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A Harden Day's Night: Cubs 7, Reds 3

The Cubs beat the Reds 7-3 last night, but I know all any Cubs fan wants to discuss this morning is the Cubs' acquisition of Rich Harden and Chad Gaudin from the A's, which was announced a couple of hours before game time.

So. What do I think? I haven't changed my mind. There's no doubt that Rich Harden has a great arm and can be one of the most dominant pitchers in the game -- when he's healthy, which he hasn't been since 2004, the only year he's spent an entire year in a major league rotation without spending some time on the DL. If he can avoid getting hurt, the Cubs have countered Milwaukee's acquisition of CC Sabathia -- though Jim Hendry says it wasn't a counter-move, that he's been after Harden for several weeks, and I believe him -- and in addition, strengthened their bullpen with Gaudin, who has a good arm and familiarity with Lou Piniella (he pitched for Piniella in Tampa). I want to stop here briefly to point out the hypocrisy of Sun-Times columnist Jay Mariotti, who yesterday practically begged Hendry to make this deal rightfreakingnow, and then today, after Hendry actually did so, raised the injury caution flag.

Hey, Jay! Got whiplash from turning this around so quickly?

At the ballpark, news of the deal spread by buzz -- overheard cellphone calls, then checks ourselves to confirm the rumors. BCB reader BartlettBob, sitting with us, let me use his iPhone to take a look at BCB, where one particular person was ecstatic, with many of the rest of you expressing happiness, but also caution due to the injury risk. And then the Cubs did something that I don't think I've ever seen before in a situation like this -- they posted news of the deal on the scoreboard and made a PA announcement, which was met with a loud ovation. (And my apologies to BCB reader aisle 209 -- with all the commotion regarding the trade, I never did get a chance to stop by your seat last night.)

These aren't the old Cubs, indeed.

Of the players sent to Oakland, in my mind the only one who might make enough of an impact to make the Cubs lament losing him is Sean Gallagher, who will move right into the A's rotation, and who has a chance to be a good starting pitcher for a long time. It should be mentioned that Harden is only four years older than Gallagher and is under the Cubs' control through the end of 2009. If healthy, this makes a deal where the Cubs have a slightly older and far better starter in exchange for a young guy who might get better -- but that's far from certain. Farewell to Matt Murton, vilified by some, loved by others, who never had much of a chance to play with the Cubs. He'll get it in Oakland, and good luck to him. I was never fond of Eric Patterson, who could play several positions, none of them well, and seemed to have all the baseball smarts of his brother. As for Josh Donaldson, many here loved the choice when he was picked a year ago, but he was struggling in the Midwest League and with the emergence of Geovany Soto, he is far from major-league ready.

Good job, Jim Hendry. And stay healthy, Rich Harden. (And don't forget the added benefit of getting someone who can speak Canadian with Ryan Dempster.)

This raises the question: which pitcher goes? The Cubs shipped a hitter and a pitcher (Gallagher and Murton) off the roster and added two pitchers. They won't carry 13 pitchers -- so who's gone? It may be, at long last, time to DFA Jason Marquis.

Now, before the salivating masses yell "DFA!!!1!!1!", let me remind you what "DFA" actually means. "Designated for assignment" means the club has ten days to do something with the player, and maybe the Cubs can take those ten days and make a trade involving Marquis, even if they have to eat a fair portion of Marquis' deal for 2009. It'd be worth it, because Harden is under contract for a reasonable price for next year. We'll find out something later today after it's announced whether Harden will start Friday or Saturday -- he was scheduled to start for the A's on Friday vs. the Angels (a start Gallagher will make now), and Friday was to be Marquis' turn. We await developments.

Note on this notes column by Toni Ginnetti in the Sun-Times, which contains this erroneous information:

Tuesday's trade wasn't the first between Hendry and A's general manager Billy Beane, and the history between the GMs aided completion of the six-player deal.

"We hashed out a lot of names over the last few weeks," Hendry said. "[Beane] is blunt, honest, he tries to trade talent for talent. We got what we wanted, and I'll be rooting like heck for those guys [the Cubs traded]."

In one of Hendry's first deals as Cubs GM, he got Mark Bellhorn from Oakland for Adam Morrissey. Last year, Hendry got Jason Kendall for Rob Bowen.

Mark Bellhorn was acquired on November 27, 2001 -- and that deal was made by Andy MacPhail, who was GM until July 5, 2002. Hendry did make a deal with Beane before last year -- he engineered the deal in which Michael Barrett was traded from Montreal to Oakland and then to the Cubs in exchange for Damian Miller at the end of the 2003 season. You're welcome, Toni, for the correction.

This trade reminds me of the Rick Sutcliffe deal in 1984 -- the Cubs gave up someone, Joe Carter, who was destined for stardom and who became a World Series hero. Sutcliffe led the Cubs to their first postseason play in 39 years and won the Cy Young Award; the 96 wins the '84 Cubs had is the most in the last 63 years. They didn't make the World Series, of course, but that wasn't Sutcliffe's fault. This deal has the chance to take us farther, to the Promised Land. Let it be so.

Oh, yes, there was a game last night, too. Well, Ryan Dempster became the Cubs' first 10-game winner, and except for the 4th inning where he got wild and walked four, allowing his only run, he threw a solid game. The Cubs hitters waited out Aaron Harang to the tune of seven bases on balls, and timely HR from Mike Fontenot (a 400-foot blast with no wind) and Geovany Soto put the game away early. There were also fine defensive plays from Jim Edmonds and Aramis Ramirez. The only sour note was a shaky 9th inning from Bob Howry, which forced Lou to get Michael Wuertz throwing with two out. Even the booing of Dusty Baker when he came out to make a pitching change was muted. We've moved on. The Rich Harden Era begins later this week -- Harden, who wore uniform #40 with the A's (the same number as Sutcliffe, for you numerologists), will undoubtedly get it gifted to him by its current wearer, pitching coach Larry Rothschild (who has worn three different numbers as a Cub coach, #40, #41, and #47).

So the Cubs match the Brewers' raise. Wouldn't it be fun to see Harden and Sabathia match up in Milwaukee later this month? Could happen. What a great ride this season has been, and it's barely into the second half. Fasten your seat belts, the best is yet to come.

Nice grab!
Jim Edmonds makes a diving catch of Jerry Hairston's fly ball

Nice hit!
Mike Fontenot sliding into 2nd after his 6th inning double

I got it!
Aramis Ramirez catching Brandon Phillips' popup in the 8th inning, with Ryan Theriot right there to help, and Mike Fontenot wondering, "What's going on over there?"

Cubs win!
Jay Bruce strikes out to end the game

Click on photos to open a larger version in a new browser window. All photos by David Sameshima

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I'm really excited about Gaudin as well.

I’ve been reading up about him since last night, and I definitely wouldn’t mind seeing him start. Could Marquis end up in the bullpen, if he’s not traded, you think?

"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk

by NittanyCub on Jul 9, 2008 8:20 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Beyond that...

... the Cubs won’t carry 13 pitchers. One of them will have to go.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Besides Wertz...

...I don’t really see any other possibilities besides Marquis.

BTW, Al, your roster page needs an update.

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I imagine the roster page will be updated by later today.

If it isn’t, send a note to bugreport (at) sbnation (dot) com.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not critical but this juncture needs to be managed well

The obvious move and one I think will happen is Marquis is traded, the likely targets are SD and SF (who by the consequence of the under .500 record of the NL West is in the race) who could use a starter. Gaudin could be traded along with Marquis. They could also make a trade to LAD as well.

Possible’s: SD Trade Marquis, Gaudin and Cedeno for Maddux or Wolf (whom I think is their real target) and Green. Wolf is relatively inexpensive and a lefty veteran for the 5th rotation spot, Greene is then traded to SF for Vizquel (who is expensive) but would fill in a fine bench role as a backup SS, switch hitter off the bench and good glove.

SF: Trade Marquis straight up for Vizquel (see above) simple money deal. Cubs in turn trade Cedeno to LAD for Lowe as their 5th starter

LAD Marquis and Cedeno for Lowe and a prospect.

I vote for #1 and in all honesty Wolf but would love to have Maddux for 10-11 starts.

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 9, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

IMHO

I think none of those happen.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good Lord

If you don’t like a post, flag it, or explain why you don’t like it. There’s a reason there’s an actions command next to comments—enough of this -1, +1 business

"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk

by NittanyCub on Jul 9, 2008 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

+1

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jul 9, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

Hahaha

Nice

"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk

by NittanyCub on Jul 9, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LMAO

Well played!

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

by Bump Bailey on Jul 9, 2008 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

UM

You can only “Flag” something as spam, a troll, or inappropriate, so that wouldn’t work as well the the Recommend action. You have a point thought. The +/-1’s are getting a bit outta hand.

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

by JohnM on Jul 9, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's what I thought -1 meant.

Or he could do the latter, and actually explain why he doesn’t like it. It’s a crazy idea of explaining your thoughts in coherent sentences, I know.

"I think Hendry still has a few years to serve on his 'grand larceny' sentence before he can shop in Pittsburgh again" - ballhawk

by NittanyCub on Jul 9, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the +1 or -1

is the same as “I agree with what you said” without writing it all out. My interpretation of a flag is to notify Al if someone was using bad language or insulting people on here. I don’t see anything wrong with the +1, -1 business.

A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson

by tucsoncubsfan on Jul 9, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

word

"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 9, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If you don't

like them ignore them. All he’s saying is he disagrees.

by sue369 on Jul 9, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Requesting a recommendation?

For that I just flagged you.

:D

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 9, 2008 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

eh.

the Z key is just a click away.

"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 9, 2008 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

How many does it take?

Don’t see it green yet…

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

by Bump Bailey on Jul 9, 2008 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Tis greener than recycled paper.

Looks a wee Irish, actually.

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 9, 2008 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I saw it green

with four recs.

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 9, 2008 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

I don't see why this is such a big deal

No one here is obligated to provide anyone else with reading material.

Subtlety can speak volumes, too, and I don’t see anything wrong with a quick nod (or headshake) to an opinion with a subtle +1/-1.

I agree with your comment on the recommend, but not on the +1/1 - sorry.

by Shanghai Badger on Jul 9, 2008 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

+1

Someone had to.

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 9, 2008 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Go green, Badger.

Go green.

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 9, 2008 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the obvious move

is to do nothing. We don’t need Vizquel, and the whole point of getting Gaudin was to be a backup when Harden’s arm falls off.

"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 9, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, lord, not the Vizquel thing again.

I mean, we might as well bring Don Kessinger out of retirement. Vizquel is DONE DONE DONE.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Touche.

No, MORE done than Edmonds. Well done. Roasted to a crisp.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

FWIW

I totally agree on Vizquel.

by DGU on Jul 9, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

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

by Bump Bailey on Jul 9, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm sorry but this is about the dumbest thing I've seen in weeks

If the Cubs actually got Khalil Greene you want to trade him for Omar Vizquel?

by rlpete on Jul 9, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Plus

Why would LA trade Lowe for Cedano? They need a SS but they also need starting pitchers (they were on the fringe of the CC trade). They’re in the race since Arizona has crashed back to earth, why would they trade Lowe? Doesn’t add up.

And oh yeah, trading for Khalil Greene for Omar Vizquel would be monumentally stupid.

I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said, but I am not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant. - Robert McCloskey

by pageian on Jul 9, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Kemp

can play center. I’d take him over Johnson/Edmonds.

I know that you believe that you understood what you think I said, but I am not sure you realize that what you heard is not what I meant. - Robert McCloskey

by pageian on Jul 9, 2008 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The almost 200K pace is a bit of a concern

"We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope."

by californiachicagoan on Jul 9, 2008 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm SOOOO glad you're not the Cubs GM.

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

by Bump Bailey on Jul 9, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No way

Baseball is not a video game. Trades like your number one simply do not happen. Trades like number two are simply fantasy. Cedeno is not going to be traded straight up for Derek Lowe, ever….

In the middle of a good time, Truth gave me her icy kiss. Look around, you must be joking. All that way, all that way for this -Oysterband

by Ross on Jul 9, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Again. Gaudin is not going to be moved. He was the whole key to the trade.

Stop including him in your ridiculous trade scenarios.

Alan Trammell: Assistant (to the) Manager

by northsider on Jul 9, 2008 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nah.

He’s been okay lately.

These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"

by slcathena on Jul 9, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They;d still have Marshall

But he might be the one to get sent down.

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

by JohnM on Jul 9, 2008 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fractured Testicle

Sorry couldn’t help myself

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Jul 9, 2008 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ouch!

Who’s gonna take one for the team?

by Itchy on Jul 9, 2008 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Isn't Ryan Dempster..

..a free agent after this season? I could see the Cubs holding on to Marquis just in case Dempster jumps ship after ‘08…I’m not saying I think he will, but you never know - under the worst-case scenario, we’d be left with Z, Harden, Lilly, and Marshall - WHAT would the Cubs do if an injury happened, ie.: Harden?

"I never drink water because of the disgusting things fish do in it" -W.C. Fields

by calicubfan on Jul 9, 2008 8:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, Dempster is eligible for Free Agency after the 2008 season

as are the following Cubs:

Henry Blanco
Scott Eyre
Bob Howry
Jon Lieber
Daryle Ward
Kerry Wood

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Jul 9, 2008 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So would it be smart...

..for the Cubs to rush on dumping Marquis? I know he’s no ace, or even a #2 or 3, but he IS a big league pitcher that is signed for next season and he could come in handy in case of injury etc.

"I never drink water because of the disgusting things fish do in it" -W.C. Fields

by calicubfan on Jul 10, 2008 12:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thank you

Jim Hendry. Super deal for the Cubs. What I really love is that JH got the deal done so soon before the deadline. What a coup! Also, yet another big homer from Mike Fontenot, or “Little Babe,” as Ronny called him last night.

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue." - George F. Will

by Slakkr on Jul 9, 2008 8:21 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Heh...

Lou called him “Little Fontenot” when he was announcing the lineup w/ Ronnie yesterday, too >8)

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Last night

I was talking to my brother this morning who was there last night and said there was a palpable excitement in the air as word got around about the trade. I called him on his cell to let him know something was going on.

He said word spread like wildfire but the official announcement was a nice touch.

Not to bring up bad memories but the McGriff deal was put on the centerfield message board as well.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:25 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

McGriff

Exactly what last night reminded me of.

by gocubsgo22 on Jul 9, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fortunately, this time we are getting an actual good player...

... instead of someone who didn’t even want to be here.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

McGriff

I remember all the excitement over him. I was at his first game as a Cub. Turned out to be one of the most disappointing acquisitions they ever made. He took the life out of that team.

"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979

by danimal15 on Jul 9, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

2-0

McGriff beat the cards with two solo shots in the only game I saw him play live, so I have a decent memory of him.

by Wad on Jul 9, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That was a bust

As far as I could tell it was a move to try and get some protection for Sammy because we didn’t seem to get that THAT was what we really lost when we moved Gracie (a move I’m still mad about by the way—I was really glad he got his ring).

These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"

by slcathena on Jul 9, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Melvin to Hendry then Hendry to Melvin

Melvin to Hendry “Check”
Hendry to Melvin “Checkmate”

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:26 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

MIKE AND MIKE

My 08 Cubs record 7-0
Updated June 01

by Rudey on Jul 9, 2008 8:27 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Huh?

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I guess I'll help him out, Hendry is on Mike and Mike right now.

So far nothing that hasn’t been said over the past 24 hours.

Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs

by nji232 on Jul 9, 2008 8:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh.

Thanks.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The other question -

Who comes up if the Cubs dump a pitcher?

by DGU on Jul 9, 2008 8:28 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Probably Hoffpauir...

... for a short time until Soriano comes back.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Or do they just ride out 13 pitchers

until Soriano comes back, hoping to trade whomever is the odd man out. I think Wuertz could get traded here, too.

by DGU on Jul 9, 2008 8:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I should clarify.

I mean we all want Marquis gone, but it could be Wuertz who is gone, instead.

by DGU on Jul 9, 2008 8:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sutcliffe/Harden

Al I had similar thoughts about Sutcliffe and Harden. They even will wear the same number.

But does that mean like the outfielder that went in the Sutcliffe deal. Murton will one day in the future be the worst announcer in Cubs history like Carter?

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:28 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

+1

Just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand. - Homer J Simpson

by MikeOxbyg on Jul 9, 2008 8:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

*LAUGH*

Joe Carter: So (former Bear) Jim (McMahon)...do you stay in touch with Pete Rozelle?

McMahon: That would be hard to do, considering he’s been dead for several years.

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL!

"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979

by danimal15 on Jul 9, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LMAO

He really asked him that?

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

by Bump Bailey on Jul 9, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's the first listing...

...that I came across:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2002/08/21/SP151181.DTL&type=printable

I’ve heard the stations around town play the clip every so often, but I wasn’t able to dig up an audio link to post here…

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jim Hendry pulled off a tremendous deal

The Cubs are built to win now, the rotation had screaming need for a frontline starting pitcher, the bullpen is not as deep as it should be, St. Louis and Milwaukee are breathing down our necks…..so what does Jim Hendry do? He pulls off an outstanding deal for an ace caliber starting pitcher and a valuable swingman. And he does it in a manner that doesn’t send the payroll spiraling upwards a zillion miles an hour.

Sean Gallagher IS a good young pitcher. He has a nice upside. I’ve always thought of him as a potential better version of Steve Trachsel. Which is a good thing.

Don’t look for Jason Marquis to be DFA’d. I see no way the Cubs are going to swallow nearly $12 million in salary. More than likely the fading Michael Wuertz is send packing.

Rich Harden Fever, Catch It !!!!!!!!!!

by MDBNIU on Jul 9, 2008 8:28 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Whatever

It’s plain to see that this was only a salary dump move by the A’s. They get rid of a 7million dollar option for next year and gain a pitcher that they control for 2.5 years before he can even go to arbitration.
Hendry is a vulture who can only make trades with teams having fire sales. Where’s the level playing field?

Hendry deserves no credit here at all for this trade.

Right Mike?

by ScottT on Jul 9, 2008 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

$7 mil...

...isn’t to shabby for a year of your best starter’s time these days.

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Vulture?

Salary Dump my rump. Seven big bills is nothing for a starter with the talent of Harden.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Jul 9, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yahoo Sports is saying Edmonds is day to day

with a jammed finger. Anyone have any word on this?

by DGU on Jul 9, 2008 8:29 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

No, but...

... it’s possible he did this on that diving catch in the first inning last night. It would explain the bad at-bats he had the rest of the night.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He jammed his thumb on Saturday in the Slid into home

...maybe that is the “finger” they are referring to

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Jul 9, 2008 8:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oops

I thought it was Sunday.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's been banged up for two weeks

Time to give him a blow and play Reed Johnson for a few days with Mark DeRosa hanging out in left field until Soriano is back and/or Edmonds is sufficiently healed from his nicks and scrapes.

Rich Harden Fever, Catch It !!!!!!!!!!

by MDBNIU on Jul 9, 2008 8:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agree

Good idea. Edmonds and Fukudome and DeRosa have been doing a great job holding down the fort without Soriano and also without Johnson for a couple of weeks.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Edmonds

I thought I read Edmonds was having his finger xrayed yesterday and he hurt it Sunday.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't believe

Edmonds played on Sunday, I believe it was Reed out in center.

"Go Cubs Go"

by mkcubs21 on Jul 9, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The only thing I don't get

What I don’t get is some writers and talk radio people saying the Cubs didn’t have an ace.

Excuse me but I think Zambrano is an ace.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:31 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Good Point

I see Leiber as having less value to the Cubs right now than Marquis or Wuertz

"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue." - George F. Will

by Slakkr on Jul 9, 2008 8:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'll guess Wuertz is gone

Jon Lieber has proved valuable, although not quite as valuable as hoped. I think Lou likes him a great deal, to include his selflessness and willingness to pitch in multiple roles. Plus he is making $3.5 million. No way Marquis is gone given the size of his contract thru 2009. Wuertz meanwhile has clearly faded on the depth chart. Lou doesn’t have a lot of faith in him at this point.

Rich Harden Fever, Catch It !!!!!!!!!!

by MDBNIU on Jul 9, 2008 8:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wuertz does have some trade value....

... no matter what you think of his performance, which has been mediocre. Maybe they can deal him somewhere for a prospect.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

Or maybe they can net a bench player for him.

Rich Harden Fever, Catch It !!!!!!!!!!

by MDBNIU on Jul 9, 2008 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Possibly.

See, you and I CAN agree sometimes!

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Mike Wuertz

Is clutch before the 7th inning. Especially when the pitching change is quiet enough that half the ball park does not notice he is in for a few hitters.

by gocubsgo22 on Jul 9, 2008 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I believe Wuertz has an option left.

That would allow them to send him to AAA.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Jul 9, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I believe Wuertz can refuse an assignment to the minors

since he has at least three years of MLB service time.

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Jul 9, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I may have misspoke in the above post

Wuertz can refuse an Outright Assignment to the minors since he has at least 3 years of MLB service.

Players with at least 5 years of MLB service can refuse an Optional Assignment to the minors. Wuertz has 3+ YOS (less than 5).

Assuming “outright” and “optional” mean what I think they mean, Wuertz will not be given an Outright Assignment but can be given an Optional Assignment. He has one option year left.

I guess GM’s have to know the ins and outs of the CBA, huh?

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Jul 9, 2008 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

furthermore,

Wuertz would have to clear Optional Assignment Waivers before being sent down.

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Jul 9, 2008 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

I think Wuertz goes too. He has more trade value since he is still relatively young and can pitch a lot better than he has been pitching for us. Plus, Lieber is more versatile and Lou likes him more.

"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome

by gwood on Jul 9, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

which is why

of course, Lou brought him in when Howry struggled.

To the moon, Alice!

"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 9, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

How?

Marquis is only a starter and Wuertz is only a reliever. Lieber can do both.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's a nice problem to have isn't it?

Trying to decide who to send down, when everyone is contributing…

by digitalbenjamin on Jul 9, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I also notice...

...that they’re quick to compare Milwaukee’s rotation to ours as “Sheets/Sabathia vs. Zambrano/Harden”. No mention of the pitcher who’s actually leading our staff in victories, or the solid lefty.

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

1-2

1-2 we match them it’s 3-4 where we are better in my opinion and 5 probably too.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Is there a chance...

...that Leiber is the one to go? I would certainly rather see Marquis, but Jon is just getting so little work this year.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Jul 9, 2008 8:33 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Not Lieber

Lieber has shown he can pitch in the pen and the rotation and I think Jim and Lou want to have him for injury insurance.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But now that we have Gaudin....

he’s basically the same type of pitcher…..long relief, spot starter. And the reason Hendry included him in the deal was as insurance against a Harden injury.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Jul 9, 2008 8:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lieber

hasn’t been as valuable as we hoped because Lou hasn’t used him as we all thought he would.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Jul 9, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I guess I was...

...figuring that Gaudin would essentially fill the role meant for Gallagher as he returned to the bullpen. Similar to Lieber’s role, but a separate roster spot.

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Although

Although the Cubs may be able to get something for Lieber in a trade. Nothing much but something.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gaudin

I’d consider sending Gaudin to AAA and putting him in the rotation to keep him fresh in case a Cub starter (perhaps Harden) goes down with an injury.

"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979

by danimal15 on Jul 9, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think Gaudin goes straight to the pen

and I think it’s a good move.

These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"

by slcathena on Jul 9, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed.

Yesterday some were saying on various outlets that he could in fact be “Marmol Insurance” becuase of his style- nasty slider and a good sinker

Brian McRae's 5 O'Clock Shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jul 9, 2008 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sight seen last night at Wrigley...

..The guy next to us had made his own Rich Harden jersey already. Had the number 40 and everything.

I love it!

by JB 23 on Jul 9, 2008 8:33 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

wow

must be a seamstress

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Jul 9, 2008 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well...

It was a guy, so he’d be a seamster. Wonder if he’s in the Seamster’s Union.

by John Q Freejazz on Jul 9, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

good point

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Jul 9, 2008 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What did he look like ?

I’ll bet it was our own MDBNIU aka Blue Mike

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

by Doggie Stalker on Jul 9, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Adam Harben

Anybody know who this dude is? He is on our 40 man Roster and I can’t find him on any Minor League Roster. Supposedly he was picked up in the Phil Nevin trade to the twins but I don’t recall seeing him on the 40 man before.

"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey

by TheRiot Police on Jul 9, 2008 8:34 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Harben was acquired from the Twins in the Phil Nevin deal...

... as you said. He was put on the 40-man last offseason. He could easily just be released.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ugh.

Worthless.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

I think a number got left off. And that number is 5.21. Still ugh.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's certainly the guy

you’d want to knock off the 40-man. He really doesn’t have any business being there anyway.

Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?

by Josh77 on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We traded three guys of the 40-man...

...and only got two back. So I’m not worried about it right now.

by cwyers on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

According to Phil Rogers' scale, we are now -1.

"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Jul 9, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

-2 if you count Donaldson.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

Er, -1, um….forget it.

"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Jul 9, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Isn't Chad Fox

on the 40 man?

"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 9, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah.

One could easily move him to the 60-day DL at this point, though, if we needed the roster spot. Which we really don’t.

by cwyers on Jul 9, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

sure

I’m just saying, if you’re going to move someone, he’s the guy to move; does he even put a uniform on anymore?

"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 9, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Marquis

Marquis is nothing to write home about but in his last 10 starts in 8 of them he has at least gone into the 6th and given up 4 or less runs. Nothing great but he is the 5th starter.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:37 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

The rotation shouldn't be that difficult...

Z
Harden
Dempster
Lilly
Marquis

Marshall can be the emergency starter (when Harden misses time) and Lieber can continue to be the long man.

Marquis has always been a 5th starter, and now he can slide right into that role. No big deal.

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Jul 9, 2008 8:37 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I'd rather have Marshall

as a 5th starter.

LIeber can be an emergency starter. Marquis can go play for the Yankees, who will take anyone who can throw

Think of how stupid the average person is, and remember, half of them are stupider than that!

by DaBard on Jul 9, 2008 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Yankees might actually take Marquis.

Worth investigating, anyway.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yankees

At this point Al the Yankees would take me or you if we could throw a baseball.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Only if Brian Cashman

is on vacation and Hank Steinbrenner makes the trade.

Cashman is too smart for the Yankees to get swindled these days.

Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?

by Josh77 on Jul 9, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not thinking the Cubs are looking for a swindle at this point with Marquis.

Just someone they could split the contract with and get a face-saving prospect.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Too Smart?

IMO Cashman may be the worst GM in baseball. Look at all the resources he has and show me what exactly he’s done with it. He’s signed old players who were already past their prime. Randy Johnson, Kevin Brown, Carl Pavano, Bobby Abreu,etc… With the money they spend they should be getting players in their prime. Sure he’s held on to Hughes and Kennedy, but what have they done. I honestly can’t figure out why Cashman still has a job. He’s lucky this year that Mussina has scraped it together and Pettitte’s arm is still dangling by it’s thread.

"There's nothing wrong with this team that more hitting, more pitching, more fielding, and more hitting couldn't help." Bill Buckner

by Rotodaddy on Jul 9, 2008 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cashman's hands have been tied by Big Stein for years

...you can be certain Stein wanted Brown, Randy et al…

Cashman is highly regarded by his peers for not only dealing with a lunatic as an owner but for his baseball as well

by JB 23 on Jul 9, 2008 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dead on Al--exactly what I was thinking

Yankees are playing better and could use a starter—Marquis is from NYC….think they’d give us Jeter for him?

:c-)

"Red Sox Nation: In your opinion, who’s the best player not in the HOF?
Bill James: Ron Santo" October 2004.

by cubfever7 on Jul 9, 2008 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jeter?

He of the .735 OPS?

Ick!

Theriot’s is .752… I doubt his defense is as good as Jeter’s, but still… I think I’d stick with Scrap-iot :)

by Slim1256 on Jul 9, 2008 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

and do what with him?

have him sing the stretch?

I’d prefer someone who will actually be useful in the long run…

"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 9, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Only if

they take ALL his salary. I think he’s due to make upwards of $9m next year.

I think you might be right simply because Lou has said that he wants two lefties in the rotation, which would make the rotation:
Z
Lilly
Harden
Marshall
Dempster

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Jul 9, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree. Marshall has been better than Marquis.....

The poem fails when it strays too far from the song, and the song fails when it strays too far from the dance ~ Ezra Pound

by crazymountain on Jul 9, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm impressed by the deal on so many levels.

The fact that JH got 2 pitchers out of this is fantastic. I was almost as excited when the announced they got Gaudin. I think he will be important down the stretch and helps the bullpen a ton. The fact that Harden is under contract for next year at pretty much a bargain price of 7 mill is good too.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 8:37 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Impressive it is!!!! Getting Gaudin

is almost as if he was the main piece. I have seen him a couple times, he is a good pitcher in his own right. Great move for the Cubs….

The poem fails when it strays too far from the song, and the song fails when it strays too far from the dance ~ Ezra Pound

by crazymountain on Jul 9, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

for me

getting him is what makes this trade not a disaster.

"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 9, 2008 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, we traded Sean for two pitchers....

Murton and Patterson had no future here and Donaldson is blocked by Soto. Great deal for the Cubs AND a bonus if Harden stays healthy…...I like it…

The poem fails when it strays too far from the song, and the song fails when it strays too far from the dance ~ Ezra Pound

by crazymountain on Jul 9, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know

a lot of people see it that way. However, I worry that we traded Sean for a pitcher and a Prior.

"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 9, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

After CC, this was the BEST deal

injury history aside, compare the contracts of Burnett and Harden. No comparison. Yes, it is a risk; however the fact is that we got the best available pitcher. And another good pitcher.

The poem fails when it strays too far from the song, and the song fails when it strays too far from the dance ~ Ezra Pound

by crazymountain on Jul 9, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I will respectfully

disagree, and hope that I am wrong, the way a lot of us were wrong on Edmonds.

"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 9, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, I was the most wrong about Edmonds.....

God I hated that deal when it happened. I am SO glad I was wrong….And I hope I used all my “wrong” on Edmonds and this turns out to be a steal….....

The poem fails when it strays too far from the song, and the song fails when it strays too far from the dance ~ Ezra Pound

by crazymountain on Jul 9, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly...

Sean is grading out to be a #3 guy and we got a #1 or 2 guy for him. Also for another year.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

C. Kahrl at Baseball Prospectus, an admitted A's fan

says Gaudin is better than Gallagher right now.

by DGU on Jul 9, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've very disappointed...

That Dusty Baker wasn’t booed. Far as I’m concerned, he should be booed for the rest of his life for what he allowed the players to do to Steve Stone.

As for the trade, I’m thrilled. Al, when it comes to Mariotti, I think you have to consider the possibility that he had no idea Harden had such a DL history until he read the stories about the trade. I think he just remembered, “Hey, Rich Harden is good. Let’s get him!,” wrote a column about it and then found out.

I mean he IS a TV star now. He doesn’t have time for details.

Think of how stupid the average person is, and remember, half of them are stupider than that!

by DaBard on Jul 9, 2008 8:39 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Let the Steve Stone stuff go.

And the Baker stuff too. We’re past that. He’s just the manager of another team now.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

Dusty was booed. I was at the game, too. It’s time to get past this. He made excuses, but took them farther in 2003 than anyone else could have.

by Shanghai Badger on Jul 9, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Im so sick

Im so sick of everyone taking Stone’s side on this especially as the media has refused to let the players involved tell their side of the story.

Not saying what they did was right it was wrong but chances are pretty good Stone embellished the story quite a bit.

And if you honestly believe there have never been problems between the players and Stone before that happened.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd love to hear Alou's side of the story

He might change it 15 times, like he did with the Bartman situation, but it’s worth a listen.

Think of how stupid the average person is, and remember, half of them are stupider than that!

by DaBard on Jul 9, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Also

Steve Stone’s stony silence when Kerry Wood was named to the All Star team speaks volumes about him.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well said

I think it’s clear that Kerry had some words with Stone in the past about Stone’s “analysis” which essentially consisted of saying Kerry’s arm will fall off one day.

Stone is a good commentator, but is a pompous ass.

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Jul 9, 2008 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You got that right!

He’ll rub someone one the Southside wrong and then he’ll be workin for the D’backs with the rest of the Chicago rejects!

by Itchy on Jul 9, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+20

"Red Sox Nation: In your opinion, who’s the best player not in the HOF?
Bill James: Ron Santo" October 2004.

by cubfever7 on Jul 9, 2008 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Don't know what to comment on first

So I’ll start with the game. I can’t figure out how Dempster avoids giving up more runs. At times, it seems like if he didn’t walk anyone, he would be throwing perfect games. Last night, except for that one inning, he was the exceptional Dempster again.

Like everyone else here, I am ecstatic about Harden joining our team. He has the skills to take our rotation to the next level. Let’s just hope he stays healthy.

P.S. Mariotti’s flip flopping is stunning.

"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome

by gwood on Jul 9, 2008 8:40 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Mariotti

Can you imagine a poor waitperson in a restaurant waiting on him?

Okay I’ll have the steak. No I’ll have the lobster. No I’ll have the tilapia.

Waitperson brings out tilapia.

No I want the steak. I always wanted the steak.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Usually Mariotti...

... waits six months or so before he flip-flops, figuring most people would have forgotten the earlier story. Never saw him do it in one day before.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Successful and winning teams = less column material for Mariotti

So of course he’s going to poke holes at things. The fact that Jerry Reinsdorf and the White Sox won a World Series in this town significantly deflated his balloon in Chicago. With Ozzie and the Sox having a surprising year once again and the Cubs poised for a legitimate World Series run Mariotti is left counting the days until Bears training camp opens.

Rich Harden Fever, Catch It !!!!!!!!!!

by MDBNIU on Jul 9, 2008 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Imagine his brainstorming sessions

“Well, the Cubs and Sox won today, the Bulls signed Rose as I said they should, the Bears are too far away from mini-camp to be relevant, and the Hawks are a feel-good story….Honey….I can’t think of anything to bitch about in my column. Help!”

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Jul 9, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

the Rush lost

and are out of the playoffs. So sad :(

Go ahead, Z me.

by tony412 on Jul 9, 2008 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dempster is a wily son of a gun

I give him credit. He gets into some tight situations of his own doing. But he typically doesn’t melt, sucks it up and somehow keeps his team in a game. There are lots of pitchers who would have crumbled or imploded under the situations he got himself into the last couple of games. Dempster reminds me of Jack Morris in this regard.

Rich Harden Fever, Catch It !!!!!!!!!!

by MDBNIU on Jul 9, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the stressful situations involved with being a closer

has really helped Dempster. Has that experience of pitching in not so good situations and finding a way to get out of them.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dempster did a really nice job after all the walks...

... retired 10 in a row after that.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Demp was straight up on after that.

It was pretty to see.

These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"

by slcathena on Jul 9, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You gotta give Demp credit

He worked his a$$ off this off-season to get himself in shape and it seems to have really paid off. His mental toughness is what impresses me the most. He pitches himself into these jams, but doesn’t fold. He keeps throwing his pitches and somehow gets the other team to get themselves out. It amazing and a pleasure to watch (since he is on our team of course).

"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome

by gwood on Jul 9, 2008 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Word.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And now we have TWO Canadian starters

Because if memory serves Rich Harden is originally from Victoria BC. “Oh Canada….”

Rich Harden Fever, Catch It !!!!!!!!!!

by MDBNIU on Jul 9, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's hoping

they start singing the Canadian National Anthem before Dempster’s and Harden’s starts.

by madeindetroit on Jul 9, 2008 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe I'll learn more of the words then

“Oh, Canada ???”

"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome

by gwood on Jul 9, 2008 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Official Lyrics of O Canada!

Official Lyrics of O Canada!
O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!

O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.

With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!

From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

by adam316 on Jul 9, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

"Psst!

Act!”

"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Jul 9, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

“Good day, I’m Bob and this is my brother Doug. How’s it going eh?”

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

"Dad!

Bob broke yer beer!”

“You a$$holes!”

"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Jul 9, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thank you

at least now I can say that I have seen all the words to the song.

"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome

by gwood on Jul 9, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not only are they both from Canada

but they’re both from the same province, British Columbia. I doubt any team in MLB history has at the same time had two starters from B.C.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Jul 9, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Morris

He actually looks a bit like Jack Morris, too, now that you mention it.

"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979

by danimal15 on Jul 9, 2008 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not really.

Dempster:

Morris:

I’m not seeing the resemblance.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not his face - just his physique.

"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979

by danimal15 on Jul 9, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh.

Well, maybe.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cardinals

Maybe the Cardinals will overpay to try and match this trade and make a dumb move.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 8:45 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

They might make a move but

nothing drastic because of a knee jerk reaction. They rarely make bad moves.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Jul 9, 2008 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They love Burnett

and now they think he’ll come cheap after watching the Cubs get Harden without hurting the team or future

by Itchy on Jul 9, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lost in last night's game:

From the game notes on Espn.com….

Cubs LF Alfonso Soriano said he’ll wait until after the All-Star break to start playing again. On the DL since June 12 with a broken left hand, Soriano said he does plan to attend the All-Star Game in New York, even if he can’t play.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Jul 9, 2008 8:47 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That's fine.

The team is winning again (3 of 4, 5 of 8). They have a top notch starting pitcher arriving this week. Let Soriano heal completely.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

I think it’ll be nice when he’s back, but he needs to get back w/ the least amount of chance for a recurrance.

Early on in his DL stay, I heard folks talk like a rehab stint might be in order. Then, until this latest news, it seemed like they were going to simply plug him straight into the lineup upon his return. Maybe this extra time will allow him to shake the rust off somewhere before rejoining the active roster?

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hope he has a rehab...

he needs to get the rust off down in the minors. He didn’t last time this year and looked bad in the field and struggled at the plate for a couple of weeks. Let him get that out of his system in AAA.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979

by danimal15 on Jul 9, 2008 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Smart Move On Soriano's Part

It’s just good common sense to not risk anything over a meaningless* exhibition game.

  • - but I hope the NL wins!

Eat More Katsui

by CaliCub on Jul 9, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what?

that guess-hack selfish stats-whoring hopping bad left-fielder! How selfish of him to take time off!

"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 9, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks a bunch

I was just about to ask you guys if you knew what was going on with Soriano. I would also like to see him get some time in the minors to get back in playing form.

by Mapmaker on Jul 9, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What were D Lee and Mike F jawing about last night??

Late in the game, Fontenot went to his left quite a ways to make a nice play, throwing out the batter at 1st. Then he and Lee appeared to exchange words, and neither seemed very happy. Anyone know what that was about?

Cubs Win!! Cubs Win!

by Ihatethecards on Jul 9, 2008 8:49 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I saw that

and I think Fontenot threw the ball before Derek got to the base. Lee did not look happy.

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Jul 9, 2008 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Do either of you remember

an approximate inning?

"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome

by gwood on Jul 9, 2008 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanx

I want to watch the mlb.tv replay to see it

"Very adroit in the outfield." - Lou, on Dome

by gwood on Jul 9, 2008 8:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

me too. interesting.

These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"

by slcathena on Jul 9, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

let us know what you make of it...

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

by Bump Bailey on Jul 9, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jay Bruce

O-4 with 4 Ks. Not too impressive in his 1st start at Wrigley. Is Dustyball stunting his growth?

"I don't think anybody's paying attention to the Cubs." - Prince Fielder

by jasoniniowa on Jul 9, 2008 8:52 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

He's hitting .230 in June and July

The league has caught up with him after his torrid start.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Jul 9, 2008 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No the league figured him out.

Missouri Tigers 2008 Cotton Bowl Champs

by nji232 on Jul 9, 2008 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

he looked awful....I dont think Cotts threw him one strike

...of course Cotts didnt throw any strikes last night

by JB 23 on Jul 9, 2008 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

Nicely played!

Eat More Katsui

by CaliCub on Jul 9, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Don't blame this one on Dusty

He’s just having his adjustment to the majors troubles. (and his career start was a massive fluke, anyway.) Dusty is playing him everyday and leaving him alone. The league is just figuring out ways to pitch him.

He should still be a great player. Just not this season.

Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?

by Josh77 on Jul 9, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Pshaw!

Bruce is another Corey Patterson, just like Pie. Real prospects hit immediately and consistently when they hit the majors, just like this guy.

by DGU on Jul 9, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hmm

“Real prospects hit immediately and consistently when they hit the majors.”

Really? Ever check George Brett’s or Mike Schmidt’s first-year stats? Brett went 5 for 40 as a call-up in 1973. Schmidt hit .196 in 367 at bats the same year.

Yes – some prospects do hit well right when they get to the majors – Ryne Sandberg and Eddie Murray are good examples. Others take a few years to develop.

"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979

by danimal15 on Jul 9, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

he's being sarcastic

"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 9, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Viva el Birdos...

...ought to be an interesting read today.

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 8:52 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Who goes down?

Might Marshall be the odd man out? I hope not, because I personally like Marshall a lot, but I think he can be sent back down to Iowa (to stretch out as a reliever, perhaps?), leaving Marquis (I know) as the 5th starter….

Either way, I love the Harden trade. Gutsy, bold move, but one that contending teams need to make to win it all.

Plus, it cannot be overstated—even if Harden were to miss time (god forbid), the Cubs pitching staff is essentially unchanged from the day before the trade. Gallagher was in the bullpen, meaning our 5 starters were Z, Dempster, Lilly, Marquis, and Marshall. Now, Marshall/Marquis might move to the bullpen (or minors), and are available (along with Lieber) if Harden (or anyone) misses any time. And to fill Gallagher’s spot in the bullpen? We got Gaudin.

A masterful trade….we lost one piece we could use (Gallagher, who I think may be special in the long run), and three pieces that we really couldn’t find playing time for (Murton and Patterson because our team is pretty deep in terms of LFers and middle infielders; Donaldson because Soto’s play blocks him for the foreseeable future).

by Chadnudj on Jul 9, 2008 8:54 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

My gut feeling is that either Marshall goes down the AAA to stay stretched out...

...or Cotts goes because Lou wasn’t thrilled with how he pitched last night.

by cwyers on Jul 9, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You think Lou would base that decision on one start?

I thought Cotts was actually starting to throw better as of late. (Didn’t get a chance to see last nights game though).

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Jul 9, 2008 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's Lou Piniella.

And Marshall pitched very well in his last outing.

by cwyers on Jul 9, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cotts

won’t go anywhere. He seems to be Lou’s favorite lefty out of the pen these days.

"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979

by danimal15 on Jul 9, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can't imagine he's too happy with Howry these days either.

but he, along with all the Cajuns, seems above criticism in Lou’s eyes.

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

by Bump Bailey on Jul 9, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agree with you on many things there..

the biggest thing about this trade is just what you said. If something were to happen with Harden where he does become injured, our rotation is basically the same. Plus we picked up another guy, Gaudin, who can start. Gallagher is the only guy in that trade who was showing true value this year, Murton and Patterson really didn’t have a true spot on the team and Donaldson is a toss up b/c he is still a few years away. As a whole i think Hendry did a great job.

"Go Cubs Go"

by mkcubs21 on Jul 9, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cotts will go ( for now)

Basically unless they want to make a rush deal he is the one they can send down
and keep( besides Marshall who I think Lou wants to keep, love them lefties) Later maybe they can make a trade for Wuertz or eat at least 80% of Marquis salary to get him off their hands. I have said this a lot. Marquis is not that bad but Lou does not trust him and will skip him whenever possible. I think he sticks with Marshall for now.

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

by Doggie Stalker on Jul 9, 2008 8:57 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Cotts has pitched well lately and is a Lefty...

I would think it would be Wuertz before Cotts.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Jul 9, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I would be VERY surprised if it's Cotts...

If they aren’t going to use Marshall in the rotation I would send him down to keep stretched out.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But Wuertz can not be sent down

Cotts can. Like I said I think it would be temporary till a deal for Wuertz or someone else
is worked out. I think Lou wants to keep Marshall in the rotation.

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

by Doggie Stalker on Jul 9, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well...

they aren’t going to take Marquis out of the rotation. He’s making too much to be a reliever and already expressed in Spring he wouldn’t do it. So, unless they can trade Marquis I don’t see Marshall in the rotation right now. Down the road I think he will be back in it.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I want Marquis gone...

But if he’s traded, the rotation is:

Zambrano, Harden, Dempster, Lilly and Marshall.

Who steps in if someone is hurt? Lieber? Someone from AAA? Who’ve we got that’s ready?

Think of how stupid the average person is, and remember, half of them are stupider than that!

by DaBard on Jul 9, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gaudin, possibly.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gaudin...

Part of the reason they wanted him in the trade. He’s a long reliever who can spot start.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

There's also Kevin Hart.

But yeah, Gaudin is a fine sixth starter.

by cwyers on Jul 9, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Which is why trading Marquis is now an option.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True.

I bet the Yankees would take him, though.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We have to be careful here.

1) Z’s already been on the DL this year.
2) Harden is Harden.
3) Dempster worked hard on conditioning but is still a converted reliever.
4) Lilly doesn’t do back-to-back full seasons w/o a DL trip.
5) Marshall is Marshall.

Having three of these guys on the DL at the same time is not conceivable. Having four of these guys on the DL at the same time is not impossible. I’m for dumping Marquis, but only if we get another pitcher back.

by DGU on Jul 9, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We have guys who can fill in for Marquis.

And by that I don’t just mean Marshall, Lieber, Gaudin and Hart.

by cwyers on Jul 9, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He does have one option year left.

"Every team will win 60 games, every team will lose 60 games, it's what the team does in the other 42 games that decides the season."

by flachimesa on Jul 9, 2008 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gotta love the headline from yesterdays blog....oops!

Buster Olney Blog

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Jul 9, 2008 9:00 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Olney loves the Brewers...

he was all over the CC trade and gushses over the Brewers farm system.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Email

Just sent him a “feedback” email on that piece. I would think writers for ESPN would try and see both sides of the fence…. Oh well, “coming up next on Sportscenter…Redsox Redsox Redsox!”

"What a great call! Your doing a fantastic job, but people expect me to come out here and be upset. So I'm gonna kick some dirt, you understand?" - Lou Pinella

by Lou In Blue on Jul 9, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nice...

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Olney

was interviewed last night and said he knew nothing about the trade. Neither did Gammons. Imagine that, a deal going down without it being leaked to the press. It is kind of refreshing. JH knew what he was doing and caught the talking heads with their heads up their rear ends. I like the move.

A Cub fan in Cardinal territory.

by FSArkCubsFan on Jul 9, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

DeLuca and Miles in Chicago knew about it Sunday/Monday

just not the national guys.

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

by JohnM on Jul 9, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

JH definitely pulled one over there.

Kudos. :)

These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"

by slcathena on Jul 9, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Arod

They had to track Arods love life and divorce. Couldn’t think about the Cubs during such an important time in world history Arod getting a divorce. OOH the humanity!

And they had an exclusive the Red Sox were going to trade a single a pitcher for a single a catcher. Had to track that down too.

Go Cubs

by cubstoseriesby100 on Jul 9, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Even more impressive...

When you consider this had to have been in the works for weeks. They were probably haggling over parts. My guess is that the C.C. move forced Hendry to put someone else on the table.

You figure Gallagher and Murton were gone, so do you think he was holding onto Patterson?

Think of how stupid the average person is, and remember, half of them are stupider than that!

by DaBard on Jul 9, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm really surprised the A's took Murton.

Don’t they already have a surplus of outfielders?

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sort of, but not really.

Emil Brown is their left fielder for this year. I’m guessing he is part-time LF/DH for them this year and takes over in left next year.

by Great Odin's Raven on Jul 9, 2008 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well....

... Murton is clearly a better choice for them going forward than Brown.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Jul 9, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Some have said they need RH hitting

Beane said he made this particular deal in part because of a rash of injuries. Not sure which OFs are hurting.

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

by JohnM on Jul 9, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thought I heard somewhere...

...that Merton and Patterson were heading to their AAA club?

by Shawon O Meter on Jul 9, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It was Gallagher.

In the Suntimes and Trib. SG was the last part to the trade.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Makes sense.

I like that dude, and I think Lou and JH did too.

These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"

by slcathena on Jul 9, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yep... I think we all did but

if he was the missing link to get the deal done it’s not all that bad.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark

by Fishbone2 on Jul 9, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

In fairness to Olney

today he compared it to “Dewey beats Truman.” At least he acknowledged his error, which is more than most Mariottis . . .errr. . . .sportswriters do.

Borowy . . .Sutcliffe . . .Harden?

by Josh77 on Jul 9, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thoughts

I wouldn’t mind sending Marshall down right now to continue pitching every 5 days. Let Marquis pitch 1 or 2 more starts to hopefully build up his value and hope teams become desperate nearing the deadline and the Cubs can unload him for some prospects without eating too much salary. Then bring Marshall back up to be #5

Also, remember how close the Cubs were to supposedly letting go Edmonds? Where would this team be if he didn’t turn it around?

BTW, how is Sam Fuld doing?

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Jul 9, 2008 9:02 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Terribly.

Sam Fuld’s OPSing somewhere around .650 in AA, IIRC.

by cwyers on Jul 9, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So, cwyers

Can you give us the numbers on Harden? Injuries aside, just how good is he/what can we expect? I’m more old school and use the typical ERA/WHIP and K:BBs to determine how good. But what’s Harden look like through the Matrix?

"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Jul 9, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I posted this last night...

...but for those that missed it, here’s a projection of Harden from the guy that does the ZiPS projections. I think it’s a touch optimistic, myself.

by cwyers on Jul 9, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks

But why did they only project Harden to make 8 more starts the rest of the year? They’re counting on him being out for a month plus?

Likewise, Gaudin gets 11 starts? Odd projections.

"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Jul 9, 2008 9:59 AM CDT