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Micah Hoff-POWER Not Enough: Cubs Lose To Mets 7-6

The best news about last night's 7-6 Cubs loss to the Mets is: it wasn't postponed or suspended, which would have forced the Cubs to return to New York on Monday to finish up. And, even though we'd have liked to see the Cubs win on a day when Micah Hoffpauir made his case for the postseason roster by going 5-for-5 with two homers, the wins by the Mets and the Brewers last night reduced the elimination number for the Astros (who also won) to one -- meaning that any win by either the Brewers OR the Mets would eliminate the possibility that the Cubs would have to return to Houston on Monday to make up that postponed game.

Now that we've cleared that up, and now that Ryan Dempster has been named the game one starter next Wednesday -- all eyes are on the last playoff roster spot. Will it be Hoffpauir? Lou says he's at least bought himself another start tonight in Milwaukee. But remember this: Hoffpauir won't be starting games in the postseason. He would be on the bench, to serve as a middle-inning pinch-hitter. As a pinch-hitter this season, he is 3-for-13 (all singles) with a walk and seven strikeouts. He isn't really a good defensive player -- there were a couple of balls that got by him at first base last night that Derrek Lee would have stopped, and you wouldn't want to see him in the outfield in a playoff game -- and so, if I were making the choice, I wouldn't make it based on one spectacular game which isn't likely to be repeated. Felix Pie is my pick for the final playoff roster slot, presuming the Cubs do go with 11 pitchers rather than 12 (and Chad Gaudin is rapidly pitching himself off the roster), due to his speed and ability to play all three outfield positions. I'm more concerned about Mark DeRosa, who now may sit out the entire Milwaukee series with the mild calf strain he suffered on Wednesday night.

The loss took away any chance for the Cubs to win 100 games this season (unless they sweep the Brewers AND the makeup game in Houston is played, an unlikely scenario), but if they can sweep in Milwaukee they'd have 99 wins, the most by a Cubs team since 1935. The 840 runs scored is the most since they scored 847 in 1935; only two Cub teams since 1900 have scored more than 847 (both in high-offense seasons: 982 in 1929 and 998 in 1930).

Also last night, Rich Harden made a decent showing in his final start before the postseason, though the five walks is too many, as were the 98 pitches in six innings. Harden gets at least a week off, as he won't throw till at the earliest next Thursday in game two, or, depending on the opponent (Lou might want to throw Ted Lilly vs. the lefthanded hitting Phillies in game two, if they wind up being the opposition), maybe not even till game three on the road. I was surprised to see Koyie Hill catching last night -- he won't be on the postseason roster and Henry Blanco will, and Blanco could use some playing time, too. I assume Hank White will catch at least one of the games in Milwaukee this weekend.

So the Cubs return to their second-favorite park tonight, where they have won all six games they've played there in 2008 against two different teams, where they'll have a fair number of fans -- a quick check of ticket availability for Miller Park just before this was posted shows Sunday's game a complete sellout and only SRO tickets for tonight and tomorrow. TV and schedule reminders: tonight's game has been moved to CSN Plus for Chicago-area viewers, but has also been picked up by ESPN, so it will be available nationally; and tomorrow's game time has been changed to 2:55 to accomodate Fox. Here's the link that normally carries the market listings for Fox games; as of this morning it hasn't yet been updated for tomorrow's games.

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First!

Let’s get some W’s in Brew Town.

"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 26, 2008 8:18 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

OK, Hoff-POWER went 5 for 5.

Maybe it means nothing, but then again…

"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 26, 2008 8:18 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

After ONE game?

What if he goes 0-for-5 tonight? Then will you lose confidence?

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 8:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, 5 for 5 and 0 for 5 still mean he is batting .500 after 10 Major Leage At-Bats.

And if you want to talk small sample size, I can easily make a 95% confidence interval showing that his numbers are still quite respectable.

"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 26, 2008 8:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just have more confidence in him now than I did 2 days ago.

I still believe he could easily go 0 for 5 tonight, but I do believe more in his potential. If he does awesome tonight, though, I will be torn between having him or PIE on the playoff roster.

by adam316 on Sep 26, 2008 8:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't.

He had one good day. Talk about small sample size.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 8:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know, I know

But if he suddenly gets hot, you might have to consider it I think.

by adam316 on Sep 26, 2008 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Play the hot hand for now, Al.

We’ll see if Hoffpauir remains hot this weekend, starting tonight.

I’d probably take both him and Pie to the playoffs and leave Ward out.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 26, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That does seem like a good idea

Depending on how Hoffpauir continues to perform.

by adam316 on Sep 26, 2008 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hot hand?

ONE FREAKIN’ DAY makes him the “hot hand”?

Wow, you guys sound like my friend Phil in the bleachers… every time someone does well, GET HIM IN THERE, every time someone does poorly, GET HIM OUT OF THERE.

You’d need a 95-man roster if Phil was managing.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, the weekend will tell us if Hoffpauir is the hot hand or not.

But as Lou said: So far, Hoffpauir has not hurt his chances to be in the postseason roster.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 26, 2008 9:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think Phil must be related

to Ozzie

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Play the hot hand

Start Micah all weekend. And then take Pie for October.

Ward is a superior pinch hitter.

by gocubsgo22 on Sep 26, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the playoff roster depends a lot

on who we match up with in the first round!
Since we can switch players on/off for each series we might not need a platoon in CF… particularly if we end up playing versus LAD who only have RHP starters.

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

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 26, 2008 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

defense matters more in the post

than offense. We have bats. We need an impeccable set of gloves.

"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 26, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree

when you see a guy like Micah playing first…. you really get an appreciation for D. Lee… yea the guy hits into a lot of double plays… but he saves a lot of games at first that go under the radar.

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

How soon we forget....

2-3 in the Colorado game
4-8 in 2 games at Tampa
2-4 at Toronto

The guy’s hitting .387, give him SOME credit for having a pretty good season. Jeez.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 26, 2008 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great.

So that’s five good games. Big whoop.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And weren't all those starts?

If he’s starting a playoff game, I may find a ledge now and put my reservation in.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

As I had to repeat about 12 times last night...

…..I’m not advocating Micah starting and with the need of a PH in the playoffs, I see Ward getting the nod, but my complaint is all this “Ward is clutch and Hoff sucks”. That I disagree with. At least this season.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 26, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

wasn't here last night. sorry.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ward's numbers are ancient history.

He hasn’t done anything lately. I insist, this series is about momentum. Play the hot hands or go home early.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 26, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ancient history?

Guess you forgot the game-winning homer in Florida in August.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's September 26th. The guy isn't hitting past the pitcher's mound right now.

Let him hit this weekend and see if he regains his stroke. If he does, I’m all for him in the playoffs roster.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm for him playing the next three.

I believe he’s on the roster and at bats the next three games will help him keep things going and probably improve.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The bottom line, I think, is this:

Clutch situation, men on, need to score runs. I have far more faith, and feel far more comofortable with Ward up there. It’s not a surfire, nor is it the same as having Ramirez or Lee up, but it’s the best PH option we have.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd argue that that's more than Ward this year

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 26, 2008 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hate to break up the party

But Ward hit .462 in inter-league play, which is nearly as relevant as Hoffpauir’s stats versus Tampa and Toronto.

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 26, 2008 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Al said Micah had one good game....

…I was mentioning others. So thanks, but it had nothing to do with Ward.

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 26, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rec'd

If you look at the full box score last night, beyond Pie 1-5 and Hoff 5-5, there’s also the matter of Pie SB (3) and Hoff E (2). Those two numbers could be magnified quite a bit in a playoff game.

The author of this post is not a certified scout, doctor, agent, statistician, manager, or journalist, nor was he ever a very good player, though he tried very hard to be like Ryne Sandberg and was about as scrappy as it gets (in T-ball). Any opinion expressed above should in no way be confused with fact, truth, or reality and is hereby qualified in the following ways: 1) The author does not know as much about baseball as Lou Piniella. 2) The author does not know as much about baseball as Jim Hendry. 3) The author does not know as much about baseball as either Dusty or Darren Baker.

by DGU on Sep 26, 2008 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Do we really need...

2 outfielders that plays D but cant hit? Keep Hoff on and Pie, leave Dome off roster.

by JPetey on Sep 26, 2008 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dome has to be on the roster, IMO.

There are too many years invested in him to destroy his relationship with the City and team. Further, from what I’ve seen of the new Pie, he looks like he is currently hitting.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True

Pie does seem different at the plate, and good point with Dome, but I’ve seen enough weak grounders to 2nd

by JPetey on Sep 26, 2008 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dome's defense alone should keep him on the roster

Cubs win last night (or are at least tied) if Hill applies the tag correctly. The throw beat the runner by 4-5 steps.

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 26, 2008 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Absolutely.

While his hitting has turned my hair grey, he’s without a doubt one of the best outfielders in the game.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well said...

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 26, 2008 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Torn?

Lets see: athletic OF who can play 3 positions & PR or a 1b?

what exactly is conflicting about that?

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree. Now let's say that you had a choice between Hoff and Howry on the roster?

"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 26, 2008 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Howry & Hoff?

Is death an option?

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+18

That's the beauty of baseball. You never know what's going to happen until the final out -- Lou

by Emelie on Sep 26, 2008 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, considering a Pinch Hitter is mainly needed for

his offense, I would probably rather go with the person who has the hottest bat.

by adam316 on Sep 26, 2008 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I wasn't really talkign PH, i was just talking roster spot

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Let's go over this again.

Hoffpauir’s not a good pinch-hitter (seven K’s in 14 plate appearances). That would be his role on a postseason roster. I go with the guy with experience.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Go with Ward

he’s been a pinch-hitter most of his career. He knows how to prepare during the game to pinch hit, which Hoffpauir hasn’t learned yet.

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 26, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Doesn't matter...

…there is an element of clutch with Ward (when the game is on the line). He is just as adapt to put one on Sheffield in a key playoff spot.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Plus, Ward is okay with taking a walk.

which, at times can be just as clutch.

The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love. ~Bryant Gumbel

by Blue W on Sep 26, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

bingo

a K in a pinch-hit situation can be deadly. K’ing 50% of the time as a PH is not acceptable on a playoff roster. Man on third, one-out, top-nine playoff game and you need a sac fly, I still trust the (poor numbers) Ward over Hoff about 4 times as much

by philadelphiacub on Sep 26, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+11 wins.

"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 26, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That is what makes me wonder why people see him as a DH

… course, I’m an NL girl, the DH makes no sense to me anyway.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i would go with ward and pie

hands down

however i just don’t understand the amount of animosity people seem to have for hoff….from the comments i read on here people love to rub it in when hoff fails and when he does well it’s still “glass is half empty”

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, I'm not anti-hoff persay

but i’m not very into the experiment. If he contributes, I’m not gonna whine and the career minor leaguer who comes up and thrives is a great story…

but i’d rather end the century thing then get into Hoff’s story.

Maybe thats just me.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i mean you necessarily

i was late coming into the convo and didn’t know where to throw that in…..i have just never understood why people seem to rejoice the fact that they were “right” when hoff does poorly

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

*i DIDN'T mean you necessarily

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I thought thats what you'd meant

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

…besides, next week isn’t exactly when you want to start experimenting.

by sniffy the bee on Sep 26, 2008 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agree on Pie.

Hoff had a great night last night, but he’s had many more bad swings, especially off the bench. And even if Pie can’t hit off the bench, at least he brings something to the table with his defense and speed.

"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 26, 2008 8:21 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Suplus outfield defense and speed is supplied by Reed Johnson and Kosuke on the bench...

Felix Pie won’t make the cut. It will be Micah Hoffpauier. Unless Lou Piniella surprises and leaves Daryl Ward off the roster which I guess is within the realm of possibility.

by MDBNIU on Sep 26, 2008 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why would you want Hoffpauir and Ward?

That’s essentially the same person.

I’d rather trade one of those in for an extra defender late in games.

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 26, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly. Pitching is king, but speed kills.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Precisely.

"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 26, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If Pie is on the roster...

…he immediately becomes your best base stealing threat (by a mile). Besides Johnson, the majority of the the Cubs (with speed) don’t have the greatest base running instincts. This element becomes key in tight low scoring playoff games.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Don't cloud BlueMike's judgement w/ facts

He hates Pie. Nothing will change that.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Pie...yum!

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 26, 2008 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes

but it’s good to have two. Plus, you can’t sub Soriano in for Ward late in a game when you need a run. That’s where Pie comes in.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Brewers vs. Cubs, Mets vs. Marlins

Who has the advantage here, do you think?

Besides the Cubs, i mean.

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

Advantage: Cubs v Brewers

at least these games are going to get in. Looking at the radar, the Mets are gonna have a hard time playing this weekend. And if it works its way inland, so will the Phils.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 8:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It already has.

I’m about 2 hours south of Philly in the DC metro area and it’s been raining and dreary since last night. The Nats game was cancelled last night, and the weather doesn’t look good for the rest of the weekend.

"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 26, 2008 8:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fun.

I guess it could be worse…

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 8:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I probably don't need to repeat it

Since I mentioned him yesterday, but Bob Howry’s performance last night just shows why we absolutely cannot put him in any important situation in the playoffs. The odds are just so bad that he will actually hold a lead that it is not worth it.

by adam316 on Sep 26, 2008 8:24 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Hahaha

From the DeRo link…

http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/2ebdbf7133

I love Geo’s reaction.

by kanderber on Sep 26, 2008 8:24 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

This is pretty funny. Nice job.

Go Green! Go White! GO STATE! (#13031 on the Cubs season ticket waiting list...)

by Zeke on Sep 26, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fontenot: I really like puppies

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 26, 2008 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ward

Your desciption of Hoffpauir pretty much can be used for Ward as well. Not very good defensively at 1B or in the OF and is strictly pinch-hitting material. No matter what their respective numbers are as starters or PH’ers, you’ve got to go with the hot hand in the playoffs. If Hoffpauir is hitting the ball all over the lot and displaying confidence in his plate approach, you’ve got to seriously consider having him take Ward’s spot on the playoff roster. Very seriously consider it in fact.

Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?

by krummy12 on Sep 26, 2008 8:24 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I think Ward is a better defensive player than Hoff is

OTOH, I think Lou is keeping an open mind (more than other people here) and seems to suggest he is willing to take a longer look at Hoff.

As regards, to old minor league journeymen, well I think that the Cards have one or two of those that did pretty damn good this year. No use in discounting Hoff on that regard.

"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 26, 2008 8:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ward's a much better pinch-hitter than Hoffpauir...

… and that’s how they would be used in the postseason.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 8:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And whenever Ward comes in for pinch

I always know he has the ability to crank a deep homer at whatever ballpark the Cubs happen to be at.

by adam316 on Sep 26, 2008 8:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ward also has years of pinch-hitting experience

He knows how to prepare for his role as a pinch-hitter, which is a tougher role than most think.

Plus, if/when Ward reaches, he’ll need a pinch-runner. Enter Felix Pie and his speed and defense.

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 26, 2008 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Anyone discussed the fact that there is a DH in games 1 & 2 of World Series?

I know I am getting ahead of myself, but it is something the coaches have to think about.

by gocubsgo22 on Sep 26, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I disagree

you don’t think about it until you get there.

The roster can change for every round of the playoffs (right?)

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's what I thought.

The Hoff may have value later, if/when…

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The play at the plate

I think Koyie Hill basically lost the game when he had more than ample time to tag the runner at home. I still cannot figure out why he dropped down to his knee so the runner could just cruise around him into home. I suppose it was a minor league mistake.

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

OTOH, why wasn't the runner called out on going 6 feet outside of the baseline?

If this game meant something, Lou would have lost his cool.

"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 26, 2008 8:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not applicable for plays at the plate

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Can a runner run 40 feet away from the baseline, touch the backstop and then score?

Are those the rules?

"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 26, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think he anticipated Church running through him, so he tried to get low

None the less, missing that tag was inexcusable. Gotta make that play in that situation.

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 26, 2008 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good question.

Hill just wasn’t in good position to adjust if Church tried to go around him.

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 26, 2008 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah

Seemed like Hill guessed wrong and got slide around.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

he tripped

is what Pat said.

"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 26, 2008 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And now Cedeño is hurt too.

He hurt his shoulder when he stupidly slid from home to first base Wedenesday night. What a mosquito brain!

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 26, 2008 8:44 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

It still baffles...

…me when these guys slide into first base. The only time you do it is when you are trying to avoid a tag by the 1b. It has been proven, it is the slowest way to reach a base as opposed to running through it.

If I recall, J. Jones used to pull that as well.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe if

They fined players $1000 each time they did that, it would stop

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Probably not.

I doubt they even think about it. They just do it.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

gotta be stomped out in little league

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I heard someone say once:

“If diving into first base is faster than running through it, then why don’t you see more Olympic runners diving head-first across the finish line?”

Kinda ended that argument for me, right there. I cannot stand head-first slides into first.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 26, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Steve Stone

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

the guy who won bronze in the 400 i think

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 26, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Don't remember --

but I do remember Stone saying it years ago.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

that the guy who won the bronze in 2008 dove?

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes. Yes he did.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I always thought Stone was smart

No idea he could tell the future. :-P

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Whenever...

…you slide, you slow yourself down and that is a proven fact. The fastest way to a base is to blow through it. Obviously, you can only do that at 1b and home plate.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

not a fair comparision

1. your body has to cross the finish line in a race not your hands.
2. head first slide onto dirt will leave your skin on your body
Still it is much safer and probly just as fast to just run thru the base
Quick, someone get a hold of the Myth Busters.

by JPetey on Sep 26, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Physics tells us

You are slowing down when you slide.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I like the Myth Buster thought, though

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Myth buster was wrong

they tested running and stopping at 2nd Base- typical mythbuster misinterpertation of a myth

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

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 26, 2008 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh no you didnt!

Dont you go ripping on the Mythbusters or you and me are gonna have to throw down!

:)

Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB

by californiachicagoan on Sep 26, 2008 12:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I like the show

http://xkcd.com/397/

but on some stuff that i really want to find out an answer to they screw up and frustrate me- the baseball episode was a big one because the sliding test was oh so flawed

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

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 26, 2008 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know what you mean

But 95% of the show is so great!

Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB

by californiachicagoan on Sep 26, 2008 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

zombie Feyman

agrees :-)

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

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 26, 2008 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1 to you for referencing xkcd

well done. :-)

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

which is why you dive

and not slide, belly flop on dirt may hurt. lol

by JPetey on Sep 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But on most of those dives

They stop on the bag itself

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Now that i think of it

Myth busters did kinda do this, except it was to a base like 2nd where you couldn’t run past it.

by JPetey on Sep 26, 2008 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What were the results?

Keeping in mind that you can, of course, run past 1st

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

if i remember right

it was faster to slide rather than try to run and stop on the base, however they had the girl and two guys (forget there names, not the main guys) doing this, I don’t think they had ever ran the bases in their life.

by JPetey on Sep 26, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Would actually be better to dive.

like a third baseman diving towards a ball on the line. Not sure if you could hold onto the bag though. My 2 cents.

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

by Bump Bailey on Sep 26, 2008 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The difference there, though

Is you need your hand on the ground. Not so for running, and your feet are already there.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Money can be a powerful motivator. Or calnesthetics.

Hayes, every time I see you slide into first, you owe me 10 pushups.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe.

But it’s not just Cedeno. DeRo, a favorite around here, did it earlier this year.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know.

I like DeRo, but he’s not a good baserunner. More than once, he’s been thrown out when on second base and moving towards third on grounders to the left side.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Really?

I remember the horrible belly flop into first but I don’t recall him making a lot of boneheaded base gaffes.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

There was a game against Cincy in August

Where the shortstop flipped to second like a double play and got him wandering off second. If you listen to the 2007 WGN radio audio highlights (still on youtube, which I can’t get to from work), there’s a play where he tried for third on a grounder to short. Only two examples off the top of my head in two years, but those are boneheaded.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh okay

You have examples. I thought you might’ve been being a hyperbolic badger. :-P

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, just a hypothetical one

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We don't need no stinkin' Badgers!

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't need to show you no stinkin' Badgers

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly. I'm so excited by this weekend, I sold my tickets.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You had tickets at the Big House?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wisconsin – 23
Michigan – 13

It’s gonna be really ugly, which is just how I like Badger football.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 26, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Awwww look!! It's angry!

IT’S JUST SO CUUUUUUUUUUUUTEE!!

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 26, 2008 9:56 AM 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 26, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

HAHAHAHAHAHAHHA!!!!

I don’t know whether you meant to cut half of that picture out, but it leaves it up for interpretation— if you catch my drift.

That guy in the Nittany Lion suit is having way too much fun back there.

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 26, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Apparently UW has nothing on PSU

as a party school!

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Pretty sure no one has anything on UW as a party school.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 26, 2008 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, dtpollitt

How little you know about the Big 10

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 29, 2008 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

me too :)

"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 26, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yet again.... I replied in the wrong place grrrr

me too… is response to dan’s comment about how he likes badger football played.

"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 26, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You didn't reply in the wrong place

You didn’t in the SI thread, either. You have to remember that your reply goes below all the previous replies.

Scroll up and you’ll see your first one was a response to Dan.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

it seems at times--i'll hit reply

then before i hit post—17 new posts come up and bump mine into the wrong place

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm going to start to include what I agree with then

maybe that will help

"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 26, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

hit the up button

you’re in the right spot.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its only ugly if you lose

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Shanghai

Every game. This year, every brutal game. May wind up selling them all. Will still be rooting for a Ron Dayne years re-do, but I don’t expect it.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You think the new coach will get it done eventually?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, but...

I’m unimpressed. He inheritied a roster of 3 and 4 star players and is jamming his system on the team.

A great coach would be able to alter the system to fit the talent, which he’s not doing. Therefore, Rich Rod is not a great coach, but a coach with a decent system.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Badger badger badger badger badger

Snake! Its a snake! Badger badger badger badger

Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB

by californiachicagoan on Sep 26, 2008 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

santa santa santa santa santa santa

PRESENTS! PRESENTS!

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1 to both

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think you're thinking

of Riot. :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 26, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ronny Cedeno is not a smart ballplayer

He makes stupid plays on defenses. He routinenly overruns the bag, He slides head first into first base. He doesn’t shorten up on 0-2 counts. The list goes on.

by MDBNIU on Sep 26, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its a shame too

There is talent somewhere inside of him, and at times he shows flashes of it, unfortunately those flashes are quickly replaced by images of him bunting at the pitcher or oversliding second base.

He is still prolly our game 1 starting second baseman tho.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 4-0 (0-0). Next up at Nebraska October 4th. Live on ESPN in primetime. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't know about 'stupid plays'

He’s made less errors (4 in 97 games) than Theriot (14 in 146 games), which is more than half the amount of Theriot per game. He has a better reach and a bigger arm than Theriot.

The “routinely overrun bag” that you so eloquently put happened once in 2007, I believe. Really, really, dumb mistake, but there’s almost a world of difference between the ’07 Cedeno and the ’08 Cedeno.

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 26, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Theriot started i'm sure most of those game

there is no way Cedeno started 97 games, who has the fielding % handy?

by JPetey on Sep 26, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ward a better PH?

12-62 as a PH this year with 5 XBH. He swings at every single pitch and has been pretty god awful as a PH this year. I don’t think he deserves a post season spot, would rather see Hoffpair.

More relevent, the Cubs bullpen is in shambles. I have no idea who Pinella will throw out there to bridge starters to Marmol. I actually think this problem could impact his decision as far as using Harden or Lilly in game two – knowing that Lilly is more capable of going deeper into game

by BeltwayCubsFan on Sep 26, 2008 8:49 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Good point on pitching

specially when you add to the fact that he’s a lefty. The question is does this push Z out to the 4th game? Who would have thought we’d be having this discussion?

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

by tony412 on Sep 26, 2008 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Actually

Ward has not swung at every single pitch (I know that’s hyperbole on your part). In his last 2 at bats, he’s been ahead in the count when taking his first swing. In fact, that’s part of what makes him a good pinch hitter is his propensity to watch a few pitches and get a feel for the pitcher.

Samardzija hasn’t been terrible – given the choices right now, he’d probably get the ball in the 7th. If Gaudin shows form in Milwaukee (back injuries aren’t easy to overcome), he could be the man in the 7th, too. And lastly, Marshall and Marquis will both be in the pen and can probably throw and inning or two if needed.

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 26, 2008 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ward also drew quite a number of walks as a PH.

I don’t have the exact number, but it’s at least ten.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think

its 15

When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo

by gwood on Sep 26, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It is

12 BB, 3 IBB

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 26, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

OK, so...

… that would make his OBA as a PH .351. (27 times reached in 77 PA)

That works for me.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

here are his pitch-count splits

link

Looks like he takes plenty of pitches. Ward has swung at the first pitch (and had a result) 11 times this year.

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 26, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I heard him talk about his approach last year

He said he is very patient and will make the pitcher give him his pitch, if there’s no one in scoring position (or if the bases are loaded).

With runners on second or third, he looks for something to hit on the first pitch. Since I heard the interview I’ve watched him to see if this is true, and found he does follow this pattern.

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 26, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have no problem w/ first pitch swinging

especially since a lot of relievers (which Ward would be facing in clutch situation) seem to be fastball-heavy guys.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No problem at all, if it's in the zone

Just pointing out what the man himself said about taking pitches in some situations and being aggressive in others.

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 26, 2008 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Works for me.

I’m glad he has a plan up there, and I think it reinforces his veteran experience.

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 26, 2008 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Having a plan is good

Just pure reacting is not so good, especially for a PH.

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 26, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree. And it's a learned experience, IMO.

Which is why Ward should be on the playoff roster, instead of Hoffpauir, who hasn’t learned it yet.

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 26, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

When do you think they'll announce the roster?

I’m ready for the games to start.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They have until Wednesday

but I think Lou has hinted Sunday. He does like to get these things out of the way (for example the Dempster announcement wasn’t expected till tomorrow, then in got done yesterday).

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 26, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what about the schedule and times when does that come out

I realize it has to after Sunday, b/c who is playing is still up in the air. When do you find out what times the games are played?

"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 26, 2008 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't know

but I set up a Google Alert with TBS and Cubs so I’ll post something if I get the news on that before seeing it here.

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 26, 2008 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm trying to find some statistics on pinch hitters...

…but having a damn hard time doing so.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 26, 2008 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They're all amazingly small splits.

What you’re better off doing is taking your estimates of a player’s overall hitting talent and applying the league-average difference between a player’s production and his PH hitting.

by cwyers on Sep 26, 2008 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agree on Ward.

But remember, the bullpen will be reinforced with starters like Marquis in the postseason. Still, that bullpen was overstretched in September after a long season and the absence of Gaudin. It’s a focus of concern, perhaps the only one right now.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 26, 2008 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

that is a fair point on walks

it was incomplete of me to post his stats without them. And I think having Marquis and Marshall will be huge, I am just saying that Pinella has some interesting choices — I think Samardija will be decent enough, I hope Gaudin can get his rhythm back but right now guys that Pinella relied on earlier in the season for the 7th inning – cotts, samardija, gaudin – are not looking good.

by BeltwayCubsFan on Sep 26, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

CC HUNGRY

CC CANT FIND FOOD!!! CC BASH!! CC EAT TOWEL!!

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 26, 2008 8:51 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

now thats original

lets make fun of the big fella.

really? is this where we’re at?

I feel like an old man. GET OFF MY LAWN.

I need more caffeine.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes. That's where we are at.

CC is a beached whale.

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Old man?

You’re what, 3 years older and me? And a girl?

If you’re feeling both old and a man, somethin’s wrong witchya

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 26, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why is it wrong

if she’s feeling a man?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nice

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 26, 2008 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can't believe she ignored that . . . .

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

too busy laughing

and… i really couldn’t come up with a SFW line. :-P

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Grumpy

I was implying I was grumpy.

Keep up, grasshopper.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

"Looks like Milwaukee got their No Hitter" -ak123

by NittanyCub on Sep 26, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

the dreaded red x

"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 26, 2008 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Homer saying D'oh

shows up fine for me.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

CC just pawn in chess game of life...

But does anyone else hope the Cubs will sign him this winter? Would probably be the best thing in the world for Z’s career and for the Cubs.

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

god, no.

CC’s arm is probably held on by baling wire and tape. I like our starting rotation the way it 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 26, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't

I’ll take Zambrano, Lilly, Harden, Dempster and pick from Marshall, Marquis, Samardzija. CC will want 7 years at $20M/per, and I don’t think that’s a good idea. Too many back-loaded contracts as it is.

I’d rather see the money spent upgrading CF if they’re giving up on Pie and SS.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree that they could spend the money in the outfield better..

but these innings aren’t hurting CC a bit. He is the only modern day Bob Gibson in terms of stamina. I hate him as a Brewer but I appreciate seeing a pitcher just go out there and take the ball and pitch well without all the drama of virtually every other pitcher in the majors today. Probably half of the “reporting” on baseball these days is about so-and-so pitcher and he has a little “tightness” in his forearm or needs TJS in the off season or started throwing from flat ground or threw a simulated game or went down to AA to rehab and on and on.

When did pitchers’ arms become made of glass? When they started doing weight training in high school or when it was normal for a 12 year old to learn a curve ball so he could pitch 5 days a week in middle-school/AAU, etc.? Sorry for the soapbox and if you want to know how I really feel just ask.

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, I wouldn't cry if they signed him

But I don’t think SP is going to be a top priority

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agree

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Aren't hurting him a bit?

Really?

A guy only has so many bullets.

There's magic in the ivy...

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

Let

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hate this keyboard

What I was trying to say before my computer decided to hit “enter” on its own was “Let’s see how many innings he throws next year.” I really think throwing a pitch doesn’t hurt his body at all, for whatever reason. If he crashes and burns next year then I was wrong and he’s just like every other pitcher these days.

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But then it's too late

Because he’s 1 year into a 7-year, $140,000,000 contract.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's true.

Someone is going to roll the dice on him for that much. I don’t think it will be the Cubs but it will be interesting to watch next year. So long as he is not with any NL Central team I hope he does well for the life of his next contract.

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This was thrown out there yesterday:

He has thrown 244 inning this year… (+ 1 more start)
Last year he throw 241 innings before the playoffs and he broke down in the playoffs.

"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 26, 2008 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Yankees said

they are going after CC- I doubt the Cubs get in a bidding war when their rotation is fairly solid for the next few years

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

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 26, 2008 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't see CC signing with the Yankees or any other AL team.

He likes to bat. I think he’s headed to the Dodgers.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 12:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, he wants to hit...

I really think he wants a WS ring more than a zillion dollar contract with anyone

"The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been . . . baseball. America is ruled over it like an army of steamrollers." It isn't "rolled", it's "ruled".
Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'll take San Francisco in the CC pool

he’s from the Bay Area, plus, they can throw some cash at him.

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 26, 2008 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If that happens...

…and they hang on to Caine, the Giants would have a hell of a one through three in their rotation with CC, Caine and, last but certainly not least, Tiny Tim. I guess their offense would still be a pretty big question mark, though.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Zito is actually pitching well lately

believe it or not…

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

by Andre Fonseca on Sep 26, 2008 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Word is Cain will be trade bait this winter for offense

couple rumors had him heading to Milwaukee or Philadelphia. In one trade it was Fielder/Hardy for Cain (though it would probably be 1 of those 2) and in another it was Howard for Cain.

Interesting possibilities, to say the least.

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 26, 2008 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, I've heard the Fielder for Cain rumor...

…but not the Cain for Howard one. That is interesting.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 1:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Supposedly, the Phils and Howard

have had some contentious arbitration talks in years past, so they might not want to go down that road again, and they feel they can replace his offense given their park.

And since Cain misses bats, he’d work in Philly.

Should be interesting.

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 26, 2008 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

then CC can be CC while Manny is being Manny.

"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 26, 2008 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Just when you think...

…your starting pitching is set for a few years the wheels fall off and you end up short.

We have seen this happen time and time again. You can never never have too much pitching.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 27, 2008 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

CC's arm is a ticking time bomb.

I wonder if he could sue the Brewers if it falls off next year

Reed Ballgame - best CF in the MLB

by californiachicagoan on Sep 26, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think his arm is fine.

As much as he wants to win, I don’t think he would destroy his arm this year at the expense of his big contract to come.

"The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been . . . baseball. America is ruled over it like an army of steamrollers." It isn't "rolled", it's "ruled".
Tommie Agee was out.

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh No Not Howry

That is my scream everytime I see him walking in from the Bull Pen…. Looking for a guy to cut from the playoff roster its him……. Addition by Subtraction….. I am going to barf the
next time I hear about Lou saying what a fine young man he is ….. what are all the rest of the Bull Pen criminals …………….. give me HoffPower ….. no Pie please Korey Jr a 250
hitter “K”
Howry must have “something” on Lou and Larry……………..

by nimblenikelfoos on Sep 26, 2008 8:53 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

What he has...

…is experience, good track record and they like the way he approaches the game. This is why Lou has given him every opportunity to get in a positive groove.

With all of that said, I don’t see Lou putting him in a playoff game considering his recent struggles. In fact, his roster spot is probably very iffy at this point.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It may wind up that Howry is left off and Gaudin makes it...

… with the remaining slot going to Pie.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think Howry is...

…50/50 and that will probably be decided this weekend with Gaudin.

In regards to Pie, I’d be surprised if he didn’t make the roster. They need that element of speed and defense in the late innings.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 9:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Neither Gaudin nor Howry

are making very good cases for being on the postseason roster, but at least Gaudin was good at one point this season, whereas Howry has been a nightmare all season. That makes the decision easier for me, at least. I’d take Gaudin.

When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo

by gwood on Sep 26, 2008 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agree...

…and I think Howry may be reaching the end of the line. The fact that he has never developed a reliable second pitch, is catching up with him.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can't believe he has

made it this long in the majors without a 2nd pitch

When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo

by gwood on Sep 26, 2008 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm with ya...

…which really makes me tip my cap to him. He doesn’t have the dominant cutter like the guy on the Yankees, but he has relied on pin point control and guts to have a pretty good career.

His problem now, is he has lost some late juice on his fastball (and he knows it) and he has gotten behind hitter trying to be too fine.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+ 1

Gaudin is rusty. We’ll see if he can regain control of his pitches this weekend.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 26, 2008 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

he won't be rusty.... if he could stay away from rusty dumpsters :(

anyone else think that is worse than a hot tub injury?

"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 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Anyone else think the dumpster is just a cover story

for something even more embarrasing?

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 26, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I still wonder why we haven't heard word one

About alcohol being involved.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

'cause it's a given

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dunno

When you have guy named Dempster on your team, I just imagine the jokes of what Gaudin should be staying away from.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

how about we give you an enter key?

Geez.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Are you kidding?

Ellipses rule!

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Like everything in life, in moderation

But, man. That was hard to read. I still haven’t made it through.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha

… ellipses
…………………………………………………. dotted line

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ellipsis: singular.

Ellipses: plural.

I win.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I had to stop for a minute and reread that...

Oval-shaped geometric figures = ellipses
The … punctuation indicating continuation = ellipsis, plural is also ellipses

You are correct, sir!

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Sep 26, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cheers.

I had to confirm the spelling of the plural form on Word lest I resemble a dumbass.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Math teacher here, married to an English teacher

Best of both academic worlds, you could say.

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Sep 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, pretty much

The running joke is that we’ve taught everything in our careers but home ec and industrial arts. Our kids have no escape. (mine is an evil laugh)

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Sep 26, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This just means

they’ll become actors and musicians.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We've taught drama and music too

There is no escape…mwah hahahahahahahahaaaaa

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Sep 26, 2008 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What language is this?

None of my Google translators seem to make it make sense.

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't want Micah on the roster, at all.

Pie is infinitely more valuable because he plays more than one position (and all of them above average), can be used in running situations, and has a rocket for an arm, meaning his late inning substitution can be used for both pitchers and/or players injured. Micah is a below average defender, can’t run, is “hitting” in the last three games, and is limited to one position.

On a completely different note, we need to beat the Brewers down tonight. The walk-off grand salami by Braun (who I loathe) really boosted the confidence of this team. Let’s show them why it’s called Wrigley North and why we are the vastly superior team.

Is it too much to ask for one final tune-up tonight, with the supposed roster of Game 1 starting tonight (sans DeRo)? Or not?

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 26, 2008 8:57 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I also view Pie as more valuable than Hoff on the post season roster...

..and I have to assume Ward’s experience makes him a shoo -in as well…but the utter dimissal by many of you for what Hoffpauir accomplished from spring training right on through last night befuddles me.

Did he key your cars? What gives? Someone said he missed a couple balls last night—i hope you’re not counitng the last play of the game as one of them. It was a tracer shot..the camera man was also unable to track it in time and had a good angle.

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I like Hoffpauir

but I’d rather see him in the pinch-hitter role for a full season before handing him a post-season roster spot. He hasn’t shown an ability to prepare for the pinch-hitting role as Ward knows how to do. He won’t start, unless there’s an injury.

His defense leaves a lot to be desired. The last play was tough, but I was thinking more of the ground ball he misplayed in the 1st. Even on a fielder’s choice he started in one inning, he fielded the ball off to his side and didn’t keep his head down on the grounder, which could have been problematic.

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 26, 2008 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

Exactly why Hoffpauir should NOT be on a playoff roster.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Plus, with Ward on the roster

you need someone designated as a pinch runner for him in case he gets on, who better than Pie?

When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo

by gwood on Sep 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's exactly what I'm thinking.

Let Ward walk, then run with 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 26, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

A couple guys last night actually said Ward is faster than Hoff

agree or disagree?

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

disagree

a 30 year old w/ back problems isn’t going to be very quick.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

well, I don't know that's it much of a complement

kind of like being the tallest midget.

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 26, 2008 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's just that some shoot from the hip to make their point...

Ward is NOT faster than Hoff—and i’m not so sure he’s better with the glove.

BUT…Ward is the gritty vet—so we’ll use him….with that same logic we should take Howry over Jeff Smardzjia (sp?) or Guzman too.

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think in this case, being a veteran helps Ward

Because Hoffpauir won’t start in the NLDS, Ward has the upper hand because he’s been a pinch-hitter for so long, and on playoff teams. So he knows how to prepare for a pinch-hitting role in the pressure-cooker of the playoffs.

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 26, 2008 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've seen both in the field and though

Ward (last year) wasn’t a huge adventure. Ward’s not great, but can play. Hoff is not good in the outfield.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

thank you Trey an N Oakley

your insights are well reasoned!

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

we try

it always makes conversations much easier. I can understand your points, too, on Hoffpauir.

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 26, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

“BUT…Ward is the gritty vet—so we’ll use him….with that same logic we should take Howry over Jeff Smardzjia (sp?) or Guzman too.”

No, the difference between the two situations is the different roles being played in the post season. Samardizja and Guzman would be used in the exact same playoff roles as they have been used in the regular season. Hoff’s success in the regular season (starter) has not been in the role that he would play in the playoffs (pinch hitter).

The logical comparison would be taking a rookie who has shown success as a starter and asking if he should be on the playoff roster in the bullpen.

by TC Cubby on Sep 26, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

not a good comparison

because, you know… Ward doesn’t 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 26, 2008 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I simply like veteran players more than I do career minor leaguers.

He raised his OPS .200+ last night, so looking at his stats are hard to do. I like the veteran Ward over the rook Micah, and I value versatility much, much more than I do power. With a limited roster, I want Pie there over Micah. My $0.02.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree with every one of you on Ward & Pie on the post season roster...

but I still see a player who tore up ST, the minors and was hitting .333 for the year in MLB BEFORE last night’s game…he doesn’t suck—he’s simply too one dimensional…maybe an AL team can use him next year—or maybe we can if Ward performs in clutch post season ab’s like he did last night and for a large part of 2008.

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Corey Patterson tore up the minors.

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, minor leagues...

Was grossed out there for a second.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

ZING.

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wait...

How old is Dusty’s daughter?

make*art

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

Haha. She is actually 26.

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't think he sucks; I don't think anyone on this board feels that way

It’s just that when you’re stuck with 25 players, 14 position players probably, the ones with versatility stand out more. Ward’s defense, even if not the best, is better than Hoffpauir’s. Plus, Ward is a veteran when it comes to pinch-hitting, while Micah is not.

I think Hoffpauir has a role should the Cubs need a DH (I’d take him over Ward), and in 2009 (as Ward’s replacement).

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 26, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You'd take Hoff over Ward in a DH situation?

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Probably

Hoffpauir seems to do better when receiving multiple at-bats in a game, and I think at this point, I think he drives the ball better.

So yeah, if you held a gun to my head and forced me to write an AL lineup, I’d go with Hoffpauir. Though it’s probably 55-45 right now.

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 26, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

look at it this way though regarding DH

we have a few platoon-ish situations, with guys like edmonds, johnson, fontenot who play alot but aren’t always starters. Of course it’s partly gonna depend on whether the opposing pitcher is a righty or lefty, but you have to think that (if the cubs play games w/ DH) those guys are gonna get consideration also. So its not really just ward or hoff for DH, its other guys too. I mean, if you’re talking lefty power in a late inning pinch hit, I’ll take Edmonds over either one if its a game Johnson started in center

by philadelphiacub on Sep 26, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great point.

I hadn’t totally thought about that. And now that you raise the point, I can clearly see not having Hoffpauir DH when you could rotate several players through that spot.

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 26, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I like Micah.

He may have a roll on this team next year, just like Ward was the last two years. But I don’t think it is anything above that – a bench/PH role. I think it’s easy to look at his awards this year in the minors and think he’s going to magically morph into more…but he’s what – 26 years old? – and I just don’t see it.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 26, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I haven't charted his at bats, but didn't

someone say The Hoff has a huge hole in his swing. If accurate, that would haunt him in a playoff series.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not sure he has...

…a huge hole, I think its more driven around his timing. When he has poor AB’s he tends to get fooled on the slow stuff and is way out front. I haven’t seen a ton of his AB’s, but I haven’t see a specific location (hole) that seems glaring.

For your timing to be right, you need AB’s and to see a lot of pitches. This is why I don’t think he is best suited for a pinch hitting role.

From a pure mechanical standpoint, he has has an exceptionally good swing.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And other Cub players and analysts have said Ward has the best swing

on the team….

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

he Ks too much

he’s not a good pinch hitter. His accomplishments are wonderful. That doesn’t make him right for the post season.

"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 26, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1 on beating the Brewers

They complained about us “cruisin” so I guess now is our chance to show em we’re not. It’s really nice to see how competetive we’ve been since clinching.

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

by tony412 on Sep 26, 2008 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Want to beat and eliminate the Brewers this weekend

and play the Mets in round one. That would work for me nicely.

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 26, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Force them to have a 1-game playoff.

Burn their starters and bullpens. That’s what I’m looking for.

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 26, 2008 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm just hoping we don't have to go to Houston and play that makeup game.

everything else can take care of itself.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hasn't that happened yet?

I thought the Astros were eliminated. Am I wrong, again?

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The # is 1 for them to be eliminated

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Damn.

Don’t tell my wife.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

1 more win from either the Brewers or Mets will prevent it

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 26, 2008 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what's with the untucked uniforms

in Milwaukee? Slobs?

Sarcasm, just one of my many talents

by VegasCubFan on Sep 26, 2008 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fat

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fielder started it.

With him it’s a weight thing, Braun did it as he was rounding the bases. I guess it’s their “Cowboy Up!” thing.

by CubFaninNY on Sep 26, 2008 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No

its their celebration. you untuck your shirt when you get home from work.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's Bush League Stuff

No respect for the uniform.

Never, but NEVER, put ketchup on a hot dog.

by CaliCub on Sep 26, 2008 12:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Actually, I don't mind it so much

But doing it rounding 1st is stupid

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah

My take: if you don’t wanna see it, don’t lose.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Curious if you feel the same about Jose Valverde?

Never, but NEVER, put ketchup on a hot dog.

by CaliCub on Sep 26, 2008 4:44 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's unbelievably irritating

but in essence its the same thing. Don’t want him to celebrate? Don’t lose.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I Still Believe In Sportsmanship

and the Golden Rule.

Never, but NEVER, put ketchup on a hot dog.

by CaliCub on Sep 26, 2008 5:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So was last night the final audition for Howry?

Pitching consecutive nights? Pitching after getting out of the jam the night before, in another tough situation?

He failed. So has Lou seen enough to make him a mop up man in the playoffs if he makes the roster at all?

Nobody cares about your fantasy league team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 26, 2008 8:59 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I think Howry might make it just to be the voice of the 'pen

other than Cotts how many of the guys out in the ’pen have playoff experience pitching out of the bullpen?

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Marmol

and I think that may be it, was Marshall in the pen last year?

Marquis was supposed to pitch from the pen last year but never made it into the game.

When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo

by gwood on Sep 26, 2008 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True about Marmol

but his playoffs weren’t exactly the kind of memories I’d like a guy to really hang on to, ya know.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True

When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches. ~ Ron Santo

by gwood on Sep 26, 2008 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wood has starting experience

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True

but i said out of the ’pen.

And I only really say it b/c Lou’s into the experience factor.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, I know.

You also said pen out of the pen, which disqualifies Dempster. Still, though, I think they could give the others counsel – enough so where I wouldn’t carry Howry just for that. Lou, however . . . .

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The only significant move Hendry

pulled that hasn’t panned out, has been Gaudin. In every way, JH gets my vote as GM of the year. As another poster mentioned, bad backs are difficult to overcome. For a pitcher, I can’t even imagine. Regardless, Chad’s effectiveness with us has been of a roller-coaster nature. In-person, he served up a HR in every appearance when I was at Wrigley. But, he can get the K’s sometimes, too.

I am concerned about Neal Cotts, the LH pitcher that cannot get LH hitters out. In fact, those of you who watched the game last night will note that BB mentioned the same thing on the air, during his appearance.

Grudgingly, I will have to admit that as a PH only, Ward would probably be a better choice. But the HOFF has outplayed him this year. HOFF will be the DWARD next year, i predict.

by The E-Man on Sep 26, 2008 9:11 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Note

Gaudin wasn’t a “move”, per se, as he more a throw-in with Harden. I think everyone was shocked to learn he was apart of that trade. I don’t think giving up on Gaudin is a good idea.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 26, 2008 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I knew he was

a “throw in” but Hendry/scouts certainly inquired about him and wanted him in the deal. Right? It was “part” of a move. Gaudin mostly pitched well during a short stretch in July, and early August. He was not a “shut-down” artist by any means. I am not giving up on him – just do not think he is ready for the Playoffs. It is truly unfortunate that we do not have better options!

by The E-Man on Sep 26, 2008 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

After watching the Mets pen the last few days

I think we do have better options.

But, worry if you must.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yup.

People need to remember that most of us (I won’t say all) don’t follow everybody as much as we do the Cubs. When we see errors they get magnified in our minds until you realize that even the best team has similar problems.

And you know what? We’re the best team. How do you think the Mets feel knowing that, if they even make the playoffs, the road to the WS may very well go through us?

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What'd you think of the premiere last night??

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I really liked it.

Felt it was the strongest premiere since The Dundies.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah I liked it a lot...

That goatee…Just kills me…

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

haha i forgot about that...oh man...

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

Gaudin is valuable to this team. If he can find his location, and I think he will, he’s an asset this team needs.

My worry is that his back doesn’t allow him the flexibility to finish his pitches the way he was in July and August.

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 26, 2008 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It was a bruise wasn't it?

Nothing structural in his back?

Because it just seems like a combination of rust and an unfamilar catcher to me the last few day.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And hopefully that's it.

I think it was a bruise, but if it’s a muscle bruise, those can take a while to stretch 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 26, 2008 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly~

Not to beat-up on Hill, but I think with either Henry or Geo behind the plate we may be talking about different results.

The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love. ~Bryant Gumbel

by Blue W on Sep 26, 2008 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

DeRosa Injury=Pie On Roster

If the Cubs did not have to concern themselves with DeRosa’s calf strain, I would say put Hoff on the postseason roster. DeRosa has played a lot of RF in the second half of the season. That calf strain will hurt his ability to play right field. I feel good about Pie defensively playing in any one of three outfield positions. Hoff just simply is a minus outfielder.

