Wanted to pass along these encouraging observations from a friend of mine out in the Bay Area, who's a very good observer of the game (he plays some ball himself so he knows what he's talking about). 

 

Hope it helps us both, but it's "hard" to lose Harden. Basically, if he's

healthy (and that's the big wildcard) he's unhittable. He had a slight

meltdown in his last start, but that was a real anomaly. He has this

deceptively easy delivery style -- yet tops out in the high 90s.

 

I think this is the longest stretch he's been healthy, so hopefully he'll

last the rest of the season (and many more). He's really fun to watch pitch,

because he doesn't look like he's working at all, and batters are off

balance cuz they can't figure him out. Gaudin is good, too. His numbers

aren't that good this year, but he's a solid guy to have in the pen.

 

This should be a real shot in the arm to the Cubbies.

We shall see.....I'm thinking good thoughts about Harden-san's health and well-being.