Chase Field Is Still The Cubs' House Of Pain: Cubs 2, Diamondbacks 7
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 7:47 AM CDT
in Recaps
687 comments
There isn't a whole lot more to say about the Cubs' 7-2 loss to the Diamondbacks than is expressed in the headline to this post. The Cubs are now 14-28 all-time in Bank Holding Company Ballpark, and that doesn't even include the two NLDS losses in 2007.
Having to wake up at 3:30 am for work, I shut the TV off after the fifth inning when it was 5-1; Dan Haren seemed to have the makeshift Cub lineup (Reed Johnson hitting cleanup? Seriously?) baffled. Only Mike Fontenot broke through after that, capping a 12-pitch at-bat with a solo homer. Another solo homer, Alfonso Soriano's third leadoff jack of the season (and 52nd of his career; his next one will tie him with Craig Biggio for second on the all-time leadoff home run list behind Rickey Henderson), provided the only other Cubs run.
Can we now knock off all the Soriano-has-to-be-dropped-from-leadoff talk? He produces in that spot. He hits better in that spot. The Cubs don't have a reasonable alternative. And guess who's leading all MLB leadoff hitters in runs scored? That's right, Soriano, who now has 19 (Brian Roberts -- ever heard of him? I haven't -- is leading AL leadoff hitters with 18 runs.)
It's also difficult to win when three of your best hitters are out with injuries. Milton Bradley will be back in the starting lineup tonight, and hopefully, so will Aramis Ramirez. Fontenot has done as good a job as possible filling in at 3B, but he doesn't really have the arm for the position. Justin Upton beat out an infield hit in the fourth inning -- I think Ramirez would have thrown him out, and the next hitter, Ryan Roberts, flew out. That would have ended the inning -- instead, the D'backs went on to score four runs, after Ted Lilly loaded the bases with a walk and Dan Haren, who threw the first CG against the Cubs since CC Sabathia threw one on the last day of the 2008 regular season, doubled in two runs and then Chris Young doubled in two more. The inning should have ended in a 1-1 tie; instead, the game was essentially over.
Thus, I want to spend the rest of this post discussing something that has begun to bother a number of regular posters here who have contacted me, and it's also bothering me, too. That issue is the large number of FanPosts that involve tired old topics that have been discussed over and over and over, or posts that discuss a mishmash of things in one single post. "Cub fan rant" from yesterday is, unfortunately, an example of both. Touching on the Milton Bradley issue, the bullpen, and the DeRosa and Marquis deals all in one quick paragraph, it was both unnecessary and went over ground that we have covered over and over and over and Peavy.
We have a lot of new members here since the SBN-Yahoo partnership was announced. And I welcome all of you, and I know all the longterm regulars do, too. However, I want to call everyone's attention again to the Community Guidelines, specifically to this portion that has to do with FanPosts:
Some of the qualities that the most popular FanPosts often have in common are:Keep in mind that if your post contains only one point or idea that is not developed, expanded on, or supported with arguments or data, it is really not a FanPost -- it is a comment that should be posted in an existing thread, or posted as a FanShot. (emphasis added, not in original post)
- They expand upon the main idea with supporting examples, or statistical data, or a link to a relevant article, or a "thinking question" for others to consider, etc. -- something beyond just the main idea itself. Don’t just post a large quote from an article and say "What do you think?" Post your own opinion, too.
- They explore a topic, idea, or question that has not been explored recently, or at all, at BCB. Please check both the FanPost and FanShot recent post lists to see if your topic is already being discussed.
Some examples of good recent FanPosts can be found here, here, here, here, and here. All of those posts explore interesting ideas that had not been discussed previously or recently, are written well, and don't simply regurgitate something from another source (that might be better as a FanShot). There are several posts permanently on the right sidebar that give good tips on how to write and format good posts, under "BCB Specials & Site Info"; if you are new here (or even if you aren't, for a review), please read these carefully before you post. It's simple courtesy when you join a new internet community, to find out the customs of that community before you dive in -- I've heard from many people who have told me they lurked here for many months before posting. It's simple courtesy and those who have been here a while will be happy to help you out if you're new.
Finally, a reminder, related to the above: BCB is not a message board. If you just want to post a rant or a one-line comment, post it under an existing post -- don't start a new one. Thanks for understanding.
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Heard it was ugly
All I can say is: Patience
They’re sorting through injuries and inconsistent play. I honestly believe Lou is using this as an extended spring training, just like 2007.
Sweet Lou for Mayor in '11.
by blackhawk24 on Apr 28, 2009 7:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
As long as the result...
… a division title… is the same as 2007, I’m fine with it.
(Needless to say, wins in October would be nice, too.)
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Will 85 wins this year get the Cubs a division title or the Wild Card?
"People shouldn’t bust your chops just because you’re a Sox fan on a Cub board — but I know it happens. FWIW, I think sites like this are more interesting when fans of other teams join in the conversation." by Shanghai Badger on Mar 13, 2009
by DrCrawdad on Apr 28, 2009 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not likely, but paces in April aren't all that meaningful
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If it gets us to the playoffs I don't give a monkey's.
remember
Sammy Jankis
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 28, 2009 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is one game I'm glad I couldn't get on TV
listening to Pat & Ron’s gallows humor was painful enough. Ron: “Oh jeeze, sheesh, gosh darnit.” Pat: “This was one ragged inning.”
by Emelie on Apr 28, 2009 8:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
IS YOUR W FLAG STILL BY THE DOOR ????
Get it ready Cubs do better tonight and on Wednesday,,,,,,
by cubs north on Apr 28, 2009 8:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
it is ... although
It got all tangled up in the wind and it’s going to take some doing to untangle… a worthy task, however, if it serves the cause
by Emelie on Apr 28, 2009 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tangled?
Maybe THAT’S the problem! Untangle it post haste!
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Em forgot to take her W flag down yesterday.
That’s the real reason we lost. We all agreed in the game thread last night. You should change the recap to reflect this!
/s
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Apr 28, 2009 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You outed me!
forfend! and… yeah, I had a bad feeling when I drove up and saw the sorry state of the flag.
by Emelie on Apr 28, 2009 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks, Al
Looking at the standings, its a long time since the Cubs have looked up several positions in the standings to the Pirates. Ugh!
IF the Cards put 9-10 games of distance between us, I will “go out on a limb” and say, Wild Card is going to be a more realistic opportunity in 2009.
But the way the team has been been playing this season even healthy, I have to keep reminding myself, “It’s early…” “Only April…”, “Just the First month…(stomach in knot)”
by The E-Man on Apr 28, 2009 8:02 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
It IS only April.
Here’s a good example. On April 24, 2007, the Cubs were 7-13, in last place, and six games out of first place.
Stop worrying so much. The Brewers, who were 13-7 that day, finished 83-79.
Last year’s Diamondbacks started 21-9. Remember? When they came into Chicago at 23-12, everyone was conceding the NL West to them. The Cubs swept them and they finished 82-80 and missed the playoffs entirely.
Long way to go.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know, I know
patience has been my forte, but there is a part of me saying maybe this team is just not as good as many cubs fans thought over the off season. After winning two division titles in a row maybe we all thought this was going to be easy, and maybe the players did too. I know the injuries have played a big part the past week but our relief pitching doesn’t seem in tune with a 162 game season and our bench is lacking, plain and simple. Our starting pitching can do better.
While I know there is a lot of season to be played and we will be getting healthy soon, maybe this team just isn’t as good as we thought. Not ready to say wild card yet but I do know the Cardinals looked positioned to be in this for the long run.
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
by mrcubsfan on Apr 28, 2009 8:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cardinals ...
…. still have rotation and bullpen issues, and they can’t possibly hit this well all year.
Meanwhile, the Cubs have been playing with a 21-man roster the last two days. Will it be easy? No, but it’s not supposed to be easy.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's never easy Al,
because we’re Cubs Fans!
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
by mrcubsfan on Apr 28, 2009 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, that goes without saying.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why can't a lineup that includes Pujols, Ankiel, Ludwig, et al continue to hit very well???
For those not bright enough to grasp the fundamental underpinning of a message board, please take note that "EVERYTHING I state is an OPINION."
by BLou on Apr 28, 2009 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They very well could. Teams have done more with less than those three, but
those three have to produce because the rest of that roster doesn’t have a lot of pop. If you don’t let those three beat you, they can be stopped.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 28, 2009 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cards team OPS .854
basically tied with Boston for best in all of baseball. Barden, Duncan, Thurston, Molina all doing well. Rasmus isn’t exactly terrible either. Greene and Schumaker aren’t slap hitters.
by ol Pete on Apr 28, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well it is a matter of degree
I don’t think anyone expects they will continue to hit .300 as a team. They should continue to be a decent hittng team though.
by rlpete on Apr 28, 2009 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Then why should we
bother playing the rest of the season? Crown them now.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Apr 28, 2009 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i disagree about the rotation issues...
They seem pretty solid to me, going forward at least.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Apr 28, 2009 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why do you think the Cards offense will fall off?
Aside from Barden (who is a platoon player and will be replaced by the All-Star Glaus once Glaus is healthy), only Molina is hitting out of his mind so far. And Ankiel has slumped out of the gates. The team may drop off a tiny bit, but that offense should be at or near the top all year. Pujols, Glaus, Ludwick, and Duncan (versus RHP) are mashers, Ankiel is pretty solid, and Schumaker is a very good OBP guy.
by SouthernCub on Apr 28, 2009 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, those are all good hitters.
But they cannot sustain their present level. No team can.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As I asked before, who is playing over their heads?
For them to fall off dramatically, somebody has to fade big-time, right? Pujols is Pujols, Ludwick is really good, Duncan is a great platoon hitter and is matching his 2006 numbers. They’ll replace the 1.000 OPS at 3B with a .900 OPS guy in Glaus, and they’ll get more out of Ankiel and less out of Molina. The rest seem on their usual paces.
The team is on pace for 900+ runs. I suspect they’ll end up with ~900 runs, which would be tops in the NL. That offense is really really good. They upgraded at several spots this offseason (Duncan over Miles/Kennedy and Greene over Izturis). They’ll keep scoring, I think.
by SouthernCub on Apr 28, 2009 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I still think the biggest question is whether
Carpenter’s injury is short term. If brief, he can still be a big factor.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's an entirely separate issue...
Al said their offense will fall off. I simply asked for a better rationale as to why, other than “no team can score 6 runs per game.”
Carpenter’s injury is going to be problematic for them the longer it lingers. If he’s back soon and stays healthy, they are real trouble. They’d then have arguably the two best starters, a strong #3, and an adequate #4 and #5. And they’d have a mashing offense. If Carpenter doesn’t get/stay healthy, they’ll have to do it with a bit of smoke and mirrors from the #5 pitching slot.
by SouthernCub on Apr 28, 2009 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll admit this is entirely conjecture
but if I was a Cardinals fan (shudder) I’d count Carpenter out. He looks to be made from the same mold as The Employee and I doubt he ever pitches a fulltime starting rotation schedule again.
remember
Sammy Jankis
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 28, 2009 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He may be done, but Carp came back from major arm
surgery to win a Cy Young for the Cards while under a cheap contract. All without whining.
I see no comparison to Mr. “Perfect Mechanics”
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think you're right on both counts...
I think this team is not as good as many thought, but I don’t think that will necessarily preclude us from winning the division, either. We’re still a very talented team – just not a team that is as able to withstand injuries as we were last year.
Hopefully the lineup will get healthy and start producing soon.
by SouthernCub on Apr 28, 2009 8:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are alot worse things
than being 9 and 9, and a fairly tough schedule to date. As a wise cub fan once said “Some see the glass as half full, some as half empty. Some Cubs fans see it as half full of Kerosene and on fire”
"I won't be like A-Rod" - Z, 3/17/09
by Ihatethecards on Apr 28, 2009 8:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I've heard a version of that glass half full, half empty where for Cub fans
it’s “when will it tip over?” Right now I’d like to see the on fire(in a good way of course).
by katie casey on Apr 28, 2009 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Last night was the perfect storm. Very weak lineup, a ballpark
that we have had little success in and a pitcher that gives us fits. Does Haren have one of the funkiest motions you have ever seen? I get sick just watching the guy pitch.
On a positive note – Dome. This guy is really playing well. He looks so confident now. He has that air about himself that he knows exactly what he’s doing and he’s going to do it. He’s a really good defender and I really hate to see him leave RF when Milton comes back.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 28, 2009 8:25 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Wasn't that a nice catch
and throw out at the plate last night. Simple execution, something some teams cannot do. I hope Fuk keeps this up because when he plays like this he is a very nice player.
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
by mrcubsfan on Apr 28, 2009 8:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep. He's as a really smooth player. Very little wasted motion and everything moving in the
right direction. He makes it look so effortless. He’s not out there diving and stumbling around. If you want to be an outfielder, just watch him play.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 28, 2009 8:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1
If we just play some better fundamental ball (I know I’m harping on this in all my posts), we could turn this into a positive week.
We already faced Haren, so that’s out of the way. We come home to play Florida (who’ve dropped 7 in a row) for 4 games, and won’t have to face Josh Johnson. That’s a plus.
Then, we get 2 games vs the Giants, vs their #5 (Sanchez), and unfortunately Lincecum.
On a side note… we play the Giants for 6 games. 2 at home and 4 on the road. Why on earth do they schedule it like that? Same thing with Florida: 4 at home, 2 on the road. It’s just stupid. Split it up evenly.
"You win because of the quarterback. We have to get that position stabilized. We're fixated on that." -- Jerry Angelo (12.30.2008)
Jerry Angelo trades for Jay Cutler! (4.2.2009)
.
by SackMan on Apr 28, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Colorado, too
Two at home, four in Denver.
I try not to make sense out of the schedule anymore. The old couple in Pennsylvania (or wherever) who used to do it was better at it than the computer. Putting St. Louis and Arizona on the same road trip is silly. I think STL and San Francisco form a road trip later in the season.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Apr 28, 2009 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Someone at MLB
should brush up on their travelling salesman problem skills
Oriole by nurture. Cub by marriage.
by wax eagle on Apr 28, 2009 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
3 game series in Miami...
Fri-Sun
Visit bloggingthebracket.com, SBNation's, bracketology site!
by Chris Dobbertean on Apr 28, 2009 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, gettting back to last night's baseball contest...
…it wasn’t so much a game as a pitching and base-stealing clinic put on by the illustrious, industrious Arizona Diamondbacks. There’s really no shame in getting beat by Dan Haren – he’s one of the best No. 2s in the league. I just wish the Cubs hadn’t given up seven runs to those light-hitting speedsters.
I thought David Patton had a bounceback appearance of sorts. The wild pitch was obviously a killer (not to mention Fontenot’s error), but he got some ground balls and a couple of Ks. I think Patton could still turn out to be a decent middle-innings-eater for the team. We’ll see. The Shark did OK in the ninth, too.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs were close
To turning this into a real pitcher’s duel. Get Haren out in the fourth and who knows what would have happened.
That said, Lilly wasn’t particularly sharp. He’s had two good starts and two bad ones. But he’s 1-1 for both halves. Baseball is funny sometimes.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Apr 28, 2009 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, Lilly - as always - deserves points for gutting it out.
His control was off all game. Unfortunately, once again, Chris Young made him pay.
Ah, well. This is a six-game road trip. They still have a shot at breaking even.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
THE B TEAM.....
Should watch and learn from Dome…That was a perfect throw to the plate ….
by cubs north on Apr 28, 2009 8:39 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Cubs are a team with multiple issues
We can keep hoping that when the calendar flips to May it will be the dawn of better baseball. But I think any good Cub fan can objectively see that the 2009 version of this ballclub is flawed to the point where you have to begin questioning things.
I’ve said this multiple times, but bottom line the 2008 Cubs were blessed with an inordinate number of players producing excellent seasons and remarkable overall team health.
A starting infield that included Mike Fontenot, Aaron Miles and Micah Hoffpauir on a ballclub that supports a $140 million payroll about says it all.
Meanwhile, the Cardinals seem intent to perhaps run away with the NL Central. They are a fine ballclub despite the protests of Cub fans who insist we are a much better team on paper and it is only a matter of time before the Cardinal pitching implodes.
For those not bright enough to grasp the fundamental underpinning of a message board, please take note that "EVERYTHING I state is an OPINION."
by BLou on Apr 28, 2009 8:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
There's no question that the Cardinals are playing well now.
I question their ability to sustain this pace, that’s all. Remember, as I wrote above, everyone was saying much the same things about Arizona at this time last year. How’d that work out?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well...
Your post is classic denial statement. Instead of objectively looking at the Cubs too many of us have been distracted into trying to find fault with the Cardinals. It’s a slippery slope my friend. And a trap that too many of us fell into hook line and sinker in 2004. Instead of trying to find fault with the Cardinals I’m much more inclined to be deeply and increasingly concerned with what is wrong with this Cub team.
For those not bright enough to grasp the fundamental underpinning of a message board, please take note that "EVERYTHING I state is an OPINION."
by BLou on Apr 28, 2009 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not denial.
It’s reality. The Cardinals are a good team. So are the Cubs. Neither is playing to its true level.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But ARE the Cubs a good team???
Sure, there are core strengths on this ballclub. But there are also profound issues.
1. The bullpen sucks. There, I said it. Hoping for material improvement out of Patton and Cotts is silly. Gregg is what he is. Heilman can’t pitch any better than he already is, and his history shows that he melts as the season progresses. Marmol is carrying the burden for an entire bullpen, which at some point shall where on his effectiveness.
2. Sean Marshall isn’t a starting pitcher.
3. Geovany Soto is completely lost. I’m not going to be silly enough to say it is Rick Wilkins redux, but clearly he is in line for a dramatically reduced production level from 2008. So what is his real ability as a hitter? Have pitchers adjusted?
4. Derrek Lee plays like he is 43 instead of 33 and has become a critical problem in a lineup card that insists he bat 3rd.
5. Milton Bradley is off to the worst conceivable start imaginable, and unless he REALLY gets going and carries this team the Wrigley boobirds are going to be withering in the dispense of their venom. How will Bradley handled that given his, ahem, history?
6. SO MANY career years in 2008.
7. SO FEW injuries in 2008.
8. A wretched bench situation.
9. No Mark DeRosa.
10. No Kerry Wood as closer.
11. A Lou Piniella in the dugout who looks as though he increasingly wants to be sitting poolside in Tampa Bay and taking the Steinbrenners up on their offer to serve as Special Advisor to the Yankees.
12. A farm system largely barren of immediate solutions to what plagues the big league club.
13. A NL Central that is A LOT better.
14. A Mike Fontenot who has no busines being an everyday player.
For those not bright enough to grasp the fundamental underpinning of a message board, please take note that "EVERYTHING I state is an OPINION."
by BLou on Apr 28, 2009 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They are a good team...
they just aren’t as good as last year’s team, which was REALLY good.
Some of your points are not permanent things (like #3 and #5), and several are VERY debatable (#s 2, 6, 13, and 14).
The 2009 Cubs aren’t as good as the 2008 team was. But they are better than you are giving them credit for being, and the NL as a whole (with the exception of St Louis) isn’t as dramatically improved as you are suggesting.
by SouthernCub on Apr 28, 2009 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fine
I wish I had transcripts of this board from 2004 at about this time. There is an awful lot of rationalization that we as Cub fans are engaging in right now. Too much. And if you dont’ think Pittsburgh and Cincinnati are better, then you aren’t paying attention. Will they compete with St. Louis for division supremacy? No, but they are teams on the definite rise.
For those not bright enough to grasp the fundamental underpinning of a message board, please take note that "EVERYTHING I state is an OPINION."
by BLou on Apr 28, 2009 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pittsburgh and Cincinnati are better - no question...
but they’re nowhere near as good as the Cubs, which was my point. It’s a two-team race in the NL Central, so talking about Pittsburgh and Cincy is pointless.
You are quick to cede supremacy to the Cardinals – I disagree. They’re very good, no doubt. But the Cubs are absolutely better than they’ve shown thus far in a very small sample size.
by SouthernCub on Apr 28, 2009 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe I'm wrong....
…but neither the Pirates or Reds’ lineups scare me.
I think they’ll both fade after the All Star break.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Apr 28, 2009 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow, you're being generous.
I expect them to fade by the time I finish this comment.
How long should we give sig lines at the bottom of the comments?
Bradley watch -- out 7 games of 18
by znohitter on Apr 28, 2009 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Apr 28, 2009 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow.
Reading that, you’d think the Cubs were 0-18 instead of 9-9.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
At least Blue Mike is giving reasons why he thinks there bad
instead of name calling or telling us to pound sand.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He really is trying, isn't he?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
of course
he’s being increadibly hypocritical about it.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
9-9
I don’t think that’s a bad record at all considering the injuries the Cubs have had. I am actually encouraged that the Cubs have been able to split the six games with the Cards so far under the circumstances.
"The big possums walk late." - Harry Caray
by memphiscub on Apr 28, 2009 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What troubles me is the rotation - which has sustained no injuries
I have lost all faith that Zambrano can be the ace of this or any staff. He just does not have the mental make-up to do it. Dempster is likely to be good, but he will almost certainly regress. Harden is being treated like a porcelain figure. And there have been some pretty awful performances so far form each pitcher.
by dr stabbingworth on Apr 28, 2009 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why is the rotation the troubling thing?
I understand what you mean about Z. I just don’t have the same confidence in him anymore. Harden has surprised me, aside from that one start he has been awesome, and hasn’t gotten hurt yet. Ted is Ted and will finish the season with 15-19 wins and 2-3 catchers plowed over.
Dempster is the problem for me, he doesn’t have control like he did last year and we are locked into him for the next 4 years.
Marshall is and will be fine. As the fifth starter a 6-7 IP 2-3 run effort is stellar.
Bullpen/Lack of ability to hit will doom this team.
www.talkingchicagobaseball.blogspot.com
by nji232 on Apr 28, 2009 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It troubles me because they haven't pitched particularly well, or deep into ballgames
Pitching is king (heh) and this team could really use some stronger Haren-esque pitching performances. Especially considering how weak the bullpen is.
by dr stabbingworth on Apr 28, 2009 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
True they do need to get deeper into games
A complete game this week would do wonders for the team, but if we don’t score runs it won’t matter.
As long as this team sits around and waits for Soriano or Aramis to bail them out there will be no success.
www.talkingchicagobaseball.blogspot.com
by nji232 on Apr 28, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The rotation doesn't trouble me
too much. I remember seeing a stat the other day (don’t remember it exactly), but our starting rotation has put together a relatively high percentage of “quality starts”. What this leads me to believe is that our offense is not producing.
What I know is that we have a few guys on our team right now that have a track record of producing that are not producing, Lee, Soto and Bradley to be specific. These guys are likely to get back on track, and when they do, we will start winning a lot of ball games because our rotation is producing those quality starts.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Huh?
Care to give some examples of these awful performances? Because, by and large, I’ve seen a starting staff that’s been pretty consistent (in a good way) throughout the season thus far.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
WHIP for Marshall/Zambrano/Dempster - 1.417/1.5/1.417
Averaging 6 innings per start (Z is slightly higher)
I would agree that they have pitched some good games, but consistency has not been this staff’s theme. And with the majority of the offense out, they really need guys like Z to step up.
by dr stabbingworth on Apr 28, 2009 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely they need to step up.
But it’s early and guys are building up their arm strength. There’s really not much point in looking at WHIP or ERA at this point in the season.
Maybe I just have low standards, but if a starter goes 6 innings and gives up 3 or fewer runs, I thank him and hope the bullpen can hold it together. Sure, some seven or eight inning starts – and, dare I say, a CG here or there – would be nice. But I still think the starting staff has been one of the bright spots thus far.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Harden
went six in St. Louis, and against the Reds at home. He won’t go eight, but he’s doing fine.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's mostly Z and Dempster
Neither have been particularly good this year. And if Lou is going to baby Harden, then other guys have to take up the slack. The bullpen is not particularly good, and they’ll be a lot worse if they get tired.
by dr stabbingworth on Apr 28, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The farm system issue is the most troubling to me
by Mapmaker on Apr 28, 2009 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree.
I admire the Red Sox out of jealousy. They always seem to develop some star talent out of there system and fill in the holes via free agency. Pedroia, Varitek, Ellsbury, Papelbon, Lester, Youklis all came out of their system. Not all were drafted by the Red Sox, but they picked up some talent via trades and gave some quality talent up (Hanley Ramirez, etc.).
I haven’t seen much quality out of the Cub system other than a few players either produce with the Cubs or develop into something elsewhere after a trade. I see this indicating a problem in the organization.
My single largest hope is that new ownership allows the Cubs to add staff to improve the minor league system and scouting operations.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even leaving Prior & Wood out of the equation...
… this year’s Cubs have Zambrano, Guzman, Marshall, Marmol, Theriot, Soto and Hoffpauir on the 25-man roster, all products of the farm system within the last 10 years. That’s a decent enough haul, maybe not as good as the Red Sox, and there’s no doubt the Cub farm system needs help. But it HAS produced in recent years.
FWIW, Jason Varitek is not a product of the Red Sox farm system. He was drafted by the Mariners and included in a major league trade to Boston in 1997 (for Heathcliff Slocumb; how’s that for a lopsided deal?).
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Derek Lowe and Varitek
for Heathcliff. Maybe Dan Duquette’s best move as Red Sox GM.
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 Apr 28, 2009 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Probably the worst trade in Mariners history.
Imagine how good that 2001 team would have been with Lowe and Varitek.
That happened while Lou was managing there, too. Wonder if he had any input on that deal.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They were in his doghouse, most likely....lol
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Apr 28, 2009 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Varitek was a switch-hitting catcher
right up Lou’s alley (though Dan Wilson was firmly entrenched as Lou’s catcher).
I wonder if Lowe struggled as a youngster with Lou’s intensity.
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 Apr 28, 2009 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very possible.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lou
He sure as hell did…. that’s what happens when Lou doesn’t get a bullpen. He goes indiscriminately crazy and demands that every prospect get traded to get him the bullpen help he needs. That year, he also had his GM Woody Woodward trade Jose Cruz, Jr. to the Toronto Blue Jays for RHP Mike Timlin and LHP Paul Spoljaric.
Now, Timlin had the World Series hero pedigree and was rather effective for the Mariners while he was there, although not lights-out. Spoljaric, however, sucked absolute rocks. Cruz was supposed to be the savior of the franchise from the weather-vane like rotation of left-fielders since Junior Griffey had started his brilliant run in centerfield. He was a top 5 draft pick for the team and had already hit 12 home runs for them with an .856 OPS in 49 games that season. He would go on to hit 14 more home runs with Toronto the rest of the season. He went on to have a mediocre career, but not one that is without its highlights. The Mariners, however, have still never had a consistent leftfielder… and no Raul Ibanez doesn’t count… he should never have been a leftfielder in SafeCo Field.
Lowe had a couple bright spots that season, but was an unproven rookie. Varitek had struggled to cement his place as Wilson’s eventual replacement. That wasn’t seen as the ridiculous trade it was until year’s later, mostly because Slocumb did save a lot of games for the Mariners the rest of the 97 season, leading them to the AL West title and a first-round exit at the hands of the Baltimore Orioles. Slocumb, Spoljaric and, to a lesser extent, Timlin would all under-perform for the rest of their Mariners careers.
Piniella and a bad bullpen are a volatile combination… potentially franchise crippling. When we see Josh Vitters traded for a less-than-Brad Lidge-type bullpen arm just so Hendry won’t have to hear Mt. Lou erupt in his ear everytime he has to use Neal Cotts, you’ll all find this out.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Apr 28, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lowe
Had a great quote about Lou that he as a hitter he never really trusted pitchers period. I think it is a huge problem.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
well
Lou was able to hit them from the get-go. We talk about how that makes him give up on hitters who struggle (Pie), but it also probably informs his opinion on pitchers in general.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes and no
There are lots of hitters such as Varitek that he grew impatient with… but he also showed a lot of patience with Cruz and then used him when he got him. He also showed a lot of patience with AROD, who sucked on his first couple trips to the bigs. He also believed in Edgar Martinez, when a lot of people in the organization had given up hope of him staying healthy… and never really gave him a chance to be the run producer he could be in the first place… making him sit behind Jim Presley for years before finally getting his chance.
His real blind spot is with the potential of his young pitchers. He has absolutely no patience for their short comings and burns out the ones he gets his hands that produce or has them traded. He burned through so many “cant-miss” pitching prospects in the early-mid 90s. The two most glaring errors under his watch were getting nothing from Mike Hampton (traded for Eric Anthony) and Derek Lowe… all because they had a couple of bad outings when they were rookies.
It’s his most glaring weakness as a manager and a personnel man. On pretty much every other issue, I’d go to war with him on my side.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Apr 28, 2009 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dont forget...
Hanley Ramirez was a BoSox.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Apr 28, 2009 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Doh
totally forgot Tek was a Mariner, but was only looking at last 5 years in my what have you done for me lately.
Cubs produce Marmol (very good), Guzman (tbd), Marshall (just getting a chance), Theriot (very good leaving 2b vs SS out of it), Soto (very good) & Hoffpauir (TBD).
Of the 5 Cub outfielders, 1st Base, 3rd Base & #2, #3, #4 starters or Closer, not one came from the system or was with the organization below the majors, other than rehab.
Even more surprising, I can’t think of a single star player to come up recently with another team who was included in an acquisition of talent after the Pierre deal. Given the nature of the interwebz, this is the opportunity for 100 responses showing me the one I forgot.
My examples may not be perfect, but there is not much talent to get excited about within the system and unless a team has a Yankee budget, teams win with low cost emerging superstars.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Um.
1. Not really. The closer role is still poorly defined, but there are quality arms in the pen.
2. So? We have several other guys to plug in as needed.
3. What? No he isn’t. He just hasn’t started hitting quite yet. His defense is still first-rate.
4. Ummm… no.
5. Worse than starting, say, Joey Gathright? I don’t think so.
6. Irrelevant.
7. Also irrelevant.
8. Minor injuries happen. Give it a week,
9. Trades happen.
10. Ditto.
11. So you want to replace the guy who is 2-0 in winning the division with an unknown quantity? Really?
12. FAIL. Not even close. We may not have a replacement MLB team stashed at Iowa, but there are guys who can come up and play in the bigs and be competitive while doing it.
13. Beyond our control and therefore not worth worrying about.
14. See number 8.
How long should we give sig lines at the bottom of the comments?
Bradley watch -- out 7 games of 18
by znohitter on Apr 28, 2009 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
GOTTA AGREE........
On every one of your 14 points….But to me Lou looks lost in the dugout …….Like Why am I even here ???
by cubs north on Apr 28, 2009 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, if I were playing without my 3-4-5 hitters
and losing 7-1, I’d have the same look.
The fact of the matter is, without Lee, Bradley and Ramirez, the Cubs are built for small ball. But if they can’t get on base, then their offense is beyond mediocre.
Give Haren credit – he settled down after Soriano’s homer – and hope for a return to health for the middle of the order. Any team that loses their 3-4-5 hitters is going to struggle, and the fact that the Cubs are 9-9 despite their injuries bodes well for the future.
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 Apr 28, 2009 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haren has had an outstanding start this year.
His ERA was 1.38 coming into last night’s game. Give the guy credit, all right.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly.
He did exactly what he should do, especially against a lineup without its 3-4-5 hitters.
Looking at the Cubs lineup last night, you had a feeling it was going to be a low-scoring game, and if the Cubs could scrape across a few runs they had a shot. Unfortunately they didn’t, and Lilly looked shaky.
Hopefully, Ramirez and Bradley return tonight, lend some balance to the offense, and the Cubs score some runs.
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 Apr 28, 2009 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They should.
Petit is no Haren.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ted did not look good last night....
….all his pitches up. Curveball not as sharp as normal. When that catcher for the DBacks hit that homer, I figured we need to score some runs or this one’s a goner.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Apr 28, 2009 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
His stuff was up
Rob Drake didn’t help him any, either, according to Gameday.
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 Apr 28, 2009 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The strikezone
was all over the place again if Gameday is accurate. Patton got screwed on a few calls and Harren was getting some gifts, especially on pitches that looked up and away to right handers.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gameday at the Major League-level is accurate
they use the same pitch f/x technology is every park.
Now, at the minor league-level, the stats inputters mark the pitches, which can lead to some interesting strike zones.
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 Apr 28, 2009 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
big surprise
Drake is a real corn-dog.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Drake's the one who tossed Sinatro & Piniella last season
during the Marlins 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 Apr 28, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hate that guy
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's the multi-chinned dude, right?
remember
Sammy Jankis
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 28, 2009 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
um...
he’s the guy who tossed Lou at the White Sox game down at not-Comisky for no reason.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
true but what difference does it make
if the 3 and 4 are not hitting in the line up?
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even when Bradley wasn't hitting
he was still working counts and getting on base via walks, so that helps. Just think back to the Houston series – you could see his impact, despite a lack of hitting.
And just the way pitchers have to pitch to Lee and Bradley makes a big difference. Pitchers aren’t afraid of Reed Johnson hitting cleanup.
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 Apr 28, 2009 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
agreed
but when your #3 and #4 hitter both have an OBP below 300, it is hard to make an argument about missing them when they are not in the line up, right?
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I miss them, but I understand your point
The nice thing is, Fukudome has been a revelation, especially in the No. 3 hole. And I still think Bradley’s intensity when he is on the field helps this team.
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 Apr 28, 2009 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no doubt
it is truly a damned if you do damned if you dont scenario
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
At this point it is.
Though things are bound to improve, hopefully beginning tonight.
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 Apr 28, 2009 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we hope.
there is the chance that the Lee we are seeing at the plate, is the true Lee. It happens with players over time.
Again I am not anti Lee, and I want him to produce when in the line up, just as I want every Cub to produce.
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I really do have hope for Lee
Admittedly, I"ve not seen all the games, but his approach looks better — hitting to the opposite field, driving the ball more. We’ll see.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was Lee's comment on Sunday
that he put a good swing on the ball, drove it to left, and then he gets neck spasms – it’s just been that kind of start to the year for 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 Apr 28, 2009 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just hope there's no causality...
…between DLee hitting deep fly balls and getting neck spasms.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wouldn't bet against it
I hope it’d been aggravated by something else, but when you swing a bat, tendons and muscles in your neck move.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lee said something
about sleeping funny the night before that game that made his neck hurt.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes
I remember. But I had a pinched nerve/muscle in my neck and back last week, and every time I moved my arms, it flared.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
based on my history with the spine
(note, I am not the same athlete he is, nor do I have the access to medical experts he can afford)
I have had a torn lumbar muscle, pinched nerves in the neck and back, two herniated discs in the lower back, and am getting a MRI on my neck which has been diagnosed prior to being “military neck” and have had spasms in the neck due to it. Once you injure any part of the spine it never is the same. It can act up out of no where from something as stupid as a sneeze. It is no laughing matter as well. I felt for Sammy when people ripped him about back spasms, because i have had them.
That (the neck) is my #1 concern with Dlee, and I fear it is causing him to not hit like he is expected and should be. This is why I have been pro Hoff, to allow Dlee to stay healthy and be effective when needed, as well as to see what he has before its too late (i.e. trade deadline).
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope not, either.
If there is, then I think a DL stint needs to be seriously considered.
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 Apr 28, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're projecting.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Like a Cylon?
remember
Sammy Jankis
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 28, 2009 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure. Or like R2D2.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thankfully
the Cubs are not at their most desperate hour yet.
remember
Sammy Jankis
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 28, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Help me
Obi-Lou ku Dome! You’re our only hope!
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wrong
Obi-Fu-Ku-Dome is
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
1) No, it doesn’t. Heilman is pitching well. Gregg is doing ok. Marmol should come back soon. Guzman has some real heat. Patton was put into a very difficult situation and really only made one big mistake against the best hitter in baseball.
2) Really? Cause he’s in the rotation.
3) Too early to say.
4) The card insists? Plucky card.
5) Too early to say.
6) Yes, and?
7) Yes, and?
9) Who, currently, is hitting below the Mendoza line.
10) NO KERRY WOOD? YOU FREAKIN’ HYPOCRITE! YOU INSISTED THAT THE CUBS DUMP HIM! You said “No way do I sign Kerry Wood!” Good lord.
11) You lack the knowledge and credibility to make this statement.
12) Josh certainly has plenty of people to talk about regularly.
13) Maybe.
14) Perhaps the only really smart thing you’ve said in this post. We need a backup infielder who can help us with second, short and third.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Last year..
after 20 games the Cards were 13-7 only one game worse than they are now, and they finished 86-76 4th in the Central. The Marlins started this year off 11-1, and I am sure people started thinking they could run away with the East, and now they have lost 7 in a row. My point – It’s EARLY!
by 23Ryno on Apr 28, 2009 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Reply is my friend,
that was a reply for BLou. Trying to get the hang of posting here more often. Sorry.
by 23Ryno on Apr 28, 2009 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
been there done that
you will catch on, just post often and it becomes second nature
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and some day, you, too, may have 20,000 comments!
I aspire to catch Daver some day…
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dare to dream!
I’m only at 10K . .. but I’ll get 11 in the next week or so.
It’s ok to call that pathetic . . . I won’t be offended.
And, welcome.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
im over 5k now
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Go! Go! Go!
Get to 10 by September
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
should not be a problem
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wish you the best of luck man.
Nope, I don’t think it is pathetic at all.
Thanks
by 23Ryno on Apr 28, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Drew & Daver say there's cake, but
I don’t believe them. I believe there is just a webcam feed to the SNL VIP green room and all you see is Elliot Gould naked.
Don’t walk toward the light.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I want to know if EA pops out of the cake
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eric Allen?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Earl Anthony?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eric Anthony?
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Apr 28, 2009 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Emelia Airhardt
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yikes
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have 24,609
Didn’t realize I had that many.
by sue369 on Apr 28, 2009 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sue has the powah!
"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 Apr 28, 2009 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can't wait to see what 25,000 is
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hear it's like seeing God.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
race ya.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Way, way wait...
…you have more than I do, Sue?!
My Queen, I bow before you!
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All Hail!
"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 Apr 28, 2009 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are like the Hank Aaron of BCB
You quietly go about your job day in and day out. Then all of a sudden, BAM!, you are the record holder.
"It's been my policy to view the Internet not as an 'information highway,' but as an electronic asylum filled with babbling loonies." - Mike Royko
by DTJchris on Apr 28, 2009 5:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just wanted to say...
… that the above comment was the 666th in this thread. I felt the thread needed another one, so here it is.
The pregame thread will be up at 6 pm CDT.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 5:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
so does that make a certain other poster who's made no bones about wanting to be the all-time BCB poster...
…the Barry Bonds of BCB?
I think it’s time we check Daver’s computer for post-enhancing software…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
by ballhawk on Apr 28, 2009 6:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You'll have to get past my attorney.
Yo, BLou!
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 11:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
catch me if me can!
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good luck!
I run post like the wind!
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
hah
I passed me easily.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I'll get there.
I both know it.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would agree with you if you were talking about another team.
I cannot stand LaRussa (mainly because he is the Cards coach), but honestly i respect the heck out of him. He gets it done. And he gets the best of his players.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Apr 28, 2009 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They won 86 games last year
and I did not think that was a good team. Tony La and Duncan are not to be taken lightly. They win 4 or 5 more, we lose 4 or 5 more than last year, we have a race. I don’t like them at all but I do respect what they can do with a ball club.
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
by mrcubsfan on Apr 28, 2009 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It blows my mind...
I mean i am giving LaRussa all the credit possible, and yes it does help that he has Pujols in the lineup everyday, but still, some of the supporting cast is like a turnstyle every year and he always makes it works.
Dont even get me started with Duncan, i wish Rothchild was half as good as Duncan.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Apr 28, 2009 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The are a championship organization, plain and simple
by Mapmaker on Apr 28, 2009 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey mapmaker
long time no see. :)
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've been around here and there
Just haven’t posted much. Nice to hear from you.
by Mapmaker on Apr 28, 2009 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just a week ago, people were crowning the Marlins.
They’ve dropped 7 in a row since.
"You win because of the quarterback. We have to get that position stabilized. We're fixated on that." -- Jerry Angelo (12.30.2008)
Jerry Angelo trades for Jay Cutler! (4.2.2009)
.
by SackMan on Apr 28, 2009 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My only hope at this point...
…is believing Jim Hendry is NOT sitting in his office twittling his thumbs. And I think Lou is probably getting frustrated, too. I’ve said it before, but this was the first off-season I was very disappointed in Jimbo’s moves.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Apr 28, 2009 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure Jim and Lou are both trying to think of ways to fix the problems.
Getting four key performers back in the next two days would be a start. You can’t win with a 21-man roster with three key hitters and one key reliever unavailable.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’ve said this multiple times,
Your truest statement.
A starting infield that included Mike Fontenot, Aaron Miles and Micah Hoffpauir on a ballclub that supports a $140 million payroll about says it all.
Injuries happen. Either you get the team through them, or you give up and quit.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
true
but each of those you name aer professional players, and still need to produce. They are not Lee/Aram/Font/Riot, but still have to get on base, work counts, and field their positions to the best they can. No one took a walk yesterday, that is recockulous!
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"No one took a walk yesterday, that is recockulous!"
You cannot take a walk if it’s not given. Haren was dealing yesterday and was pounding the K (though inconsistent) zone. You cannot rely on walks all the time.
by cubsnlinux on Apr 28, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i agree to an extent
when you are swiging at the first and second pitch time and time again, that is helping Haren as much as it is hurting yourself.
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we know
they all press when they get nervous. It’s some kind of team-mind-lock.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I never know
how the players strike the balance between being aggressive and trying to work the count.
It seemed that our hitters took the approach to be aggressive last night and swing at the first strike you see because it may be the best pitch you get to hit. That was probably the best approach given how well Harren was throwing last night.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that happens when the opposing pitcher is on the top of his game
You have to try to get on base some other way.
1. TheRiot should stop hitting the ball in the air and should just concentrate on line drives and his inside out swings.
2. Soto seems to be getting his timing back but should look to hit center, right-center more often and should hold off onto pulling everything until he gets back in the groove.
3. ReJo..well what can I say? He looked completely over matched yesterday. Anyways he was in the lineup because of all these injuries.
4. Fontenot had a couple of nice at-bats but he will do fine as a backup then as an everyday player.
5. Fukudome…Repeating April 2008 and doing a bit more. I really like his approach at the plate. He doesn’t try to swing for the fences every at-bat. His motto looks to be get on base at any cost.
6. Miles..Argghhh.. but again we are seeing more of him only because of injuries.
by cubsnlinux on Apr 28, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
especially with #1. Theriot seems to be showing off his warning track power and trying to pull the ball recently. Maybe that is to try and keep the infield defense honest, but he has so much success poking the ball between 2nd and 1st, why change anything?
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
also happens when in a slump
everyone wants to get the big hit to wake the team up
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So who's the second baseman then?
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought we had Roberts by now
:P
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I my dreams maybe.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 28, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The lack of walks yesterday can also go to Haren
he was on, for the most part.
I think some of the guys – Johnson for one – are pressing a bit, trying to do a little too much with so much of the thump out of the offense.
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 Apr 28, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Really frustrating because he's hitting the ball well....
…it’s just right at somebody every time.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Apr 28, 2009 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He seems to be
swinging at a lot of bad pitches at the same time. In the few games I have actually been able to watch with Johnson playing, he is swinging at a lot of pitches up above the strike zone.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the last two games
I’ve noticed that, too.
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 Apr 28, 2009 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's hard to take walks
when Harren is pumping strikes over the plate at will. Harren pitched a very good game yesterday.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
Two of those three guys are starting because of injuries. I still believe Fontenot can perform reasonably well at an everyday level, though, granted, he has not proven it quite yet.
The home run last night was a positive sign. He worked a deep AB against a pitcher who was flat-out dominating and then drove the ball deep into the stands. It made no difference in the outcome of the game, but it was something.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well the Cardinals pitching has imploded a bit
They aren’t pitching that well, their offense is carrying them. That bullpen is still questionable and the 3-5 starters aren’t good major league pitchers.
www.talkingchicagobaseball.blogspot.com
by nji232 on Apr 28, 2009 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Somes I have a difficult time finding the balance between complaining about worthless posts...
…and coming off like a jerk. It’s hard to interpret someone’s jokes or sly comments on a forum unless you are familiar with them ahead of time (like “pounding sand” or “GameBoard” or “TWSS”). I don’t like to come off like a thread police, but there has been an increase of posts that are either worthless or demeaning in one way or another. I definitely attribute this to the direct pipeline to Yahoo!. I come here for fun, interesting, worthy posts about baseball, but frankly, when it’s just complaining because we lost one single game, it’s just a waste of everyone’s time.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
by dtpollitt on Apr 28, 2009 8:45 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I mostly agree with your thoughts, but
people do have a right to complain about losing single game.
Whether the chance to come back is ruined by a bunt attempt with two outs in the ninth, a missplayed fly to right that leads to multiple runs instead of ending the inning, or the ball getting stuck in the glove by the SS and slowing the double play chance. It’s okay to complain.
It’s okay to commiserate a loss and wonder if improvements need to me made and speculate on what improvement will have the most impact (cough, bullpen, cough).
The line gets crossed when posters declare the season over than resort to insults and profanity when faced with facts like the season ends October and it’s flippin April.
Those of us long time lurkers and frequent posters may need to do a better job welcoming new people, but we are also struggling with the “F this team” emotional posting from the fire and forget Message Boarders (harkens to the pirate graybar). Those used to message board mentality don’t seem to take well to suggestions of civility or procedure. I’m certain these are the exceptions, but they are the obvious, and vocal, newcomers.
Ledge jumpers are welcome to quit the team, but please document your fan retirement elsewhere.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions 7 recs
Well said, especially
The line gets crossed when posters declare the season over than resort to insults and profanity when faced with facts like the season ends October and it’s flippin April.
These same posters then adopt the posture that all they are doing is trying to engage in “debate” in the archaic term i.e., strife; contention.
by Emelie on Apr 28, 2009 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
than = then
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Totally agree.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like the comment
“Please document your fan retirement elsewhere”. Well said.
by rlpete on Apr 28, 2009 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rec'd
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
X2
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
make it green
and it is also wrong, when someone posts something and is attacked by people (new and old) in a hateful manner instead with respect. you disagree with someone, show some respect, just like you would want them to show you
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Your argument is flawed and without merit.
Verily, I declare you are incorrect."
remember
Sammy Jankis
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 28, 2009 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
i declare a thumb war
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You forgot to say
1-2-3-4
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al, to me, this is the gist of it
Those used to message board mentality don’t seem to take well to suggestions of civility or procedure. I’m certain these are the exceptions, but they are the obvious, and vocal, newcomers.
I don’t think that those exceptions stick around long enough to even read the suggestions.
And,
Those of us long time lurkers and frequent posters may need to do a better job welcoming new people
Absolutely. I’m not calling anyone out and wasn’t the last time I commented on that, but way to often, someone thinks a valid way to dismiss someone’s point is to say they only have X comments. How does that encourage anyone new/lurking to jump in?
Finally, some of the civility is gone. There’s a lot more name-calling and personal attacks if a comment strikes someone the wrong way, or sometimes just because of who the poster is.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and the negative attacks on new or old posters
and biuckering back and forth instead of keeping it civil, IMO reflects on the site as a whole, not a particular poster. No one will say “man, x on BCB is a jerk” but rather “stay away from BCB, they are brutal”
I think everyone needs to think twice sometimes, since Al is the big man on campus, we should all ask ourselves when getting into a debate “is this post something that will reflect bad on BCB, and should I reword it to show some respect”
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
WWAD?
What Would Al Do? ;)
You’re right, though — and it’s the same logic as to why I cringe when Cub fans act like jerks, or when I see Americans oversees being jerks, etc. . . it reflects on a larger group.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
+USA USA USA
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And my homonym misuse is getting bad
too/to . . . and that should have said, “overseas”.
Argh.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 28, 2009 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
with the typos I post
I can read them no problem. I look at the typos as reading drunkenese
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought we already called Spellcheck up...
remember
Sammy Jankis
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 28, 2009 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Badger that point was a direct and excellent point..........
I won’t even playfully mock your homonym misuse
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The #1 problem with this site
and the reason I no longer post here and am trying to find an alternative blog is the “regulars” who attack every poster that they don’t agree with or anyone posting something they perceive as negative. I know everyone has their own view of what this site is for but for some people it is a place to express their feelings about what is going on with the team. If we are getting our butts kicked and look like a AA club then why can’t people point that out? I don’t see the need for the endless back and forth between the “positive” posters and the “negative” posters in game threads. When I can have more fun reading the opposing teams site than our own something is wrong. Fans at South Side Sox, Viva El Birdos, etc. can rip on their team when they suck and cheer them on when they are doing well but here you HAVE to be positive. You CAN’T criticize any player during a game thread. If you do the thread will become a bunch of “regulars” whining and complaining about your posts. It’s really sad. Cubs fans are great and we should have the best blog out there but the people that take it upon themselves to police this site and attack others make it a waste of time to visit. We deserve better as fans and Al deserves better for putting so much into making this blog great. Go Cubs.
by LerxstCub on Apr 28, 2009 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 5 recs
but here you HAVE to be positive. You CAN’T criticize any player during a game thread.
That’s not true. There’s a big difference between saying “oh, no, Lee GIDP” and saying "well, there goes DP Lee again, the season is over’.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is exactly what I'm talking about.
So what if someone calls him DP Lee? Who cares? Do you think you’re going to change someone’s opinion about a player by getting into an argument within a game thread with them? Why can’t people ignore posts they don’t like? I’d rather ignore 5-10 posts about the season being over than have to scroll half a page down during a game thread to skip all the bickering back and forth about people being “negative” and not real fans.
by LerxstCub on Apr 28, 2009 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you're missing the point.
it’s not necessarily the “DP Lee” part, although I think calling him that is pretty stupid.
It’s the “the season is over” part. Cubs fans have an ability to magnify a bad game into being a metaphor for an entire season — and then take that metaphor literally.
I don’t want the gamethreads contaminated with people calling the season over in April. I don’t want the gamethreads contaminated with people calling Milton Bradley weak, or Soriano mental, or calling anyone a f@g or a whatever.
Feel free to scroll on by. I choose a different way.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
for me it is the
“you are an idiot” type replies. those never lead to a good conversation or debate.
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I try very hard
to not descend to that level. I don’t always succeed.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
im not point a finger at you
i am just talking in general
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know
but I sometimes deserve that finger pointed at me.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hate these too
and there are a lot of “regular” posters that do that. Or the classic “Watch much baseball?”. Seriously, I don’t see this kind of thing on other sites. I don’t know why we have this problem here.
by LerxstCub on Apr 28, 2009 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It happens on other sites
one thing to keep in mind is that BCB has, by far, the largest number of members on SBN. our numbers for everything are increased.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
so we cant claim small sample?
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
our LOSI about other sites is high
but our LOSI about BCB is low.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Help me out
LOSI?
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sandberg
by gwood on Apr 28, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lack of Statistical Information
I believe.
remember
Sammy Jankis
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 28, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
or how I like to think of it
Lack
Of
Sanity
Irrevelant
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lack
Of
Statistical
Information
We have a high LOSI about Bradley as a Cub.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
what sites?
Im not familar with many others. I would be curious to read what others put and see if that is something that would fit with Al’s policies.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd like to see....
… everyone try to be nice to each other, avoid the personal attacks, keep the profanity level to near zero, and if the Cubs have a crappy game, talk about it without ledge-jumping.
That shouldn’t be that difficult.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Apr 28, 2009 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL - then you haven't spent much time on "other sites."
Believe me, I’ve seen far, far worse than what goes on here.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you see
how policing the game thread makes it less enjoyable to read? I agree you should get called out for attacking individual posters but saying a player sucks, well that is just part of being a fan. Why get worked up if people think Bradley is weak. Who cares what they think? If they aren’t attacking you or someone else on the board why do we need to turn the thread into a “Bradley’s weak” – “No he isn’t” debate?
by LerxstCub on Apr 28, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
so I shouldn't stand up for my team?
it’s ok for other people to say what they want but not ok for me to say what I want?
Um… I have a problem with that, I do.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Apr 28, 2009 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
why is Bradley weak?
If someone states the reasons instead of just saying he was a dumb signing. I am willing to listen to factual reasons on why he sucks. You put that in the comment…….. you will be less likely to have someone complain about you being negative.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1 (hr)
"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 Apr 28, 2009 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Because we're real people.
We have feelings and opinions – you can’t just come here and dump your negativity on us without getting some back.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
because each of deserve to be respected
and there are mature ways to debate differences
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Apr 28, 2009 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely.
But mature debates rarely arise when someone walks into the room whining and yelling like a six-year-old.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yet, my 6 year old would disagree.
In a loud, whiny voice while crying, but disagree anyway.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mine, too!
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
hell
mine’s 11, but he’s right up there.
"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 Apr 28, 2009 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But that plays into it
The best way to deal with trolling is to ignore it. Responding prolongs it. Ignoring it works every time.
by dr stabbingworth on Apr 28, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
except it doesn't.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Apr 28, 2009 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Eh?
Responding provides another opportunity for a reply. If trolls get the idea that nobody is listening, they’ll find somewhere else to troll.
by dr stabbingworth on Apr 28, 2009 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but they don't
a few days ago, there were two guys (actually I think it was one guy and his sock-puppet) came onto the pre-game thread. They started off suggesting that the cubs would lose. One would post, then the other would reply, like clockwork. They even followed us onto the first-pitch thread. It took an email to Al to shut them up.
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Apr 28, 2009 11:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That was the worst
Seems like an epic waste of a person’s time, but whatever.
www.talkingchicagobaseball.blogspot.com
by nji232 on Apr 28, 2009 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Take a look through the game threads
The people who troll constantly get more replies than any other legitimate post. People have to stop feeding it.
And for the dedicated bozos, you ignore them, and send Al an email. Problem solved.
But you can’t say ignoring trolls doesn’t work when so many people here fall into the trap.
by dr stabbingworth on Apr 28, 2009 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How often do people say the season is over?
I assume that’s hyperbole, but then I wonder what people you think “contaminate” threads.
by ol Pete on Apr 28, 2009 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seems like every time the team is behind by 2 or more runs
and a professional baseball player does not get a hit or base on balls,
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh
if only I’d take your bait, you hope…
"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 Apr 28, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if you ask me its trolling
to refer to fellow Cub fans as contaminants along with an exaggeration.
by ol Pete on Apr 28, 2009 2:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
we both know
what trolling 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 Apr 28, 2009 2:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Season over? That's just silly.
The Cubs are suffering thru underwhelming starts by a few players AND injuries to key players. In spite of that the Cubs are 9-9. There are 144 games left.
Season over? Season over my …
"People shouldn’t bust your chops just because you’re a Sox fan on a Cub board — but I know it happens. FWIW, I think sites like this are more interesting when fans of other teams join in the conversation." by Shanghai Badger on Mar 13, 2009
by DrCrawdad on Apr 28, 2009 1:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I saw Alexei got his first grand slam the other night.
Man, he looks good hitting those.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.
by dat cubfan daver on Apr 28, 2009 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alexei hit 4 slams last years and now he’s got 5 in his short career. When Pujols hit the slam I heard the announcers say that it was is 7th (or maybe it became 8) anyway whether Pujols now has 7 or 8 it made me realize what an accomplishment that is for Alexei.
Alexei has started out for slowly for the Sox, in spite of the slam. I’d bet that he’ll start doing better, just as I expect the Cubs to turn it around (not that they’re really all that badly off).
But these last two posts of mine, more examples of how all I do here is blast the Cubs – as I’m often accused…
"People shouldn’t bust your chops just because you’re a Sox fan on a Cub board — but I know it happens. FWIW, I think sites like this are more interesting when fans of other teams join in the conversation." by Shanghai Badger on Mar 13, 2009
by DrCrawdad on Apr 28, 2009 4:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He started slow, but what he displayed
last year definitely earned him a grace period.
He’d look really good on the northside.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Apr 28, 2009 4:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Y'know they say he reminds a lot of people...
…of a young Alfonso Soriano. I was about to say he appears to be a much better infielder but, shockingly, his UZR numbers at 2B don’t look particularly good (-8.3/-10.6 in 1017.1 career innings thus far). He looks like a natural shortstop – I guess we’ll see how he does there.
I've committed to tweeting about the Cubs for the rest of the season. (Does that sound as ridiculous as I think it does?) Anyway, if you're on Twitter, you can follow me here.