40,000+ people clapping and screaming at them and focus on a little white ball being thrown at them at 95 mph, or throwing that little white ball into a small box that will get the batter out.
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jul 25, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Marmol's issue
Eh, I don’t think becoming unhinged is his issue really. If you watched last night – and really most of his appearances the past few weeks – his problem is still a glaring mechanical flaw. He’s falling off hard to the left and taking his slider with him. I think 99% of the balls he threw last night were sliders that tailed way outside. When he kept form his sliders broke down sharp and late, but most of the time they just swept lazily right out of the strike zone.
by BeltwayCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 9:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Which is exactly why he needs regular work,
to stay in form and sharp.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
or
the mechanics are breaking down because his arm is fatigued….. and he’s having to do more “body work” to get his arm through the motion which is pulling him down….
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's a difficult distinction to make
Almost like the chicken and the egg problem. Although, I think I would agree with Dartmouth.
Marmol looked great Wednesday. His slider was breaking down and he was making the hitters (namely Tracy) look silly, just like he was doing during early in the first half. Marmol even looked sharp against the batter he faced in the 8th last night.
The ninth was a different story. Marmol got wild likely due to the mechanical flaw mentioned above. To me this indicates that fatigue is likely the cause for Marmol’s mechanical problems and subsequent ineffectiveness.
Maybe, once Wood gets back, Marmol should move into a role where he only comes in when we are in jams with runners on. That seems to be when he is most effective, facing just a batter here or there. That should give him enough rest to be more effective as September (and hopefully October/November) approaches.
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jul 25, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well,
there hasn’t been a drop in velocity that would indicate that his arm is fatigued. If his arm was fatigued, and this was causing problems, he would not be out on the mound at all. They realize what they have in Marmol & they’re not going to ruin it.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's
an interesting perspective….
because team’s don’t unintentionally abuse pitchers all the time?
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for the enlightenment.
I don’t see that he has lost considerable velocity.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Admittedly did not re-read the article
But IIRC he lost a little velocity after a stretch of pitching frequently.
His velocity is back up but the horizontal movement is down. This means he is releasing from a slightly different angle; making an adjustment to heat up the fastball. This is likely caused by fatigue.
So, its not really that his velocity is down, but that he is having to adjust to keep the velocity and the movement/location are being effected.
by okiecubbie on Jul 25, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think
the problem is the lost velocity so much as the lost movement.
The theory is that Marmol is slotting his arm higher in an effort to keep the velocity to the detriment of the typical movement on his fastball. The fatigue is evident because Marmol can’t get the 95 mph velocity with his typical arm slot. If Marmol were not fatigued, he would be able to throw his fastball at 95ish with the typical horizontal movement. But it seems that he isn’t capable of getting the movement and velocity consistently.
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jul 25, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1000000
" I played in college, albeit a small one, but darn it I still played and you didn't, so that qualifies me as an baseball expert allowing me to complaing about the Cubs as I see fit"
by Reed's Johnson on Jul 25, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Choose a number...
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+10000
" I played in college, albeit a small one, but darn it I still played and you didn't, so that qualifies me as an baseball expert allowing me to complaing about the Cubs as I see fit"
by Reed's Johnson on Jul 25, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
...and go with it.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+2
" I played in college, albeit a small one, but darn it I still played and you didn't, so that qualifies me as an baseball expert allowing me to complaing about the Cubs as I see fit"
by Reed's Johnson on Jul 25, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Your account's almost empty, isn't it?
You gotta save some for a rainy day, man.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
nitpick
“he lost .187-hitting Jeff Baker on a very close call by plate umpire Bruce Dreckman”
- i do believe it’s john baker. jeff baker is a colorado rockie.
otherwise a great recap as always. i can’t wait till woody gets back. the back end of games is gonna make me nervous all weekend!
"I'd rather win ugly than lose pretty," -- Lou Pinella
by anormal on Jul 25, 2008 10:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You're right.
Talk about an obscure player—the Marlins’ third string catcher. I wonder if his manager has even heard of him.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 25, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His awful numbers warmed my heart.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
absolutely. the only reason i saw it is because i live in denver and know about jeff baker the rockie. my first thought was “wow, did the rockies trade jeff baker?” or is there someone else with the same name?
"I'd rather win ugly than lose pretty," -- Lou Pinella
by anormal on Jul 25, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would bet that he hasnt heard of him...
Probably like 3 scouts that know him, and the GM at best
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can I make a request....
As far as fanpost or diaries or whatever you want to call them, if it is really short, and it is just something that you want to have a convo about, post it in threads like this… the fanpost overturning so quick is crazy…... so since my post got pushed off the page so fast, whether its good or bad, I am going to selfishly plug it right here…. True Reflections of Cubdom
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 10:47 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wihle I agree with you
Good luck on getting people to follow that. Lots of people think their opinion is so important that it deserves a separate diary.
by rlpete on Jul 25, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I feel that it ateast should be new news...
Or you know, something more like a column, I was thinking about doing a personal weekly recap everyweekend explaining the weeks developments… does that seem like something worthy?
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Something like that
that actually takes time to write is worth a fanpost but they are going to roll off quickly. For example, every time the Cubs lose two in a row or have an ugly loss you can guarantee a bunch of diaries.
by rlpete on Jul 25, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or, if there is just a link...
... put it in the FanShot section.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Jul 26, 2008 5:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you want to see your own fanposts in all their perceived glory
just change the settings on your account to display more fanposts. I think the max is 50.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Jul 25, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I dont really care much about my fanpost
I am just trying to make a point
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
... by showing how quickly my fanpost dissapeared
I dont care if you read it or not, glorify it or hate it, I was just trying to show how quickly the fanpost section is overturning… i
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Fanpost section is being
abused….but I don’t see how the problem can be solved. That’s the SBN format. Unless - gasp - the writer actually thinks about what he or she is writing—and how topical and compelling their subject matter is. I’ve stopped ‘fanposting.’ I put time and effort into a thoughtful post and it’s gone in 12 hours, bumped by silly “Letters To The Cubs Bullpen” (or three posts on the same subject) that really belong in pre/post game threads.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jul 25, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
cant agree more
But I guess it is a minor problem, everybody just wants to give there 2 cents about their opinions and what not, but it is kind of agrevating, today for some reason it has begun to bother me. But ill be over it by game time
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Think I'm gonna start a Fanpost
about how the use of Fanposts has gotten out of control.
Promise me you’ll comment.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
hahaha very funny
Im over it really, I just got aggravated this morning over it, its really not a big deal
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I do agree, though.
Some people find the slightest bit of baseball related material and feel the need to share it with the world.
Carlos Marmol slept in a bed with two sheets and a blanket instead of his traditional one blanket-one comforter arrangement. WHAT DOES IT MEAN?!
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
please tell me that wasnt in a real fanpost
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I haven't read every fanpost
so I’ll assume…yes.
No, not really. But the fact that you’re unsure proves the point.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I almost did that.
But thought the better of it.
Imagine the irony.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jul 25, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was actually hoping that the next SBN
update would feature a little “x” in the corner of each fanpost so they can be “deleted” either when your done or not interested in reading some of the ones on the list on the right of the screen. Kinda like deleting unwanted emails or something.
by philadelphiacub on Jul 25, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Off the beaten path...
Have you guys seen that Bartman has been getting cash offers (up to $25K) to make appearances. To his credit… he has turned them down.
by Cubster on Jul 25, 2008 10:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
We covered this in a fanpost this week.
Search the site for “Bartman” and you shoudl find it.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His Bravery Has My Admiration
The guy continues to live and work in the Chicago area even after the legend grows. A lesser man like me would have moved to outer New Brunswick years ago.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jul 25, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I had heard
That he went to work in Europe for a while immediately after the “incident.” Is that not the case?
"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome
by gwood on Jul 25, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe He Did
I’m basing the assumption that he’s still in the Chicagoland area off the SI article a year or two ago, when the writer tracked him down to the parking garage at where he works.
Eat More Katsui
by CaliCub on Jul 25, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No he works for Hewitt
They just made he “appear” to work overseas…
my friend works with him
" I played in college, albeit a small one, but darn it I still played and you didn't, so that qualifies me as an baseball expert allowing me to complaing about the Cubs as I see fit"
by Reed's Johnson on Jul 25, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's also what I understand...
I have an old friend from high school that also worked with him at Hewitt.
At the time, my friend stated that he was completely devastated.
There isn’t much that’s funny about the situation…he was (I hope still is) a big fan of the Cubs, and his life has been significantly altered by something that the three other fans who also went for the ball are just lucky didn’t happen to them.
Let my ashes blow in a beautiful snow from the prevailing 30 mile an hour southwest wind...
When my last remains go flying over the left field wall, I'll bid the bleacher bums adieu,
And I will come to my final resting place, out on Waveland Avenue. --Steve Goodman
by NotSure on Jul 25, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
didnt Florida Marlins offer him a condo in florida
to escape the wrath of chicago cubs fans after the incident
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As a joke.
Jeb Bush offered him sanctuary because, obviously, Marlins fans were happy the inning/series went the way it did.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I knew I heard that somewhere
I figured it was a joke… it would be really funny if it really happened though
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And I could be (partially) wrong.
He could very well have literally had a place for Bartman but a) it was done in a joking manner and b) everyone knew Bartman wasn’t going to accept.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Those Bush brothers
are funny guys, aren’t they??
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jul 25, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yup.
Whenever I see them I laugh. Maybe not for the right reason, but I laugh nonetheless.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yup.
Whenever I see them I laugh. Maybe not for the right reason, but I laugh nonetheless.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good twins joke.
"This is the kind of thing … that makes you want to see the Chicago Cubs team lose." Marty Brennaman
by Bildo1805 on Jul 25, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope they turn the
two game winning streak into a three game winning streak today. Fun game to watch last night.
Lou said in his post game press conference that the only problem with Marmol is he gets too excited and loses focus. He said his stuff is there but Marmol needs to not get so excited.
Carlos Zambrano and Rich Harden. Now that's a pair of Aces.
by sue369 on Jul 25, 2008 11:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
With Marmol throwing 59 pitches in 20 days ( 33 Strikes, 26 Balls)
Does he close today or does he get the day off?
" I played in college, albeit a small one, but darn it I still played and you didn't, so that qualifies me as an baseball expert allowing me to complaing about the Cubs as I see fit"
by Reed's Johnson on Jul 25, 2008 11:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'd bet
he’s not available.
’’If somebody had told me we were going to lose Soriano for eight weeks, lose [Carlos] Zambrano and Kerry Wood for a couple of weeks apiece, and then at the same time lose [Reed] Johnson, and then when we played the American League not have a DH [then-injured Daryle Ward], and be in first place by two games, I’d tell you we were pretty fortunate.’’ Lou Piniella (7/23/08)
by drewishdrewid on Jul 25, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
in the last 2 days
" I played in college, albeit a small one, but darn it I still played and you didn't, so that qualifies me as an baseball expert allowing me to complaing about the Cubs as I see fit"
by Reed's Johnson on Jul 25, 2008 11:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He'll have to get the day off
or we will piss and moan about “overuse.’
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jul 25, 2008 11:16 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
yes... He should... But who knows - Lets hope for a laugher in our favor
" I played in college, albeit a small one, but darn it I still played and you didn't, so that qualifies me as an baseball expert allowing me to complaing about the Cubs as I see fit"
by Reed's Johnson on Jul 25, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ryan Braun's Homer and Cardinal Fans
I watched Ryan Braun greatly admire his game-winning HR last night, and I guess a lot of Cardinal fans did also, since a large percentage of them in VivaElBirdos were calling for his head (literally—in the form of a fastball to his skull). Maybe TLR will eventually do that, because Braun really was over the top: just standing there admiring the ball make it out over the fence.
On a similar note—and this has some similarity to BCB, I also noticed today that The Greatest Fans In the World over at VEB were so upset in last night’s game thread that today LBoros, the manager warned everyone:
re the game threads — accepting defeat with reasonable grace is a sign of maturity. a depressingly large number of people are failing the test. the community can do without childish people and childish statements. clean it up, starting tonight, or i’ll start banning people summarily
by zevkalman on Jul 25, 2008 11:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Same can be said
about our threads during losses.
I'm thinking you weren't burdened with an overabundance of schooling, so why don't we just ignore each other til we go away.
by neverAcquiesce on Jul 25, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes it sure can.
Carlos Zambrano and Rich Harden. Now that's a pair of Aces.
by sue369 on Jul 25, 2008 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yea that sounds like BCB
I would have been pissed as well if I were them, then I remember that Aramis Ramirez always stands there and stares at his HRs as well
"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes
by SouthsideCUBSfan on Jul 25, 2008 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes it's different
when it is your team :-)
I also enjoy how many people complain about Jose Valverde and his antics. Of course, do they also complain about Zambrano?
by rlpete on Jul 25, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The difference is that Braun is a 2nd yr. player.
Braun stood there for a lot longer than Rami has ever stood there. He didn’t run, he didn’t really move toward 1st base.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 25, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats right!
There is a limit…and it is measured in miliseconds as to how long is an acceptable amount of time to admire a homer. Which is compounded by calculating the MLB playing time a player has accumulated, as well as how large his eyeballs are.
by StevenABQ on Jul 25, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can only imagine...
...what the mood is on the ground in St. Louis today. As hard as it was to endure watching the Cubs dropping two of three to Houston and the D’Backs, I shudder to think of watching your team drop four straight at home to a prime division rival.
I’m not saying I feel bad for Cards fans – I was even highly amused at TLR’s surly reaction during the postgame yesterday – but that’s a pretty harsh turn of events right there.
Nanika Ga Okoru!
by dat cubfan daver on Jul 25, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
up late in 2 or 3 of them as well
n/t
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 25, 2008 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but they're still only four games back
I think the Cardinals are flawed, but I’m not ready to turn over a spade of dirt on their corpse yet. Don’t the Cubs still have nine games left against them?
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jul 25, 2008 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cards, a flawed team --
and the flaws are showing. They are a good team, but not as good as the Brewers. It’s really just a 2 team race now, and will be for the remainder of the season.
Let’s hope the ‘overuse’ of Sabathia causes his arm to fall off!! I’f I’m Ned Yost, I let him throw 160 pitches a game. This is Milwaukee’s VERY short window of opportunity.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jul 25, 2008 11:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Hmmm
I wonder which is more scary…a flawed team with astute managment, or a younger less flawed team with an obtuse manager? IMHO, the former creeps me out a little more…not to say the other one doesn’t worry me.
by StevenABQ on Jul 25, 2008 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take the brains
before the brawn (so to speak). I have a feeling Braun’s little stunt last night is going to start an all-out war between the Cards and Brewers the next time they play, much like late last season.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jul 25, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
2 team race
That would be fine with me – since 2 teams from the NL Central will be in the playoffs.
by ChipSet on Jul 25, 2008 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OT - Has anyone seen the new X-Files movie yet?
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Jul 25, 2008 11:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
agree on all counts Al
I think Marmol gets rattled easily. Not unusual for a young pitcher. By the way. I wasn’t nrevous last night because you said your son was going to the game. His middle initial should be W.
by Rick B on Jul 25, 2008 1:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
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