Walk On By: Cubs 3, Phillies 2
by Al on Aug 29, 2008 5:02 PM CDT
in Recaps
145 comments
They did it again.
Each day, new heroes, new ways to win; I stare in amazement, as the atmosphere at Wrigley Field gets more and more playoff-like; today, Alfonso Soriano's 7th-inning homer off Clay Condrey gave the Cubs a 3-2 win over the Phillies, their seventh win in a row, but it was patience and walks that put the ballclub in position for victory.
Clogging the bases with relish, the Cubs scored the tying run in the sixth inning with no hits, as Ryan Theriot, Derrek Lee, Mark DeRosa and finally, Kosuke Fukudome, drew walks, forcing in a run. The first three walks (and two others earlier in the game) were off Philly starter Joe Blanton, who had the Cubs handcuffed until Aramis Ramirez singled in the fourth. Meanwhile, the Phils scraped two runs off Rich Harden, who wasn't sharp today, but just as Ryan Dempster did last night, he kept his team in the game despite being uncharacteristically wild -- walking four, and throwing 100 pitches in five innings. The first run came when Harden hit Chase Utley in the first, and then, apparently rattled, he gave up a walk and a single to Pat Burrell, and then an unusual bad throw by Fukudome, who hit either Lee or baserunner Ryan Howard on a relay, allowed Utley to score the second run in the fifth.
Another walk, also to DeRo, gave the Cubs their first run, getting that fifth-inning Philly run back, and though Jeff Samardzija wasn't sharp either today, walking two in his inning-plus, he kept it close enough for Soriano's heroics (and to claim his first major league win), and then Carlos Marmol, who closed because Kerry Wood had thrown in four straight games, shut the Phillies down with nasty sliders (I thought he had Utley struck out a pitch before he swung and missed; plate umpire Bill Welke's strike zone was a little strange today).
More history was made today: the Cubs' 51st win of the season at home ties them for the most home wins in a single year since 1945 -- that was accomplished in 1984 by the 96-win NL East champions. Eleven home games remain, so not only can they break that record, but they have a shot at the all-time Cub record for home wins, 58, which was set in the pennant year of 1910.
I don't know how many more transcendent words I can come up with. Each time this team seems to have reached a peak, they top it with a victorious way that we haven't seen before. Yes, a homer won today's game, but as I said, it was patience at the plate -- something that's been wonderful to see this year, something we haven't seen from a Cubs team in decades, if ever -- that put them in position for Soriano's game-winner.
So rest and enjoy the evening and savor, till tomorrow. Go Pirates!
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I think Al Capone said it best:
“Enthusiams… What are mine? What draws my admiration? What is that which gives me joy? Baseball! A man stands alone at the plate. This is the time for what? For individual achievement. There he stands alone. But in the field, what? Part of a team. Teamwork… Looks, throws, catches, hustles.Part of one big team. Bats himself the live-long day, Babe Ruth, Ty Cobb, and so on. If his team don’t field… what is he? You follow me? No one. Sunny day, the stands are full of fans. What does he have to say? I’m goin’ out there for myself. But… I get nowhere unless the team wins.”
"It's Happening..."
by Goodie1969 on Aug 29, 2008 5:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
i love your signature.
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey thanks!
I kind of always thought the “It’s Gonna Happen” thing is kind of like that saying: “Life is what happens while you’re making other plans.” So rather than look toward some imaginary future event, I’m taking Al’s advice and just savoring the here-and-now. And what a here-and-now it is!
"It's Happening..."
by Goodie1969 on Aug 29, 2008 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lou should make Fonzie watch that scene... ...and the ensuing "at-bat".
Maybe that would help him focus more in the field. ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Aug 29, 2008 8:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
First!
Go Pirates!
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
by Curtain Jerker on Aug 29, 2008 5:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
fail
Linus: Life is rarely all one way, Charlie Brown. You win some, you lose some. Charlie Brown: Really? Gee, that'd be neat.
by CyberCyclist on Aug 29, 2008 5:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rather have the Brewers win, CyberCyclist?
Current temperature in hell: 44 degrees F - and falling!
by wnielsen on Aug 29, 2008 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice to see Alfonso
snap a 56 at-bat homerless drought. Let’s hope it starts a homer binge.
An even better sign: he’s been taking pitches, finding holes and getting on base while not hitting homers.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Aug 29, 2008 5:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
i love that he's gotten into
being aggressive but only swinging at strikes.
this quality at bat thing is contagious! i love it.
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 5:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he's becoming
a lead-off hitter.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 29, 2008 8:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it's scary
but he really is. and it’s working out rather well, if i do say so myself
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Aug 30, 2008 1:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really love it.
I minus the strike outs he’s devestating at the top of the line up.
These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"
by slcathena on Aug 30, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can't help myself....shame on me.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Aug 29, 2008 5:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You've got one for every occasion, don't you?
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Aug 29, 2008 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Burn!
That’s okay, though. Doesn’t make you bad…
"It's Happening..."
by Goodie1969 on Aug 29, 2008 5:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
hehe
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Funny
"Yes it's true. Everyone knows that I've pitched. I make sure of that. I have nine different pitches, all of which are awesome. I have a 0.00 ERA, got one out, throwing all knuckleballs. I don't remember who I faced -- some dude from Ole Miss." - Ryan Theriot
by NittanyCub on Aug 29, 2008 5:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
since things seemed bleak
back on july 27th and we were down big to the Marlins, we’ve gone 24-6 for a stunning, .800 winning percentage. That is unreal.
And it looks like we’re finally starting to gain some meaningful separation from the Brew Crew. This is awesome.
knock on (not Kerry) Wood
by tal1286 on Aug 29, 2008 5:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The funny thing
it must be frustrating to be the brewers,. since we swept them we have gone 20-6 and they have gone 11 over 500 and they have lost 1 1/2 games.
too bad so sad.
Go Cubs
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 29, 2008 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree...
…but I would caution, for those folks who are scared of facing the Dbacks, the Brewers would scare me much more in a playoff series. With Sabathia, Sheets and their lineup, they could make some serious noise in the playoffs
The Cubs and Brewers in the NLCS, is a distinct possibility.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Aug 29, 2008 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think the Brewers care
what the Cubs are doing. If they play as well as they’ve been playing, then they’ll be playing in October. All they have to do is win ballgames, and not worry about the Cubs.
Long days and pleasant nights.
by The Original Dave on Aug 30, 2008 12:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the noose
is tightening brew crew!!!
from the mouth of Uecker:
"Am I the only one who’s glad it’s only a 4-game series? If was a 9-game series, I think the Cubs would win them all."
by cubsluver22 on Aug 29, 2008 5:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
actually
on the cards, not that they have a chance at the division anyway
by dr stabbingworth on Aug 29, 2008 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ive said it along
the cards youth will eventually show along with their lack of pitching. the brewers on the other hand have to be in a panic mode.
from the mouth of Uecker:
"Am I the only one who’s glad it’s only a 4-game series? If was a 9-game series, I think the Cubs would win them all."
by cubsluver22 on Aug 29, 2008 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well, I don't really think they're panicking because
they have a pretty good grip on the wild card. Although, I agree, they probably realize the division is becoming less likely
by philadelphiacub on Aug 29, 2008 7:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that was the strangest strike zone
i’ve ever seen. it was bizarre.
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 5:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree
I think thats why Kosuke was confused on the walk with basesloaded to push in The Riot. That ball was low but when I first saw it and then again on replay, it clearly was above his knees.
Luck was on our side this game, Philly has some great hitters that we stranded.
by blueapple on Aug 29, 2008 6:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even on gameday
and I know you really can’t judge a strike zone on gameday it really looked like a strike. Was very surprised that he walked based on the way that pitch looked.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
by tucsoncubsfan on Aug 29, 2008 6:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
gameday isn't 100% accurate
but i was following the radio on gameday… and it was all over the place. usually pat’ll get the hang of a strike zone by the 3rd inning or so, but this time he’d say “and he takes inside…. for a strike?” at least 6 different times.
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 6:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The company that runs Gamday, Sportsvision, has done tests...
…where they fired baseballs at a foam backstop, and they compared where the indentions in the foam were to where the Gameday data said the balls hit. They were within an inch. Gameday is very, very accurate. The problem is that the Gameday app doesn’t do a good job of reporting where the strike zone is.
(Also, for those who try to call balls and strikes from the comfort of your own home – due to parrallax, you can’t do it, or at least can’t do it well. The center field camera isn’t straight away, and due to various laws of physics and optics, you’re actually not seeing the strike zone the way you think you’re seeing it.)
by cwyers on Aug 30, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry Al, I'm with the torches and pitchforks crowd on this one
Just saw the replay, thanks to cwyers link below. Ball went all the way to the wall and stayed there – didn’t bounce back. Ruiz did react quickly as he was the only one hustling on the play, but he still had to go all the way to the wall do get it.
The part I didn’t get is it looked like Theriot did start to take off but then he stopped for some reason. I’d be more inclined to hang the “bonehead play” tag on him if he had never made the effort, i.e. he just turned around and headed back to third. But he did take a few very quick steps toward the plate and it sure looked like it was in response to the ball skipping away. But he must have figured he couldn’t make it so he stopped short (hey – that’s my move!) and headed back.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Aug 30, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ok - obviously this is in the wrong place. Evidently "cancel" doesn't really mean "cancel".
Please ignore. Nothing to see here. Move along…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Aug 30, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot...
…would have scored if he would have read the ball better, or taken the direction from DeRosa who has the best view of the play.
From third base, there are times you can’t get a good read on how far the ball gets away from the catcher. In those circumstances, you are taught to pick up what the hitter is telling you (because he has the best view of what is going on), but Theriot either didn’t pick up DeRosa or he just didn’t respond to his prompt.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Aug 30, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There were a number of those on Gameday
yesterday that I wondered where they were when they showed up as balls. As Al said, it was a very odd strikezone yesterday.
When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo
by gwood on Aug 30, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How about that.
This is the post-season team kind of difference, winning games that many teams cannot win. I think this series against the Phils tells alot, your talking about two teams that by and large are going to shrink the opportunities to get ahead down to 2-3 innings. Its what we saw yesterday, as well as today. These Cubs can see and react to those kinds of narrow windows, AWESOME.
by StevenABQ on Aug 29, 2008 5:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Can someone help me?
I saw posted a few days ago the Cubs record since Lou’s outburst last summer. Does anyone remember/know what that record is?
by Blaze22 on Aug 29, 2008 5:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You can help yourself actually...
the search feature exists just for this purpose!
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Aug 29, 2008 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah I'm trying
not having much success. Does anyone know the date of when that happened? I was there but can’t find my ticket stub anywhere
by Blaze22 on Aug 29, 2008 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
June 2nd
I think
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some people here know my hatred for the AP.
This even furthers my hatred towards them.
In case you can’t see it, it says “Efficiency Lesson: Cubs top Phillies 3-2 on five hits.”
Anyone else notice the irony in that title?
"Yes it's true. Everyone knows that I've pitched. I make sure of that. I have nine different pitches, all of which are awesome. I have a 0.00 ERA, got one out, throwing all knuckleballs. I don't remember who I faced -- some dude from Ole Miss." - Ryan Theriot
by NittanyCub on Aug 29, 2008 5:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ha!
No one can ever accuse the AP writers of using their peripheral vision…
"It's Happening..."
by Goodie1969 on Aug 29, 2008 5:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh also
the magic number for the WILD CARD is only 17!
by tal1286 on Aug 29, 2008 5:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wild Card?
We don’t need no stinking wildcard!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!
by sanantonecub on Aug 29, 2008 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We tied last season's total.
With over a month left. Amazing.
Sam Adams octoberfest for the win!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!
by sanantonecub on Aug 29, 2008 5:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
27 games left
If they go 15-12, they can win 100. It’s doable.
by salparadise23 on Aug 29, 2008 5:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey!
"Yes it's true. Everyone knows that I've pitched. I make sure of that. I have nine different pitches, all of which are awesome. I have a 0.00 ERA, got one out, throwing all knuckleballs. I don't remember who I faced -- some dude from Ole Miss." - Ryan Theriot
by NittanyCub on Aug 29, 2008 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If jinxes worked
I’d make sure the Cardinals never won another game. :)
by salparadise23 on Aug 29, 2008 5:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Touche sir
"Yes it's true. Everyone knows that I've pitched. I make sure of that. I have nine different pitches, all of which are awesome. I have a 0.00 ERA, got one out, throwing all knuckleballs. I don't remember who I faced -- some dude from Ole Miss." - Ryan Theriot
by NittanyCub on Aug 29, 2008 5:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
just in case they do...
from what I’ve seen the cardinals are the ’08 rockies. I have no doubt they will win out.
by ELcachorros on Aug 29, 2008 6:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Win series.
Every series from here on out is winnable. And that’s all we need to do. :)
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!
by sanantonecub on Aug 29, 2008 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
have a good night
i’m off to a cedar falls to hit on coeds
by cubswynn on Aug 29, 2008 5:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Cedar Falls? Iowa?
UNI grad here. I miss The Hill.
"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)
by spoiledcubbage on Aug 29, 2008 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The pub where I watched the game today
Are convinced the Cubs have been lucky all year! A team doesn’t win that many games being lucky.
Howard may have been safe but it wasn’t called that way.
Better teams find a way to win. Like the Cubs did today!
Drinking a Stone Pale Ale. One of many today!!!!!!!!!!
Cheers!!! Until Tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 5:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I've also read at various places on the net other fans saying we're just lucky as well.
Kinda getting old.
by Ilan on Aug 29, 2008 5:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It gets old
I don’t care what other fans say.
The umps called it the way they did! How many times has it gone against the Cubs?
A lot of people can’t face the fact the Cubs are the best team in baseball!!
They bettter be ready to deal with it over the next two months!!!!!!!!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 6:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yea right, lucky
How about when Philly scores today when a throw to the plate hits Howard going back to first. Luck is winning the division on the last day of the season in 07 . Then backing it up by getting swept in the NLDS.
I have discovered in twenty years of moving around a ball park, that the knowledge of the game is usually in inverse proportion to the price of the seats. ~Bill Veeck
by Employee22 on Aug 29, 2008 6:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
I got dirty looks at the pub I was cheering the Cubs throughout the game.
The Phillies are a good team, but aren’t in the Cubs class.
I’m hoping they play the Phillies in the NLCS so I can see the Cubs win the NL pennant in person.
The Phillies broadcasting crew was saying how they have Harden’s number since they saw him before in Oakland. And just take pitches to get to the Cubs bullpen. Guess that didn’t work today!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 6:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
August 29 = lucky?
can’t reach this point in the season on luck alone… feh
by Emelie on Aug 29, 2008 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I work with a Phillies fan
who told me he now hates the Cubs because we have a “fight song.”
I wouldn’t say Go Cubs Go is a fight song as much as a victory celebration-starter.
Also, he’s just jealous.
Long days and pleasant nights.
by The Original Dave on Aug 30, 2008 12:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Had to work
missed the game, followed on the MLB. Read the Recap on YAHOO, said Howard was safe at first on the cover by Shark. Well if was so be it.
Interesting note that I read, first game in 61 that the Phils did not have a extra base hit.
The reason I love this team, and there are many, but what stands out is the bullpen. Woody can’t throw, and the Cubs can close with Marmol, that is nasty.
Lets get them tommorrow, Meyers has been solid since his return from AAA. Lilly just keep the Phils in the park.
Go Cubs.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Aug 29, 2008 5:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The Howard call was really awful....
….he was safe from my RF bleacher perch. I guess that made up for the bizarre Welke strike zone?
This team never ceases to amaze me. They are without question the best team in ML baseball and I am savoring every moment of this incredible season!
"When I got to Chicago, fans came to Wrigley Field just to have fun, now they come to see us win. The expectations have changed, for the players and for the fans. It’s about winning." Kerry Wood, 7/14/08
by JB 23 on Aug 29, 2008 5:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Happy days are here again
It’s now Saturday…
HAPPY HUSKER GAMEDAY!!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!
by sanantonecub on Aug 29, 2008 6:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Walk on By...
It’s funny that you should use this in the title, Al, because as the Cubs were all walking that song by Dionne Warwick came to mind.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
by tucsoncubsfan on Aug 29, 2008 6:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
OT- My nephew and 15 of his friends
will be in the left field bleachers tomorrow celebrating my nephew’s upcoming marriage next Saturday. I told my nephew to look for you, Al, so if you see a bunch of rowdy guys (pretty common I suppose) it probably will be them. Sure hope the Cubs win for them and of course for everybody else here at BCB.
A baseball game is simply a nervous breakdown divided into nine innings. ~Earl Wilson
by tucsoncubsfan on Aug 29, 2008 6:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
cubs
boy they sure are having fun at wrigley field. im stuck here in tampa bay where they,re complaining about small crowds for a 1st place team.but we all know rays fans will never match up with cub fans.let,s hope the year only gets better. cubs-rays?? im still hearing about that sweep.a nice cub series sweep would help even that up.
by NOMAR on Aug 29, 2008 6:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
I want payback.
Let my ashes blow in a beautiful snow from the prevailing 30 mile an hour southwest wind...
When my last remains go flying over the left field wall, I'll bid the bleacher bums adieu,
And I will come to my final resting place, out on Waveland Avenue. --Steve Goodman
by NotSure on Aug 29, 2008 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This year is special in many ways
as is this team…I won’t get giggly (Lou was asked about “destiny” today and he said in effect … “I don’t know about destiny, but i do know good hitting, good pitching, good catching…”). Stay on point, stay focused, believe, and maybe it’ll come true.
by Emelie on Aug 29, 2008 6:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Get in the Brewers pen
Ready to be up by more than 7!!!!!!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 6:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cubs-Brewers Best of 7
I like the Cubs in that one!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 6:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Damn right!!
I’ll take the Cubs in any series!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 6:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pirates load the bases in the 3rd on a walk an error by weeks and another error by Fatso.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Aug 29, 2008 6:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
and come out of it with nothing
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 7:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep - there were 2 outs when all of that started
Current temperature in hell: 44 degrees F - and falling!
by wnielsen on Aug 29, 2008 7:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thankfully the Cubs keep doing what they've been doing....
so that even if brew crew does win……….. they are still 7 behind
"A catchers biggest concern behind the plate is to make his pitcher pitch a little better than he can" Roy Campanella
by Madison Cub Fan on Aug 29, 2008 7:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
thats the beauty of being in first
:-)
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 7:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, although I only focus on the loss column
and they are 6 back.
Current temperature in hell: 44 degrees F - and falling!
by wnielsen on Aug 29, 2008 7:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If the Brewers win tonight, yes
Current temperature in hell: 44 degrees F - and falling!
by wnielsen on Aug 29, 2008 7:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
6 in the "L" column is what counts
So since they beat the Bucs, it’s 6.5 games but their 56 losses to 50 for the Cubs matters more. Once a game is lost, it cannot be made up.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Aug 29, 2008 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hi Gang!
I’m back….
Just got back from Arkansas. Thanks to everyone for taking such good care of my boy — and the next NL player of the month — DeRo.
Cardinal country was a tad quiet…..
This team has been a pleasure to watch all season, and the replays of the games a missed — all wins — will be just as sweet.
DMH
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Aug 29, 2008 6:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Since Gary Matthews was the 7th inning singer today
Who’s in the charge!?!?!?!?!?!?!?
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 7:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wow.
I’m glad we control our own fate being in first place… the Pirates really are awful.
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 7:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
i thought i had a good idea
how bad they were, but its surprising
The Walk: Weapon of choice for the 2008 Cubs
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Aug 29, 2008 7:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Before they traded away everyone who mattered
the Pirates had the second best offense in the league – I do believe. It’s their bullpen that’s awful. Their starters are just bad.
Long days and pleasant nights.
by The Original Dave on Aug 30, 2008 12:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just love watching the replay
on the CSN Philadelphia!!!!!!!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 7:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That DeRosa
made a “great” slide in the 5th!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 7:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
pirate hit a HR
3-1 brewers still
"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 preachermancubsfan on Aug 29, 2008 7:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Get in that beer makers
Pen!!!!!!!!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If anyone on here has CSN Philadelphia
The game is being replayed..
Right now!!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 7:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
If you're watching the replay
it’s now 2-1 Phillies. Double play ball thrown away.
Bottom of the 5th!!!!!
by PhillyCub on Aug 29, 2008 7:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Cubs are on a good streak!
It is amazing how many records are being grabbed by this years team. Most of this since 1945 most of that since 1907 and on and on. This is truly a special season. We have a 7 game win streak going at the absolute best time to start a long streak. The end of August is upon us.
We are heading into the beginning of September with a nice lead. This team is too good to get into long losing streaks and that is why we lead the majors in wins. Every game has a new hero and this team plays like a team.
I have felt so good this year watching as June past without a June swoon. July past and we got through our toughest month in very good shape. August has been nothing but sensational.
Lets take the last month and then really turn it on in October. Go Cubs Go!
by billkelly on Aug 29, 2008 8:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
This team is just ridiculous
and I LOVE IT!
by AceCubbie on Aug 29, 2008 9:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Just keep it going Cubs.
Every day the excitement just builds. I love it!! Football and baseball tomorrow so it’s going to be a great day.
by sue369 on Aug 29, 2008 9:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+35
over .500 now!
With that I will call it a night. It was fun to read this thread. I love reading everyone’s passion AND happiness. It makes this season that much more special….
Good night all!
THIS IS OUR CENTURY!!
by LAcarl519 on Aug 29, 2008 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Football/baseball
Going to Northwestern game tomorrow Cubs on Sunday (But taking the enemy my friends from Philly who are attending a wedding tomorrow) they went today and said the atmosphere was amazing and they love how everyone sings at the end although they didn’t like the score!
We have Bears tickets for the 21st but if the Cubs can clinch will give them up for the Cubs.
Go Cubs
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 29, 2008 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Friends
My fiends from Philly just took the doggies for a walk with the kids.
They are sockless as the Cubs have knocked them off the last 2 games.
I said I haven’t worn socks all year.
Go Cubs
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 29, 2008 9:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
clog the bases with relish?
I like it, now I have to go have a CHICAGO style hot dog.
As difficult as it is – so many folks around my work see me every day, knowing the die hard I am and ask about my excitement – I feel it’s getting to the point where I’m starting to get a bit giddy about this team. ‘69, ’77, ’84, ’89, ’98, ’01, ’03, ’04 & ’07 are telling me don’t but it’s hard to control the feeling this team is really special.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Aug 29, 2008 9:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Giddy is a perfect
description of how I feel.
by sue369 on Aug 29, 2008 9:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We finished last season with 85 wins. We have reached that with ONE month to go
We could easily get 100 wins, without a doubt..plus this win today means that we will not have lost a series in the ENTIRE month of August
2008 Cubs: Who needs nine innings, when you only need a 7th?
by Chanman25 on Aug 29, 2008 9:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Cardinals lose again, now 11 back
They are most likely not going to win the division, they are praying for the wild card now.
2008 Cubs: Who needs nine innings, when you only need a 7th?
by Chanman25 on Aug 29, 2008 10:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Well, if they can stay within 3 or 4 games
of the Brewers, we’ll gladly help them out in September…
"It's Happening..."
by Goodie1969 on Aug 29, 2008 10:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The difference between this year and previous years
Previous years, they don’t tie it in the 6th, after a play that I am very surprised wasn’t mentioned here — Theriot’s lack of awareness on what should have been a game-tying wild pitch in DeRosa’s at bat. Everyone in the park except Ryan knew that he was supposed to score when the ball went to the backstop.
I’m not trying to start a Theriot discussion (he really does suck as a baserunner), but rather pointing out that they overcame that — and in years past, I would have expected a strikeout from Dome, not a walk.
This is good stuff. 85-50. Wow.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Aug 29, 2008 11:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I wasn't in the game threads due to work...
…so I don’t know how it was discussed there. But I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw it, even though:
1) I was watching the video just to see that play.
2) I don’t really like Ryan Theriot to begin with.
I mean… wow.
by cwyers on Aug 30, 2008 12:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
game thread
was unhappy with that (lack of) play. Very unhappy. Then the fighting began.
by Emelie on Aug 30, 2008 2:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I will say this about that.
Theriot has been a bad baserunner this year. But he would have been out had he tried to score. The ball came back to Ruiz quickly and he’d have thrown Theriot out. I can only imagine the screaming here had that happened.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Aug 30, 2008 4:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I disagree
It didn’t get back to him that quickly. DeRosa was frantically waving him home.
The problem is that after the pitch, Theriot turned his back to the plate and walked back to third with his head down. A competent baserunner is anticipating a ball getting away, and takes a step or two twoards the plate with the pitch. More importantly, he watches to see what happens.
The pitcher didn’t hustle home, either. I’m convinced Theriot would have scored. I don’t know if that’s why Lee went over to third base to talk to Theriot during the subsequent pitching change, but I did see Piniella talking to him after Dome’s walk scored him.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Aug 30, 2008 7:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All's well that ends well.
We’ll agree to disagree. I think Theriot would have been out and then everyone here would have been bitching all night.
But, it didn’t hurt to have a couple people talk to him about being more heads-up.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Aug 30, 2008 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, let's go to the videotape.
Here’s the inning in question. Should be free – I don’t subscribe to MLB.tv. It’s about 12 minutes in. Judging by Lou’s reaction in the dugout, Theriot probably should have scored.
by cwyers on Aug 30, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for the link
Damn, Brenly really is a Theriot apologist.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Aug 30, 2008 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry Al, I'm with the torches and pitchforks crowd on this one
Just saw the replay, thanks to cwyers’ link. Ball went all the way to the wall and stayed there – didn’t bounce back. Ruiz did react quickly as he was the only one hustling on the play, but he still had to go all the way to the wall do get it.
The part I didn’t get is it looked like Theriot did start to take off but then he stopped for some reason. I’d be more inclined to hang the “bonehead play” tag on him if he had never made the effort, i.e. he just turned around and headed back to third. But he did take a few very quick steps toward the plate and it sure looked like it was in response to the ball skipping away. But he must have figured he couldn’t make it so he stopped short (hey – that’s my move!) and headed back.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Aug 30, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did you hear Brenly excusing Theriot away?
It was kind of disgusting. He was talking about how he couldn’t see the ball because people were in the way. Never mind the fact that the hitter was PLEADING for Ryan to score…
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
by Curtain Jerker on Aug 30, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The first words out of his mouth were "In Theriot's defense..."
…and I couldn’t believe it. Len was absolutely shocked – he was in his puberty voice and everything and then the run didn’t score.
by cwyers on Aug 30, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've traditionally given Bob the benefit of the doubt
but I agree with you on this one. Caught that too and Len’s reaction too. Lou was just about as disgusted as I’ve ever seen him and can’t blame him a bit. Made him cranky for several innings after that.
by Emelie on Aug 30, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The guy...
…seems to get brainlock on the basepaths nut unlike the throwing disorder that effected Steve Sax and Chuck Knoblock.
I don’t quite understand it, but his instincts on the basepaths do leave a lot to be desired.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Aug 30, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can't believe
all the negative comments about Theriot. Sure, he’s had lapses, but he’s got the highest OBP on this team, he’s got the most steals, tied for the best AVG and he’s fast. Give him the benefit of the doubt- looks to me like the ball did kick away in a direction that it was hard to gauge how far away it got. You know how people would would just torture him if he was out at the plate. And there have been several times I recall that the ball ricochet’s off the wall and right back to the catcher.
by epcub on Aug 30, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He also has the most caught stealings in the league, and the second-lowest ISO of any qualified starter in baseball.
More to the point, Alfonso Soriano has stumbled into an above-average OBP to go along with his incredible power numbers (highest SLG among full-time starters on the Cubs), has 17 steals with only two caught stealings, has the best throwing arm of any left-fielder in baseball… and yet people still criticize him when he muffs a routine fly ball in left field. Or when he cheats himself out of a double by gazing at a home run ball.
Plenty of people around here see no problems with criticizing better ballplayers than Ryan Theriot. And why not? We’re paying customers. Should we just sew our eyes shut when he runs the bases? Even the biggest Soriano fans don’t feel compelled to completely paper over his flaws the way Theriot fans do, and believe me, Theriot has more flaws in his game than Soriano does.
And I think there’s a growing discontentment about Theriot – I’m told that on Boers and Bernstein yesterday they were ripping him as a poor fundamental baseball player, which is a paradigm shift.
Over the past seven days, Theriot has been hitting .269/.387/.308. Over the past month, .281/.390/.303. If he turns it around again and gets back to, say, his May production of .308/.407/.337, a lot of this will die out again (except for the diehards like me). But if he doesn’t pull out of his “slump,” expect the “bashing” to get worse before it gets better.
by cwyers on Aug 30, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
For the record...
…his rest-of-year Marcel forecast is .287/.359/.376. So I wouldn’t expect him to be as bad as he’s been the past month, but probably not as good as he’s been season to date as a whole.
by cwyers on Aug 30, 2008 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As I have stated...
…many times, I have been impressed with his steadiness in the field and his improvement at the plate. He has clearly been a positive contributer to the club, but no matter how you slice it, baserunning is not his strength.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Aug 30, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great (but weird) Game!!
My first game at Wrigley this year, had AMAZING seats, 3rd row, aisle 33, club box, right in full view of 1st base, where much of the action was today. . .
Such a weird, weird game!!!
Very “off” strike-zone. . . Aramis was perplexed for at least 2 at-bats. . .
Ryan Howard interference on the throw from Kosuke, which most around us thought was intentional. . .
and the first base ump was wrong on TWO calls, the first being that Utley was OUT on the double play with Theriot’s bad throw. . . and Howard was definitely SAFE on the last play that inning, so in my mind, that one “evens out.”
the Phillies lengthy mound meetings. . .
Soriano’s first HR in what seems like ages AND everyone knew when it left the bat. . .
couldn’t have scripted the day better!!! (and the first time I’ve gotten to sing ‘GO CUBS GO’ in person in at least 3 years!!)
great day at the ballpark. . . happy labor day weekend everyone!!
by noiseboy on Aug 30, 2008 1:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
welcome home!
glad you had a chance to catch a game at Wrigley.
by Emelie on Aug 30, 2008 2:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My seats weren't as good
So I had the advantage of seeing the monitors that are in place for the folks in terrace reserved. Howard was definitely safe, but Utley was, also.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Aug 30, 2008 7:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When Scotty Eyre came out to pitch... how was his reception?
Did the Wrigley faithful cheer for him? Scotty is a good guy. I was only able to catch the end of the game.
by jackieboy on Aug 30, 2008 1:38 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
There wasn't much of a reaction at all, either positive or negative.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Aug 30, 2008 4:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
cubs
sept will tell all.probably the toughest schedule in baseball.6 with the cards,6 with the brewers and 4 with the mets.lots of non cub fans think the cubs have it locked up.though i have more confidence in this team than any other it,s a long way from locked up.lets hope they,ve saved their best for last
by NOMAR on Aug 30, 2008 7:22 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Are you replying from a Blackberry or something?
Current temperature in hell: 44 degrees F - and falling!
by wnielsen on Aug 30, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This was such a fun game to watch!
I was at a local sports bar by Fenway, filled with Redsox fans, but there were like 6 of us Cubs types huddled by the bar/a TV and we just went nuts when Sori hit his shot. (The lone Philly fan in the vicinity left at that point).
Go Cubs, it was pretty sweet.
These are the saddest of possible words: "Tinker to Evers to Chance"
by slcathena on Aug 30, 2008 10:55 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
what time does the pregame thread post for today?
chomping at the bit…oh, and going to the game…
by derv on Aug 30, 2008 11:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
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