Here, You Pitch. No, YOU Pitch. No, YOU! - Cubs 9, Rockies 8
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 7:31 PM CDT
in Recaps
105 comments
MESA, Arizona -- Before the game the Cubs announced that Sam Fuld, Jose Ascanio and Jake Fox had been optioned to Iowa, two non-roster invitees (Jason Waddell and Bobby Scales) had been reassigned to minor league camp, and perhaps most importantly, Richie Robnett had been outrighted to Iowa, off the 40-man roster.
To me, this says: "Trade coming." There are now two open spots on the 40-man roster, almost unheard of at this time in spring training. There wouldn't seem to be a reason to do this unless a deal was in the works.
And while the Cubs are looking for infield help, they may be looking for some pitching assistance as well; today's messy, long, 9-8 Cubs win over the Rockies, their sixth straight spring win (say that six times fast!), was pitched (and I use the term loosely) by eight different Cubs, none of whom had real good outings. Most alarming was Jeff Samardzija's inning; he issued a walk and gave up three hits and was charged with two runs. Mike Stanton, who will probably be in the next round of cuts, gave up a three-run homer to ex-Giant minor leaguer Daniel Ortmeier. That was the last scoring in the game, making it 9-8 in the 7th; David Patton had a shaky but scoreless eighth (one walk) and Chad Fox (who will be given his gold watch for meritorious service at the end of camp) finished it off by striking out, of all people, ex-Cub Mark Bellhorn (didn't he retire two years ago?).
The worst of it was Chad Gaudin, who started today but only went two innings, giving up two walks, a couple of hard singles, and two runs, only one of which was earned after an Aaron Miles error. Interestingly, after Gaudin was yanked, Miles left the game an inning later -- was Lou upset with him? Gaudin sure didn't increase his trade value today; I imagine Lou and the brass will be having a number of roster discussions on the off-day tomorrow.
The single-game Cactus League attendance record was broken for the fifth time today; 13,289 crammed into HoHoKam Park on a beautiful afternoon, with temperatures in the upper 70's and a light breeze. No sign of recession here, although I checked out the prices in the gift shop -- $31 for a basic low-rise spring training cap seems excessive, and there were a lot of lookers, not many buyers, in that shop. The attendance figure raised the spring total to 159,583, an average of 10,639. Today's record might be shattered on Friday when the White Sox visit Mesa.
Cubs who had good days today included Alfonso Soriano, who walked twice (!) and singled and doubled. He was thrown out stealing by Colorado's Chris Iannetta, but looked like he was running without any of the leg problems that have plagued him the last two years. Micah Hoffpauir, in for Derrek Lee in the 6th, slammed another double down the line (I gotta admit, the guy can hit). Milton Bradley looked like he's getting his timing down, hitting a single, homer and double before leaving for pinch-runner Joey Gathright. And the eventual winning run was scored by Reed Johnson, tagging up from third on what was a medium-deep fly ball, something that during the regular season with an 8-5 lead you might not even go on, but during the spring he (and Mike Quade) probably thought, "Hey, let's try this, see if it works." The right fielder, of course, was ex-Cub Matt Murton, whose arm (or lack thereof) we discussed many times on this site. The play was close, but Johnson was safe. Reed also walked in addition to the triple that put him on third. All told, Cub hitters walked eight times today, patience that they began to exhibit last year when Kosuke Fukudome joined the team.
If Dome does nothing else for the Cubs, give him credit for helping teach his teammates plate discipline. Dome will return to the lineup Thursday night in Scottsdale vs. the Giants, playing CF and batting second. Meanwhile, today Ted Lilly threw 70 pitches in a simulated game and will start Sunday against the Indians. Sean Marshall will go Thursday, and Rich Harden is still scheduled to go in a minor league game at Fitch Park tomorrow.
Enjoy the off-day, the Cubs' last until the season begins. We're almost there -- just 13 more days!
0 recs |
105 comments
|
Email
Print
Comments
Well at least Harden
Is not pitching a simulated game or using towels… yet.
"I daydream just like everybody else, I just do it with my body facing the field, so everybody thinks I'm paying attention."- Greg Maddux
by Doggie Stalker on Mar 24, 2009 7:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
any intel
of who or with whom the trade might involve??
I didn't get the players I wanted in the offseason!! Hopefully I get what I want in the Regular Season---The World Series Trophy!! Go Cubbies!!
by cubsluver22 on Mar 24, 2009 7:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Jake Peavy
but only if can play 3rd on days he does not start.
"I daydream just like everybody else, I just do it with my body facing the field, so everybody thinks I'm paying attention."- Greg Maddux
by Doggie Stalker on Mar 24, 2009 7:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We need that.
And no, I have no inside info right now, only that they’re looking around.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 7:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is the trade for a backup IF that we seen to need?
Any thoughts that there may be something bigger in mind (and I’m not thinking of Peavy)?
by jerry morales rules on Mar 24, 2009 7:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really don't know.
I have to believe they’re looking at infielders, because the backups we have just don’t look very good. (I’d like to see Andres Blanco get some more playing time, though.)
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 8:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al,
Are you planning to catch Harden’s minor leaguegame tomorrow? Also, is Lou gonna have Geo catch that game?
"I always tell the truth -- Even when I lie"
by calicubfan on Mar 24, 2009 7:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't know about Geo.
But yes, I’m planning to go to Fitch Park to see Harden tomorrow. Will take photos and report late afternoon.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 8:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What time does the minor league game start?
by AzCubfan24 on Mar 24, 2009 9:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know yet.
Trying to get that confirmed.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 10:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh my God.
I swear that has to be the first real compliment you’ve ever paid to Hoffpauir!!!
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Mar 24, 2009 8:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
No, I complimented him yesterday, too.
The guy can hit. I’m still not sure he’s suited for the role they want him to play, and that’s what worries me.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ah my bad.
I thought up until today you were still worried about him facing major league pitching.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Mar 24, 2009 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure I'd call today's Rockies pitchers "major league pitching".
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 8:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly the reason I was surprised to read that you wrote that.
I thought you’d say something more along the lines of, “he had a good day, but he can’t do it against major league pitching.” Which may be the case, but I’ve argued from the beginning he deserves the opportunity to fail.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Mar 24, 2009 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But...
… what opportunity do you want to give him? In the spring, he starts, so gets regular AB, and hits well. In the regular season, he’s going to pinch-hit maybe 3-4 times a week and start once every 10-15 games. That’s a far different role, and we just don’t know if he can do that or not.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We don't know is correct.
How will we ever know unless we give him the chance? I would like him to be the LH power bat off the bench.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
by cubswynn on Mar 24, 2009 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Obviously, that's the role he's getting.
My worry is that he’s not suited to that role.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 10:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Disagree about an impending trade...
While there might be a trade before the end of spring training, I doubt that the outrighting of Robinette is any precursor of an immediate deal. Teams aren’t likely to trade key backups with two weeks remaining in spring training… too much opportunity for injury. I think it is more of a case where it was time for RR to go down, and it wasn’t real likely that anybody was going to claim him.
In the middle of a good time, Truth gave me her icy kiss. Look around, you must be joking. All that way, all that way for this? -Oysterband
by Ross on Mar 24, 2009 8:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
But why not option him, then?
Why would he need to be off the 40-man unless you were clearing space?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 9:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe he's out of options.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Mar 24, 2009 11:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That'd be a good reason.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 25, 2009 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well
one reason would be that, if they decide to stash snyder at aaa, then there isn’t really room for robnett, and snyder and robnett are somewhat similar.
that said, clearinig 2 spaces on the 40 man does feel like some talks are happening … maybe it ends up being flexibility, though.
by toonsterwu on Mar 25, 2009 12:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why does everybody seem to hate Gaudin?
He had good numbers in Oakland, which you can view here, and he’s still young. I’d be fine to trade him for Peavy, but for a backup infielder, no way.
"Check the magic of a winning season and there are always reasons beyond the talent." Ned Colleti
by wrigleyrocker12 on Mar 24, 2009 9:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes, he was good in Oakland.
But he has sucked since he came to the Cubs, particularly after the dumpster dive.
The Cubs have pretty good starting pitcher/middle reliever depth. I’d trade him for Maicer Izturis right now.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see why
you would give up a big piece of a bullpen for a backup. Why not count on German or even pick up a guy like Ray Durham?
"Check the magic of a winning season and there are always reasons beyond the talent." Ned Colleti
by wrigleyrocker12 on Mar 24, 2009 9:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Durham would be a really bad idea.
Esteban German… I’m not sure why the Cubs even signed him.
Maicer Izturis is better than either one of them, and with Heilman here, Gaudin is superfluous.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 10:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Given the spring Gaudin has had....
….you think LAA are gonna want anything to do with him?
"I always tell the truth -- Even when I lie"
by calicubfan on Mar 24, 2009 10:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point.
Sometimes, though, scouts see stuff that we don’t.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL. I would HOPE so Al!
Otherwise, I’m retiring from my current job and becoming a scout. Seems like a good job from where I sit…
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE! (Now #12,966 on the Cubs season ticket waiting list- UP from 13,031...WHOO HOO!)
by Zeke on Mar 25, 2009 8:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Doesn't pay much, though.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 25, 2009 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have simple needs...;)
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE! (Now #12,966 on the Cubs season ticket waiting list- UP from 13,031...WHOO HOO!)
by Zeke on Mar 25, 2009 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And, FWIW, Gaudin is already familar with the AL West...
…and has had some success there.
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Infante
Too bad Atlanta won’t take Jose Ascanio back to for Omar Infante.
by tom veryzer on Mar 25, 2009 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Angels would never do it.....
….. and moreover, I don’t think Izturis is available. Scioscia realy, really likes him, If anything, Figgins is available, or Aybar. I can’t see where the Angels would have any interest in Gaudin.
Figgins or Aybar would be available becaue they really want to find a place for Brandon Wood, who looks like he’s finally ready to blossom. izturis is their insurance if it doesn’t work out. And they’d like to include Gary Matthews, Jr. in any deal too. Chad Gaudin would have to be accompanied by a lot more, even without Mathews in a deal.
"When they signed Fukudome, I knew they were trying to get me fired". - Ron Santo, January, 2008
by BeerCub on Mar 24, 2009 10:45 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Don't the Angels have some starting pitching issues?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 25, 2009 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ervin Santana's elbow may blow out at any point
He has a sprained MCL and will start the year on the DL.
I’d say they could use some depth in the rotation.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Mar 25, 2009 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which is why I proposed the Gaudin for Izturis deal.
Now, if Scioscia really likes Izturis, I’d take Figgins or Aybar.
Matthews, though — the Cubs don’t need him and he’s making a ridiculous amount of money.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 25, 2009 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like the Gaudin for Izturis deal.
I agree with you on Matthews – unless coming to Chicago turns him into Sarge, Jr., there’s no need to take on his bloated salary.
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 Mar 25, 2009 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's not entirely true.
I looked at Gaudin’s numbers during the game yesterday and, yes, he was having a good year with the As last season at the time of the trade:
62.7 IP, 71:27 K:BB, 1.277 WHIP, 113 ERA+
But, in 2007, he pitched 199.3 innings and put up far less impressive numbers:
154:100 K:BB, 1.53 WHIP (!!!), 4.42 ERA, 95 ERA+
And, in 2006, he pitched 64 innings with a shiny ERA 3.09 but a dangerous 1.453 WHIP and a really bad K:BB ratio of 36:42. I guess that’s why looking at a reliever’s ERA can be so misleading.
I think Gaudin is simply too inconsistent to be valued that highly. Perhaps the reason Billy Beane was so amicable about tossing him into the Harden trade was that he knew Gaudin’s value was inflated but unlikely to stay that high. If I was Hendry and could get Izturis for him, I’d charter Chad a flight to Los Angeles of Anaheim myself. (And a separate one for his goatee.)
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Park factors are also interesting
In 2006, McAfee Coliseum’s park factor was 98, favoring pitchers. It’s multi-year park factor was 97 – so Gaudin was tossing in a pitcher’s park. While he threw 28 of his 55 games there, it does help his numbers.
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 Mar 25, 2009 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What time do the minor league games at Fitch usually start?
by AzCubfan24 on Mar 24, 2009 9:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Sometimes at 1:00.
But they also have morning games at times. I’m not yet sure when Harden will be pitching.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 10:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Im not sure how easy that info is to come across but Id greatly appreciate you passing on any info you might obtain. Thanks.
by AzCubfan24 on Mar 24, 2009 10:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If I find out, I'll post in the morning.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 10:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rumor is
Another site speculates that former Cubs first round draft pick Ryan Harvey has been released. I guess we’ll never see him set a strikeout record in a Cubs uniform now…
by eamus-catuli on Mar 24, 2009 10:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I heard the same rumor.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 24, 2009 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
its a shame that
they never tried azphil’s suggestion of moving harvey to pitching. good arm.
but it’s bout time he got cut. taking up a useful space that could go to a more intriguing talent.
he’s a guy i fully expect baltimore to look into.
by toonsterwu on Mar 25, 2009 1:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Love this game, good thing is I'm the manager of the varsity baseball team at my school
so I’ve been to a ton of meaningful games and its very interesting to be down in the dugout, it gives you a whole different perspective on how the game is played and team chemistry
#34: You'll be missed!
by Chanman25 on Mar 24, 2009 10:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wow
I thought you were kidding when you said Mark Bellhorn…but apparently he’s actually still alive…
by jwate871 on Mar 24, 2009 11:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Forget the money.......
Please keep Taguchi over Fuk……….. he’d be FAR more valuable to the team……. Iowa would be gentle on Fuk to restore whatever he requires……… It was telling to left out of the most important game in the Classic…
by James031 on Mar 25, 2009 12:44 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Are you high?
Taguchi more valuable than Fukudome? I’m trying not to spit up my Hawaiian Punch Fruit Juicy Red… Fukudome not playing against Korea is telling – it’s telling you that Korea started a left handed pitcher. That’s it, nothing else.
Jimmyeatworld
by Jimmyeatworld on Mar 25, 2009 2:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also
Taguchi didn’t even make the Japan roster period.
My friend had his heart transplant on 3/21. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Mar 25, 2009 5:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hoffpauir
Hoffpauir can hit the lesser pitchers in Mesa.
Do you guys realize how old he is for a rookie? meaning all these years all these teams have passed on a chance to acquire him?
He is 15 months older than Zambrano.
I saw another site post Z’s numbers last year at the plate. They are better than Hoffpauirs.
My friend had his heart transplant on 3/21. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Mar 25, 2009 5:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
WAIT, WAIT...don't tell me!
He’s 29 years old! Am I right? Am I right? C’mon, c’mon…am I right?
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Massive fail for not using ALL CAPS in your answer
You should know by now that it helps to be more emphatic when discussing Hoffpauir’s age – that way everyone will realize how foolish it is continue posting about him.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Mar 25, 2009 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
BECAUSE HE'S 29!
VINGT-NEUF!
NEUNUNDZWANZIG!
ΕΙΚΟΣΙ ΕΝΝΈΑ!
VENTINOVE!
VINTE E NOVE!
NEGENENTWINTIG!
二十九!
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 25, 2009 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you can see this number, you know the truth about Micah Hoffpauir.
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I see a pizza....
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 25, 2009 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In that case...
…you know the truth about what I’d rather be having for lunch. This leftover mac & cheese ain’t doin’ it.
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why all the gray dots?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Mar 25, 2009 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Try this
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 25, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
or
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 25, 2009 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wait, wait...
Is Hoffapauir really 29?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Mar 25, 2009 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, that's what I heard
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 25, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought I had to ask as I hadn't seen it discussed
anywhere on this site. ha
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Mar 25, 2009 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is a totally awesome movie.
"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."
by Madison Cub Fan on Mar 25, 2009 4:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But
I do know the truth about Hoff.
No fair. :-P
The shortest distance between two points is under construction.
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Mar 25, 2009 4:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
D'oh!
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Please don't compare Zambrano's hitting stats to anyone on the club...
no one hit better than Zambrano (note small sample size).
So why make this silly argument?
"If it's obvious, it's obviously wrong." - a well known stock market guru
by LAcarl519 on Mar 25, 2009 7:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You will eat your words
If you had to choose just one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor.
by Clutche on Mar 26, 2009 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's a quandry for the masses
Okay here’s the situation.
It’s June 1st.
Fukudome isn’t hitting.
Would you
Assuming Reed Johnson is hitting give him more PT basically the full time CF job.
Assuming Hoffpauir is hitting move Soriano to center and play Hoff in left?
My friend had his heart transplant on 3/21. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Mar 25, 2009 5:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
meh, I'd rather make a trade
#34: You'll be missed!
by Chanman25 on Mar 25, 2009 6:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ugh
Assuming Hoffpauir is hitting move Soriano to center and play Hoff in left?
I just threw up. Seriously. Worst. Idea. Ever.
i hope a ball never gets past the IF in that situation.::shudder::
The shortest distance between two points is under construction.
by halfblindcubbiegirl on Mar 25, 2009 7:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bradley would move to CF before Soriano
I think we’ll see a Soriano, Bradley, Hoffpauir OF at one point this year, probably in an extra-inning game when Gathright has the flu and Johnson was used as a PH.
If Fukudome fails (flails?) again, expect Lou to give Gathright a chance to platoon with Johnson.
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
by zambranofan on Mar 25, 2009 8:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lou tried Soriano in center. It didn't work. Remember?
If that happens, and Gathright is still around, look for Slappy Joe to start some games against RHP. Scary concept, but at least he’sa good defender.
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was spoiled growing up listening and watching Tiger games.
While not in the same league with Ernie Harwell, Kell held his own on television doing play by play.
Only saw him play in vintage footage, but his playing stats speak for themselves.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Mar 25, 2009 8:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
How did I screw this up so well?
Multi-Tab curse bites man. Will re-file in the George Kell fanshot.
Sorry all.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Mar 25, 2009 8:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Attendance
Is there a reason single-game records keep being broken? More seats or room?
Also, if the season record is broken, is that a little deceiving because there were more games this season?
by TC Cubby on Mar 25, 2009 8:35 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes to all your questions.
The seating capacity was increased by a few hundred, which is why the single-game record keeps getting broken.
And since there are 19 home games this year as opposed to the usual 15 or 16, that’s why the season record will be broken.
The single game record AVERAGE attendance will not be broken this year.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 25, 2009 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm thinking Wilson Betemit is a target
The White Sox like Brett Lillibridge and feel he can be the super-sub of the infield. Kenny Williams would also like to keep paring payroll. Angel Guzman fits the profile of the type of once highly thought of prospect that Williams likes to acquire.
by BLou on Mar 25, 2009 8:59 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
If Betemit is available
He is someone whom the Cubs should definitely look into acquiring. While I hope Guzman continues to improve and fill a role in the bullpen, if the Cubs could get Betemit for him, I would understand that move.
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 Mar 25, 2009 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Betemit would be useful...
… and I think Guzman (or Gaudin) for him would be a good deal.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 25, 2009 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gaudin and his facial hair
would fit in quite well in the White Sox clubhouse.
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 Mar 25, 2009 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Betemit's career defensive numbers at both 3B and SS look pretty awful.
But, I suppose, beggars can’t be choosers at this point.
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
6 stolen bases against? Ouch.
I didn’t get to see the game, but that’s hopefully a season high against.
Anyone who saw it have a reaction to this?
"In theory there is no difference between theory and practice. In practice there is." - Yogi Berra
by wrigley's ivy on Mar 25, 2009 9:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The first three SB were while Gaudin was pitching.
… that hints that Gaudin doesn’t hold runners.
The other three were while Mark Johnson was catching. I think that explains those.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
by Al on Mar 25, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll bet
Gaudin was working more on his pitches than worrying about the runners.
by tizzle on Mar 25, 2009 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's apparently been "working on his pitches" a lot this spring.
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They're also for making the team.
Not pitching yourself into a week-before-opening-day trade.
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I see your point
I just think I’d rather have Gaudin in the game than someone like Patton in a tight situation. Gaudin has proven to be effective more times than not. So I think getting rid of Gaudin would be a mistake.
by tizzle on Mar 25, 2009 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why is Lou using Gregg like a ROOGY?
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
by Cubbie-Tim on Mar 25, 2009 9:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I was at the game , Milton looked so great. He also signed autographs right before the game – where the team had taken the field and he had to run and grab his mit and sprint to RF.
www.wrigleyexpansion.com
by drodd on Mar 25, 2009 11:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
So it's safe to say he didn't throw an Evian bottle at anyone?
"That little kid at second base - he is after a job, isn't he?" ~ Lou Piniella, 3/9/09
by dat cubfan daver on Mar 25, 2009 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
At least it's safe to say he didn't MISS....
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Mar 25, 2009 12:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm crazy
I’m crazy but I have a feeling this is going to turn out well for all involved. Bradley is going to feel like this is a whole new beginning and exceed our expectations and Chicago will love him.
My friend had his heart transplant on 3/21. Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Mar 25, 2009 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yesterday's game was not a Cactus League record
It’s actually a bit confusing because AZ now has a new spring training park (Camelback Ranch) capable of setting the single game record, which they did last weekend when the Cubs played the White Sox in front of 13,311…This is the current Cactus League single game record.
I talked with Dave Dunne Hohokam Stadium Manager and he indicated that Hohokam probably can’t beat the 13,311 with the current amount of seating but we came very close yesterday in setting a Hohokam Park single game record 13,289.
A side note, I was at the Cubs/Dodgers 13,046 game and saw a lot of vacant seats, big blocks of seats and rows wide open…That is never the case at Hohokam.
Hohokam added some seating prior to the start of this spring to make the capacity 13,100, obviously we have gone over that however. Here are the all-time single game top Cactus League attendance marks, all recorded this spring:
13,311 March 21 Cubs @ White Sox Camelback Ranch-Glendale
13,289 March 24 Rockies @ Cubs Hohokam Stadium
13,162 March 20 Padres @ Cubs Hohokam Stadium
13,046 March 17 Cubs @ Dodgers Camelback Ranch-Glendale
13,010 February 28 White Sox @ Cubs Hohokam Stadium
by cubsAZ.com on Mar 25, 2009 12:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Exhibit A should the Cubs-Mesa/AZ improved-ST-facilities negotiations get less than cordial...
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Mar 25, 2009 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Me thinks....
no-shows because of the heat that day
If you had to choose just one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor.
by Clutche on Mar 26, 2009 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good recap, but
I was at this game and one thing you failed to mention is Soriano’s single should have been a double. He was dogging it from the get go and got thrown out at second by two feet!
It’s a stand up double for anyone else, including Micah!! Glad you’ve noticed Micah’s offensive ability, and he’s played a better than average 1st base and hasn’t hurt us in right either!! I recall a nice diving catch as well.
If you had to choose just one characteristic that would get you through life, choose a sense of humor.
by Clutche on Mar 26, 2009 2:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Bleed Cubbie Blue
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
Cubs By The Numbers
Cubs By The Numbers is a history of the ballclub by uniform number, but the biographies help trace the history of our beloved team in a new way. For everyone who's a Cubs fan, anyone who ever wore the uniform is like family. Cubs By The Numbers reintroduces readers to some of their long-lost ancestors, even ones they think they already know.
Click here to order your copy, available now!
Certain photos copyright © 2009 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
