Marquis Madness: Cubs 9, Mets 5

by Al on Sep 23, 2008 8:15 AM CDT in Recaps Comment 450 comments

It's kind of weird, this week's worth of "meaningless" games. For one thing, they're not completely meaningless -- the Cubs are facing teams they could possibly face in October, so this gives them a chance for firsthand scouting, in addition to showing they can still beat the Mets and Brewers.

The weirdness is compounded by the fact that by beating the Mets, the Cubs could knock them out of the playoffs entirely -- and the Mets appear to be the team with whom they match up the best. Obviously, they won't lay down, and of course we all want the Cubs to win every day. For one thing, there's still a chance to win 100 games -- a 5-1 mark would do it. Yesterday's 9-5 win over the Mets clinched the best record in the National League, and thus home field for the first two rounds of postseason play.

Jason Marquis -- clearly the best fifth starter in the majors this year -- threw into the 7th inning again, the sixteenth time he has done that in his 28 starts, and was yanked only when he ran out of gas and gave up a homer to David Wright in the 7th. No shame there, as Wright is one of the best power hitters in the game, having 33 homers. Marquis had already one-upped that, hitting his first career grand slam (and second HR of the season) in a six-run Cubs fourth inning that put the game out of reach. It was the first grand slam by a Cubs pitcher since Kevin Tapani connected in Atlanta on July 20, 1998. Derrek Lee also homered, his 20th; the Cubs have five 20-homer men for only the second time (1958 and 2004 were the others) and if Jim Edmonds can hit two more, that'd make six for the first time in club history (Edmonds has 19 HR, but one was with San Diego).

Jeff Samardzija threw well in another possible audition for a playoff spot. But please tell me Gordon Wittenmyer is joking about this:

Outfielder Felix Pie, who made last year's postseason roster for bench speed and late-inning defense, and the Cubs' minor-league player of the year, first baseman/outfielder Micah Hoffpauir, seem to be the front-runners for that opening. Infielder Casey McGehee also is in the mix.

Hoffpauir and McGehee? Those guys shouldn't get into a playoff game without a ticket. To me, it's a no-brainer; Pie appears to have changed his hitting approach during his time at Iowa this year, he can play all three OF positions, and runs the bases well. Neither of the other two have that sort of versatility (or ability, if you ask me).

So the Cubs continue, and if they somehow can run the table and win all six remaining games, they'll have considerable influence on the Mets/Brewers wild card race.

I've spent most of this year trying to avoid the mass media's obsession with the "hundred years" thing. But today is a significant date and worth remembering: it was 100 years ago today, September 23, 1908, that the famous "Merkle Game" took place between the Cubs and Giants. Here's how it happened, as I wrote it in the top 100 profile of Johnny Evers last year:

Evers himself played an important role in the famous September 23 "Merkle's Boner" game that helped win the Cubs the 1908 pennant. From the Evers website:

The Giants apparently beat the Cubs 2-1 in the bottom of the ninth. Fred Merkle, who was on first base, trotted off the field toward his dugout when Evers realized he never tagged second. Evers got the ball and touched second, Merkle was called out and the game was tied up. The Cubs would eventually end up winning that game. Evers was aware of the rule that stated a runner on first still must tag second even on the winning run for the play to be over. Merkle failed to do this and was called out.

The website doesn't do full justice to this play, or Evers. This single play shows all of Evers' competitiveness, abrasiveness, knowledge, and leadership, all produced at the most critical moment. There was, in fact, at the time, some dispute about whether the ball that Evers had used in the play was the actual ball, or was another one that had been thrown to him from the Cubs' dugout.

There had been another play exactly like it earlier that same month -- in the SABR BioProject biography of NL umpire Hank O'Day, it's explained:

In a [September 4] game involving the Cubs and Pittsburgh Pirates, a Pirate runner [Warren Gill, who, oddly enough, never played again after the 1908 season] failed to touch second on a game-winning hit. When Evers tried to inform O'Day of the decision, O'Day said he did not see the play and could not do anything. However, the play remained in O'Day's mind.

It's further elaborated upon in the SABR BioProject biography of Evers:

Evers, standing on second, called for the ball and demanded that umpire Hank O'Day rule the play a forceout, which would nullify the run and send the game into extra innings. Gill's maneuver was customary in those days, and O'Day refused to make the call that Evers was seeking. "That night O'Day came to look me up, which was an unusual thing in itself," Evers recalled many years later. "Sitting in a corner in the lobby, he told me that he wanted to discuss the play. O'Day then agreed that my play was legal and that under the circumstances, a runner coming down from first and not touching second on the final base hit was out." Evers' account may not be trustworthy, especially given O'Day's exceptionally reclusive nature and the lengthy period between the event and the retelling, but the incident undoubtedly had a pronounced effect on the umpire, as was demonstrated by subsequent events.

O'Day thought he was mollifying Evers by saying if it happened again, he'd give it to him. Well, guess what, and guess who was the umpire. The play not only wound up helping the Cubs win the pennant and World Series in 1908 (since the September 23 game was ruled a tie, it had to be replayed at season's end, and the Cubs won the replay 4-2), but it resulted in an official rule change, requiring the umpire(s) to make certain that all players touch their required bases on game-ending plays. It is arguably the single most significant play in Cubs history.

Until this postseason, when perhaps another play will top it.

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Cubs playing for pride

If the Mets can’t beat the Cubs and Marshall with their ace on the mound, in a must win game, they don’t deserve to make the playoffs.

Over time, your quickness with a cocky rejoinder must have gotten you many punches in the face - Al Swearengen

by lemon20pie on Sep 23, 2008 8:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Good morning Cubs fans.

To piggyback on the Merkle anniversary, CSN had an excellent piece on it this morning, talking to historians and Merkle’s daughter. I thought it was pretty good – until they tried to tie in a ‘Merkle Curse’. But aside from that, it was pretty informative.

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 23, 2008 8:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Was it awkward for Merkle's daughter

to be talking about Merkle’s Boner?

Sorry, I know this will probably get deleted, but it had to be said.

by daeviant on Sep 23, 2008 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

She actually said they never brought it up

sounded kind of said, because they could never ‘use’ their father’s celebrity (I think she meant express their pride about him being a baseball player), because they never knew who would ridicule them for his mistake.

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 23, 2008 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You are sooooo...deviant.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Heck now

Awkward? At the end of his life, Merkle was feted by the Giants and their fans game him a standing ovation (despite his 3 years with the Cubs).

And the hometown is obviously proud. Watertown, Wisconsin — where Merkle Field is located, right next to the erection of the “Merkle monument.” Give the guy his doo!

by roricka on Sep 23, 2008 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You used 'erection' and 'doo' in the same post...you're trying too hard.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

First!

Pie should definitely be the one to go, I agree completely. Remember, he lifts the teams’ spirits which is a good thing too for the postseason I think.

by adam316 on Sep 23, 2008 8:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ahem, refresh and now Im 3rd

by adam316 on Sep 23, 2008 8:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Carrie Muskat

referred to it as “the Fred Merkle ‘Bonehead’ game.” What a boner.

My next sig line quote will also be from Lou Piniella, and the first word will be either "Look", or "Listen", followed by a comma.

by JohnM on Sep 23, 2008 8:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Tee hee

The word “boner” probably makes Carrie blush and get all giggly.

by salparadise23 on Sep 23, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

According to "Crazy 08"

Cait Murphy’s great book about that ’08 season has tons of fascinating details about the controversy, the least known being how Cubs and Giant management jockeyed to have the game ruled either a forfeit or a Giant victory.

But she makes it clear that for years, the term “bonehead”, NOT “boner” was associated with Merkle. All I can say is, “May the force be with you, Fred.” (Or perhaps, “Use the force, Johnny.”)

by roricka on Sep 23, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm

Wonder when it became “Merkle’s boner” then?

(BTW – I have Crazy 08 on my shelf, just got it for my birthday. Many good reviews, so looking forward to it.)

My next sig line quote will also be from Lou Piniella, and the first word will be either "Look", or "Listen", followed by a comma.

by JohnM on Sep 24, 2008 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good morning also

Glad for Marquis, the guy takes the ball, seems to never miss a start, and for the most part for a 5th starter keeps the Cubs in the game. I am sure his worth is not under appreciated in the clubhouse.
Pie is and should be on the roster, no brainer.
Thanks again Al for a nice piece on the history of the Cubs. I troll around other sites, and nothing comes close to the “Blue”

"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"

by Grockcubs on Sep 23, 2008 8:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

C'mon now...nobody likes a troll.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Merkle

So that is where AJ Pyrzinski learned that dropped third strike play!! Just a slight permutation in application. I knew noone in the White Sox organization was smart enough to come up with that on their own.

by cubssouvenirman on Sep 23, 2008 8:39 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's the Merkle Curse.

I insist because it’s so evident. It’s incredible that the national press hasn’t focused on this for so many years. Forget about goats and black cats. If you believe in curses and superstitions (I don’t), then it’s obvious that the Cubs were cursed by Merkle after they won the 1908 World Series. It’s a “You may get to the World Series but won’t win it” curse, from a man villified for a play that denied his team (and himself) the chance to play in the 1908 World Series. The Cubs haven’t won since and if you believe in this sort of things, then your conclusion would be that the Cubs haven’t won another World Series because they haven’t adrdessed the correct curse. Maybe someone should go to the place where the play happened or to Merkle’s tomb and “reverse” the curse.

I won’t and won’t worry because I don’t believe in this. What I can’t understand is why the media relegate this obvious “curse” to focus on cats and goats. I guess those two are easier to explain; and more ridiculous , too

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 23, 2008 8:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The problem with the Merkle curse idea is

that he later played for the Cubs in his career, so if he could curse the Cubs then wouldn’t he lift if once he was on the team?

"Destiny is a matter of choice, not chance"

by MerlinDog on Sep 23, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Perhaps he forgot he had cursed the team years before?

I’m kidding. You just made my case as to why I don’t believe in curses. There is always an argument for and another against its existence. In the end, teams win if they are good enough. Obviously, the Cubs weren’t too good for too long.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 23, 2008 1:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

CSN tried to make that case in their piece

in 1956, it was the Cubs worst record, percentage-wise, in their history (IIRC), and also the year of Merkle’s death.

There were a few other things they tried to sneak in there.

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 23, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think this gives unwavering confidence in Marquis...

…and his ability to take the ball and get the job done in the playoffs, given a starter’s collapse, injury, or inability to finish five or seven innings. Sure, he’s gonna give up a moon shot or two (kinda like Lilly), but is a better choice than some other guys (Howry?), and is sure as hell better than any other team’s 4th or 5th starter.

Pie on the roster is a no-brainer. I can understand Micah, but I like Daryl much, much more in the situations that a Micah or Daryl will be called upon to hit. Casey, hell no. Colin, can I get an “Amen!”?

And on this topic of our first round opponent…it is essentially between the NL East Wild Card winner, and the Dodgers, correct? I would most like to face the Brewers, simply because I think we’ve demoralized them enough that they don’t have any gas in the tank to beat us, but that’s not possible. I would then prefer to face the Mets, and I don’t see the Mets losing their WC spot, or gaining the division over the Phillies.

Essentially we are gonna beat up on the Mets, maybe they will lose their WC slot for now, then we will beat up on the Brewers, and all will be balanced out. At least that’s how I see it.

Dan

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 23, 2008 8:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

My fear with the brewers is this

If they turn this thing around and make the playoffs wouldn’t that give them loads of confidence? Kind of like the white sox in ‘05, nothing goes your way most of September and the you somehow still make the playoffs. That could make them beleive they are a team of destiny. I think we are a better team then them but the best team doesn’t always win.

"Destiny is a matter of choice, not chance"

by MerlinDog on Sep 23, 2008 9:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I honestly don't think the Brewers can be confident in playing us anymore this season...

…after sweeping them in 4 games at their park, beating CC for his first loss, and packing THEIR house with 30,000 fans to the tune of a 2 game sweep against the Astros – and a 18 innings of 1 hit ball! – I don’t think they can possibly be confident in playing us. The little brother syndrome is in full-force, IMO.

Dan

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 23, 2008 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Marquis is the best 5th starter in baseball

which still makes me shake my head, but it’s true. Good for him for finding some rhythm and helping this team out.

Pie needs to be on the roster. In a pinch-running/defensive role, he has the talent to alter innings.

Looking at things now, I agree, I’d take the Mets or Dodgers in a first round series. The Dodgers appear to be the same team if you pitch around Manny. I know Ethier is playing better, but he has always hit the Cubs well. Those two are the only batters in that lineup to fear. The Mets are similar – they have three bats to worry about.

I think we’ll be seeing the Mets again in a week, but Santana won’t be able to throw game 1 because he’ll be needed late in the season to get the Mets into the playoffs, which works in the Cubs favor.

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 23, 2008 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wittenmeyer can't be serious...........

…………about McGehee, and Hoffpauir is simply not that good. Both are limited at the plate and liabilities in the field.

Pie makes far more sense. Speed, defense, versatility and perhaps a meaningful stick.

"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 23, 2008 9:04 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I believe Lou is creating competition among the players (Felix, Micah and Casey).

One of them will win the job by their play on ther field.

Sounds like Felix is the front runner but I think making him earn the job is a good idea.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 23, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah. That's what it sounds like to me.

I don’t think mentioning McGehee and Hofpauir was Wittenmeyer’s idea. He just repeated what he heard. And I think this is Lou trying to get those players to compete for a job and not get complacent, especially Pie.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 23, 2008 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe all of the Pie suckage up to now

has been building up for his redemption in the playoffs. Hoff and McGehee simply do not have enough suckage yet for this to be their year. Seriously though, the only thing Hoff could be used for is to pinch hit, then likely immediately replaced for defense. It just doesn’t make sense. McGehee over Pie should not even be a thought.

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Sep 23, 2008 9:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Not sure about Marquis

Do you think there is a reason the LaRussa left him off almost every playoff roster when he was with the Cardinals. I would much rather see Lilly.

by ThisOldCub18 on Sep 23, 2008 9:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Surely Lilly is a lock for the postseason roster

I think the Marquis debate is if he could/should be on the postseason roster as a reliever. From what I’ve heard he has not faired well in his career as a reviever.

"Destiny is a matter of choice, not chance"

by MerlinDog on Sep 23, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's gotta suck for Marquis

if he get’s left off AGAIN. Poor guy, I say let him be on and only used in emergencies.

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by tony412 on Sep 23, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The "leaving him off the roster" thing is a myth.

Marquis’ career stats

Note that he pitched in all three rounds in 2004, and in the NLCS in 2005 (probably would have pitched in the NLDS that year, too, if the Cardinals hadn’t swept it). The only year he was left off was 2006. He also pitched for the Braves in the 2001 postseason.

He was on last year’s Cubs roster, too, just didn’t appear.

He will be VERY valuable to the Cubs if any game goes extra innings.

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

by Al on Sep 23, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ok so much for that

Next Topic! And he can also pinch hit and run. Pretty cool.

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by tony412 on Sep 23, 2008 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lets see

A pitcher that can hit, run and throw a few innings if required.

end of discussion

I've been bleeding double blue Cubbies & NY Rangers

by parrotinct on Sep 23, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1 AL

by ThisOldCub18 on Sep 23, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

+ 1

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 23, 2008 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lost in all of last night's heroics...

Nice to see Riot get back on track. 3-3 plus 2 walks….
DeRo was crushing the ball last night.
DLee hitting one like he used to.

I had to laugh at Marquis’ GS. Not even shocked any more when these things happen this season. LOL.

I think Pie has earned a spot. He looks like a completely different player at the plate. (Speaking of which, that foul ball to the chin HAD to hurt!). I don’t see why you take Micah with so many LH ph’ing options.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 23, 2008 9:31 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

agree on all points

by philadelphiacub on Sep 23, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Riot hitting is key

So is Alfonso getting hot right when the playoffs start. If we get Fonzie in a hot streak, he can win a playoff series by himself.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

+ 1

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 23, 2008 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Another TEAM victory.

Good to see Marquis’ outing, as well as clutch plate production from DeRo and Lee. There’s always a fear with clinching early but this group seems poised to stay sharp leading up to next Wednesday.

It’s a good time to be a Cub fan.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 9:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Now that we have clinched Home Field....

The Cubs new moto – or goal is to win the last game we play this year.

I am really happy for Marquis, he deserves this especially all the hatred that he has recieved.

Anyone notice yesterday after Theriot scored on the GS that Lou was barking something at him and smiling, and Theriot went right over to Lou and they had a discussion? I tried to read his lips but i am not sure if i got it right but it was something along the lines of that is how you F’in do it. Nice job. Then the camera went away.

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 23, 2008 9:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Is there any chance

we can redo the All Star game? The Cubs vs AL All-Stars? Oh well, for only this reason do I hope the White Sox make it that far.

Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue

by tony412 on Sep 23, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

how about

the NL allstars minus dan uggly

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hell, just don't bring in Billy Wagner

Current temperature in hell: 42 degrees F - and falling!

by wnielsen on Sep 23, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Did anyone notice Lou "f'ing and blinding" when Theriot was up

and RJ didn’t run on the hit-and-run call? (Theriot fouled it off.) The Mets announcers picked up on this and they showed him ranting in the dugout. I wondered if it had anything to do with Johnson coming out of the game early even though he had a good day. I realize there were other reasons to take him out, too, but Lou was clearly pissed.

My next sig line quote will also be from Lou Piniella, and the first word will be either "Look", or "Listen", followed by a comma.

by JohnM on Sep 23, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lou doesn't seem to tolerate things like

missing signs. He doesn’t tolerate that and that kind of thing will put a players butt on bench pretty quick. That’s what is great about Lou. He won’t tolerate lapses and the players know it.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I noticed that Cedeno got a talking to AFTER the game was over yesterday as well

Current temperature in hell: 42 degrees F - and falling!

by wnielsen on Sep 23, 2008 9:49 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, but with a smile from Lou at the end of the conversation.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 23, 2008 1:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anyone listen to WGN Radio?

Since Santo didn’t make the trip to Shea since the Cubs already clinched, it was interesting to hear Pat and Cory Provus calling the game…I thought Cory did a nice job doing color commentary, a role I had never really heard him in before…

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 9:51 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm surprised Dave Otto wasn't doing the game

It was probably cheaper since Corey was already there.

Old Style is the nectar of life.

by Mordecai on Sep 23, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And nice for Cory...

Kind of a cool end-of-season thing for him, especially because of the work he puts in every day…

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, I thought Cory did a great job, too.

He doesn’t go overboard with his commentary but usually chimes in with interesting, substantive stuff. Don’t get me wrong, I still love Ron for his comic relief, but it was nice to hear Cory last night.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was thrilled

…to hear about his chicken dinner.

He did a fine job, but I missed Ron’s histrionics.

by sniffy the bee on Sep 23, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ha ha...I heard that part, too.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He reminded me of Harry Doyle's sidekick in major league. Very quiet...

Harry Doyle: Monty, anything to add?

Colorman: Ummm… no.

Harry Doyle: He’s not the best colorman in the league for nothing, folks!

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

by Fishbone2 on Sep 23, 2008 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Harry Doyle: That's all we got, one goddamn hit?

Assistant: You can’t say goddamn on the air

Harry Doyle: Don’t worry, nobody is listening anyway.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 2:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Harry Doyle: [before the playoff game] Monty, anything to add?
Colorman: Ummm… no.
Harry Doyle: He’s not the best colorman in the league for nothing, folks!

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 23, 2008 2:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Harry Doyle: In case you haven’t noticed, and judging by the attendance you haven’t, the Indians have managed to win a few ball games, and are threatening to climb out of the cellar.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

TWIS

2 spots up.

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

by Fishbone2 on Sep 23, 2008 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

my bad.

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 23, 2008 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I missed #10

I love Ronnie. I always go back to Game Day audio and listen to him for the big highlights. I was looking forward to his grunting and sputtering and hollering during Marquis’ GSHR and was sorry he wasn’t there.

by roricka on Sep 23, 2008 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I listened to the first couple of innings,

I thought Pat sounded a little lonely and missed Ronny.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 23, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Playoff roster

Here’s what I think…

Rotation….Dempster, Harden, Zambrano, Lilly

Pen….Wood, Marmol, Samardzija, Cotts, Marshall, Marquis (he goes), Howry (I see Lou keeping him), Gaudin (if he is healthy, otherwise Wells)

Bench…Blanco, Johnson Ward, Kosuke (Fontenot is more the defacto starter these days), Cedeno (even though his three brain cells need a talking to every game)

I do see the Cubs going with 12 pitchers. If by chance Lou changes course and Gaudin doesn’t make the cut, then Micah Hoffapauier is along for the ride.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 9:59 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

wow.

You just can’t get past this Pie thing, can you.

Shovel?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I do NOT want to see Howry in any postseason situation unless we are losing 20-1 in the second inning, then he can eat up some innings.

by ThisOldCub18 on Sep 23, 2008 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Or up 20-1

"Destiny is a matter of choice, not chance"

by MerlinDog on Sep 23, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That would work also

by ThisOldCub18 on Sep 23, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I wouldn't even...

trust him in that situation.

by sniffy the bee on Sep 23, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Marquis will be on the playoff roster.

And there’s no reason for 12 pitchers, not with all the off days.

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

by Al on Sep 23, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

I’m not sure which 11 pitchers it will be, but for the first series anyway, it will be 11.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

12 PITCHERS???

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agree with everything

except Pie and not Hoffpaur should make it.

Felix can pinch-run, plays excellent defense, and has corrected his swing enough to be a .270, which is enough for me.

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Sep 23, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Except for Howry, I meant

I think with a healthy Gaudin, Bobby is excess weight. I agree with Al, 11 pitchers are enough.

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Sep 23, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yesterday, Lou said something like,

the players that had been there all year would be on the roster. That seems to imply Howry is in and Gaudin is out.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 23, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry MDBNIU, but Pie makes it over Hoff. This teams needs his speed and defense,

not Hoff’s power. Edmonds has woken up and canprovide the left-handed puch that Lou craves. Pie has been a different player since his call-up and I’m sure that Lou is enough of a baseball guy to see it. Pitching and defense wins at this time of year and Hoff gives you neither.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pie vs Hoff...VERY interesting

Not so sure you need either one in the playoffs truth be told. Pie is hitting better now, but in a very small sample size. But we already have three pretty good CF’s who will be on the roster with Reed, Edmonds and Kosuke…two of those are lefty and one and a half are decent base runners.

Why do you need Felix? He is a superior defender—but in a real tough playoff at bat—I’d rather have Micah. But you don’t really need him either since we have at least three decent first basemen (counting DeRo) one of whom is a tougher out and is lefty.

Which do need more—a tougher out with gap power or a premier defender/ 3rd or 4th CF? That’s why Lou makes more than we do I guess…good luck Sweet Lou.

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What makes you think Hoff is a tougher out?

far as I can tell, since the september callups, Pie has had more clutch hits. And he’s a MUCH better defender, and he’s MUCH MUCH faster than Hoff. And the sample size on that is NOT SMALL.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree, I just haven't see a lot from Hoff that would

warrant keeping his bat on the roster. If he had banged out a few dingers, I would say keep his bat, but he hasn’t. As far as having three good CF’s, I don’t think Kosuke is going to smell CF in the playoffs and Pie brings an element of speed that can steal a run and 1 run can make a huge difference in the playoffs.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hoff v Pie

I really don’t want to tick anyone off as I like posting here and reading the insights of this community….but I must say..Felix has been a touchy subject all year. In May the fireworks flew when I asked opinions on picking up Edmonds and later on suggesting he might come around and could replace Felix.

Felix looks like an improved player—there is no doubt of this and he has all the tools and HE IS the future. Hoff is older and has more limitations—absolutely agree.

Felix has looked better in September—but they both have small sample sizes with Felix getting 14 ab’s this month and Micah with 17ab’s…the fact is-Micha has hit a ton almost all year at both levels—has a better eye and draws more walks and an OPS for the year at the MLB level that is about .175 higher—Felix has improved—but I suspect he’ll still be quite vulnerable to good breaking pitches at the playoff level.

As stated above—I’m not so sure either one needs to be on the roster—but am not sure who would be better either—those decisions separate the great managers from the also rans.

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sigh....

“…the fact is-Micha has hit a ton almost all year at both levels—”

Yeeeeahhhh….I’m gonna have to……you know…..disagree with you here.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The crux of the argument is that Hoff's contribution would

be that of a hitter. That fact that he has hit at all levels is not germain to this argument. When evaluating a callups contribution to a post season roster, you have to look at his performance since he has been called up. He hasn’t hit well enough to convice the powers that be that he will hit in the playoff. Pie is a know defensive entity. We know that he can run and play stellar defense. That would be his contribution.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Felix Pie has barely played, so please don't be so foolish as to extrapolate

The Cub outfield situation is covered from a defensive perspective. Both Reed Johnson and the demoted Kosuke Fukudome will be on the bench providing ample versatility and defense. There is no playoff role for the dubious Felix Pie. Micah Hoffpauier should get the nod if Lou elects to go with only 11 pitchers. Which I’m not so sure he will.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pinch-running?

Call me crazy, but I think Pie is easily the fastest man on the team. And should the Cubs need a guy who can run for Daryle Ward or someone else, I’d much rather see Pie go out there than Marquis.

The Cubs need a guy who can score on a double from first, or steal a base, and Pie brings that element of speed that forces defenses to adjust.

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 23, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cubs aren't going to carry a designated runner on the playoff roster

Especially given the other options on the bench and the presence of a pitcher or two who runs the bases smartly, like Jason Marquis.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why a 12th pitcher, though?

Why is it more useful to have the 12th pitcher than a Pie? And please do not cite lack of experience, since you were pining for Randy Wells possibly…

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm....

Carry Felix Pie to serve as third outfielder coming off the bench behind Reed Johnson and Kosuke, or go with a 12th pitcher or the pinch hitting run production potential of Micah Hoffpauier??? I will be surprised if Felix Pie makes the playoff roster barring of course an injury between now and then to Soriano, Edmonds, DeRosa, Johnson or Kosuke.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I find it questionable

that you are basing posteseaon roster decisions on ‘potential.’

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let's see what happens....

In my view Felix Pie is a big longshot to make the playoff roster.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think Hoff is a bigger longshot. He hasn't put up the

offensive numbers and he is a defensive liability. Case closed.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hoffpauier would pinch hit, period

Johnson and Kosuke are there for outfield bench role.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hoff hasn't hit. If he had put up

some numbers, I could see your point, but he hasn’t. He would be there for his bat and he hasn’t hit.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

MDBNIU has already made up his mind....

so you are now slamming your face into a brick wall.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I know. I'm done.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And that's how you spell common sense.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

longshot?!?!

sorry i would say he is the front runner

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

will you come out and admit you were wrong

if Pie makes the roster? Hoffpauer in a clutch situation scares the crap out of me, largely because he just hacks. A quality pitcher wouldn’t even throw Micah a strike, because frankly, he hasn’t shown the ability to lay off balls out of the zone

by philadelphiacub on Sep 23, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You have never had any experience with MDBNIU...

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

the magical disappearing act

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh i've read thousands of his unadmitted wrongs

and usually been able to avoid prodding him about it. I just had to say something this time, I don’t even know why

by philadelphiacub on Sep 23, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, he kind of dropped that bomb

and scurried away. That was a classic.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lou likes left-handed power....

And the Cubs in his opinion continue to lack in that category. If Lou doesn’t stick with 12 pitchers then it will be Hoffpauier in my estimation.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Four Words...

Jim Edmonds Daryle Ward

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You haven't been listening to your Sweet Lou closely enough now have you

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess so if I missed the part where he said....

“Mickey Hoffelshower is our best lefthanded option off the bench”

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Now you're just being obtuse...

Bench presuming Cubs are going up against right handed starter…….Blanco, Cedeno, Johnson, Ward, Kosuke and Hoffpauier.

That’s three left-handed bats on the bench, to include the flailing and lost Kosuke. Not exactly bursting at the seams with the left-handed mashers that Sweet Lou craves, now is it.

Hoffpauier WILL be the choice if the Cubs stick with 11 pitchers.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So sayeth the crystal ball.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He listened to Sweet Lou.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm bookmarking this comment...if you don't mind.

“Hoffpauier WILL be the choice if the Cubs stick with 11 pitchers.”

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bookmark away !!!!!

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He hasn't hit. Why would you put

him on the roster if he hasn’t hit. He has never hit well at the major league level. Do you think he is going to just turn it on in the playoffs?

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Which, based on his previous argument

still won’t happen cos the Cubs need twelve pitchers.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Since you're going to type his name so many times...

…could you maybe learn how to spell “Hoffpauir” correctly? Thanks.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

he didn't do it

when he “PRONOUNCED” that Pie wasn’t going to be called up… less than 24 hours before Pie was called up.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

WHAT

run production potential????

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you think that Hoff will make the post season roster...

you are deluded. Lou will go with 11 pitchers in the first round. If it is a choice between an old “prospect”, and a young up & comer- the choice will be Felix. Why would Lou want Hoff on the roster? We have Ward for a pinch hitter, and he’s lefty. Hoff hasn’t shown that he can have good at bats at the ML level. Now, Felix hasn’t either, but he’s shown more this past week or ten days than Hoff has. Hoff is only a suitable first baseman, under no circumstances should he play the outfield. Pie can play all three OF spots if needed, he can pinch run, pinch hit, and offer Lou flexibility.

In summary, you may think you are right, but once again you are wrong. So stop with the foolishness.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 23, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

not to nitpick, but don't you mean dilusional?

diluted means weakened like with water, but I’m not sure what deluded means

by philadelphiacub on Sep 23, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Allow me...

…click here, please. (And, no, it’s not a Rick Roll.)

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

excellent. muchas gracias

shows you can increase your vocab while spending the day at work on a baseball blog

by philadelphiacub on Sep 23, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Deluded: to deceive the mind or judgment of.

In Blue Mike’s mind, he is deluded that he thinks the Cubs will put Hoffpauir on the post season roster.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 23, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm pretty sure BlueMike's avatar...

…is next to the word “deluded” in the dictionary.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's where I got the definition from...

I’m sorry, but he is ignorant. I can’t ignore it anymore. What bothers me even more is how he tries to come off as though he has some inside wisdom that allows him to see things others don’t. In fact, he wants to be right, so he throws his ideas out there, hoping he’s right. He maintains that he has a wealth of baseball knowledge, but the evidence proves otherwise.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 23, 2008 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah...teams that win the WS NEVER have a fast guy on their playoff roster to just run bases...

(cough Dave Roberts 2004 Red Sox)…

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you beat me to it.....maybe the biggest SB in postseason history.

….yea the Cubs need a career minor leaguer on thier post season roster who has never even hit a HR in the ML, can really only play one postion over a guy who can play all three OF postions well and CF as well as anyone in baseball and can provide speed off the bench.

Ummmm Yea.

"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 Sep 23, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

why are we having this discussion? Let's move on.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yep, the troll has enjoyed his continental breakfast.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

C,mon guy, Hoff's bat has been sleep since he arrived. He's 3 for 17

with 1 double since his callup. Open your eyes. If he’s not banging, he’s not contributing to this team. You lnow and I know it. Give us another argument for another player, but not Hoff.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Tyler Houston.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The silence is deafening.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or maybe Heity Cruz?

what was the utklitiy player’s name Dusty loved and the fans hated a couple years ago? Jose something?

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Matt Mieske.

he had a clutch hit, back in the day.

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 23, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So you're saying on a gapper to right-center

you’d rather have Marquis running than Pie?

I’ll take the guy who can score from first, or steal second and score from there, than a pitcher who pinch-runs.

Plus, if it’s close game, you’re going to need that 11th pitcher for extra innings possibly, especially with a short staff. Which is Pie as a pinch-runner/defensive replacement makes sense.

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 23, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why not?

Didn’t you see the impact Dave Roberts had for the Red Sox in 2004?

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 23, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I Agree with MDBNIU

The only way I can see bringing either is if Pie’s or Hoff’s value is going to come as a pinch hitter against a right-handed pitcher. But consider the possible situations and what the other alternatives would be:

Against a lefty starter, I think and Lou uses Johnson and DeRo in the outfield and Font at second, leaving Ward, Edmonds and Kosuke as potential left handed PHs, each of who I would rather use over Hoff or Pie, whether we need extra bases or a single.

If a right handed hitter pitcher starts and our lineup includes Edmonds, Kosuke (let’s just assume this for these purposes) and moving DeRo to second, we still have Lil’ Babe to PH or Ward for power.

Feel free to disagree with any of my preferences in PHs, but I can’t see the value in bringing Pie for fielding (we have plenty of good fielding outfielders) and pinch running over a 12th pitcher because his impact will be limited to just that. Granted our 12th pitcher might be nothing more than a security blanket, but it has to count for more than a pinch runner.

by BarryZuckerCub on Sep 23, 2008 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Our late inning OF defensive replacement would be?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kosuke/Edmonds or move DeRo to right and bring in Fontenot

by BarryZuckerCub on Sep 23, 2008 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Assuming that you didn't use Dome as a PH already...

and you’d rather have DeRo in RF than Pie?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd rather have DeRo, but...

The point is that we are going to have two very capable outfielders available. Sure one might be used as a PH, but more likely than not at the end of the game and can stay on in the outfield.

I won’t even say that Pie isn’t the best outfielder on the team, but I don’t think that his value over the other options matches up to carrying another pitcher – especially given some of our starters’ short starts/questionable health (not trying to imply that Z or Harden are injured here).

by BarryZuckerCub on Sep 23, 2008 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure, they are some concerns

but with the elongated NLDS schedule, the Cubs can get by with 11 pitchers, because of the rest they will be able to give their relievers.

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 23, 2008 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You'd rather have

an infielder in Right field than an outfielder who can play all three positions?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry, my mistake. Should have said, "Would rather have Pie, but..."

by BarryZuckerCub on Sep 23, 2008 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

As much as I love DeRo...

…I don’t think he should be considered a defensive replacement in the outfield. He’s out there because of his bat (and Dome’s lack thereof).

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So, say the Cubs are down a run late

Whom would you rather have running – Marquis or Pie?

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 23, 2008 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Obviously Pie, but...

I’d be willing to use Kosuke or Fontenot as a pinch runner as well. There isn’t a huge shortage of speed on this team, and I know both have been used in that position already this year.

by BarryZuckerCub on Sep 23, 2008 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

True, and both of them will be on the postseason roster

But if they’re already playing or have been used, it easily could come down to Marquis vs. Pie, especially as Lou likes to save Ward for late in the game.

Given that scenario, I think it shows why the 25th man on the roster should be someone who could provide defense at all three outfield spots as well as make defenses accountable for his speed, versus a 12th pitcher who, more than likely, would not appear in the series.

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 23, 2008 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think it's just as likely that we burn through a stack of pitchers

as it is we burn through our bench players who can move around the bases

by BarryZuckerCub on Sep 23, 2008 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I hope not.

Because if we’re burning through pitchers in a postseason game, we’re probably not winning it.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

O/T need you guyz's help

Coming to Chicago this weekend to help out aged mother-in-law—it’s also my b-day in a week and I want a Cub jacket—the “blue satin” type with tghe Cub logo—-i know they sell them right near the ballpark—but do any area department stores carry them? I’ll be staying out near Schaumberg/Bartlett.

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

There's a Cubs Clubhouse Shop

in the Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg.

Here’s the link

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 23, 2008 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Perfect--checked the ink--ideal

Again—many thanks!

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, if you're near Schaumburg...

…Woodfield would probably be your best bet.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks guys--I appreciate it

I typically order online—but since I’m nearly (kidding) the size of that OU fan pic that SWL posted earlier—it’s better to try on jackets….

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Especially for the money

that Authentic apparel sizing can be misleading, to an extent, I’ve found out

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 23, 2008 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The NLDS schedule allows teams to rest their bullpen

If the Cubs played 5 games, it would go:
Oct. 1
Oct. 2
Oct. 4
Oct. 5
Oct. 7

That’s two built-in rest days for the bullpen, plus any days one of them doesn’t appear. So, with a 4-man rotation, the Cubs will have 7 pitchers and plenty of rest, if they keep an 11-man staff.

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 23, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

and you don't want the security blanket

of having an extra utility player?

I think we need the bat/legs/glove off the bench more than we need the arm in the pen.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess that's where we disagree

I just don’t that it’s as obvious a call as the consensus seems to be.

by BarryZuckerCub on Sep 23, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The reason you have 12 pitchers on a regular roster, is that

you have to have at least 5 starters. You don’t need 5 starters in the playoff, so that gives you an extra position player. Given the choices at hand, a NL manager will usually carry an extra defensive player to replace a more offensive player in the lineup. Whether RH or LH, it usually is not important since the player is there for defense. Hence, the obvious choice of Pie.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That is a good point about one less starter that I didn't consider

I think in my mind, it’s just that I can see Gaudin being valuable in the NLDS and I picture him as the odd man out in an 11 man staff.

I realize that convention would definitely say bring Pie, but I think our platoon in center along with DeRo gives us enough defensive coverage in the outfield.

by BarryZuckerCub on Sep 23, 2008 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You also have to remember that

most managers tend to stay longer with starters in the post season. Most managers tend to have more faith in starters than they do middle relievers so the middle guys are only used if the starter totally craps his pants.(Obviously, Lou didn’t hear about this last year)

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

last year

I’m not so sure we really had four reliable starters. Not like this year.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Rich Hill not reliable? Surely you jest.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

shocked

SHOCKED I AM…

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pie has already helped to win critical games

since his return. You can ignore it all you want. He’ll be on the roster.

I find it terrible that your hatred for Pie actually leads you into a though process that has you conclude the Micah Hoffpauer is a better choice than Pie. He cannot field. He cannot run. There is a hole in his swing you could push a truck through SIDEWAYS. You have blinded yourself.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mama always said that'd cause me to go blind...

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

specious (adj.) Having the ring of truth or plausibility but actually fallacious: a specious argument.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I must confess--

Hoffpauir= Ward…..you don’t need 2 lefty ph/first basemen on your bench and that would seem to preclude Micah as a choice.

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No, Hoffpauir does not equal Ward.

One is a career minor leaguer the other is a career major league hitter.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you're right

one of them hit .315 in 54 ab’s this year and one hit .223 in 94 ab’s.

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Those are two different, and rather small, sample sizes.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And one faced Minor League pitching

and one faced Major League pitching.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

taking a (futile) stab at the last word...

…maybe neverAcquiesce has gone back to work…..

the ab’s quoted in the above post were all MLB only……and I need something that can help remove lower intestinal sand.

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I realized after I posted

that you were referring to Majors only. Serves me right.

And yeah, I’ve been kinda snowed under today.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 1:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You have to admit, they are both left-handed and they both play first.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm left handed

and I played first base from time to time in camp. Am I = Micah = Ward?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Do you look kinda like Sean Marshall's...

…older and slightly heavier brother?

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is your name--Larry Biittner?

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Naw, my name's Clarence.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thomas? Darrow?

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Clemons? Carter?

Speaking of Clarence Clemons—today is Bruce’s b-day…along with Ray Charles and John Coltrane.

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Odbody?

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

got me on that one--had to google him

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That does it

Out you go . . . “out the door, or troo the window”

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 2:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not as tall as he is.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

12 pitches is unlikely.

And Jimmy Hoffa has a better chance of making the postseason roster than Micah “Hoffapauier”. You better start thinking of some good troll comments regarding Felix Pie for October, sir.

FAIL.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've been so right so many times that my batting average can take a hit on Felix Friggin Pie...

But that said, it won’t.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Like you evaluation of Soriano?

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You know...I used to be concieted too...but now I'm PERFECT!

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

what is this, Bizarro world?

You were right about Harden — although more than once, he hasn’t been able to go long enough to close out the game.
You were barely right about Edmonds — if he had not figured out what was wrong when he did, I expect he would have been long gone.

Name one other thing you were right on.

You can’t. Because you weren’t.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

he was the only one that saw a bad ending for ned yost

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh, I don't think that's true

most of us know that Yost is a bad manager and was going to get fired. I don’t think ANYONE predicted it would be while his team was still in contention.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i

was
kidding

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh, ok.

sorry. Missed the sarcasm sign. :D

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

did you run through

quade’s sarcasm sign he threw up?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And just because he was right about those

doesn’t mean he was the only one.

And yes, we got Harden, and I love that. But MDNIBUSKWEOAUOIDMEAJDwhateverthehellitis wanted to throw half our prospects away for him.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL - you've been right so many times.

Don’t make me utilize the new and improved BCB search function, my friend. Go back under the bridge where you belong.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think there's no chance the Cubs go with 12 pitchers, at least in the first round.

It makes sense to add an additional position player and Pie makes the most sense as he adds speed and defense, important characteristics of a bench player.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 23, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If the Cubs ran the table....

….they would make it much more likely that the makeup game in Houston would have to be played since the Astros are at home against Cin and Atl and they are 3.5 games back of NY and 2.5 games back of Mil. There are quite a few incentives to losing at this point. If the Mets and Brewers could (this is the biggest if) overtake the Phillies, then the Cubs wouldn’t have to go to Houston and would end up playing the Dodgers and the winner of a Mets/Brewers series. I’m thinking this would be to their liking.

Again, I’m not arguing that they lay down, but if they do go on a skid here at the end, there might be some light in that tunnel.

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Sep 23, 2008 10:01 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

They don't have to pass Philly

They’d just have to hold off Houston.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gordon W comments?

I have to laugh every time I read some of these columns here in ChiTown. And that goes for the others not just the south side pamphlet. Gordon’s comments that Al references clearly shows the reporters’ complete misunderstanding of the players’ capabilities with respect to their peers.

It has gone to the point that over the last several years, I read the papers for comic relief as much as trying to get some insight. Cubs fans take solice in this a bit as my grief come hockey season is 10 times worse. I have yet to find a reporter who fully understands that sport played on a thin sheet of frozen water.

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Sep 23, 2008 10:04 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And about Gordo..

…. he’s not from Chicago and has been here only a short time. I don’t think he understands the city or the history of the team or Cubs fans.

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

by Al on Sep 23, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And he's been really stingy with the Twitter updates as of late.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cubs Rally

Is there a rally planned for the Cubs?? I thought I had heard that somewhere.

by cozmotaylor123 on Sep 23, 2008 10:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Last year...

… MLB orchestrated rallies in all the playoff cities a day or two before the first game. I’m sure they will do this again.

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

by Al on Sep 23, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Tuesday at Daley Plaze noon

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Sep 23, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

plaza

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Sep 23, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is there a link with this info?

So I can pass it along to people?

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

what if

Cubs and Sox make the playoffs? What kind of Cross-Town brawl/rally would that be?!

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it would suck.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I would agree. I just don't see the white sox

making it past the Rays, the Red Sox and the Angels. Losing Quintin really hurts them. I just don’t see them running that gauntlet.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I just mean the pre-playoff rally in Daley Plaza

could get ugly- bring out the equestrian and segway cops!

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

all the more reason

it would suck.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sue and I could help organize it...we know a thing or two about rallies.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

just add sox fans

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't understand why you posted this.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

worlds collide!

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I went to last year's rally and there were no problems.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I couldn't find anything yet...

…I saw it advertised during a game broadcast. It is supposed to be covered by WGN so I bet you’ll hear more about it in the next few days.

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Sep 23, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, I just did a quick search...

…and couldn’t find anything either. Weird. I did, however, hear on WGN radio that the rally will take place Tuesday at noon. Waitaminute, that’s next Tuesday, right?

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, the 30th at noon.

Broadcast on WGN for all us out-of-towners…that is, if WGN America deems it important enough to interrupt World’s Most Asinine Whatever for an hour.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

WOOOO!

Whattup, best lunchbreak ever…Just a short stroll over to Daley Plaza…

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cool. I'll probably walk down there again and check it out, too.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Niese's birthday

I just read that Niese (starter last night) was born on the day that the Mets won the world series in 1986 (OCtober 27). That’s ironic.

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Sep 23, 2008 10:10 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Apologies in advance . . . Pet Peeve time

People throw “ironic” around way too easily. It’s not like he cost them a chance to win the World Series last night. He didn’t help, but if they don’t make the post-season, people aren’t going to point to last night as the root cause.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're correct. Coincidental was a better term. My grammatical apologies.

"I'm petrified of nipple chafing. Once it starts, it's a vicious circle." Andy Bernard

by TXCub on Sep 23, 2008 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

how about johan goes deep into the game today

and then is forced to go deep into his final regular season start bc the mets are in a “must win” situation…..therefore he’ll be tired for the postseason….sound good?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 10:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

how about making Milwaukee and Mets play

a single game playoff on Tuesday with CC vs Johan

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I like that one a lot.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And have it go 27 innings.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I like that...

…even better!

by sniffy the bee on Sep 23, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

CC is pitching Sunday vs the Cubs...

So I doubt he would pitch Tuesday if that happened.

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

by Fishbone2 on Sep 23, 2008 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't like the prospects of having to face Johan Santana or Cole Hamels in the playoffs...

Hamels in particular causes the Cubs fits. I’d much rather somehow face the Dodgers in the first round.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Derek Lowe is the hottest pitcher in baseball right now, though.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You realize that we're going to have to face one of them eventually don't you?

Because POWER PITCHING is what playoff caliber teams have, and to win in the playoffs you have to beat POWER PITCHING. Sigh.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe people expect that we can play a team with no power pitchers.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I still have my hopes up...

for a Cubs-Royals World Series.

whaddaya mean, “mathematically eliminated?”

by sniffy the bee on Sep 23, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Understand completely professor

But in a short series I don’t relish the task of facing a Johan Santana or a Cole Hamels twice. Right now the Phillies in particular scare the crap out of me. Their ballpark is a hitter’s paradise and they have a lineup of Howard, Rollins, Utley, Burrell, Werth and Victorino to go along with Hamels and Lidge. If they get anything out of Bret Myers or Jamie Moyer in the playoffs then they are going to be extremely dangerous. We need for somebody to knock them out of the 1st round.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

EVERY playoff team has a dominant pitcher.

With perhaps the Marlins being the exception, every playoff team that we may have to face has an ace. That is why they are in the playoffs. It is inevitable. Let’s get over this.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

who are the Marlins?

and who was/is josh beckett?

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Josh Beckett is on the Red Sox..........

I’m talking about this year……

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

are the marlins a playoff team this year?

I am just mixed up about that comment

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Still technically in the race

Although it looked a lot better for them last weekend.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Here you go again....

wetting the bed over the other teams lineup and pitching staff.

WE ARE THE BEST BASEBALL TEAM IN THE NATIONAL LEAGUE….can you stop hyper-ventalating now? Do you think winning a WS is going to be like playing the Royals 11 times? Come on…you’re smarter than this man.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bibliography....

“The Arizona Diamondbacks, a 2007 Playoff Retrospective”

“The Florida Marlins, a 2003 Romp to World Series Glory”

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Almanac....

What year is it again?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bibliography redux...

“The 2007 Chicago Cubs, Strong Favorites to Beat the Arizona D’Backs in the Playoffs”

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Now you are slamming your head against a brick wall.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You need to pull your weight in these debates...

I’m getting sick and tired of you providing minimal intellectual and baseball knowledge competition. Next thing you know you’re going to be demoted to mambochicken status.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

But it doesn't help your cause

when you support your arguments with “Listen to Sweet Lou.” And that’s all.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Or start posting things just for a reaction.

Oh, wait…

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Or troll the other BCB when a no-hitter is going on....

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Reminds me of a canker sore.

Major annoyance, and you know it’d go away quicker if you let it be, but you still wanna pick at it.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

just clinched home field advantage

and all we can find to do is fight among one another…..sigh

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

That’s perfect!

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was at Miller Park for Zambrano's game

Upon arrival back home I hoped on Brew Crew Ball and thanked them for use of Miller Park.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, we saw you post on the brew crew fanpost. You

represented us very well.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks..

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Next time use an alias.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Seriously.

Funeral Procession? Come on dude…

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Once again, I was en fuego in predicting the demise of Ned Yost

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

well, clearly we should all defer to you, then

do you have a blog? we’d love to be educated.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have to admit that you were

the only one that saw that coming. After his fine performance of the past two years, no one thought that his job was in jeopordy.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That, ladies and gentelmen, is baseball acumen at it's finest.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So you were in tune with the Brewers leadership

Which might be the most incompetent front office to field a contending team this year.

Congrats on that one.

by cocknfire on Sep 23, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Like Soxfan or Metguy or...

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Which I'm sure they no doubt appreciated.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Um...yeah...technically.

But what you really did was look like an ass.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think he caught that part.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

indeed

how DID you avoid getting banned? Wash someone’s car?

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think he did it another way.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No pictures please.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

he just said you're the next mambo

them’s are fighting words!

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

would that be mambo #6?

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A little bit of Pie's what I need!

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

TWHS

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't believe in curses....I don't believe in fate...

I don’t believe that what happened in 1969, 1984, 2003, or 2007 mean jack shit to THIS TEAM. You obviously do. Funny that a man with “baseball acumen” would base his opinion of the outcome of “baseball” on stuff like that.

This is the year 2008….it’s not the same team as last year, and NONE OF THE TEAMS WE WILL FACE are from last year. You obviously haven’t been listening to your sweet Lou either. He has said OVER AND OVER that people should let this team stand on it’s own merit. You appear to be hell bent on coloring every thing they do and every thing they are attempting to do with shades of the past. Try watching what is happening by looking IN FRONT of you…

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cubs are standing on their own merit just fine

Whatever that means. If you don’t like expression of concern for possible playoff matchups then pound sand. You’ve got so many tire tracks over your body that debating you is pointless. To be honest I just do it for the funny pictures.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

there it is!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

i’ve been waiting to hear those words again hahaha

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

TWSS

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Do you have funny photo of a guy shooting fish in a barrel??

Because this has become too easy today. You’ve worked yourself into a tizzie over Felix Friggin Pie. I’d hate to see what happens when you misplace the car keys at home.

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll bet

Say, do they let you drive? I suppose if you decide that cars go on the left, you just do it and don’t listen to what anyone else says.

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't drive, I live in my mom's basement...

I have to take the bus.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Now THAT would be a funny picture....

I can’t quit you. You make me laugh. I swear Diet Pepsi just came out of my nose on that one!!!!

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

We need our own morning sportstalk radio show...

seriously.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you two will always have sand

yah i came up with that picture all on my own, i swear

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

are you saying

you are confusing my ass with my face?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

not

yours

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow, he's in fine form today.

Seriously, BlueMike has had his free eggs and bacon. We should probably stop feeding him.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's why the Cubs need the NL East & Wild Card

to come down to the final weekend. Make Hamels and Santana pitch in the last days of the season, this way they can only go once in the NLDS.

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 23, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ah trey

getting back to my original point haha…..thanks man

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just trying to bring it full circle for you.

If Santana throws tonight, he’s scheduled to go on the 28th. So, if he throws on the 28th, he’s out for at least Game 1 of the NLDS. In theory, he could throw on 3-days rest in Game 2 or 5-days rest for Game 3. Advantage, Cubs.

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 23, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

exactly

every team is going to have an ace we aren’t going to be excited to face….but oh well we are the best team, i say bring ’em on

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You scare easily, don't you?

It’s pretty funny.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

being scared

is what fans who do not believe in their team do.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

leftys used to give the Cubs fits

not as bad this year with the platoon lineup though….

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just so our starter keeps the Cubs in the game

while the batters – even if not hitting well – run up his pitch count, then the Cubs can unload on their middle relief just like they did on 8/28 (e.g. Rami’s granny). Hamels was gassed at just over 100 pitches. Yes the playoffs, he may go longer but the key is Cubs’ batters patience. They can’t let Hamels go long enough that the only reliever they face is Lidge.

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Sep 23, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What about all this talk about Z being the Game 3 starter

Doesn’t add up all the way, If he starts on Thursday, then he is in line to pitch on 4 days rest on 9/30. First game is on 10/1?

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You didn't hear Lou's post-game comments last night?

He’s decided to implement the “CC” approach for the playoffs….Z is going to pitch Game 1, Game 3, and Game 5. However, he WILL be limited to 148 pitches for each start.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ahhh, the Bob Brenly road to the World Series!

Schilling and Johnson. Ride those horses.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

wait BB has managed in the WS?!

get out! i’ve never ever heard him mention it before!

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're kidding, right?

n/t

Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.

by blackhawk24 on Sep 23, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sarcasm detected here

Because the giant ring we get to see every time they show the booth isn’t obvious enough.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You know he was a catcher, too?

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

and his son is in the Minors

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Didn't he play out west somewhere? Some city with a bay, right?

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Plays a little gee-tar, too.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's not as bad though as

it’s either Rob Dibble or Kevin Kennedy, I can never tell them apart, on XM radio, where every comment is prefaced “when I managed we…..” I hate them both and I don’t even know which one is the one that always says that; maybe it’s both.

"The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been . . . baseball.
Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Sep 23, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You know, I have never seen them in public together. I wonder............?

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Coincidence?

I think not.

"The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been . . . baseball.
Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Sep 23, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No, he's not that bad.

We’re just having a go at him.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

At least he's our BB.

"The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been . . . baseball.
Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Sep 23, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They are rather full of themselves.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 23, 2008 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My playoff rotation would be as follows....

Harden, Dempster, Zambrano, Lilly …. in that order

by MDBNIU on Sep 23, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you risk wearing down the bullpen-

pitch harden with a travel day after for insurance

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Power pitching up front?

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lilly won't pitch in the NLDS....

just sayin’

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Harden starting a series

is a disaster waiting to happen.

Z, Demp, Harden, Lilly, repeat. Hopefully no repeat necessary.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

z harden dempster lilly (if needed depending on the situation)

if we are down 1-2, sorry but we need an ace up there…..and that’s not a bash on lilly, but aces are aces for a reason

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

plus I think

our potential first round teams hit Lefties better than righties

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dempster should pitch 2nd

Due to his home record though… …maybe I’m mad

If the Cubs were an international soccer team they'd be called Scotland.

by mrtobby on Sep 23, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dempster needs to pitch at home.

You are not mad.

by sue369 on Sep 23, 2008 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Depends on opponent, game time, weather.

Why not let Harden throw in which ever game/time will be coolest? He said he likes the cool weather the best, so let’s hope Oct. 1 (or whatever day) is a night game around 60 degrees.

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 23, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

that's a good point

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 23, 2008 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Call Tom Skilling

unfortunately Chicago Weather is about as predictable as chicago baseball

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Here's the Chicago 10-day

link

Based on this, Harden should start Game 1 or 2 in Chicago. Conditions will be just right for him. I like the Dempster, Harden, Zambrano, Lilly rotation.

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 23, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I want Harden pitching at night

In cool weather with a good number of days off before his start. Looks like all that is happening.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Amen.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So we caught a nasty case of fumbleitis at the right time down here

Thank god we didn’t pull that crap against Nebraska.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My parents were visiting my brother for family weekend

and that’s the report that I got…Ugh. Oh well. I still need to figure out if I am coming in for Homecoming or November 8th…Choices, choices…

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Homecoming is prolly gonna be out of control

I think my dad tried to find a hotel that weekend and said they were booked from CoMo all the way to STL.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No kidding.

Luckily I have friends whose couches I can sleep on haha…I would love to get in early enough Thursday night to hit the bars…Have I mentioned I miss school?

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If the Tigers want to pull that against the Huskers, I would be okay with it!

Nebraska fan (alum) living here in St Louis.

by storkysm on Sep 23, 2008 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I wish I could say I fear Nebraska

I just don’’t see Mizzou losing a game this year. Unless we play Oklahoma, then we lose.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You Tigers are feeling pretty froggy aren't ya?

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Appreciative.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Enjoy it. You guys have a hell of a team and a great QB. As a

Michigan alum, I am extremely jealous. Personally, I have my reservation booked for the Poulan-Weedeater Bowl.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not to get ahead of ourselves

but at least the Big XII Title Game is in KC, not San Antonio this year…HUGE advantage for whichever team from the North is the representative…

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

There will be a ton of Mizzou fans there

I know lots of people already bought Big 12 Championship tickets right after last years game. A pro-Mizzou Arrowhead would huge.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've seem alot of Mizzou fans...a ton will only be about 7 fans.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ROFL!

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Two if we try and sneak Mark Magino in as a Mizzou fan

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Does Mizzou make shirts that big?!

by storkysm on Sep 23, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That would prolly be a special order shirt

Or a Mizzou printed tablecloth.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

On the mark!

Up until last year, that was the case.

by storkysm on Sep 23, 2008 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Of course...if Oklahoma makes it....reduce the number to 5

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think that's the dean of the english department.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Damn those shorts are sexy.

by storkysm on Sep 23, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Those aren't shorts...they're boxer briefs.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In Oklahoma, he's considered a runt.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thos are the John Stockton "huggers".

by storkysm on Sep 23, 2008 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DAD?!?!

Go All In and Enjoy The Ride.

by Jayo525 on Sep 23, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is that Fred Merkle's offspring?

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think Mizzou wins the North

But don’t get too presumptuous. That will bite you quickly.

by storkysm on Sep 23, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just like the Cubs

Mizzou has a thing for blowing it. While I fully acknowledge that fact, I have faith that this team could be different.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In Weatherspoon we trust.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Amen

Big 12 QBs, RBs, and WRs should all give up now.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Ted Lilly of the Big 12.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

TWSS

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

fail

"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 Sep 23, 2008 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

meh

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Based on the 10-day forecast, should be cool and perfectly set up for him.

I like throwing the Canadians 1-2 at home in the cool weather.

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 23, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

perfect

October weather seems perfect for Harden.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hardly...

Zambrano, Dempster, Lilly, Harden. Here’s why. Z goes first, because he is the ace. Dempster second because you want Demp to start at home. Lilly goes third, because Lou loves to throw a lefty in it to screw with the opposing manager. Harden fourth, because you can’t use him on short rest, and it allows you flexibility to throw him third in subsequent rounds to free up Lilly for late game work if needed.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 23, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I really don't like the idea of Harden being the 4th guy

He is here to team up with Big Z to dominate the playoffs, not be the fourth starter.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If he can hold up...

Think of it this way… You go with the Z, Demp, & Lilly, and you have an ace up your sleeve in Harden. He would also only go fourth depending on what the opposing team could do with their batting order-(righty/lefty)- otherwise third. Additionally, he would only go fourth in the first round.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 23, 2008 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't agree...

in a short series you pitch Z, Demp, Harden….you go for the best chance to sweep. MDBNIU will remind you how well Lou’s plan to “save” Z for that 5th game worked out last year.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think it's about saving Harden...

It’s about what you can realistically expect out of Dick. Thinking about it again, I think I may have to agree with you.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 23, 2008 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dick Harden, what a great name. Sounds like a porn star.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed--but not as good as my old "handle"

Clint Everready

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm kind of partial to "Buck Naked".

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"It’s about what you can realistically expect out of Dick."

TWHS

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How about some inventive film names such as---

Digitally Enhanced starring Gaylord Perry

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agree.

I’m also open to the idea of Harden second, that way if the pen is needed for 4 or more they’ve got an extra day’s rest when they travel to be ready for Game 3.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

just add cortisone

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 10:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This year in the three games against the Mets

Felix Pie has hit a 3 run homer to open up a game. Onedec has hit a grand slam to open up the game. Now Jason Marquis hit a grand slam to open up the game.

If I’m a Mets fan, Im not really happy about that.

Good thing I root for the Cubs.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 11:21 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

any idea if 720 is going to carry it @ noon?

"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 Sep 23, 2008 11:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The rally on Tuesday?

I would imagine they will broadcst the rally live.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 23, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Im going to be very unhappy gal if they dont :(

"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 Sep 23, 2008 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Going back to Merkle

It’s a really fascinating story, and anyone who wants to know more about it should pick up “Crazy 08,” by Caitlin Murphy, which is a great book about the 1908 season. (And, thus, kinda poignant to read right now.)

It was really bizarre — there were apparently several balls flying around, players getting tackled, and the umpires eventually had to meet under the grandstand to figure the whole thing out. The reason Merkle tried to run back to the clubhouse was that the fans had rushed the field, so all this took place with hundreds if not thousands of people all crammed onto the field. IIRC, one of the Giants tried to rush Merkle back to second but couldn’t get through the crowd.

While she’s fair in the book, Murphy does say in an interview added to the paperback that she doesn’t think Merkle should have been called out, seeing as how the practice of running off was so common at the time, and few people were called out. But, as she points out, a rule is a rule is a rule, and Merkle didn’t follow it.

by cocknfire on Sep 23, 2008 11:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Does it say anthing in the book about Evers going back out...

later in the middle of the night with the real game ball and touching second just so if there were some investigation he could truthfully say that he touched second base with the live game ball? I read that a long time (30 years or so) ago and can’t find the reference anymore. Might have just been urban legend.

"The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been . . . baseball.
Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Sep 23, 2008 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't remember that being in there

by cocknfire on Sep 23, 2008 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

TWSS

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

OHHH!!

So sorry, but everyone knows that the tie goes to the Daver.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

twss

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ninjas think alike!

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

AHH! We did it again.

This is getting awkward.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

TWSS

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Would you two like to be alone?

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why? Are you anxious to join us?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Since you asked...

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

SNAP!

“Bend. Over.”

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can only assume there is a large bucket of sand on the table next to that doctor.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

and a great big hammer!

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

maybe an auger.

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ouch! That one hurt!

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or an Augie

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 23, 2008 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh, he's a sandbagger alright.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 12:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A Poundologist, if you will...

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Poundiatrician?

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

PhD. - Pounds Hard Daily

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 23, 2008 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is that similar to the prison reference in "Officespace"?

"Never. Never. Never. Give up."
Winston Churchill

by cubfever7 on Sep 23, 2008 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

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

by Fishbone2 on Sep 23, 2008 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

HAHAHAH

YES!

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 23, 2008 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 23, 2008 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i studied the picture pretty closely,

but I only found 3 ninjas

by philadelphiacub on Sep 23, 2008 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

There's one clearly by the TV

Make sure you get checked for cataracts.

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 23, 2008 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oooohh didn't see that one

thanks alot

by philadelphiacub on Sep 23, 2008 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Haha, always here to help

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 23, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's because the fourth one is behind you.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can haz ur drink?

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No, it doesn't

That’s not in this book, which I also very highly recommend. (And besides, HOW would such a stunt qualify as involving a “live game ball” ???

I simply say,

May the force be with you, Fred.

and

Use the force, Johnny.

Hehe. Anyway, if the Cubs do lose tonight, I think it may mean the curse is finally lifted. And if they win — hahahahahaha Mets!!

by roricka on Sep 23, 2008 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

in VWM hell

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 12:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

VWR

Cubs Karma: Don't take anything for granted.....

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 23, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Last night, Marquis etc.

Mets fans were depressed BEFORE the game started. Lots of Cub fans EVERYWHERE. After Jason hit the grannie they just about rioted and many left after the 5th inning. My favorite game at Shea since the insane opener in 2003 when we won by I think 10 runs ?

I can’t believe it is even a question re Marquis and the post season roster ( of course much of it comes from Blue Mike) Marquis is not given credit as a very decent starter but even less as a hitter, runner and fielder. Lou has OFTEN used Marquis to pinch run. He is not a fast as say Ronnie or Fonty but he is a VERY smart runner and saves using a bench player. He is also a decent pinch hitter and good bunter which again saves you using a position player. Marquis gives you a good option for long relief ( which hopefully you won’t need) and almost an extra bench player.

I think he was pretty excited last night to pitch in front of family and friends as a native New Yorker and he did
a hell of a job.

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

by Doggie Stalker on Sep 23, 2008 12:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I gotta admit...

…I felt great for Jason that he pitched well and hit a granny with all of his family and friends there.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My brother was there. He also said the Mets fans around him were a little depressed because of

their team. They could only hope to at least make the Wild Card.

After the game, of course, while walking back to his car, he and his kids got a few “F*ck the Cubs” calls from the rowdier Mets fans.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Sep 23, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Man I am having a bad... year

So the cubs better keep winning and winning and winning through the playoffs this year and in to next… life is a bitch, but the Cubs can EASILY cure any problem

"This balls got a chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaannce, GONE!" - Pat Hughes

by SouthsideCUBSfan on Sep 23, 2008 12:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Huh?

Not quite catching your drift here.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

he is having a dashedly difficult time of it

but he can always turn around and cheer loudly for the Chicago National League Ball Club!

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thank you!

I enjoyed your translation of The Iliad as well.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

got 2 bleacher seats in section 339 for game two...

i was shaking typing in my name and credit card info… wow..

GoCubsGo

by MinnesotaFan on Sep 23, 2008 12:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Congrats!

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

grats!

"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella

by drewishdrewid on Sep 23, 2008 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Buying Cub playoff tickets would prolly rank high on the list of things that you

Don’t care what is costs im typing this number in the computer and worrying about the rest later.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 3-0 (0-0). Next up Saturday home vs. Buffalo. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 23, 2008 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

got my 2 section 305....

it is so hard to justify missing work, flying into chicago, getting a hotel room, getting loaded at the game, and flying out when the tickets are listed for $400 on stubhub…..but WTF?

by Zakh on Sep 23, 2008 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hm, from where I sit...

…that doesn’t sound hard to justify at all.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

true....i was holding out for WS,

but you never know.

by Zakh on Sep 23, 2008 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I mean, if you WANT to get rid of the tickets...

I, ahem…would not be OPPOSED to buying them…

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i might have to cut my heart out first

by Zakh on Sep 23, 2008 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Haha, I know. And you're a true fan for that.

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

just wish they weren't selling for so much

it makes it hard to go to more than one. although i live in DC, so i could get Mets and Phillies tickets possibly.

by Zakh on Sep 23, 2008 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm giving serious consideration

if the Cubs make it to the WS to come up to Chicago for a week to join the party. I realize the chances of getting tickets is roughly 0.000000000000001% but I’d love to be even outside Wrigley. I just need to worry about a hotel room…or bumming a couch of some BCBer. :D

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I hear that.

I didn’t get tickets but I’m not TOO bummed, because I’ll be on Clark St. for every game!

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah, i already booked my hotel room!

i blocked off the whole week in advance, 1 reservation per night so that i could cancel them easier.

by Zakh on Sep 23, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's actually a good call...

"Chase Daniel has more touchdowns (seven) than incompletions (six) the past two weeks. Which is just silly." Pat Forde, ESPN

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 23, 2008 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

plus had to tell my boss that there could possibly be an event that only happens

once a century

by Zakh on Sep 23, 2008 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What's a good hotel walking distance from Wrigley?

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

None really.

You’d do better to get a room in the burbs, and to take public transportation.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 23, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i stay downtown, right on the red line....there are a bunch of hilton properties

on rush and grand. i travel a bunch, so i got to get my points

by Zakh on Sep 23, 2008 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Everything is within walking distance...

…if you’ve got the time.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 23, 2008 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Then I'm starting my trek to Chicago right...now.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 23, 2008 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Check this one:

City Suites Hotel. Ask for a room away from the train rails. The hotel is located one train station away from Wrigley and the station is next door. You can also walk to Wrigley on Sheffield or Clark and be there in 15 minutes. The hotel was recently remodeled. I stayed there for my trip to Wrigley two weeks ago and liked it.

It’s not a 5 star hotel, though. If that’s what you want, stay downtown and take the Red Line or a cab to/from the park.

I usually search www.frommers.com for more information on a city I haven’t been to before. The site is also useful for its hotel reviews.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 23, 2008 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs