Chicago Cubs @ St. Louis Cardinals GameThread, Jul 6, 2008 2:15 PM CDT

Pregame Thread: Cubs vs. Cardinals, Sunday 7/6, 2:15 CT

by Al on Jul 6, 2008 11:00 AM CDT in Game Threads Comment 166 comments

Chicago Cubs @ St. Louis Cardinals

Next Game

Chicago Cubs
@ St. Louis Cardinals

Sunday, Jul 6, 2008, 2:15 PM CDT
Busch Stadium

Sean Marshall vs Todd Wellemeyer

Mostly sunny. Winds blowing in from center field at 5-10 m.p.h. Game Time temperature: Around 90.

Complete Coverage >

There's an update on the upcoming sale of the Cubs in today's Tribune business section. Nothing we didn't already know, and I am glad to see Don Levin's name still on the list of potential buyers.

I've been posting Baseball Prospectus' playoff odds on the left sidebar all year. Now there's a site called Cool Standings which has expanded on this concept. They project the Cubs, as of today, to finish at (approximately) 95-67 and in first place. That'd require going 43-31 the rest of the year -- absolutely doable as far as I'm concerned.

Time to get going on those 43 wins, today.

Bruce Miles handicaps the Sabathia Sweepstakes.

Rick Morrissey, with whom I frequently disagree, hits the nail on the head today: Alfonso Soriano shouldn't play till he's ready, and should focus on the Cubs, not the All-Star Game.

Today's Starting Pitchers


S. Marshall Cubs	vs.	T. Wellemeyer Cardinals


0-2	W-L	7-3
4.87	ERA	3.86
17	SO	70
9	BB	30
4	HR	11
vs. StL	--	vs. Cubs

	W-L	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	BS	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	K	ERA	WHIP
2008 - Sean Marshall	0-2	15	2	0	0	1	0	20.1	20	11	11	4	9	17	4.87	1.43

	W-L	G	GS	CG	SHO	SV	BS	IP	H	R	ER	HR	BB	K	ERA	WHIP
2008 - Todd Wellemeyer	7-3	16	16	0	0	0	0	93.1	89	42	40	11	30	70	3.86	1.27

It's real simple. Sean Marshall hasn't pitched well against the Cardinals in his career -- 1-1, 4.91. He has to do so today. He's starting primarily because he's lefthanded:

"You look at the Cardinals, and they’re 11 games over against right-handers and one game over against lefties," manager Lou Piniella told the Cubs’ official Web site. "That leads me to believe that we have a better chance with left-handers."

Former Cub Wellemeyer has one career start vs. his original team, beating them in St. Louis on May 4. The Cubs may be facing him at a good time -- he's 0-2, 9.45 in his last three starts and maybe he's not quite ready:

"I can go back out there," Wellemeyer said. "I don’t want to say it, but I could probably use a couple more bullpen sessions and get to where I need to be."

Today's game is on CSN, on broadcast TV in the St. Louis area (KSDK), and on TBS. Your guess is as good as mine as to whether you'll get the TBS telecast if you're outside Chicago or St. Louis. For more see the MLB.com Mediacenter.

MLB.com Gameday (2007 version)

MLB.com Gameday (2008 version)

Baseball-reference.com game preview

Today's first pitch thread posts at first pitch time, 2:15 pm CT. The overflow comment threads will post at 3:30 and 4:30 pm CT.

Discuss amongst yourselves.

0 recs | Comment 166 comments

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Comments

7th?!

Someone in the previous thread stated that Woody has only blown “5 saves!”, as if that’s spectacular.

It is good, yes.

Brad Lidge this year? 0 blown saves. Just to keep it in perspective…

We needed that game yesterday. Relying on Sean Marshall is not a great thing.

by The E-Man on Jul 6, 2008 11:03 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Agreed about Marshall.

I would rather have Gallagher as #5.

by GateCity, VA Cubs Fan on Jul 6, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

Gallagher was given up too early. Having someone like Greg Maddux take Gallagher’s spot is one thing—but Sean Marshall? Nah. Not for me anyway.

My new life, my new world, and my beautiful daughter:
Tamia London Davis: Due date (8-11-08)!

by Unique on Jul 6, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it's the lefty thing

I wouldn’t read too much into it unless it starts to happen consistently.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess.

But they have dropped Gallagher out of the rotation.

My new life, my new world, and my beautiful daughter:
Tamia London Davis: Due date (8-11-08)!

by Unique on Jul 6, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

To keep it in perspective

Lidge is the only closer in the NL who has more than 2 saves and hasn’t blown one. Every other closer with more than 10 saves has blown 2 – 7 of them .

Wood melted down. He still should be getting the ball in the 9th.

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Jul 6, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh, I agree

but five blown saves, this last one with a two run lead, shows he has some work to do yet to be considered an “elite” closer.

At the beginning of the year, I stated many times here I did not think he’d be an effective closer b/c he walks too many. I am wrong so far, I am happy to say. However, yesterday, he just didn’t have it.

Hopefully it is not a trend.

It has not been talked about, but I wonder if pitching him two days in a row affected his performance?

Pat was remarking how his velocity was down…

by The E-Man on Jul 6, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Get a rip on Woody.

His walk to strike out ratio is fantastic and he had to make four outs yesterday due to the bad call on the 2-2 pitch on the Molina brother. Crap happens. He still almost pitched out of it.

As far as I am concerned, Lilly’s lack of attention on Poo-holes that then caused ARam to play in that allowed the next ball to be a double was the key mental miscue in the game. In a tight game on the road, we can’t do those things.

Yes Woody was off, but he had to get 4 outs in that 9th and he almost did it. Given the stretch of 17 appearances he had just been through, I am willing to cut him some slack. Wood is clearly working his way to the level of elite closer.

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Jul 6, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

rip = grip

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Jul 6, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

Sean Marshall doesn’t inspire confidence, especially going up against Pujols in company in a heated contest.

Diehard: All right, Hendry, let's see how you improve the ballclub mid-season.
Hendry: What coordinates, sir?
Diehard: [annoyed] Coordinates?
Hendry: Yes, sir, they determine where the the ballclub is...
Diehard: Soldier, the Cubs have spent a lot of money teaching you to fire off a trade. Now set and fire.

by MDBNIU on Jul 6, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

8th

i guess

Favorite Game - 'The Sandberg game" June 23, 1984

by Cub Fan Mike on Jul 6, 2008 11:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That was tough

yesterday….. I hope Marshall can go at least 6 today meaning we should still be in the game. We need this one pretty bad. Milwaukee getting CC worries me a lot. It would be a shame if the only thing preventing Hendry from getting him is the inability to matchup Cleveland’s specific needs. I guess that’s why they say it takes two to tango. Man do I want to tango.

Glad to see Rammy break through yesterday, hopefully he can keep it up today. Hopefully today Edmonds hustles home if he’s in the same position at third as yesterday.

Go ahead, Z me.

by tony412 on Jul 6, 2008 11:21 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This was perhaps another Lou

brain fart: why did he not pinch run in that situation? He has Fonty or RJ on the bench, right? Sometimes, I just think he and Trammel are asleep. I would bet that in the same situation, LaRussa would have…

by The E-Man on Jul 6, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Definitely RJ

because RJ can take over CF defensively in the bottom of the 9th and not lose much if anything with that move defensively. But in my opinion, didnt seem as if Edmonds expect a play at the plate.

Go ahead, Z me.

by tony412 on Jul 6, 2008 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I always hate admitting this

but LaRussa, and the Card’s organization really have a consistent track record of excellence – and fundamentals/defense are a big reason why.

I am hoping that under Tim Wilken’s talent selection, and better coaching, we can do it too.

by The E-Man on Jul 6, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Three to tango?

Has anyone seen any plausible (or fanciful, far-fetched, or downright ridiculous) 3-team scenarios involving Sabathia to the Cubs?

''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella

by JohnM on Jul 6, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Be careful what you wish for....

CHC gets:
SP C. C. Sabathia
SP Tim Lincecum
SS Khalil Greene

CLE gets:
2B/SS Ryan Theriot
One year of free pizza from Connie’s

SF gets:
2B Mike Fontenot
1B Micah Hoffpauir
Grease for the trolleys

SD gets:
SP Jason Marquis
3B MDBNIU

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's fair

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jul 6, 2008 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks

There’s still time for plausible, fanciful and far-fetched…..

''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella

by JohnM on Jul 6, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're welcome.

There’s nothing stopping you from coming up with one yourself, though. Who has a LaPorta-type prospect? What would that team take from us to get him? etc.

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh yes there is

Laziness, lack of knowledge, hunger (seriously, I’m hungry), did I mention laziness?

''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella

by JohnM on Jul 6, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

do it!

"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 Jul 6, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Love the silly trade scenario!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol!

We never give up -- Aramis Ramirez

by Emelie on Jul 6, 2008 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DO IT!!!

by sue369 on Jul 6, 2008 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Tango is fun

I have heard.

by The E-Man on Jul 6, 2008 11:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Always good when the opposing pitcher thinks he could use more bullpen sessions...

...LET’S GET EM, CUBS!! GO CUBS GO!

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Jul 6, 2008 11:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Wellemeyer..

is not exactly exuding confidence is he? It’s like he already knows he’s going to be lit up and is offering excuses already.

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Jul 6, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That, or...

he’s baiting us. But now that I think of it, many players often say when they don’t feel they are 100%. Maybe that’s all he means.

Go ahead, Z me.

by tony412 on Jul 6, 2008 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

don't believe anything you read from a TLR team or player

if Wellemeyer is on the mound, he is ready to go.

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Jul 6, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

About the TBS telecast...

My TV in VA, says that it is the Cubs and the Cards. If I can get the game in VA, it is probably nationwide.

by GateCity, VA Cubs Fan on Jul 6, 2008 11:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Either that or they know Virginia is Sean Marshall country.

Birthplace: Richmond, VA
College: Virginia Commonwealth

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

On in MN, according to my listings.

I just went down and looked – it looks like I’m staying in this afternoon!

by MN exile on Jul 6, 2008 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

also in NH

by leothelip on Jul 6, 2008 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lou is FAR too obsessed with the lefty/righty thing

I think Marquis who has actually pitched very well against the Cards should start
today but hey we all know Lou does not care about stuff like that which is why we got
about a week of E-Pat in LF.
In general I suspect this will be a lot more high scoring for both teams than the first two
games

"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry

by Doggie Stalker on Jul 6, 2008 12:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Jason Marquis should only start ballgames if everyone else is dead or at severe risk of becoming so if they pitch.

I has a blog.

by cwyers on Jul 6, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The article on Soriano is correct

So much more downside v upside in letting the $136 million man play in the All-Star Game. Since this the game to determine who gets home field advantage, let Soriano be replaced with someone who is at full strength and playing well.

Soriano needs to go to AAA and get at bats (and as we saw last time, face real balls in the outfield!!) before coming back to playing. Could you imagine his poor outfield play costing a run or two in the All-Star Game. Ugh.

THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!

by LAcarl519 on Jul 6, 2008 12:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I couldn't agree more

I’m a big fan of Soriano’s, but this just reinforces the “look at me” side of him. He should be worried about the Cubs and the Cubs only. We really need this guy back.

by TheRamZamDLEE on Jul 6, 2008 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

helping the NL win the ASG

helps the cubs have potentially home field advantage in the WS. He was selected, he should play.

There is no “look at me” side of Soriano.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

there isn't?

could’ve fooled me

by TheRamZamDLEE on Jul 6, 2008 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

apparently

a lot of people are fooled. Soriano has always been willing to do what Lou has asked him to do.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So you're cool with

his first game back being the ASG?

by TheRamZamDLEE on Jul 6, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

absolutely.

if he’s ready to play, he’s ready to play. If we could get him back earlier, I’d do that. It all hinges on him being READY—which he was NOT, the last time he came back off the DL.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Did you read that article?

He sounds like he’s pumped about playing in New York, ya know cause the Yanks traded him away.

FTA: The Cubs have been known to tiptoe around in deference to Soriano’s wishes. Now they need to plant their feet and stand their ground.

But this this is the guy who’s been willing to do whatever the team asks of him.

by TheRamZamDLEE on Jul 6, 2008 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I read the article. I disagree with your assessment. He wants to play where he played before, sure. But helping the NL win the ASG is good for the Cubs.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agree on that

I just want what’s best for the boys in blue, as I’m sure you do.

by TheRamZamDLEE on Jul 6, 2008 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

sure.

I’ll state for the record that if Lou and the staff DON’T think he’s ready, they should NOT let him play.

The same goes for Soto, Dome, ARam, Woody, Z and Demp.

But if they CAN play, I WANT them to play.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dumb logic by Lou

The Cardinals, as a team, are OPS-ing 775 vs. lefties and 772 vs. righties. So technically they’re better against lefties. Not that a .003 difference in team OPS is really meaningful. Just sayin’.

by kanderber on Jul 6, 2008 12:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Todd Wellemeyer?

How in the heck does Dave Duncan work his magic with pitcher after pitcher after pitcher. Todd Wellemeyer had nothin’ going for him as a member of the Cubs, Marlins and Royals. But Duncan gets his hands on the guy, and POOF !

by MDBNIU on Jul 6, 2008 12:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

you should root for them, then.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

?

Wha??

by The E-Man on Jul 6, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess we're not even allowed to show any admiration for another manager or coach

lots of rules to become familiar with

by bluekoolaide on Jul 6, 2008 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

BlueMike doesn't show admiration

for the Cardinals. He is their biggest fan. It’s a subtle fandom, but there’s been a very predictable pattern and I’ve finally sussed it out—he roots for the Cardinals, and against the Cubs.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry but that's just silly-

expressing admiration for an extremely well run organization is not the same as rooting for them. And he’s right about what he said-the Cards coaching and talent evaluation is first rate-the mileage that they’ve gotten out of this team is nothing short of spectacular. I hate the Cardinals but that doesn’t stop me from giving credit where it’s due.

by bluekoolaide on Jul 6, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

.....(golf clap).....

by TheRamZamDLEE on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you're free

to disagree. That doesn’t change what I believe having observed him over the past several months. He doesn’t like ANYTHING the Cubs do.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The thing that I don't get

is this “anti Blue Mike” obsession that some people seem to have. It’s like the guy can’t make a single statetemt without the same people jumping down his throat. Even when he’s not on, people seem to be waiting for him. I know that everybody needs a villain but sometimes this starts to seem ridiculous.

by bluekoolaide on Jul 6, 2008 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

he reaps

what he sows.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

But Duncan couldn't rescue Ankiel

as a pitcher… was he just too far gone?

by ChipSet on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is this going to be the All-Star selection show thread

Immediately preceding the game at 7pm (oops, I mean 1pm Chicago time)? I presume it’s on TBS, though I’ll be watching on AFN|Prime Atlantic

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 12:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm Glad Soriano wants to play in the ASG.

I think anyone who is voted in by the fans should be honored and show the respect back to the fans and the game by being excited to play. I’m sure if he is asked/told not to play- he won’t. I want him to hurry back into the line up and help the Cubs win. I am very dubious of the way it has been reported that Soriano is putting his desire to play in the ASG ahead of what’s good for his health and the team. Soriano is a gamer and would play before he is 100% as we have seen in the past, but we have also seen that he does what he is told. The way this issue has been reported is, in my opinion, trumped up and slanted to make something out of very little.

"Baseball is like church- many attend, few understand." ~ Leo Durocher

by The Lip on Jul 6, 2008 1:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

My cable

My cable is down any word on Cubs all stars

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Only the AL Starters have been announced

The other 14 minutes of the broadcast has been a Josh Hamilton love-fest.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think Josh Hamilton's story can be told enough...

If his story of overcoming drug and alcohol addiction can help other people, I hope he tells it every day!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The only thing that bothers me

It’s a nice story but I don’t like when it’s compared to others overcoming bad injuries or cancer. There’s a big difference in my mind.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

One good thing

Otherwise it would be a 14 minutes on the Yankees who got in and those that didn’t.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They have been announced on MLB.com

Fukudome, Soto and Soriano are starters

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Jul 6, 2008 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thank

Thanks are reserves also announced today?

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you can get on BCB, you can

read this story on MLB.com.

National League
C: Geovany Soto, CHC
1B: Lance Berkman, HOU
2B: Chase Utley, PHI
SS: Hanley Ramirez, FLA
3B: Chipper Jones, ATL
LF: Alfonso Soriano, CHC
CF: Kosuke Fukudome, CHC
RF: Ryan Braun, MIL

American League
C: Joe Mauer, C
1B: Kevin Youkilis, BOS
2B: Dustin Pedroia, BOS
SS: Derek Jeter, NYY
3B: Alex Rodriguez, NYY
LF: Manny Ramirez, BOS
CF: Ichiro Suzuki, SEA
RF: Josh Hamilton, TEX
DH: David Ortiz, NYY (will not play, 15-day DL)

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

WOW!

Both Fukodome and Bran beat out Griffey!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

excuse me, Braun

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

But bran

is good for you. Makes it all come out.

Baseball is too much of a sport to be a business and too much of a business to be a sport.
William Wrigley Jr

by bubbamike the one and only on Jul 6, 2008 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

so true

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ortiz is a Yankee? ;-)

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Jul 6, 2008 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL! D'oh!

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 7:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 7:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

MLB.com

Says Soriano, Dome and Soto – all starters.

''Listen, losing Soriano is no box of chocolates.'' ~Lou Piniella

by JohnM on Jul 6, 2008 1:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Thank you

Thank you.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

amazing

that they would put such a guess-hack, selfish-swing, bad-fielding hitter like Soriano in, right Blue Mike?

And no Ryan Theriot??? But that guys a SPARKPLUG!

Clearly, the voters never played college baseball for NIU in the 80s.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

You are so bad. ;-)

by sue369 on Jul 6, 2008 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Reserves

Is everyone announced today or when are they announced? Wood, Dempster and Zambrano can all make cases.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Does the NL not have a DH in the ASG?

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yes

it’s selected by the manager. Basically, one of the reserves will be the DH. The last time the all star game was in an AL park, D-Lee was the starting first baseman and Pujols was the DH.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I remember

I remember that and thinking that it was a good way to get both in the lineup. I think there have been a few other years where the 2 best players in the league that year played the same position and one was the DH.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Notice how the Cubs

are the only team in the NL with multiple players voted in as starters! Let’s have a hand for all Cubs fans!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Best record in the NL

Best record in the NL deserves it.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Looking at the lineups

I really think the NL has a chance at it this year.

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey, we're Chicago fans

We should be used to this….

Every League has a bad Decade!!!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

When voting early and often

This is when voting early and often in the Chicago democrat way is okay and perfectly legal. How many votes did they get from the dead?

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Probably not as many as Daley.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Grandparents

I know my grandparents are voting still even though they’ve been gone 20 years. Funny thing is they always pretty much voted republican now their voting democrat.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

OMG LMFAO

Well played indeed!

Eat More Katsui

by CaliCub on Jul 6, 2008 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The interviews must be taped

I’m watching the Phillies and Mets game and they’re interviewing Utley on the selection show.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Can you believe Hanley Ramirez has never been an all star before this year?

Tells you the depth of the NL shortstops, I guess.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Zambrano is in!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Big Z is in

by JPetey on Jul 6, 2008 1:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Z got his wish

He’s an all star!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

YEA!

No Wood?

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

OOPS

Oops missed it.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DEMPSTER IS IN!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Dempster

is in!!!

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Jul 6, 2008 1:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

YEA!

Yea! Okay who would predict that the Cubs would get 2 starting pitchers on the all star team and the other one but Z would be Dempster?

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Demp is in too!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Wood is in!!!!!

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Jul 6, 2008 1:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

WOOD

SIX ALL STARS!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

More than Boston or NYY, please! haha

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

6 Cubs so far!

by JPetey on Jul 6, 2008 1:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Sweet!!!

6 CUBS in the All Star Game!!!!

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Woody is in too!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

7

by JPetey on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

who is #7?

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DeRosa.

Ha, beat you to it.

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

SEVEN AS!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Aramis is in!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

ARAM's in!

by zjb on Jul 6, 2008 1:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Barf, Tejada is in!

Can’t stand him!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Wood or Hamilton

Which is really the most amazing thing?

A guy who sat just about one year ago exactly on a bench in Arizona havign to be talked into one more try and battled back after injury after injury and changing his career from reliever to starter.

Or a guy who overcame something he caused himself a drug addiction?

Both are amazing but Wood is more.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Many will say that drug addiction is a disease

and the same for alcoholism.

That said, I’m with you. Wood’s story is amazing, lead-off walks notwithstanding.

by ChipSet on Jul 6, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I totally disagree

Wood always wanted to pitch, his body wouldn’t let him for a few years.

Hamilton may have caused his own problems, but battling back against drug and alcohol addiction is a mental fight that Wood didn’t have to deal with. Hamilton had to fight himself to get back into game, he had to find the desire to play and deny the desire to use. That battle is a lot more difficult than waiting for you body to heal while you want to play along.

Really the two situations can’t be compared. They are totally different.

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Jul 6, 2008 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

8!!!!! FONTENOT!!!!!!

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

HEE HEE

Hee hee.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

really???

"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 Jul 6, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hurdle likes hamsters

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Jul 6, 2008 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pujols boooo

jk jk jk

2008 Cubs: Who needs nine innings, when you only need a 7th?

by Chanman25 on Jul 6, 2008 1:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

NL Reserves

Brian McCann
Aramis Rameriz!!!
Matt Holliday
Dan uggla
Miguel Tejada
Russell Martin
Nate McLouth
Albert Pujols
Ryan Ludwick
Adrian Gonzalez
Christian Guzman

"There are no curses here...Games are won and lost on the baseball field" - Lou Piniella

by El Borto on Jul 6, 2008 1:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

what about SF?

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Timmy make it

by JPetey on Jul 6, 2008 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is he the only one? No Wilson or Rowand?

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

(Giants fan in my ear right now)

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nope

by JPetey on Jul 6, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

thanks JPetey!

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wilson is in too

JPetey is incorrect.

by kanderber on Jul 6, 2008 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

7, not too bad i'd say

by zjb on Jul 6, 2008 1:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

50 bucks richer today

I bet my brother 25 bucks Kerry would be an all star reliever and 25 bucks the Cubs would have at least 5 all stars.

50 bucks richer today!

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

/tepid applause

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let's celebrate by beating the Cards today!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

If

If in March someone would have told you the Cubs would have 2 starting pitchers make the all star team who would have picked Dempster as the 2nd one after Z?

I think we would have put Lilly and Hill as more likely.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 6, 2008 1:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You could have made a bundle making that bet!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

2007 Gameday link is wrong...

Here’s the real one – Link

by MillsChC on Jul 6, 2008 1:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hey, MLB.com says SF's Brian Wilson made it. Who's right?

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

he did make it

by zjb on Jul 6, 2008 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yup, sorry Northsider

just went back thru TBS coverage and he was right after Dempster, must have been distracted.

by JPetey on Jul 6, 2008 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So who should be the starting pitcher for NL?

Volquez?
Lincecum?

by JPetey on Jul 6, 2008 1:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Lincecum gets my vote.

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 6, 2008 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

me to

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm.....

Edmonds sitting today vs. a RHP? Tired, injured, or Lou pissed at him for not hustling?

A Murton sighting? Dome sitting against a RHP?

This looks like Lou’s “who needs two days off” lineup, not the “we need to beat the Cards” lineup.

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Jul 6, 2008 1:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

As much as I love having so many Cubs on the all-star team

I have to wonder if Fukodome, among others, might be better served recharging his batteries over the three day break.

by bluekoolaide on Jul 6, 2008 1:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Selfishly, I agree.

Everyone who plays in the ASG - especially first-timers - is exhausted afterwards. Lou will have to be careful about giving guys days off before and after.

That said, the Cubs are the best team in the NL right now, primarily because they have the best overall talent in the NL. The NL needs that talent to win, and the Cubs need the home-field advantage in the World Series. So, maybe it’s good that they are going, after all.

(I realize that I’m getting ahead of myself and thinking big here…)

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Jul 6, 2008 1:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow!

No White Sox pitchers on the All Star team.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Danks deserved to be on the team..

Having a great year.

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Jul 6, 2008 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No kidding!

Floyd too!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Can't believe Floyd got left off

by bluekoolaide on Jul 6, 2008 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A recount is needed!

Jason Varitek , an all star this year?

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 6, 2008 1:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Did I do my math correctly?

The AL has 7 more players than the NL?

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

GDA messed up and didn't do the Lou Piniella show.

Can anyone tell me what he said?

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Jul 6, 2008 1:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Have they announced the 32nd man ballot yet?

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Jul 6, 2008 1:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

FINAL VOTE BALLOT

Jermaine Dye, CHI Pat Burrell, PHI
Jason Giambi, NYY Corey Hart, MIL
Jose Guillen, KC Carlos Lee, HOU
Evan Longoria, TB Aaron Rowand, SF
Brian Roberts, BAL David Wright, NYM

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 1:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Longoria and Hart get my votes.

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Jul 6, 2008 2:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Longoria and Lee

by louslovechild on Jul 6, 2008 2:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Chip: 9 all stars on display

That’s right – and 7 of ‘em are OURS!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Jul 6, 2008 2:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Chicago Cubs Baseball Is On The Air!

"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun

by Bump Bailey on Jul 6, 2008 2:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Dome gets a day off

by cocknfire on Jul 6, 2008 2:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Game thread is up.

by sue369 on Jul 6, 2008 2:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Blackout BS again...

I’m in Muncie, IN (an hour outside of Indianapolis) and once again, the game is blacked out. Apparently Comcast thinks that I should be watching it on CSN, yet, they don’t carry that here (only FSN Ohio). This is getting old, but for those of you who can watch it, enjoy! How ‘bout I trade being able to watch yesterday’s game for today’s?

by schwarztech on Jul 6, 2008 2:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs