Cracks In The Armor: Cubs 3, Phillies 5
by Al on Aug 31, 2008 5:10 PM CDT
in Recaps
175 comments
THIRTY-SIX STEPS FROM WRIGLEY FIELD -- I'm sitting in my friend Jim's apartment, on Waveland across from the left field bleachers, thanks to his offer to let me use his office to post this recap while attending a party at his place, watching everyone quietly file out of Wrigley Field after today's 5-3 Cub loss to the Phillies, the first time they've lost two in a row since they lost a pair to the Marlins at the end of July, also at home.
Feels strange and odd, doesn't it? Making matters worse, Carlos Zambrano was scratched from today's start with a "tired arm", and that may be all that's wrong, and we hope so. Z will now go Tuesday or Wednesday against the Astros, with Jason Marquis starting tomorrow and Ryan Dempster throwing the game that Z doesn't.
There was no energy in the ballpark from the first inning -- after Sean Marshall gave up three runs, all after two were out, putting the Cubs in a hole they couldn't come out of, even after they themselves scored two runs and had the tying run on third base with only one out in the second inning. The team had no energy and despite one of the largest crowds of the year, 41,544, the stands had none either. When the Phillies extended the lead to 4-2 on Jayson Werth's HR in the 5th and 5-2 in the sixth, a near-silence pervaded the yard, which began to empty out after the obligatory seventh-inning stretch singing (which I haven't heard when the Cubs trailed after that inning in months, since I've been performing the "go to the men's room ritual" at that time. Didn't work today, or yesterday, either). Despite having the tying runs on base again in the 8th, nothing came across after Henry Blanco had cut the lead to 5-3 with an RBI single. Brad Lidge, who hasn't blown a save all year, converted his 33rd when the impatient middle of the order only made him throw eight pitches to record a flyout (Reed Johnson, and why wasn't Jim Edmonds batting for him?), popup on the first pitch (D-Lee), and, no magic today from A-Ram, who struck out to end this game that seemed to go on forever (an hour and ten minutes to play three innings and 3:04 for all nine) in today's brilliant sunshine. Lou ran out of position players, except for Edmonds, and was forced to play Mark DeRosa at SS in the 9th for the first time this year, and naturally, the very first batted fair ball in that inning was hit to him. He fielded it flawlessly, but don't think that means he could play the position every day.
I thought this afternoon of the 1984 Cubs, who at just about this same point in the season had reached 90-58, 32 games over .500 -- their peak, extending a lead that reached to 9.5 games -- and then lost five in a row, three of them to a bad Pirates team, and looked horrid doing it. The fifth of those losses was 8-0 to the Cardinals in St. Louis, and though the lead was still 6.5 games, we worried, those of us who were in St. Louis that weekend, because the next day was rained out, forcing a doubleheader on Sunday, and as you know, those can always cause trouble.
The Cubs swept that one, clinching a tie for the division title, and moved on to win the NL East the next day in Pittsburgh. Now, there is more time left in this season -- 25 games -- than there was then -- one week -- and the Cubs have a more formidable challenger now, the Brewers, who also seem to never lose. However, Milwaukee comes home to play the Mets, in first place and a better team than the Pirates, who have been fodder for both the Cubs and Brewers this season, and the Cubs will face the Astros, who have played well lately. Are there cracks in the armor? Will Z just be pushed back a couple of days? I know Lou and the staff want to be very careful with both Z and Rich Harden, and justifiably so. There will be reinforcements in the bullpen available tomorrow.
Looking across the street again, the ballpark's nearly empty now, except for the cleanup crews; there are a few stragglers wandering Waveland and the vendors hawking their T-shirts. The fading summer sun is descending through the southwest-facing window, reminding us that autumn is close at hand. See you in September. Fasten your seatbelts. We're in for a heck of a two-month ride.
0 recs |
175 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
Al - why don't you think DeRosa can play SS regularly?
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 5:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I meant to say "can't"
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
attack of the double negatives...
I think you were right the first time. Or if you really did mean to say “can’t” then I think you also meant to say “do” instead of “don’t”.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Aug 31, 2008 6:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like DeRosa
I perhaps am this sites second biggest DeRosa fan to deromyhero but I think he would not be able to play SS. If he could they’d play him there and Theriot at 2nd.
Go Cubs
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 31, 2008 6:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Couldawouldashoulda?
“If he could they’d play him there and Theriot at 2nd.” Except that Lou plays Cedeno at 2B and Theriot at SS when both play on the same day, an inferior defensive arrangement, where the only real benefit is making the point that Theriot’s job is secure.
Deromyhero seems to argue that DeRo would be the better SS, a point which makes sense to me since DeRo was the better 2B. Granted there are different skills that go into each position, but DeRo’s arm is stronger for one of those skills. Anyone remember in the preseason when Roberts seemed destined to be a Cub and DeRosa said he’d want to challenge for the everyday SS job? I wonder how that would have played out.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 7:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bobby Cox thought he could play SS every day (defensively),
and he has seen DeRo more than any of us.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Aug 31, 2008 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The reason that Lou plays Riot at SS and DeRo at 2B
is because Riot’s bat won’t play anywhere else (it barely plays at SS considering how weak his glove is), and we all know what kind of mancrush Lou has on Riot. Lou won’t do anything that would pressure him to cut Riot’s playing time.
If Lou showed the world (or at least Cubs fans) that DeRo is a better SS than Riot (note that I didn’t say DeRo was a better SS than Adam Everett, although he is much better than Riot), he would be “forced” to play DeRo at SS and platoon Fontenot and Riot at 2B — which would take away 2/3 of Riot’s ABs.
Last year, when Riot was dead in mid-August, Lou refused to give him a day off and play DeRo at SS for just that reason.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Aug 31, 2008 7:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are you SURE that's why Lou didn't give Theriot a rest?
How can you be so certain?
I have a lot of respect for your baseball knowledge — honest. You know more than a lot of posters and fans that I know outside of cyberspace. So, I’m not taking a shot at you — but sometimes your DeRo bias seems to influence your thought process.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Aug 31, 2008 7:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Honestly, I've wondered the same thing.
So, let’s see if we can put a positive spin on it beyond just “Lou’s biased.” What if Lou looked at Theriot’s hard work and grit when he first got to the Cubs and pointed to Theriot and said to the whole team – if you play like this, you’ll get playing time. Lou got Theriot into every game in 2007 it seemed somehow – someway and finally got him a starting job. At this point, Lou’s invested in Theriot – as long as Theriot keeps working hard, he has to keep playing him. Again, trying to put the positive spin on this – maybe the Theriot Exaltation is what inspired Dempster’s hard work. Maybe the Theriot Exaltation has rubbed off on the whole club, including DeRo.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 8:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There was a period after Izturis was traded in mid-July
until rosters expanded in which the Cubs’ only MIs were Riot, DeRo, and Fontenot (with, IIRC correctly, a 3 day exception when Cedeno was up). In late August, Riot was fighting back spasms, was in something like a 3-26 funk, and hadn’t had a day off since Izzy’s last start, yet Lou couldn’t bear to give him a day off — even some innings off in blowout games. It was obvious he was dead tired just from the way he wasn’t running ground balls out as hard as usual.
Cedeno was in the doghouse last year (maybe justified — he apparently had some work ethic issues), so the Cubs didn’t call him up when Izzy was traded — which meant that DeRo was the backup SS.
Yet Lou even tried starting Fontenot at SS one game when Riot’s back locked up to avoid starting DeRo there. (Remember that debacle? He ended up switching them after Fontenot stunk up the joint in the first.) Since DeRo came up and first established himself in the ML at SS, Lou would have to be smoking dope or have an ulterior motive to think that a guy who couldn’t even play SS in college would have a better SS glove in the ML. Do you have a better explanation for why Lou would try to “hide” DeRo from playing SS in that situation?
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Aug 31, 2008 8:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, lemme answer the first question.
Because I don’t think he has the range to do it on an everyday basis.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Aug 31, 2008 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you think Riot has more range than DeRo?
Because at 2B, DeRo had more range than Riot, unless I’m misrembering.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Riot has more range than DeRo,
if you don’t consider getting a throw off in the equation. That is why I think that Riot is a better 2B than DeRo (the throw is short enough to not matter), but DeRo is a better SS than Riot (because getting to a ball doesn’t really matter if you can’t make the throw after you get there).
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Aug 31, 2008 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thats a good question...
…and I would have to see DeRosa play several games at SS to really have a clue.
The one thing about Theriot that hasn’t bitten him as much as I thought it would, is his double clutch move before throwing to first. At 2nd, you can get away with that, but it can really cost you at SS.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Aug 31, 2008 11:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Riot has more "range" in terms of quickness,
but DeRo has more “range” in terms of being able to play deeper (due to a stronger arm), being able to read the ball better off the bat with that extra depth, and being able to get a strong throw off even when off-balance or on the run. All-in-all, neither of them has plus range on ground balls, but they are about equal. How many times has Riot been quick enough to get to a ball, but been unable to get a throw off because he can’t throw unless his feet are under him and he can take a full windup?
DeRo has significantly more range on popups. (OF experience helps.)
DeRo is MUCH better on the pivot. This is probably Riot’s biggest weakness (he uses a “college” pivot, trying to clear the bag and turn his body to make a good throw — which slows him down and makes him a tougher target for the 2B to hit), and DeRo’s greatest strength (because he can make strong throws from any arm angle without turning his body).
DeRo has a much stronger arm, which makes him a better relay man. (Edmonds, RJ, and Sori need more help than Dome.)
OTOH, Riot’s quickness would give him a bit more range than DeRo at 2B, and the throws are short enough for Riot to make.
In short, neither will be a gold glove nominee, and neither will make you forget John McDonald, but DeRo is better than Riot at SS, IMO.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Aug 31, 2008 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
+1
Next to Dome, DeRo probably has the best outfield arm. Of course, Pie would trump them all; he has all the outfielders beat in either range, speed, or arm. Now, if he can only learn to hit!
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 8:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm so not unconfused.
You’re right. How many BCB points do I lose?
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 7:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You don't not get
negative 100 BCB points.
by inukjim on Aug 31, 2008 7:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like that - "two month ride"
Lets hope!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!
by sanantonecub on Aug 31, 2008 5:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
And is that a typo in the left column
Or is tomorrow’s game actually at 3:05pm? If so, what’s the reason?
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!
by sanantonecub on Aug 31, 2008 5:23 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
no typo. it's a 3:05 start.
not sure of the reasoning behind it, but they’ve had 3:05 starts on holiday mondays in the past.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Aug 31, 2008 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyway
we split a series with a very good team, facing their 3 best pitchers. We’re 99% likely to make the playoffs. I think, indeed, this ride will last the full two months. Even when this team isn’t playing their best, it’s a privilege to watch them.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 5:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I would have liked to take three
but it’s not like they ran rampant over our starters. Sean Marshall is a great kid, but he’s not exactly an A pitcher.
Z will get better. We will take the division. We’ll go deep into the post season.
It’s only two games.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs............
……….did not look good in this series. While they managed to grab the first two games, this could have easily been a Philly series sweep.
Very little timely hitting over the past four games, and if you throw in the Wednesday game in Pittsburgh (runs scored on a ground out and a squeeze), it seems the offense is struggling to find consistency.
Obviously, even good pitching needs SOME support to get the job done.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Aug 31, 2008 5:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Actually..
… there was quite a bit of timely offense in the first two games. With a little more timely hitting in the last two, it could have been a Cub sweep.
Let’s just say it was a hard-fought series between two good teams. I’d have liked 3 of 4, but splitting with a team this good is no shame.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Aug 31, 2008 8:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Thursday game.............
………..was highlighted by one big inning. Otherwise the bats were silent.
On Friday, they stranded 8 runners and were fortunate to score on a fielder’s choice and a forced run based on questionable strike zone calls by the home plate ump. Again, nothing potent at the plate.
Saturday and Sunday marked more missed opportunities as no less than 19 guys were stranded, and only 5 total runs scored.
Agree this was a good series between two quality teams, and a sweep by either team was a distinct possibility. If this is a tune up for how October will unfold, I think the Cubs are going to need to find greater consistency with their sticks.
Lou said they can’t score every time, which is correct, but this weekend placed some doubts in my mind about their ability to generate runs in a timely fashion.
"Happiness? A good cigar, a good meal, a good cigar and a good woman - or a bad woman; it depends on how much happiness you can handle." ~ George Burns
by tville on Sep 1, 2008 8:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was at my fantasy football draft...
and didn’t see the game. But the Cubs looked flat when I was checking the computer for a score. Let’s go get ’em tomorrow!
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
by DKT on Aug 31, 2008 8:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LIGHT EM UP
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on Aug 31, 2008 9:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Splitting with...
…a good ballclub that needs the games much more, is certainly no big deal. You simply can’t keep that sharp a mental edge forever and the Cubs were bound to hit a bit of a lull.
They are in good shape and I agree this is going to be quite a ride.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Aug 31, 2008 5:49 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Agree with your recap, Al.
I was at the game and that’s about as dead a full house in a game the Cubs weren’t blown out of that I can remember. Moyer, who must have learned from Sutcliffe how to slow a game down to a brutal snail’s pace didn’t help make things any more tolerable.
And did anyone else notice how many times the Phillies had pow wows at the mound in this series? I was at all four games so I didn’t see any on TV. Did the announcers mention it? Because it was really boring as hell.
The Phillies remind me of Cubs teams past. A couple of good starters and an offense that combines many strikeouts with many homers.
by the nth on Aug 31, 2008 6:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Brenly brought the mound visits up several times
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Aug 31, 2008 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
as did Santo. He was having a cow in the booth.
I was beginning to think that the Phillies were doing it on purpose just to annoy Ronnie…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Aug 31, 2008 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
couldn't believe the umps let them happen
clearly the Philly’s had an agenda with those mound visits… it was ludicrous
by Emelie on Aug 31, 2008 6:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cheap Gamesmanship
It might have worked this time, but I guarantee you that trickery and mind games don’t play so well in October.
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
by CaliCub on Aug 31, 2008 8:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was at Friday's game
and shouted myself hoarse just yelling at those endless mound powwows. They’d have the whole infield in, the umpire would come up, and they’d still be meeting with the umpire standing there. Then the manager or pitching coach would come out and they’d do it again.
by ChipSet on Aug 31, 2008 10:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Phillies fans
think that the Cubs announcers, especially Santo, were whiny babies about all the mound visits.
Since I live in Philadelphia, I see a lot of Phillies game. I don’t ever remember them doing all these mound visits in previous games I’ve seen all season. It’s either gamesmanship or Manuel and his coaching staff were really overmanaging. I go with overmanaging especially since the bullpen has given up a lot of leads over the past few weeks.
by PhillyCub on Aug 31, 2008 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They don't like Santa Claus either...
They would probably complain about the wine choice at the last supper for that matter…
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Sep 1, 2008 12:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what went totally over the line
was the fact that the catcher didn’t signal his calls to the pitcher… he repeatedly got up and walked to the mound to TELL him the pitch. That’s nonsense.
by Emelie on Sep 1, 2008 2:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dog Days of Summer
This is my first year being a real “die-hard” fan; following every game, following division rivals… I know I am tired. I can’t imagine how tired the players are.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 6:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
really??
past years you’ve havent been able to follow as close?
"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 31, 2008 6:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
nope. I found
my passion for the Cubs at about this time last year.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 6:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
me too drew
my first year following full season… welcome, partner!
by Emelie on Aug 31, 2008 6:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Welcome to you both
And that makes you no less dedicated . . .but let me tell ya, there were a lot of lean years that you missed out on. I hope you’ll enjoy a WS Championship this year without the suffering!
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Aug 31, 2008 7:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I paid attention.
just not like this! Now I never miss a game.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Careful
With statements like that you could be accused of Bandwaggoning.
"I guess you had some lean years, and didnt have to beat it hard" - Craig Sager
"Soriano deep to left!! THAT BALL'S GOOOONE!! A HOME RUN!! OHHH BABY!!" -Len Kasper 8/06/08
SORIANO WATCH: AVG: .294 23 HR 63 RBI
by Galvan316 on Aug 31, 2008 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, Drew and Emelie, You Had Me Fooled
You two know so much about the team and the game itself I’d swear you’d been sitting next to Al in the bleachers for at least ten years now!
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
by CaliCub on Aug 31, 2008 8:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've been a baseball fan since I was eight.
I was a die-hard Yankees fan for ten years. So I do know a bit about baseball.
And I read a lot, and I rely on the knowledge that’s here, to tell you the truth.
I’ve been watching the cubs since I moved to Chicago back in 95, just not like this.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 9:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yankee fan?
Geez drew, I thought you were one of the good guys here…j/k, j/k….Did you live in N.Y. or just a Yankee fan for the heck of it?
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I grew up in the Bronx.
My Grandfather came over from Poland in the early 30s, and became a Yankees fan, so my mother was a Yankees fan, so I was… a Yankees fan. I did outgrow it. :D
I therefore hate the Red Sox with a passion I could never reserve for the White Sox. And George Brett is a cheater. :D
And really, when it was announced that Lou was taking over as Manager, I said “ooh, better start paying attention; he’s going to help this team really excel.” Sweet Lou, he’s the man.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks, Cali
I give all credit to you, Al, and everyone else at BCB. This blog is the Harvard of baseball educations :D
by Emelie on Sep 1, 2008 2:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that's not fair
I had no idea the Cubs would be this good when the season began. They could have stunk up the place and I’d still be on board. I came to Chicago from Boston during the dry Red Sox years. I’m no waggoneer.
by Emelie on Sep 1, 2008 2:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
2 games
The Cubs had a bad two games. They were 20-8 they have to at least have a 3 game losing streak before I start to worry.
Go Cubs
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 31, 2008 6:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Splitting a series v. a good team is not the beginning of the end.
If the Brewers happen to play incredible ball to take the division then you have to congratulate them but the Cubs are in the driver’s seat. I think the disappointing aspect to this particular loss is the offense not doing much v. Moyer. He’s a an old pro but we have some good RHBs in this lineup and you’d expect something better at home v. a lefty. But still, that’s just a mild disappointment.
The loss has nothing to do with this but the other lurking disappointment is Zambrano’s physical condition. He’s been pretty crappy lately and I know no one has scientifically which specific pitch has tired his arm, but this guy was another abused arm under Dusty. I am glad that the current regime will at east entertain the possibility that he’s over worked and give him rest—that’s actually a good thing because we need a strong & effective Zambrano. Marshall wasn’t great and he wasn’t AAA awful either. I am not a Marshall fan (not as a starter) but he gets thrown in there and you’d like to think that your team can score 5-6 at home.
The one thing that bothered me about this Phillies series is that our starters kept giving up runs in the first inning.
There’s a lot of baseball left and both the Cubs & Brewers should get fat on the likes of Pittsburgh and Cincy. The Cubs have started to play well by winning series on the road v. the Brewers and Marlins. It will likely come down to remaining games v. the Brewers and Cards. Hopefully Big Z. is rested and effective the rest of the way, with him and Harden I like our chances in most 3 game series.
by DudeVf11 on Aug 31, 2008 6:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Don't also forget that they may have done this
To setup their pitching for those Cards/Brewers Series…I have not extrapolated the pitching probables the rest of the year but ya got to line it up such that 2 out of your top 3 go the last weekend if needed and that whoever is your game 1 starter does not.
They probably thought that they could score against Moyer and with the roster expansion the next day they could blow out the bullpen a little today with the reinforcements coming. It was a good time to try to set up the pitching for the stretch run…
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Aug 31, 2008 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The problem with the current regime
is they don’t admit someone’s overworked till their performance takes an ongoing hit – See, Marmol, Carlos and Soto, Geovany. I’m glad Z got skipped today – that’s good – but he was overworked by this regime this season – not nearly on the level of Baker, but still.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 7:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree 100%, the current regime is sort of a step up from Baker but they still don't seem to trust enough...
guys in the pen to spread the work out or it’s just a case of “old school” mentality that has to at least start taking some of this in to account. Pinella is an old school era manager and he won a WS riding three relievers and two SPs into the ground, but he’s not as stubborn as Dusty. So he has at least backed off Marmol and Z. But I agree with you 100%, he’s mismanaged this pen and to some degree the rotation. Hopefully there is enough restoration for these guys to close the season strong.
by DudeVf11 on Sep 1, 2008 12:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cubs were lucky
To Win 2. The thursday game was as a lucky a game as you will have all year. You have maybe three or four games like that a year. This year’s include Marlin’s Game (Ward three run bomb), Phil’s game, Brewer’s Game (CC Game), and Dodger’s Game (Fonzie walkoff double). In the playoffs, Hamels probably pitches the 8th and that game probably ends differently. In Friday’s game, Cubs benefitted by a horrible call by the ump and it appears that factored into a makeup call the next day vs Lilly (Howard’s non-tag).
I am happy that they won two…I just don’t think that the offense made any kind of statement. I think the gave the Phils a lot of confidence for a future meeting. They clearly were not bothered by Thursday’s game and were able to squelch any late game magic on Saturday and Sunday.
The offense was pretty much Poopy the whole series…not a lot of extra base hits this weekend (none today).
Can’t do it all the time…but would have like to seen them beat up on Moyer with Oswalt going tomorrow against Marquis.
Onward and Upward….
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Aug 31, 2008 6:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Good observations....
…this has been a tremendous season, we are where we want to be right now, but I still feel like our offense lacks a truly great hitter, i.e., a guys who doesn’t have prolonged slumps, is patient and has a lot of power. Every all-star or very good player that we have, I think I can name at least 3 I’d rather have from other teams. I am not looking for a perfect player but just guys with fewer holes in their offensive game. I am not fretting over this, but that’s what concerns me for the playoffs. But I totally expect this team to make the playoffs. We could still lose the division to the Brewers but if we don’t make a wild card then I’d consider that a big time choke/collapse.
by DudeVf11 on Sep 1, 2008 12:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My biggest area of concern at this point
Is not the Offense, Not Z, not Marquis….it Is the left side of the bullpen. Hendry and Lou decided that they did not need Scott Eyre because they thought that Cotts and Marshall were their guys. Well, right now, neither of these guys seems to really be able to get lefties out. Heck, Lilly is having trouble getting lefties out too. Cotts seems to fair better against righties than he does lefties. While I like Marshall, He is not the kind of guy who I think can come into a middle of inning and with runners on base and get the right kind of out (groundball, K, pop up). He is just does not seem to have that kind of stuff. Cotts is suppose to be that guy, but he keeps getting behind the lefties…a recipe for disaster.
Let’s hope they figure it out soon….
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Aug 31, 2008 6:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'd actually broaden that
we don’t seem to have depth in the middle-relief department. That includes Lieber, (wherefore art thou, John Lieber?) Gaudin, Howry, Marshall, Cotts, Shark, and, I guess, Wuertz. Am I missing anyone?
It never feels, day to day, that we can depend on these guys. They ALL give up runs far to regularly for my taste.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 7:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You could argue that
the ‘pen is fine enough for the playoffs. Ideally we send out our starters, they give us 6-7 and we go Samardzija-Marmol-Wood to finish off the wins. It was a mistake to dump Eyre instead of Howry, but I’m not sure I count on Eyre much more than I do Cotts-Marshall, despite Stevie’s recent run. It would have been nice to bring home Scott Downs, but who knows what his pricetag/availability was.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 7:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eyre was in Lou's doghouse for what ever reason and Howry isnt
Thats why Eyre got dumped. Lets just hope that, that discussion doesnt come back and haunt Cubs come October
"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 31, 2008 7:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I still believe Howry will be an asset to this team.
He looked great today, and has shown signs of being the 2007 Howry lately. With him, it all seems a matter of location, as it is with many pitchers. It looks to me like he’s close to getting that command back. When he gets that late movement on his fastball like today, and the ball runs in on right handed hitters, he can be lights out. I know I’m probably in the minority here, but I’d rather see an effective Howry in the 7th inning than the rookie Samardzija.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 8:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Samardzija...
… but I’d agree with you that having an effective Howry — which we have seen recently, as you point out — is extremely important to the success of this team.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Aug 31, 2008 8:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
IMO I feel that Shark
needs at least one crappy outing before heading to the playoffs. I understand that he has dealt with pressure at ND but I would still feel more comfortable with him in a playoff situation if before that he had experienced some lack of success. By that I mean, I want to see how he bounces back from that lack of success the next time he toes the rubber. I would rather see that now than in the playoffs.
It may cost us a win in the short term but it could be a character building scenario that he benefits from during a long playoff run
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Aug 31, 2008 11:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Over the past month
It seems that Howry’s been 2 up, 2 down – meaning that he has two good outings in a row, followed by two OMFG DFA Howry! outings in a row. I don’t think this is a question of mechanics or fatigue, but more of an indication of where his head’s at. If anything, he may benefit from more innings before the end of the regular season; not so much for the extra work, but because it would show that the team still has confidence in his abilities.
Since the club has made up their mind to keep him around, the best thing they can do is try to make this situation work out for him/them.
by Clutch16 on Sep 1, 2008 12:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I could see Lou
eventually sticking with his power righties even with left handed hitters at the plate. Cotts and Marshall don’t seem to have the stuff to get anyone out consistently, while Marmol, Wood and perhaps Samardzija can get the job done against anybody. With fairly regular off days in the playoffs, I could see Lou being comfortable going to the pen and using just those three guys after the sixth or seventh in each game. Harden, Dempster, Zambrano and Lilly can all tough it out for at least six innings, and after that, its lights out.
by dakoose on Aug 31, 2008 8:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Batter's Eye Box
I just got home from the game today and I wanted to report on the Batter’s Eye Box. My family reserved the entire box and had 100 tickets so we invited our entire family and lots of friends to join us. We were able to fit all of us into the batter’s eye box VIP room very easily and the food spread that was provided was absolutely excellent. I highly recommend it for a large gathering – I think it’s way better than reserving a rooftop deck.
As for the team, I watched many of them through high powered binoculars and they definitely seem tired. DeRosa especially. Hopefully Lou can get the regulars enough rest for this final run. Cedeno looked horrible today and hasn’t impressed me at all this week. But we’ll see what he can do with more regular at-bats.
by cubsonWGN4ever on Aug 31, 2008 7:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
fwiw
Cedeno did VERY well on the field.
But he always does. He can’t seem to get both offense and defense together at the same time.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 7:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You speak the truth.
Ronny seems to bring either his glove or his bat, but not both. He did make an excellent play today at SS.
"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007
by DeRoMyHero on Aug 31, 2008 7:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That play at SS...
… would not have been made by Theriot. He has neither the range that would have stopped it (as Cedeno did) nor the arm to make the out (as Cedeno did).
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Aug 31, 2008 8:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Look At Things This Way
It’s good to know that should Theiot get hurt bad enough, the Cubs don’t lose anything in the field because Ronny can step in. And some would even argue that not much would be lost on the offensive side of things either.
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
by CaliCub on Aug 31, 2008 8:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We have always
known that Ronny is the superior fielder. Theriot just isn’t a fluid enough fielder. He is stiffer than Ronny and you can see it in the way he runs. If Ronny could work on his pitch recognition and work on his swing a little bit he could replace Theriot by the beginning of next season. He is much more talented, but more than any other sport, baseball takes a lot of skill.
by dakoose on Aug 31, 2008 8:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Horse hoey
I’ve seen little out of Ronny Cedeno over the past three seasons to suggest he is everyday shortstop material. Especially on a quality ballclub like the Cubs. It is my opinion that a Cedeno who played everyday would have hard time hitting .250. To go along with the baseball IQ of about three. And I have never understand the affection for his fielding. Is he a better fielder than Ryan Theriot? I wouldn’t be so quick to answer that. Theriot has more than held his own at shortstop to go along with becoming a significant spark plug to this offense.
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 8:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think there
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 8:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oops...hit post too soon..
I don’t think there’s any doubt that Ronny is the best SS on the team. And his baseball IQ is no worse than Theriot’s IMO. However, I will agree with you on Riot being better on offense. Not sure I would call him the “sparkplug” however.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot is very important on this ballclub
The sabermagicians don’t believe in the concept of chemistry. But I sure do. In my opinion Theriot serves a significant positive role in this regard. In addition to his solid contributions as a hitter and his consistent albeit non-spectacular play at shortstop. I’ve come around 180 degrees on Theriot versus my opinion of a year ago.
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he costs us runs.
and you know it.
If every-day chemistry were that important, Lou wouldn’t be able to move DeRosa around, or platoon Edmonds and Johnson.
Riot is a good utility bench player. He’s on the same level as Fontenot.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's Hitting .310+
How is he costing us runs?
Please show your work when you do you math.
Theriot, Fonty, and Johnson = The Scrappy Pyramid of Victory
by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Aug 31, 2008 10:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he's talking about the defense.
i.e. Theriot causes pitchers to have to get 4 outs an inning from time to time by not getting to balls and/or not making the throws.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 11:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what DGU said
and it’s been stated about a million times already. I don’t have to do the math, it’s already been done.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you don't have a cogent argument than please:
Theriot, Fonty, and Johnson = The Scrappy Pyramid of Victory
by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Aug 31, 2008 11:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
excuse me?
I notice you didn’t reply to DGU at all. In other words, you don’t really HAVE a response.
He costs us runs. He lets more batters on base with his lack of range and poor arm than he gets on base, and then when he GETS on base, he frequently gets caught RWD — running while dumb.
None of this is news. It’s been brought up over and over and over again. Maybe you should take some ginko balova, to improve your memory.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed, he's been very important this year....
And I also agree there’s something to be said for team chemistry. I’m just not totally convinced that he’s THAT much better in terms of production, than Ronny would be if he had the everyday job. I’m sure Ronny wouldn’t have the BA and OBP that Theriot has, but I’m pretty sure he would be a better run producer. However, for whatever reason, Lou has this big man crush on the Riot, and I don’t see that changing, barring injury.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll buy into the idea of chemistry
but what shows Riot is a net positive on that? We have evidence that frustration with Theriot’s quickness to do his own PR got him pranked earlier in the season.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 10:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wow...
Seriously? That’s quite a reach there. Wasn’t that back in April?
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Aug 31, 2008 11:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not saying I think he's bad for chemistry.
I’m saying I don’t know he’s good for chemistry and am willing to be educated. The example was meant to spur the conversation forward.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 11:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
give me a break.
He’s clearly a better fielder than Theriot. And you have absolutely nothing to base your projected .250 on.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 9:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
..other than, of course, Cedeno's career batting average of .251
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Aug 31, 2008 10:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
limited playing time
will do that to a player.
We’re not talking about the Ronny Cedeno of 2006. We’re talking about the Ronny Cedeno of 2008.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 10:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's weak...
Fontenot, limited playing time, only 40 more at bats than Cedeno….yet who looks better at the plate these days? Seems like he takes advantage of his “limited playing time”.
Both Ronny’s look the same to me. Impatient at the plate, swings at bad pitches, chokes in clutch situations.
What do you see in Ronny’s plate approach these days that are any different than 2006? Seriously.
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Aug 31, 2008 10:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just don't think
he’s had the opportunities.
I wrote above that Ronny doesn’t seen to be able to bring his bat AND his glove on the same days. I simply think that the only way he works that out is by playing more, and that I still think he’s a better player than Theriot.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 11:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He doesn't look any different at the plate...
…than he did in 06 when he was starting. I mean, that’s fine if you think he would with more playing time, but he had a golden opportunity in 06 and, frankly, blew it. We wouldn’t be having this discussion if Ronny hit .300 that year, stole a few more bases, and could actually be a #2 hitter. But Ronny has shown this fan nothing to say that he’s turned any corner on his approach at the plate. And his career numbers indicate that a .250 hitter is maybe all he’ll ever be.
It’s like the old saying in football….. “Everybody loves the backup quarterback…..” Boo the starter, think the backup could do better, but then what happens when that backup DOES come in and stinks up the joint? Where do you go from there?
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Aug 31, 2008 11:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
very true.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fontenot looks a ton better.
Now, Fontenot is also getting to play in more favorable situations. Ronny has some significant splits, especially this year. He hits righties better than lefties. He hits finesse pitchers better than power pitchers, and this year he hits flyball pitchers better than ground ball pitchers.
He has been used primarily against lefties and ground ball pitchers this year. I really don’t know why Lou runs Cedeno out there over Fukudome v. LHP. It doesn’t make sense at any level.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 11:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But if we're talking starting Cedeno at SS...
…then he’d have to hit in ALL the above situations. And I don’t think Ronny is capable of showing us any more than what he has so far simply with more consistent playing time. There’s really no way of knowing, so I go back to his 06 year when he was starting. And I don’t think his plate approach is any smarter.
The only stats I care about are the ones on the back of a baseball card
by carmen_fanzone on Aug 31, 2008 11:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm just responding to the idea that Fontenot looks better than Cedeno
noting that Fontenot is put in situations where he can succeed while Ronny is being put in situations where he hasn’t been able to succeed at the ML level. There could be a good reason for that – Lou may be trying to develop Ronny more than use him to win.
I would like to see Ronny get an extended chance to start under a manager who isn’t encouraging the hacktastic approach at the plate. At this point, though, he doesn’t deserve that chance nearly as much as Fontenot.
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Sep 1, 2008 8:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chalk this series up to the effects of the Dog Days of Summer
Philadelphia is a good ballclub engaged in a heated battle to make the playoffs. The Cubs had been streaking and were bound to have a hiccup. I’ve been following this team as a diehard since 1977. Doesn’t matter if it’s a great team or a lousy team in any particular year….bottom line all Cub teams invariably have to fight through a unique case of the Dog Days of Summer. This team will be alright.
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 8:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
It happens to all teams every year.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 8:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
"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 31, 2008 9:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I couldn't have said it better myself.
In fact, I did say it. Right up there.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 9:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like your thinking here
it makes sense to think that intensity would ebb and flow over a long season, especially in the homestretch.
by bluekoolaide on Aug 31, 2008 10:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mark DeRosa hasn't been an option at shortstop for several years....
I’m not sure where today’s grand debate originates. DeRosa hasn’t had the defensive chops to play shortstop on anything but an emergency basis for several years now. He’s NOT an option at the position.
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 8:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I still think he's better than Theriot and Fontenot.
But you’re right, today was an emergency situation.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And, I wouldn't hesitate to use him again in such a situation.
Just not on a regular basis.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Aug 31, 2008 8:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I tend to agree
Also is would allow Lou to double switch out Theriot as opposed to DeRo which I would prefer.
Theriot, Fonty, and Johnson = The Scrappy Pyramid of Victory
by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Aug 31, 2008 10:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Derek Lee -- Where is the Hammer?
After DLee’s day off earlier in the week — back spasms — I just wondered about something.
In several stories, there was mention of these spasms and their reoccurence. Maybe I have not being paying enough attention but until this episode, I did not realize that this was an ongoing problem that flared up on occasion.
Back problems are nothing to be sneezed at — wasn’t that Sosa’s excuse a few years ago.
What really worries me is the fact that DLee does have back problems. Does this in some way explain why he does not seem to be driving the ball like he has in the past.
I just looked at his numbers in August — 4 doubles and 1 home run.
Sure his average was good but even his base hits don’t seem to be the line drive types that he has produced in the past.
A bad back is not a good thing to have when the torque your body creates trying to drive a ball. The back may be the reason that his swing seems so much weaker than it has been.
Personally, I have not seen him drive the ball on a consistent basis — even when making an out. A lot of pop flies, weak grounders, and medium fly outs.
Maybe I am trying too hard to find a reason why DLee seems to look weak at times. By weak, I just mean the lack of that stinging swing that we have become used to seeing.
A good friend of mine mentioned the other day that too often DLee looks as though he isn’t feeling well. Body language?
Just some observations — and just one last thought.
Did anyone else notice Rich Harden rubbing his arm in the dugout after he came out of the game on Friday. I just hope nothing is bothering him.
Enough paranoia for now.
by ceegeewow on Aug 31, 2008 8:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I did see
Harden rub his arm/shoulder.
by sue369 on Aug 31, 2008 8:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Was it his arm or his shoulder?
The shoulder’s a bit more concerning than the arm.
CUBS WIN! CUE THE ORCHESTRA!
by Keith on Aug 31, 2008 8:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He rubbed up his arm
toward the shoulder. That’s why I said arm/shoulder.
by sue369 on Aug 31, 2008 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yikes...
I don’t like the sound of that. Hopefully, it’s just normal soreness after pitching a game.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you trouble makers hehehe
"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 31, 2008 9:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
Doesn’t take much to get us aroused on here does it?
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
twhs
"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 31, 2008 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hehehe...
should have expected that…:)
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
whats up bump
"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 31, 2008 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Watching Jerry's kids of course!
j/k….Trying to finish Wrigleyville. It’s a pretty good read so far. Did you finish the Campy book? I think I’ll get that one next.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 10:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep I did.... Great book.
prolly one of the best I’ve read in 08.
Noticed that there is not much day baseball in the last next two weeks for the Cubs
"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 31, 2008 10:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Interesting angle equating D-Lee's power outage
to possible back problems. I hadn’t considered that but, when you think about it, it makes some sense. But if this is part of the problem, I’d love to see Lou move him down in the order. If he can’t generate power, he shouldn’t be in a power position.
I’ve said it before-I worry about the lack of consistent rbi power in the 3 hole, esp. at playoff time.
by bluekoolaide on Aug 31, 2008 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ok then, I'll def get that next....
yeah, you’re right…just one or two games I think. Are you going to any games in the final series in Milwaukee? I’d love to be there for at least one.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Me too.
No I didnt get any tickets for it, end of Feb when I ordered the other set, I didnt think I’d be able to go to the Sept game.
"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 31, 2008 10:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didnt either...
I’m sure they’re sold out now and the scalpers will want a fortune. I’m still tempted to take a ride up there and take a chance. I’ve gotten lucky at Wrigley a few times.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 10:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Does anyone else think...
Fonzie needs to sit a game? He’s started god knows how many games in a row, and he had a very poor series (3/17, 5 Ks, 1 BB). Plus, he hasn’t been able to hit Roy Oswalt in his career, only putting up a .179/.393/.571 line (small sample size, 28 career AB). If I’m Lou, I’d start Reed Johnson or Mark DeRosa in LF tomorrow and let Fonzie take a breather.
CUBS WIN! CUE THE ORCHESTRA!
by Keith on Aug 31, 2008 8:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes...
One of the rare criticisms of Lou Piniella I have is his lack of objective decision making when it comes to Soriano. Right now Soriano could use a day off. Beyond maybe be tired he seems to get “mentally overloaded” at times, which leads (in my opinion) to his patented stupid streaks. GIve Soriano a day off. Good for him, good for the ballclub.
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 8:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Soriano the only player that Lou lacks objective decision making on?
If so, why Soriano?
The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.
by DGU on Aug 31, 2008 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This could be part of the Manager's assessment of personalities and how he manages them?
I’ll defer to Lou’s judgement on this but I also perceive a bias in his handling of Soriano. When we are protecting a ne run lead in the 9th I sure as hell don’t want Fonzie in LF, but I defer to Lou’s judgement here, he must feel it gets bette production out of Soriano and for the team to make these types of calls.
All that said, Soriano isn’t this team’s problem. I am just agreeing that Lou seems to handle him differently.
by DudeVf11 on Sep 1, 2008 12:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just a bit over a month ago, Lou said:
“It makes it much easier to put out a lineup knowing you’ve got Soriano in
the leadoff spot and you can do whatever you want in the two, five, six,
seven holes. Plus he’s starting to swing it, and he can carry a team.”
-LVP, 07/30/2008
I don’t think you need to look much more deeply than that. Lou (and the rest of the team, FTM) seem to think Soriano == Ws. Could he use a day off? Sure. Could anyone at this time of year? Of course. Does the above quote make me think he’s going to get it anytime before the 14th? No way.
by Clutch16 on Sep 1, 2008 1:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Now that you mention it...
That might not be a bad idea. I don’t think he’s had a day off since he came off the DL. If Pie is back tomorrow, he might be a better option than Johnson or DeRo. Unless you want to see the Hoff attempt to play outfield defense again. He didn’t look too good the last time IIRC.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
any word
on call-ups at all?
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
News --
Coming up and / or back —
Wuertz, Lieber, Guzman, Koy Hill, Hoffpauir, and McGehee
by ceegeewow on Aug 31, 2008 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep...
Teams can expand their rosters on Sept. 1 beyond 25 players, and the Cubs will add Micah Hoffpauir, Koyie Hill, Michael Wuertz and Casey McGehee from Triple-A Iowa, and activate Jon Lieber and Angel Guzman from the disabled list.
“We could use a little pitching, get another right-handed bat that will help a little bit pinch-hitting,” Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. “We’ll get a few kids from the Minor Leagues, and hopefully they’ll help out.”
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm anxious to see Guzman again....
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bobby Dernier, the team’s Minor League baserunning instructor, saw some of the candidates, including outfielder Felix Pie, who was hitting .287 with 10 home runs, 19 doubles, five triples, 11 stolen bases and 52 RBIs. Pie, who could be added after Iowa’s playoff run, had three RBIs in Saturday’s 10-4 win over Omaha.
“He’s been playing well,” Dernier said of Pie, who was the Cubs’ starting center fielder on Opening Day. “I talked to [Iowa manager Pat Listach] and he said Pie seems to be getting ready and peaking at the right time. He knows what’s ahead. Hoffpauir also.”
Excellent to see.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very nice indeed...
I’d guess we’ll see Wuertz and Guzman more than Lieber. For whatever reason, it seems like Lou has little faith in Lieber, ala Scott Eyre.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 9:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The Felix Pie Fan Society is weeping right now
Cubs not calling up Felix Pie further reinforces my opinion that the Cub organization has, for all intents and purposes, given up on him. Look for Pie to be moved in the winter.
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 9:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you didn't read the article, did you.
they’re keeping Pie down for the AAA Playoff run, and then they’re likely to call him up.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Aug 31, 2008 9:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
come on
……him not being called up has nothing to do with his future with the team and more the fact that his development has nothing to do with this years team. Let me tell you something……you have eaten a lot of crow and with the new search function maybe you should cool off your absolute opinions.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on Aug 31, 2008 9:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, write down another "absolute" opinion if you must....
Felix Pie isn’t going to hit major league pitching. Not in 2009, not never.
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 10:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Im confused
……wait….yep….confused.
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on Aug 31, 2008 10:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot, Fonty, and Johnson = The Scrappy Pyramid of Victory
by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Aug 31, 2008 11:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pretty big on the STFU today, aren't ya, BCPD?
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Sep 1, 2008 12:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Problem was Werth!
The Cubs lost the last two games because Pinella and Rothschild either got the wrong scouting report or failed to make adjustments on how they were pitching to Werth. When a guy hits three line shots into a cross wind deep into the bleachers, screams a double down the left field line, barely misses on foul balls that smash directly behind home plate….at what point do you say this isn’t working? If it was the same pitcher, you might get a new pitcher; but he did it against different pitchers. This guy was in the zone and Pinella has got to pay attention to how these guys are swinging the bat. I couldn’t believe the Cubs even remotely gave him something to hit….walk the guy, it’s far better then giving up important go-ahead runs in pivotal situations which occured during the last two games.
by Galtwho on Aug 31, 2008 9:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Phillies lineup is loaded
Werth had a great series. It happens. In the Philly lineup you pick your poison. Rollins, Utley, Howard, Victorino, Werth…lots of firepower.
by MDBNIU on Aug 31, 2008 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Split was fine
After the first two games the Cubs won, hoping for 3 out of 4 but it didn’t happen.
Phillies fans have been complaining all season about the lineup. Pitching has been fine for them all season. Lineup is very streaky. Go hot and cold from game to game. That’s the reason they weren’t able to pull away from the Mets and are a game down starting September.
I had to hear about it today at a barbeque I was at, that the Phillies have the Cubs number, should have swept this series, blah blah blah.
Cubs have the better roster and that will show in a 7 game series. If the Phils get there
by PhillyCub on Aug 31, 2008 10:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
But if we have 4 at home versus Phila in the NLCS
I hope we win more than two home games.
by ChipSet on Aug 31, 2008 10:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Phillies fans are crowing
about winning 2 games of this series. To them, this means that, if they take 2 out of 3 at home in the NLCS against the Cubs, they’ll go to the world series.
If they lose to the Nationals tomorrow, and the Mets beat the Brewers, they will all take a “we’re doomed” attitude
by PhillyCub on Aug 31, 2008 10:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And they just might lose to the Nats...
Who’ve been hot lately, winning 6 straight and 8 out of their last 10.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 10:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They just swept an almost-completely dismantled Braves club.
Translating that into a win vs. a division challenger is a tough call.
The Phils will get some momentum out of the end of this series, forcing the Nats’ pitching (what there is of it) to be that much more nervous about facing them.
by Clutch16 on Sep 1, 2008 1:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm nowhere near the ledge
Losing two to a division contender is not a shame. If we lose two of three to Houston at home, I might panic a tiny bit. Remember, even going .500 the rest of the way still means the other teams have to play out of their @$$es to catch us
"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)
by spoiledcubbage on Aug 31, 2008 10:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
We’re running into a hot pitcher in Oswalt though. He can be dominating at times.
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, well, we have Marquis on the hill
He can be, um…a pleasant surprise at times ;-)
"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)
by spoiledcubbage on Aug 31, 2008 10:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He can be a...pleasant surprise at times ;-)
"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)
by spoiledcubbage on Aug 31, 2008 10:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
"Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." - Jacque Barzun
by Bump Bailey on Aug 31, 2008 10:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
CC Near No No....Brewers protesting official scorer ruling of the lone pirate's hit
I just watched the play….well they have some valid arguments on Laroche location when CC dropped the ball, it was still a tough play to make and it appeared that CC gave up on the play after he dropped it.
If the play is overruled (Brewers compiling a DVD to send to MLB), it will be the first no hitter awarded because of an official scoring change after the game.
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Aug 31, 2008 11:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Theriot, Fonty, and Johnson = The Scrappy Pyramid of Victory
by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Aug 31, 2008 11:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I LOVE this
It means they still aren’t focused on the task at hand. Who cares if it’s a no-hitter?
I hope they win the protest. Otherwise, they’ll have a chip on their shoulder (the fan base already does). But still — to worry about this instead of being happy about winning the game. Wow.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Sep 1, 2008 12:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree....it will be the
most anti climatic No hitter in history and people will only remember it because it was the no hitter that was awarded because of an official scoring change.
The question to be asked is if the official scoring is changed, will they stage a Jason Kendall Leap it to CC’s sausage like arms….
This is just Yost and the brewers being idiots again. I am amazed that he was ever on Bobby Cox’s staff. He must have gotten hit with a fungo bat a few times.
"Aw, how could he (Jorge Orta) lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico." -- Harry Carey
by TheRiot Police on Sep 1, 2008 12:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nearsighted Ned
And if the appeal goes through and CC is awarded the no-no, I want Kerry Wood’s 20K game changed to a no-hitter as well. That was an error on Orie all the way.
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
by CaliCub on Sep 1, 2008 12:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What a joke
here’s what Nedly had to say:
“That’s a joke,” irate manager Ned Yost said afterward. “That wasn’t even close. Whoever the scorekeeper was absolutely denied major-league baseball a nice no-hitter, right there.”
One problem: the Official Scorekeeper isn’t supposed to have a no-hitter in mind while keeping score! The official scoring instructions are pretty clear about that. It’ a tough job, I know from experience, and while the scorer may have gotten it wrong, he’s not supposed to be doing favors for anyone.
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 Sep 1, 2008 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Milt Pappas
I’d rather he pitched a perfect game against San Diego back in 1972 but I don’t piss and moan about it after the fact. I just spent the rest of the time pointing out Bruce Froemming’s arrogance and incompetence at large.
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
by CaliCub on Sep 1, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brewers....
I am glad they are worried about this. Remember last year when Prince was more worried about passing his dad in HR’s than winning baseball games??
I'm a reader not a poster, but I'm also a poster so don't get any ideas.
by cozmotaylor123 on Sep 1, 2008 8:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm bringing the lucky charm to the game today
The wife hasn’t seen the Cubs lose all year, so I figure now is the time to get her back to Wrigley. Plus, since we got married, the Cubs are 15-5 (counting the loss on our wedding day), so I figure I might as well do what I can to help snap this 2-game losing skid.
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 Sep 1, 2008 8:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
we appreciate your "sacrifice". :D
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i know, it's tough
thanks for sharing the burden
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 Sep 1, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if you want
I can come down there and take your burden for you.
Our 2008 Chicago Cubs -- FINDING WAYS TO WIN!
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Trey's Wife > Rally Caps
"Sometimes I feel like as a Cubs fan if I’m not worrying about something, I’m not doing it right." - HalfBlindCubbieGirl
by CaliCub on Sep 1, 2008 11:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
Cubs By The Numbers
Cubs By The Numbers is a history of the ballclub by uniform number, but the biographies help trace the history of our beloved team in a new way. For everyone who's a Cubs fan, anyone who ever wore the uniform is like family. Cubs By The Numbers reintroduces readers to some of their long-lost ancestors, even ones they think they already know.
Click here to order your copy, available now!
Recent Stories in Ticket Exchanges
Recent Stories in Game Threads
SBNation.com Recent Stories
Big League Stew - MLB - Yahoo! Sports
- After locking up of AL MVP, it's time for Twins to lock up Mauer
- November means R&R for Raiders fan CC Sabathia and others
- D12: Honeymoon over for big Bobby Jenks and Ozzie Guillen?
- Timmy is so wicked: Lincecum's hair grows with his legend
- D12: Strasburg feels 'pop' in knee, scares Nationals to death
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