The Cubs could either have DeRosa not starting at all or playing second base in the division series with Dome in right. A late-inning defensive outfield of Johnson in LF, Pie in CF, and Dome in RF, would be great. I like DWard off the bench more than Hoff.

I like Hoff, but he would be a better fit with another team. He’ll never be a guy who will start 140+ games for the Cubs. I think he could start at first for a lesser team that needed a 1B.

"The big possum walks late." - Harry Caray

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

+1

that OF would be a blast to watch.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

you make sense Memphis Cub

want to meet me in Jackson to watch some post season? I’m in Dickson.

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Like to Go To Diamond Jaxx Games

I usually catch about 5 Diamond Jaxx games a year at Pringles Park. Two of them are against the Tennessee Smokies. The Smokies will be in Jackson April 20-24 and September 3-7 next year. I think I’ll catch that Friday, April 24 game and one of those games on Labor Day weekend.

I saw Sammy Sosa hit a HR in an exhibition game in Jackson back in 2001, when the Jaxx were affiliated with the Cubs. I like the amphitheatre style seating at Pringles Park. It reminds of the stadiums at Ole Miss and Mississippi State. It’s too bad more people show up for college games at Ole Miss and State than for AA games in Jackson.

I don’t know yet when the Iowa Cubs are going to come to Nashville next season. I know that’s just up the road from Dickson. The I-Cubs are going to be way down in Memphis, April 30 – May 3 and May 29 – June 1.

"The big possum walks late." - Harry Caray

by memphiscub on Sep 26, 2008 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rest vs. Rust

It sounds like Lou is going to play at least some of the Iowa roster the next few days. Since this team can get pretty streaky (both hot and cold), at what point should we be concerned about the regulars having decent momentum / timing going into the NLDS?

"What's the score?" "Nothing-nothing." "Who's winning?" "The Bears."

by ScottieG33 on Sep 26, 2008 9:24 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

i would look for

one game off for each regular, then half games (2 ab’s) for the other two games. That way you can keep them fresh while still getting some reps in. I would definitely play the regulars at least some on Sunday, given the built in two (maybe more with the storms) off days.

by TC Cubby on Sep 26, 2008 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Impressive...

…Hoff-power’s night was very impressive. Hitting 2 HR’s in Shea on a night with rain and heavy air like that just reinforces that this guy is indeed a good hitter with power.

What gets me and I think Lou, too is that Hoff has done no wrong. Offensively, he has shown that his AAA numbers are translating well into the bigs. I’m not sure how many defensive replacements we need. An outfield of Dome, Reed Johnson and Jim Edmonds or Mark Derosa is plenty capable.

I can’t write him off as a PH yet either. Anytime a sample size is small enough that 1 AB could change how you look at it, it’s pretty irrelavant. For instance 4 for 13 would be a .307 BA so we’d say that’s pretty good. You can’t make the same argument about a 5 for 5 night because if you change 1AB, he’ still 4 for 5 and that’s still pretty good. It might be good to let him PH the rest of the way and see what he does. If he can get a couple of hits, then bring him along.

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

by TXCub on Sep 26, 2008 9:28 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

the time is better than ever to trade him this offseason

he clearly doesn’t have a spot on this team

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

it would be nice

to have hoff’s power coming off the bench. ward is not having a good year so maybe have hoff on the roster for a late inning swing is a good idea.

Pie needs to be on the roster for his versitility. Dome is not hitting and his defense lately has not been that good. that throw last night was terrible and the other night he miss the cutoff man badly.

One thing that i really liked about Hoff, and maybe some of the other lefties could watch his AB (dome, pie) is how he stays in there against a left handed pitcher.

One question and I should know this. If Dero plays the first game of the series and cant go anymore can he be replaced for the rest of that series, or is it for the rest of the playoffs?

Let go cubs

by cubsfaninkc on Sep 26, 2008 9:29 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Rosters Made Series By Series

If DeRo can’t go after the first game of the division series, he can’t be replace for the remainder of the division series. If the Cubs were to advance to the NLCS, then they could fill DeRosa’s roster spot with someone else.

"The big possum walks late." - Harry Caray

by memphiscub on Sep 26, 2008 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If we make it to the world series

could hoff be on that roster and be used a DH?

Let go cubs

by cubsfaninkc on Sep 26, 2008 9:30 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

What are you talking about?

Dome’s throw was excellent. It was up the line because that’s where Hill set-up, and where the runner was going to be. It beat him by a mile.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 9:31 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That was my thought too.

The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love. ~Bryant Gumbel

by Blue W on Sep 26, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

-1

There is no way Dome was going to make a peg to the plate, saw Hill 5’ up the line, and thought, “I’d better heave this one 5’ to the right.” (Or Japanese translation)

McCain / Palin: The POW / WOW! Ticket

by Goat Whisperer on Sep 26, 2008 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Still s/h had him.

McCain / Palin: The POW / WOW! Ticket

by Goat Whisperer on Sep 26, 2008 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

-1

From where he was in the outfield, Dome could make a peg to the plate easily. Have you been watching his throws at all this season?

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

Dome can throw the ball anywhere he wants in that situation. No translation needed.

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Now that you mention it

I literally have never seen Dome throw a ball. Odd.

All of the Dragons spring trainings I attended, all of his games I went to in Japan, all of the games this season, I wouldn’t even know he has arms but for the fact I have seen him at the plate holding a bat.

I’m not sure who’s agreeing with whom here, but:

The throw was up the line
But it was good enough that the runner s/h/b out by 10 feet.
The throw wasn’t up the line because that’s where Hill was set up.

That’s all I was saying.

Domo.

McCain / Palin: The POW / WOW! Ticket

by Goat Whisperer on Sep 26, 2008 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm confused then.

It looks like you’re disagreeing with Shanghai Badger, yet the two of you are essentially saying the same thing. Or am I missing something?

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Now I'M confused

Because I wasn’t part of that discussion

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sorry, I meant Jimmyeatworld.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

s'alright

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Whattup!

Confusion on my end, mostly.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 1:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Pat said

it was a strike. Completely on target.

"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 26, 2008 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Start Hoff at First and Ward in Right in Milwaukee

We can then do stare and compare

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 9:31 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

How about we make them box?

Bare-knuckle, last man standing is the undisputed heavy-weight pinch-hitting champion of the Cubs!

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not everything can be solved with violence!

That being said, let’s make this happen.

The other sports are just sports. Baseball is a love. ~Bryant Gumbel

by Blue W on Sep 26, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I prefer mud wrestling

Ward has the size but Hoff has more agility

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

God

I really hope SWL doesn’t see this.

My eye may never fully recover.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Don't bait him, bad things happen.

Bad Things.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think so... seriously

w have not played the Dodgers in a long time. We know and can beat the Mets

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

oops

i got it backwards… never mind… beat Milwaukee

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Right.

Destroy Mets in first round, then tough series with either Philli or LA.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

ah. disregard my reply then

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Dodgers are the only team that really give me pause.

Not that I think we COULDN’T beat them… I’m just not sure they’re the team I’d want to see in a short series.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Dodgers have gotten fat on the NL West

and while they’re offensively better (who wouldn’t be with Manny), I think they’re paper tigers still.

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 26, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think part of it is

how long its been since the Cubs played them.

Although the idea of Lou v Torre is pretty exciting for the baseball fan in me. :-P

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

True.

And their pitching is good, but I think they’re a little like last year’s Cubs in that they’ll feel fortunate to make the playoffs, especially those young kids.

If the Cubs can put themselves in a situation where they don’t have to pitch to Manny, the offense can be shut down.

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 26, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree with all of that.

But they still give me pause. Especially in a short series.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Damn short 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 26, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good point.

One man does not win a championship.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ah, love the Chinese reference!

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

paper tigers does not get used enough

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 26, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And remember, no matter where you go, there you are

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yogi?

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yogi's cousin... Confucius

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Confucius say

Man who live in glass house should undress in basement.

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

very wise

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He who walks through airport turnstyle sideways . . . .

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

somewhere in Thailand?

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You are correct, madam

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

War does not determine who is right

War determines who is left

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

An alltime fave..

man who go to bed with itchy butt—wake up with smelly finger

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Elevator smells different

To a midget?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Badges?

we don’t need no stinking badges

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wow, it fits twice in one thread

Excellent

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He who go to bed alone with boner

wake up with sticky fingers

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

thats a little... blue... isn't it?

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

blue?

that is the problem

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LMAO

No sooner had I hit enter than I realized what I said. I ddn’t mean it like that.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha!

Man who walk around with hand in pocket feel cocky all day.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wise man never play leapfrog with unicorn

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

one more

Man who gets kicked in testicles, left holding bag.

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wise man also

never fry bacon naked

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Sep 26, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Very Wise Man does not place

Hoffpauir or Howry on playoff roster

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Man who fly upside down in

airplane have crack-up.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 26, 2008 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Woman laid in tomb may soon become mummy.

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Frenchman Who Drink Too Much Beer

may soon become “wee monsieur”.

Never, but NEVER, put ketchup on a hot dog.

by CaliCub on Sep 26, 2008 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Man who run in front of car get tired.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 26, 2008 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Man trapped in pantry have ass in jam

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Man with one testicle also know

as Won Hang Lo.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 26, 2008 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Elevator smell different to midget.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 26, 2008 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Did that one already....

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't get it

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

look at the spelling of piece

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He didn't say "I don't understand"

Maybe he’s had an argument . . .

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly. My wife's a morning person.

I’m guessing because 8 hours have passed where I haven’t said anyting.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha.

No, really. I don’t get IT.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

well, keep looking

you’ll get more of the same (read: nothing) from me. :-P

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Feisty

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Man who screw woman on ground get peace on earth.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 26, 2008 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

man and woman who bowl togethe soon split.

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

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Sep 26, 2008 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

baseball wrong. Man with four balls not able to walk

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

by Bump Bailey on Sep 26, 2008 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Baseball is wrong,

man with four balls cannot walk.

Join the BCB Flickr Group:

by tony412 on Sep 26, 2008 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ooops..

sorry tony…didn’t see yours..

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

by Bump Bailey on Sep 26, 2008 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

TWSS

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 26, 2008 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Better than

TWHS

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

the oldest one of all time

Man who fart in church sit in own pew

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I disagree

Always stay competitive. Plus, by conventional wisdom, if the Cubs get to the NLCS, they’re playing the Phils, anyway. Do you see the Brewers beating the Phils to play the Cubs in round 2?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Right.

And playing the Mets in the DS would be far more in our favor than the Dodgers.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Short series and a dominating pitcher.

It absolutely could happen.

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That dominating pitcher likely starts on Sunday

And even with short rest, wouldn’t be ready until game 2. MAYBE he’d have something in the tank for a game 5. Maybe.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not that the Brewers couldn't win

I just think that the Phils would be more likely to. Hell, I’d rather they DID beat the Phillies if it came to that. The Cubs have hit Sabathia just fine.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i hate the short series

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Me, too

Goes completely against the style of the rest of the season.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i totally, totally hate the short series

this series should not be determined by 5 games…. anything can happen… a bad bounce, bad call… whatever… they need to make this series 7 games.

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just wish there were an actual favoring of the number one seed

In football you get a bye, but that wouldn’t’ work in baseball where mojo matters. In basketball you get the lowest seed, which lessens the chance of a fluky win.

The idea that division teams can’t meet til the LCS is pretty ridiculous to me.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree

Another idea I would like to see is, the WC can only get 1 homegame in the DS. Have a 2-1-2 format as Sully suggested a couple of weeks ago.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I could go for that

but the owners would raise holy hell about it b/c of losing a potential gate. I don’t see it happening.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They'd still get the gate

Aren’t postseason gates still shared?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh

Didn’t think about that.

Maybe it does have a shot then.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Still, probably not

It makes too much sense. Bud would never do it.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Logic has no place in Bud's MLB

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Technical balk on the usage of mojo

It does not mean “momentum”.

In Austin Powers, it meant special sexy super spy charisma, and a certain, “I don’t know what”.

In the blues, it means good luck charm, or more generally, good luck, or even a kind of good karma

Cubs may have mojo this season, but it’s not related to streaks and days off..

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 26, 2008 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Mojo fits what I meant

A bye week in baseball would kill any kind of buzz a team had. Ask the Rockies.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Someone stole their Mojo?

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what are you talking about

he even bats lefty!

"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 26, 2008 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

don't argue

with Hammerin’ Hank. :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 26, 2008 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Until your wrist shatters.

BTW, when we moved to Chicago in 94 my dad and I swear we saw Hank driving next to us.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

were his arms crossed on the steering wheel?

"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 26, 2008 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I still see it killing momentum, rather than luck, good vibes, or a certain je ne c'est quoi

I still think the Rockies killed their “Big Mo” rather than their mojo with the week off.

But I’m close to (or already) being overly persnickety about it, so never mind.

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 26, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Its okay

I can handle persnickety. :-)

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

go back and look again

it was not a good throw from as close as he was, but its all a mattter of opinion, but hoestly i dont remeber where hill was set up so maybe your right

Let go cubs

by cubsfaninkc on Sep 26, 2008 9:32 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

please use the +reply button

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

TWHS

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Better call Ditka to "See Alice"

Disposable dixie cup drinkin... I'm hiding out in the big city blinking...

by N Oakley on Sep 26, 2008 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

HoffPower vs Pie

Its the 9th inning of the final game of the playoffs Cubs down a run right handed pticher men on second and third…… pitcher due up…… Lou says lets see HoffPower not on the roster lets use Pie maybe he can steal first…….I know speed is important but Left Handed Power is hard to find……. Marquis or Harden can pinch run if Johnson, Front, Cedeno or whoever are not available ……I’m taking the Left Handed Power bat over “K” Jr.

by nimblenikelfoos on Sep 26, 2008 9:40 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Comma and Enter keys

Both are your friends

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's one

It’s the bottom of the ninth, 2 out, tied game, Ward in to pinch hit. He takes a walk on a 10 pitch at bat. Lou pinch runs Pie for Ward. Pie steals second. Soriano slaps a single into left field. Cubs win!!

by McRipper on Sep 26, 2008 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's the scenario I keep playing out.

Plus, in the original scenario, the Cubs would just need a base hit, and Ward knows how to work the count in his favor and increase his odds of success.

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 26, 2008 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Me too!

Ward is a professional pinch hitter. That’s what he does. I like what Micha’s been doing. But riding the hot hand is dangerous. How often have we seen those hot hands go ice cold overnight? Too often!!!

by McRipper on Sep 26, 2008 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree...

I want to see Pie. The playoffs are always about pitching and defense, although I like Micah and think he could be a good DH, we already have Ward.

Lets do it Cubbies

by slocs55 on Sep 26, 2008 10:05 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

After watching Howry Jr. and Howry last night, did anyone

have flashbacks of the wonderous gascan duo of Howry and Will Ohman from a few years back?

The overall impression I get when I see Ward pinch hitting is two words, and usually they’re “inning over”. I also seem to remember a rookie last year who came up with a clutch dinger in the NLDS. Give Hoff a go.

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Sep 26, 2008 10:08 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

will ohman

my 2nd least favorite player behind paul bako

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

OK, let's say the roster for the NLDS goes something like this:

Dempster, Zambrano, Harden, Lilly. (starters) -(4)

Gaudin, Marquis, Marshall, Cotts, Samardzija, Marmol, Wood. (bull pen) -(7)

Soriano, Theriot, Lee, Ramirez, Edmonds, Soto, DeRosa, Fukudome. (line-up) -(8)

Johnson, Ward, Cedeno, Fontenot, Pie, Blanco. (bench) -(6)

What do you think?

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 10:08 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I think that's the only logical way to go

The only scary part is the 6-7 inning pitchers (Gaudin and Spellcheck, neither of whom can seem to get an out lately)

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Sep 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Looks good to me

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gaudin won't make the cut....

He hasn’t been good since the back injury. Not enough time to get healthy and/or shake off the rust. It will be Bob Howry guaranteed. Lou likes Howry and that’s what counts the most.

Hoffpauier will definitely get the nod. Bench defense and speed exists in the form of Johnson and Kosuke.

by MDBNIU on Sep 26, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's your opinion, which I can only guess is uninformed.

There is not a spot for Hoffpauir on the roster. He has no position, (and don’t tell me PH; because he isn’t one, and we have a PH already in Ward. Pie will make it over Hoff, simply because a post season roster needs versatility, not limits. Bench speed will exist in the form of Johnson & Pie. Dome will be the starting RF. If you think Lou is going to go with DeRo in RF, you’re foolish. It weakens the bench and the defense, while exposing DeRo & Fontenot. Not gonna happen.

Depending on Gaudin’s back, Howry might make the roster. It’s obvious he’s at the end of his career, and he might just be the tough leave-off for Lou/Hendry.

For someone who claims to know so much about baseball, you sure purport some ridiculous ideas. I seriously doubt your baseball acumen.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

it's gonna be fun seeing you eat your words

oh, wait. You never cop to an error or mistake.

"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 26, 2008 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He'll never cop to it

but at least it’ll be quiet when he goes into his “i was wrong so i’ll sulk and disappear” phase.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I believe that's the exact roster we'll see Jimmy

hope DeRo is ok—and our pitching needs to shape up QUICKLY

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

As of right now...

…I think you nailed it.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Who do YOU want to make the playoffs, and why?

Mets
or
Brewers

I gotta go with the Mets. Their bullpen is a nightmare, and we just took 2 out 4 at their place with pretty much our “b” lineup and a terrible outing by Z.

Even though I anticipate Sabathia and Sheets arms will fall off if they get to the playoffs, the Brewers are a much better team than the Mets.

*Synth intro to "Jump"*

by SouthsideCub on Sep 26, 2008 10:09 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Agreed for all those reasons

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cubs?

Wait. They’re in?

Oh. Then, I’m not gonna get picky now. :-P

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

mets

bullpen is somehow worse than the brewers and no real starting pitching threats after johan

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Regardless disdain we may have for Howry he will make the roster

Lou likes Howry. And Howry does have the “appeal” of being a veteran to bring in during the middle innings. When the alternative is the rookie Jeff Sarmardzija or Neal Friggin Cotts? And Chad Gaudin either isn’t healthy or has lots of rust to work off. He won’t make the roster.

by MDBNIU on Sep 26, 2008 10:09 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I don't have disdain for Howry.

Rather, I feel sorry for him, because he is obviously at the end of his career. I think Howry, as much as Lou likes him and the veteran presence he brings, will be the tough leave off for Lou/Hendry. Cotts is there simply because you need two lefties. Depending on Gaudin’s back, it might be Howry in place of him.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Is this a job reference or a vote of confidence?

Because Lou is eaither softening the blow of leaving him off the roster or else trying to salvage something here:

I like Bob. Bob is a no-excuse guy. He goes out there and pitches and does the best he can. I have all the respect in the world for him. He’s had some struggles, but nobody’s immune from them. I like his experience, too.

Although I never thought Lou would leave him off, that sounds like a farewell toast.

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 26, 2008 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sounds to me like a rationalization for keeping him

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i agree

i pray i am wrong though

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hope I am, too

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Read between the lines. We've got other pitchers to do his job.

They can’t afford to let Howry work it out in the post season. Howry knows this as well.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I did read between the lines

And it sounds like he’s padding Bob’s resume to me

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Helping him get a job next year

with someone else.

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 26, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yep, this is how I read it, too.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sure, when taken at face value

But Howry had just blown it for the umpteenth time, and he wasn’t going to say “he’s fired”. I think it was part justification for keeping him around this long.

But I could just as easily be wishcasting or bored at work.

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 26, 2008 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You'd imagine he knows

even if he doesn’t ever really admit it.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why does he say that no one is immune from struggles, then

Or like his experience?

In that case, say that “he’s contributed a lot to this team in the last 3 years”

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He has contributed a lot in the last 3 years.

He obviously isn’t the same pitcher anymore though.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jimmy, I don't think he should be on the roster

I’m not the one who was quoted. That’s just how I read Piniella’s statements.

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

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

Wasn't trying to come down on you Amigo.

I’ve got no quarrel with you Badgerman.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Understood -- no worries

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Besides, you're a Big Ten guy.

Much love to the Big Ten teams, and their fans.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And you recommended good scotch

The Glenlivet is pretty damn smooth

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Aw. Look. They're BONDING!

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Are you into that?

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

lol

Only on days that end in y.

LOL.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Had the Macallan ...also good stuff

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not yet

I’ll make a note of it

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 12:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

YES!

The MaCallan 18. You will never drink anything else.

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Macallan. 18 year old.

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 26, 2008 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd like to try this one, but too rich for my blood.

Ochone

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

by Bump Bailey on Sep 26, 2008 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's only about $300/bottle

I’d try a glass, anyway

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's good stuff. I tasted it once.

Wish I could have afforded a whole bottle…

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

here's to the hawkeyes

kicking off the big ten season with a northwestern BEAT DOWN!

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

Transplanted Hawkeye here

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Sep 26, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm transplanted as well.

Grew up in the “State of Minds”, (Iowa), went west twice & came back to midwest- (Chicago/Burbs now) when parents started slowing down. They’re still in the great state- lifers.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

When I hear "he does the best he can"

I also hear (“and that’s not good enough”).

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 26, 2008 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hope your interpretation is correct

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yah i think he is saying

“we need experience in the post season.”

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

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

That's what I got out of it

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

by Shanghai Badger on Sep 26, 2008 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Tea leaves are so soft and mushy once the cup is drained

Makes them really hard to read.

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 26, 2008 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i know it's wrong for me to hope howry does poorly

but i do, i admit it. my hopes for this team are much bigger than our regular season record at this point and i refuse to believe howry has any business on the post season roster. therefore it if means bob struggling in his final days leaves him off the roster, than so be it.

i know i’m gonna take heat for this, so bring it!

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Sep 26, 2008 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

How about this for an off the wall prediction

At some point during the playoffs Bob Howry will come in to pitch in a big situation, I’m thinking runners on nobody out. He then strikes out the side and becomes a Cub hero forever

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 4-0 (0-0). Next up at Nebraska October 4th. Live on ESPN in primetime. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 26, 2008 10:13 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I could live with that

I might even take back everything I ever said about him.

Course, only if I ever manage to wake up from fainting.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Careful...

LSD is a tightly controlled substance.

by The E-Man on Sep 26, 2008 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

theres an astros joke in there somewhere...

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Doc Ellis

no-hitter while on LSD.

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 26, 2008 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's what I thought, it was a no-hitter.

Can you imagine that? I’ve tripped many times, (in the past), and I can’t imagine pitching a ML baseball game while tripping.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jeez.

I couldn’t recall the name, but I saw him interviewed. He said half the time he couldn’t even see where he was throwing.

make*art

by neverAcquiesce on Sep 26, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Damn

I should’ve been a pitcher.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Imagine the tracers...

It’s enough to make me feel a little woozy.

Jimmyeatworld

by Jimmyeatworld on Sep 26, 2008 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I haven't even had my morning beer yet

Who knows what delusional predictions I might have later.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 4-0 (0-0). Next up at Nebraska October 4th. Live on ESPN in primetime. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 26, 2008 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I saw a scene like this in a movie once

It was followed with the words “Dorothy, wake up!”

"Years of academy training, wasted"--Buzz Lightyear (not a flying toy)

by spoiledcubbage on Sep 26, 2008 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Stranger things...

…have happened, and if it does, it is probably in an extra inning game.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 26, 2008 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

if he can be the Howry from the day before yesterday

as opposed to the Howry from yesterday, then fine.

Problem is, you can’t ever know which is which.

"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 26, 2008 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's hoping this pitching situation clears up this weekend.

It’s been crazy the past few days with NO ONE really stepping out and making the case to be on the roster as a ‘lock’. And that’s both relievers AND starters.

Wait a minute... who am I here?

by malicedoom on Sep 26, 2008 10:18 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Its the calm before the storm

They are all messing with us this week, making sure we panic just a bit more. Come playoff time they prolly won’t give up any runs.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 4-0 (0-0). Next up at Nebraska October 4th. Live on ESPN in primetime. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 26, 2008 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Two points regarding Hoff's candidacy for a playoff roster spot...

1. We may need to use a DH in up to 4 games this postseason

2. The guy had a 4 hr game just a few weeks ago and won POTY or something. Yes, in the minors, but let’s not forget this was also Soto’s proving ground last year when everyone insisted his numbers were inflated and wouldn’t translate, etc.

by Jerry Mumphrey on Sep 26, 2008 10:20 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

But with Soto, the other options were slim and none.

Soto showed, power, average, defense and poise. Kendall showed a batting average and some defense (though not throwing anyone out).

The Cubs already have a proven, veteran pinch-hitter in Ward. Now, if the Cubs reach the World Series, I could see Hoffpauir on the roster.

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 26, 2008 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Am I the only one not really worried about the pitching?

I think most of us have been looking so close for flaws and stuff that now we’re SURE every hard hit ball is the beginning of the end.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:21 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I agree with you

These guys will be fine, this week of meaningless games has given us time to think. Cub fans thinking usually turns into a mass panic about things going wrong (I’m guilty of this too).

We may mock the notion, but power pitching usually has success in the playoffs. We have a ton of power pitching, as long as somebody from another team doesn’t go Beckett on us, there is no reason we can’t win the NL and even the World Series.

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 4-0 (0-0). Next up at Nebraska October 4th. Live on ESPN in primetime. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 26, 2008 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good

thought i was the only one. :-)

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree

with the pressure off, the situation often becomes ‘throw the ball over the plate and let batters get themselves out’. The walks annoy me, but I think things will be ok once the focus is sharpened.

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 26, 2008 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The walks have been weird and bothersome

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm just hoping

that the starters go deep into their games.

"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 26, 2008 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

OT: this doesn't sound wise

I know Ozzie likes to fly off the handle, but mixing sleeping pills and vodka never worked for anyone:

I might take a sleeping pill," Guillen said Thursday night after the Sox had blown a five-run lead and lost 7-6 to Minnesota when Alexi Casilla hit a two-out single to score Nick Punto in the 10th inning.

“I will. [Also] a glass of vodka, because I know it’s not going to be easy to sleep. My guys have to be prepared. It’s not about me.”

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 26, 2008 10:37 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Wow Ozzie, another example of needing to think before you speak

For the record I still think the White Sox make the playoffs

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 4-0 (0-0). Next up at Nebraska October 4th. Live on ESPN in primetime. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 26, 2008 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I see a 1-game playoff in their future

and Freddy Garcia putting the final nail in the Sox coffin.

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 26, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That would be quite ironic

Your 2008 Missouri Tigers! #5 4-0 (0-0). Next up at Nebraska October 4th. Live on ESPN in primetime. Chase Daniel and Jeremy Maclin for Co-Heisman!

by nji232 on Sep 26, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's with Detroit.

If the Sox are a .5 game up or down, they have to play Detroit on Monday, where Garcia will pitch. So it’s not a playoff, per se, but a 1-game makeup.

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 26, 2008 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I had the pleasure

of watching the Sux implode last night. This very well could be a biased statement on my part, but Oswaldo Guillen represents a lot of the things that are wrong with our society: rage, pettiness, selfishness, lack of focus, disrespect towards everybody but himself, and self-aggrandization. The Sux’s call team isn’t much better either.

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Sep 26, 2008 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the Sox are done.

Minnesota gets to play KC at home… while the Sox get a hot Cleveland team (who has the best record in the AL Central the last 2 months), AND they have to face Cliff Lee.

And, even if the Sox are 1/2 game up after Sunday — they still have to play that make up game vs. the Tigers and THEN might have to play a tiebreaker with the Twins.

It says here that the Twins clinch on Saturday.

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

by Al on Sep 26, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's a terrible pity

Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him.

by cubfever7 on Sep 26, 2008 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

poor Sox

"We’ve still got a long ways to go, I don’t like to get giggly over things in July. But the team’s playing well, they really are. They’re playing with confidence, and it shows."

by Cubster on Sep 26, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed.

I don’t think there is anyway that Lee loses that game on Sunday, especially with the stuff that has gone on between him and the Sox lately…

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

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Sep 26, 2008 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wonder what it is about the Metrodome

I mean, i get it. Its loud… but it shouldn’t be impossible to win there.

There's magic in the ivy...

by halfblindcubbiegirl on Sep 26, 2008 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dare we provoke a...

DSC01645

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Just heard on ESPN

that Cliff Lee (back) will likely not pitch this weekend against the Sox. Nevertheless, they still have to win, a task that appears rather difficult for them lately.

Irreverence is irrelevant's revenge.
Dean Young

by Herr Pfannkuchen on Sep 26, 2008 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What's the problem? Works for me every night.

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

by Weeghman Park on Sep 26, 2008 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hey, Ozzie, Courtney Love called.

She wants her coping strategies back.

The Chicago Cubs: 2008 Central Division Champions

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 26, 2008 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs