Dempster Solid, But Bullpen Fails: Cubs 2, Astros 3
by Al Yellon on Apr 8, 2009 9:13 AM CDT
in Chicago Cubs Recaps
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PrintThat headline really isn't fair, because the hits that allowed the Astros to beat the Cubs last night 3-2 in 10 innings weren't blasts, they were little dinky things that perhaps on another day would have been fielded.
Instead, Ivan Rodriguez's little infield single couldn't be handled by Aramis Ramirez, and an intentional walk, an out, and two other little singles later, the Astros had a win and the Cubs had their first loss of the year.
Cliche: You can't go 162-0. And by and large, the Cubs bullpen did a pretty good job last night. What really hurts was the Cubs' inability to score off Tim Byrdak and Doug Brocail, two of the lesser lights of Houston's bullpen. Just how old is Brocail, anyway? 70? (Only seems that way. He'll be 42 next month -- among his teammates his rookie year was Larry Andersen, who is older than me, for heaven's sake, and who debuted in 1975. But I digress.)
Actually, there are a a lot of good things to take away from last night's game. Ryan Dempster threw six good innings. Angel Guzman looked outstanding. Koyie Hill, who came into the game after Geovany Soto left with a minor shoulder problem, threw out Kaz Matsui trying to steal.
Oh, about Geo, because I know all of us are worried: the problem is minor and he's expected to miss only a couple of days:
Soto said he had the same problem in Spring Training and doesn't expect to miss much time.
"You never know," he said when asked how long he'd be sidelined. "I just have to stay on top of my exercises, and I'll be all right in a couple days. As long as I stay in good shape and do my exercises, it won't happen again all year."
Soto predicted he could play Wednesday if it was a "super emergency." Shortstop Ryan Theriot was behind the plate catching Aaron Heilman when he was warming up in the ninth. When asked who the emergency third catcher is, Lou Piniella said: "Me."
Hopefully, that means he'll be back in the lineup (Geo, that is, not Lou) on Friday in Milwaukee.
Alfonso Soriano homered for the second day in a row, this one off our old buddy LaTroy Hawkins, after being made to look silly by the junkballing Wandy Rodriguez, who struck him out three times. If this is the beginning of one of Soriano's hot streaks, that's a really good sign: he got off to a slow start last year, and also, when Sori is hot, he can carry the entire team.
Meanwhile, Rodriguez struck out four and walked three, but kept the Cubs off-balance enough that the only run they were able to score off him was on a Derrek Lee single. That gave the Cubs a 1-0 lead in the third that was matched by Houston on a Hunter Pence homer off Dempster.
The bottom line is that some days, the other guy is just a little better than you are. If Ted Lilly can lead the club to victory tonight, that'll be a series win -- and as Lou said all last year, win series and you're in great shape.
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Interested to see how Lilly pitches
since he is the odd on favorite to start the home opener…
Go Teddy!
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
"odds-on". Sorry Ted...
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
At least Soriano and Aramis are seeing the ball well.
Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.
I hope Geo is okay...
I know it sounds minor, but shoulder injuries are always tricky.
Someday we'll go all the way...
Not much to say...
can’t do much about a seeing eye grounder. They’ll win more of these games than lose.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
I found the commentary on MLB Network
entertaining. They called Keoppinger’s (sp?) walk of hit the ugliest walk off hit they had seen, his bat flying in multiple different directions as he literally falls out of the batter’s box. It certainly wasn’t a thing of beauty, unfortunately the final doesn’t reflect that.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sanberg
Relieved to see Geo's injury is hopefully minor
He will have two days off to rest the shoulder so that is a positive. But I will interested to see if he is in the lineup on Friday. If so how he plays.
"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."
I know you explained the headline
but a more accurate account would have been “Cub hitters fail to solve junk lefty.” The bullpen was decent, especially given Ramirez’ error. The Cubs need to be able to score more than two runs off pitchers like Rodriguez.
Fontenot (fon-te-no): Cajun for "scrappy"
ditto
Its early (an understatement) and I see a lot of good things in this club. I haven’t liked the “feast or famine” of the first two days. They should have scored more runs off of Oswalt and Rodriguez. Now they face Brian Moehler, who is just the kind of pitcher who gives them fits.
Wandy's the kind of pitcher who gives them fits.
The Cubs were 2-1 against Moehler last year in four starts.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Which is really maddening - because he's not very good.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions
I'd agree
But for some reason, he pitches really well in Minute Maid, especially last year (link).
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
Thanks for the link. I'm impressed (and surprised) by the stats.
He sure was behind a lot of the hitters last night. Eight times out of 10, a mediocre pitcher doesn’t get away with that. Just one of those nights.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions
Wandy is not a bad pitcher
especially when pitching at home. Sub-3 ERA, 1.20 whip, over a strikeout per inning.
"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
Wandy's pitches seem to be about as junky as a knuckleballer
which is what allows him toget these numbers. he is nothing fancy, but he is effective
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
I didn't say bad -- I said mediocre.
His career stats bear that out.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions
No, not really
He is not a mediocre pitcher, he’s an above average pitcher based on his stats last year. And based on his stats at home last year, I would say he is a good pitcher when he pitches at Minute Maid Park
"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
Hmmm. I said "career stats" and you say "no" and use last year as proof
His career WHIP is 1.41. That’s mediocre. Even last year, 1.31 isn’t spectacular.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions
He's shown an upword trend
over the last three years. Based on this, I would say that we should focus on his most recent stats. If they were all over the board or he had been in the league longer, than yes, use career average. But when a pitcher shows improvements over three straight years when being in the league for four, we need to base evaluations on the most recent season.
"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
If he has another year or two like that, I'll buy into it.
I’m not convinced yet. He didn’t look that good yesterday. Lots of long counts, and pretty good luck on the hit and run with Bradley.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions
Hey, I drafted the guy in a bunch of my fantasy leagues alright!
He is a good pitcher! At least, he better be…
"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
And now I understand!
I hate watching pitchers on my Strat-O-Matic team pitch. Every runner is aggrivating.
Except for Ted Lilly. I look forward to him kicking someone’s ass . . .
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, I remembered Len mentioning something about it last night
But you’re right, it was one of those nights.
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
I'm not sure how a fastball curveball pitcher is a junk thrower
Dempster is what most people would refer to as a junk baller.
These things happen.
We’ll get em today.
On the plus side, good to see Fonzie and Rami continue hitting as well as Lee.Still waiting on Gameboard’s first, though…
And what’s this? An XBH by The Riot?! To left field no less?!
make*art
Those are the kind of doubles that Theriot has to shoot for.
Low line drives down the line. He doesn’t have the power to hit doubles in the gaps. But he did hit 30 doubles in 2007, before declining to 19 last year. If he can raise that back to 30 (while keeping his average up), he’ll be a much more useful player.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Yup.
And those opposite field singles become more dangerous if the defense is wary of him pulling it down the line.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions
And doubles like that will keep opposing teams...
…from seriously considering a shift against him. Not that many (or any) are, but if he can pull a ball down the line every now and again, he’s more likely to continue to be able to execute his trademark right field singles.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Brenly brought up that exact point last night
(It’s like he reads on here) about the “reverse shift” and how Brenly felt Theriot might see it more, but with hits like his double, he’ll keep teams from doing so.
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
Theriot has the ability to bunt, so I'm not sure if that would work.
It seems to me that teams use the shift on power hitters that are not inclined to bunt.
A player like Theriot doesn’t have much power so I would think he would be willing to try to bunt his way on base, basically taking what the defense is giving him.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions
I would imagine he would.
Speaking of bunts, both Dempster and Johnson laid down good bunts last night. It was pretty impressive on both their parts.
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
And Johnson was safe on top of that!
I really REALLY wish they’d stop sliding into first, though.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions
I think he was out on the bunt. He was safe later.
And I agree on the sliding. Drives me nuts.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, you're right.
We did get the call on Miles stepping on third which could have gone either way.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions
That's a good point about Miles
You’re still right about Johnson, though — if he goes in standing up, he’s clearly safe. Give the pitcher a gentle shove if you have to.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions
Or not so gentle if you have to.
Plus, Reed runs the oh-so-dangerous risk of the pitcher stepping on his hand.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, a spike coming down could cause a long DL stint.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions
Just ask Jesus.
We’re still waiting on his return.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions
Pedro Cerrano says He can't hit a curveball, anyway.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions
Are you trying to tell me that Jesus Christ can't hit a curveball?
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions
I stick up for you . . . you no help me now
I say f*** you, Jobu. I do it myself.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions
When he returns
he’ll carry this team on his back. Until he gets weary and someone steps in to do it for him.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions
Soriano
If these had been playoff games, Soriano would never have seen belt high fastballs from LaTroy Hawkins and Roy Oswalt. He’d have seen 59-foot breaking balls, and he’d have struck out both times. Doesn’t word get out around the league about his weaknesses? He’s still the same guy.
If Aaron Heilman can continue to induce double-play grounders every time he pitches (he’s two-for-two this season), we’ll be in great shape.
Z.Z. Zoot
Heilman doesn't exactly miss many at bats
I would classify his performance so far as more lucky than good. His pitches are not overwhelming by any stretch. I fear there are going to be days when he is human batting practice.
Agreed
I think some nervousness is warranted when watching him pitch. If the batters he faced last night would have excercised more patience, he could of gotten into real trouble (Like he used to with the Mets). I’m hoping his luck and abilities work out for the best, but I’m not going to get too excited about him in the middle yet.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
I thought he was throwing pretty well..
.. He was touching 97 and has a pretty good change-up.. Hopefully he can do a lot better than last year.
I thought
he did very well.
"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 8, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions
With you on Sori
Why would anyonen EVER throw the guy a fastball? I don’t get it. He’s got no clue against a major league slider.
I have nothing funny or creative to write.
by Canadian Cubs Fan on Apr 8, 2009 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions
Soto shoulder worries me
Shoulder injuries often lead to subtle compensations in hitting approach. And for a catcher especially it can lead to adjustments in how he receives and throws the ball, which then can lead to a domino affect.
I’d rather put him on the DL and get this thing sorted out now if that can be an option.
Maybe it really is minor
and he doesn’t need to go on the DL.
Worry when there’s cause. Right now, there’s no cause.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Apr 8, 2009 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions
The Problem is, the Cubs are NEVER up front about injuries
I will never forget the nonsense about how Prior or Wood would only miss a few days. Three months later they were still doing long toss.
Men write many fine and plausible arguments in support of monarchy, but the fact remains that where every man in a state has a vote, brutal laws are impossible.
That's no longer the case.
The Cubs now have one of the best training staffs in MLB. Mark O’Neal and his staff were voted by their peers as the top traiing staff in 2008.
I think they are now as upfront as they are legally allowed to.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 4:14 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Modern design has made specs cool...
What would even have been more great is if all 3 were in Kurt Rambis Rec Specs.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Shoot. Just when I bit the bullet on LASIK last year.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Valverde's stuff was wicked last night.
His twitchy rituals are, as always, ridiculous. But his stuff was downright nasty.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
I did enjoy Len's play-by-play of the ridiculousness, though.
“Skip, run with hat, slow down, put hat on.”
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions
I didn't get to
see the whole game but I did see that and hear Len describe the ritual. It was enjoyable to listen to.
we missed you
I had to carry all the estrogen last night. It wasn’t pretty.
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
hbcg made it in late..
just before we….
…lost…
hey!!!!
I can sum up this game in one word: Meh.
As Lou is wont to say, you’re not going to win many ballgames scoring only two runs. Credit to Wandy – he weally weally witches well against the Wubs. And nice quality start from Demp, of course.
I agree with Al’s assessment of the bullpen, too. For the most part, it looked good. I missed Guzman’s inning but am glad to hear he pitched well. Heilman is setting a nice precedent as a GIDP Master. I thought Cotts looked great in his first inning but had a bad feeling when he came out for the second. Pudge’s shot to third was hit hard but Berkman’s single was seeing-eye all the way.
And, geez, Keppinger’s game winner was the textbook definition of lucky slop. Gregg busted that bat into a million pieces and, naturally, the ball dribbles between Aramis and Miles. Ugh.
Now here’s four words for today’s game: LET’S. GET. SOME. RUNS.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
And...
the force of the shattered bat knocked Kepp down a little. If it’s hit at someone it’s a pretty easy double play.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." - Alvin Dark
Yeah, he looked like a drunken sailer coming out of the box.
I think Brenly said it was one of the ugliest ABs he’d ever seen. Len made a good observation about Keppinger being a contact, though hitter – he certainly proved that…barely.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Guzman was filthy.
He was keeping his pitches down and his breaking ball was tight. My one complaint with Guzman, and I’ve noticed this a few times, is that he can become preoccupied with baserunners. I think he threw over at Matsui 3-4 straight times before pitching to the next batter.
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
I was pleased with Guzman's performance...
Hopefully he can build off of it. It’s never been a question of stuff with Guzman.
Agreed.
If he keeps this up, the decision to let Gaudin go and keep Guzman looks better every day.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Yup.
Gaudin was disappointing, but there was no reason to keep Gaudin in his useless form over a guy with Guzman’s potential.
Good to hear.
And, yeah, that’s always been my primary worry about Gooz: Lack of confidence/concentration. His definitely got the stuff.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
the Astros hits
were “junkier” than Wandys pitching. Sometimes the garbage like that is exactly what you need to win.
MB needs to get going. He is an OBP machine, but in 2 games I have not seen in (one walk, 0-7). I know it is early, but we had a RF who could not get hits (Fukudome) and I sure hope we didnt replace him with an injury prone equal.
That being said I know its only two games, and I know MB will get on a lot, it is just frustrating to lose in such a close game, when one hit from him (or anyone else of course) might have been the difference between a win and a loss.
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
In Milton's defense
He had a probable base hit taken away last night by hitting into the teeth of a hit-and-run. Theriot and Lee had each worked walks, and Lou sent them on a 3-2 pitch. Bradley hit one up the middle, where a defender wouldn’t be unless the runners were going. So instead of a possible run-scoring single, Bradley squashed the potential rally with a 4-3 double play.
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
Just a case of the wrong hit at the wrong time.
I like the initiative by Lou, it just didn’t pan out right.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions
It's the second time in two games the Cubs have done that
Fukudome did the same thing on Monday. It’s odd.
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
it happens
sometimes it is better to be lucky than good, which I believe happened yesterday for the Astros. We had hits right at them, while they hit the scrappiest junk shots that found holes.
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
Exactly
Breaks of the game.
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
I agree
and I am not bashing him, I know that the hits and walks will come, its just venting
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
Understandable.
It is frustrating, especially after he hit almost .500 in Spring Training. I think once Milton gets going though, it’s going to be a fun ride.
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
and when Sori goes cold
MB will carry the team, allowing us to not get quite as frustrated with Sori.
but when both are hot, we will be dancing like little girls
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
Whats cool
Is that he makes these pitchers work. He’s taken 25% of the pitches from both starters last 2 games. While I agree, it would be nice to see those takes translated into walks, its great for him and the rest of the line-up to make those guys sweat during an AB.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
And it might not pay off in this series
but could later in the year.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions
Exactly
and that kind of patience at the plate is contagious. Nothing like getting to the middle innings and the other teams starter getting into pitch count troubs. Loved that little gesture yesterday when it the pitch came in to high — heh Ump it ain’t a ball till Gameboard says it is.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
that stat is bitter sweet
shows he is being selective and fouling some pitches back, but also shows the lack of plate decipline by the other hitters in our line up.
remember last season Fukudome led the team in pitches per AB
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
True
However, Bradley can seriously rake. To me the stat shows the kind of dicipline that has rewarded him with the OPS numbers he has gained.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
its an amazing thing to see
a hitter who has his power, able to be so selective. I do not know if i have seen that in a Cubs uniform over the past 10-15 years
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
Soriano
Is the only other one who comes to mind.
SARCASM ALERT****
"I feel sorry for people who don't drink. When they wake up in the morning, that's as good as they're going to feel all day." ~ Frank Sinatra
him and Sosa
SARCASM ALERT********
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
Great point
In my adult life I don’t think there has been another hitter like him for the Cubs. Geez I’m getting giddy.
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
maybe Sandberg or Dawson
but they were gone from a Cubs uniform before I was legally drinking
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
The Hit and Run Call
I think the hit and run call hurt MB. He was thrown two balls above the belt and swung at both because the hit and run was on. Perhaps he would have taken had the call not been on; bases loaded no outs with Ramirez at the plate.
On the other, perhaps Lou want’s to see who can handle hit and runs. Test now, make a different call later. Or maybe Bradley takes ball 4 in the future
Hopefully it was a learning experience, because this play played a huge part in the outcome.
I think Piniella trusts his batting eye to lay off ball 4.
I thought the H&R was a good call.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions
I am not sure about that
I initially thought the same thing but when I saw the replay, Matsui was pretty much shading him up the middle before DLee even took off. He did not appear to be breaking to the bag at all when he made the play. Of course, this was the second attempt at the Double Steal, so maybe he repositioned himself after the first pitch.
What sort of Maddens me about that AB is that he swung at ball four on the first pitch. I think maybe he was trying too hard. He should have talken the walk and let Aram swing with the bases loaded and nobody out. But it is only game 2…..
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Apr 8, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions
I agree on the H&R -- Matusi barely had to move
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions
Matsui was up the middle for the DP
but he was breaking to the bag because of the double steal. He was able to field the ball and take one step to the bag. A second baseman at double play depth isn’t that close to second base normally.
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
Looked like he was there before the pitch was delivered - with his feet planted
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions
no,
he had to move some. He almost went too far left — he had to stop short to get the ball, and then he was a step from the bag.
"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 8, 2009 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Yup.
Lee, who was already running, didn’t even make it to the bag it happened so quick.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions
You must have seen a replay
that I did not. The angle that I saw showed Matsui basically up the middle before the pitch/swing. He did not seem to react to the steal at all nor did he seem to move to field the ball.
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Apr 8, 2009 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions
I saw the same one you did.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 3:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Cubs Tied for First
After 2 whole games in the regular season, the Cubs are in a first place tie in the NL Central. Okay, that doesn’t sound too impressive, but for those of us who remember the 0-14 start in 1997, that means a little something.
"The big possums walk late." - Harry Caray
Still one game ahead of last year's 0-2 start.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
....and last year we started at home
Splitting on the road is good, right? Last year, the Cubs were 42-38 on the road.
"I knew we were in for a long season when we lined up for the national anthem on opening day and one of my players said, 'Every time I hear that song I have a bad game.'" - Jim Leyland
2/3 at home, half on the road
and we’d be in great shape.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions
I have only seen Soto's injury described as a "shoulder issue"......
.Does anyone know what is the issue is specifically? Tendonitis? A reoccuring strain?
New sig currently under construction
he is having surgery to become more left handed
SARCASM ALERT*************
From what i have heard he should be fine in a day or so
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
You just want to see Soto in those backless hospital gowns
"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
Um how bout a frontless gown ?
"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 8, 2009 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 4:07 PM CDT up reply actions
NSFW!
I think…
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 4:10 PM CDT up reply actions
The geoduck (pronounced gooey duck), Panopea abrupta, is a species of very large edible saltwater clam,
a marine bivalve mollusk in the family Hiatellidae. The shell of this clam is large, about 15 to over 20 cm in length (about 7 to 9 inch), but the extremely long siphons make the clam itself very much longer than this: the “neck” or siphons alone can be one meter in length.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions
I saw these things
on discovery or the food network a while back. they look gross.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sanberg
Sure, but they feed a family of 6
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions
I've heard that Pamela Anderson can eat an one all by herself.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions
Wihtout biting it
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 4:31 PM CDT up reply actions
nope
they normally skin the neck and slice it.
Ah, OK. Thanks!
I’ll have to keep an eye out for one of those on the menu if I’m ever out that way.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
He's the most interesting man in the world
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
The bullpen certainly didn't fail...
not sure why you used that title. The bullpen’s performance last night? 3.1 innings, 1 R (2.70 ERA). And as you mentioned, the only run was the result of two softly-hit grounders that were either misplayed or found a hole in the infield.
The failure was on the part of the Cubs’ offense, which generated just 2 runs in 10 innings.
Aaron Heilman's profile
looks very similar to Joe Borowski’s. That is all I have.
I'm curious if I will follow the Cubs with a different perspective after last year, we will soon find out, thank God!
That's not exactly bad company.
Both had pretty successful MLB careers.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions
I think
slocs and I are both talking strictly appearance.
Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue
You're right, just looks.
I'm curious if I will follow the Cubs with a different perspective after last year, we will soon find out, thank God!
SPEAKING OF BOB HOWRY...
…I followed on my phone last night as he struck out the side vs. the Brew Crew. (He also issued a walk and gave up a single.) Not tryin’ to start no trouble…just sayin’…
And, by the way, how enjoyable is it to see the Brewers pitching staff giving up 10 runs (all earned) to the light-hitting Giants? Methinks quite enjoyable, indeed.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
I thought this was a good signing for the Giants.
To me, Howry was a candidate for a bounce back year, based on his MLB career. It seems that successful relief pitchers often will have a down year and bounce back the next year.
Pitching in the NL West is also a good place for Howry with several of the parks being pitching friendly.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions
We'll see. I think he's still going to struggle.
Either way, he needed to go.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, he was all through here.
I’m curious to see how he does, though.
Oh, and I should also mention that I saw Michael Wuertz strike out two batters while working a scoreless inning in his A’s debut on Monday. It was totally random – I just flipped on ESPN2 after the Cubs game ended.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Wuertz is another story
I don’t think Lou liked him much and wasn’t going to give him a chance.
Two that he may have gotten wrong. He seems right more often than not, though.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions
I caught that too. I saw Will Ohman last night on MLB. Lots of nightmares last night.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions
Howry? Struggle? Surely you jest.
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
I'm always serious, Em. You know that.
And don’t call me Surely.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions
That's Shirley.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions
Alright, Laverne.
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
Better....and I don't jest.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Oh jest you do!
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions
I was joust kidding
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
Joustice is served
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions
Enjoyable indeed!
Its great, now maybe my friend the Brewers fan will get off his high horse. And I hope this continues to be the case for them, that way the old man who gave me crap at ST (in Maryvale), that was elated when the Brewers won a game against us will continue to hear my voice in his head " Spring training wins and losses are great if you religiously follow the cactus league, Just wait for the regular season and see what you pitching does…wait a minute, what pitching!?!"
"Ask Dad. He'll know. And on the off chance he doesn't, he'll make something up"
Looking forward to getting out of this bandbox...
without facing Valverde again. Forget how annoying he is (ok, that’s pretty tough), but he’ especially nasty against the Cubs. I don’t think Aramis will ever get a hit off him.
Guzman looked great, as others have said just keep that breaking ball down and he’ll be tough to hit.
Anyone worried about Milton Bradley needs to remember that he’s 7 at bats into the season, he’ll be fine. The question isn’t what can he do with the bat when he’s healthy, it’s can he stay healthy long enough to contribute with his bat.
Teddy Ballgame on the bump tonight, I have a good feeling. Some non-solo home runs would be nice as well.
Ron Santo should sing TMOTTBG everyday. Period.
And, I'm sure every other fan
describes Z as ‘annoying.’ If Valverde gets the job done, the guy can prance around the mound, look to the heavens, and do what he wants. If he fails, he looks like an idiot. (And we’ve seen Z look childish at times, haven’t we?)
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Apr 8, 2009 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions
At times?
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions
It is a little different with guys like Valverde and Frankie Rodrieges (excuse the spelling)
as they perform their antics EVERY time they pitch. They are pre-planned antics.
Z only gets animated on ocassion in a big situation and is expressing emotion.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions
Oh, don't get me wrong. I think Valverde is a clown.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions
sometimes that is how you get noticed and paid
for two example
Terrell Owens early career vs “T.O.” after he was tired of being not spoken about in the media
Rodman in Detroit vs Rodman in San Antonio and Chicago
their antics are sometimes marketing themselves for more endorsements and bigger contracts
Friendship is like peeing on yourself: everyone can see it, but only you get the warm feeling that it brings.
I thought Valverde played the fool
Z never looked foolish to me … just occasionally childish. And yes, there is a difference.
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
I'm not sure I can completely agree with this point, which I've heard/read made many times before.
Z certainly has his twitches and occasional tantrums on the mound, but they in no way compare to Valverde’s ritualized gymnastics. The difference is Carlos may react demonstratively to certain things, but Valverde prances into the game acting that way and never stops.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Zambarno's are emotion, Valverde is pre-conditioned.
It’s like the difference between genuinely announcing, “It’s up and, oh, baby, it’s gone! A homerune!” and something like a script-like preconditioned “You can’t put it on the boarrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrddd…yes!”
Hawk sucks.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions
Hawk and Stoney
As a side note, I know after Hawk says “you can put it on the board” DJ would join Hawk in shouting “Yes!” I just couldn’t see (or actually hear) Stoney doing that. Anyone see Thome’s HR yesterday? Did Stoney shout Yes with Hawk? Just curious.
Go Cubs Go! Go Cubs Go!
Hey Chicago what do you say,
The Cubs are gonna win today!
Nope, Stoney says he won't be joining Hawk in home run calls.
(Heard this on an interview in the off-season).
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions
I wish he would.
Just imagine his flat, nasally, sardonic tone behind Hawk’s screams.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Dave, lest you think I agree that Zambrano and Valverde are on the same footing with antics, I submit exhibit A.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions
LOL, forgot about that.
Something tells me that somewhere out there on the Interwebz, that Photoshopped pic does exist…and I still don’t want to see it.
By the way, this is comment No. 19,991. Barring an unexpected outbreak of workaholism, I should hit 20K today.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Today? You'll hit it before 11 CDT.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions
Work? You mean you actually do something at that job of yours?
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions
He gets paid for every post on the SB network
The guys a millionaire and only 8 posts away from a HUGE bonus!
"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
God I hate salesmen.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions
Did I tell you about that little
virus that I sent you that kicks in on you 20,000th post?
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions
That's the one.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions
Aw, man -- you are posting in different threads
I don’t know where to look!
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions
Alright, I was wrong about 11
But now I feel like I can’t move!
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions
I gotta think up something special.
Sadly, I know I won’t live up to the hype.
(19,997)
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
10K was low hanging fruit with the 10K win banner
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions
twinkies for everybody!
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
You still have a long way to go to catch me.
49,318.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
wow, less than 700 away from 50,000
Strange I’ve never noticed much by you on here
"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
Do I get a prize when I hit 50,000?
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Scary thing is, I hit 10K a couple of weeks ago
And I’m already at 10267 with this one — most of those 267 from the last three days.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions
Maybe this'll help...
A bit large, but worth it.
TWSS
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions
That'll play
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions
dammit!
I’m over 1,000 behind him!
"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 8, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Of course. I have to do something to kill time between posts.
(19,993)
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Have the Cubs announced if they're going with...
…a four man rotation or five man rotation to start the year?
I’m trying to figure out who is pitching Saturday and the home opener Monday. Anyone care to help?
Also I’m not sure why Harden didn’t throw yesterday. He could have got two starts in, either indoors or in warm climates.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
I think they said last night
Marshall won’t go til the end of April. Could be wrong though.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions
They are going to be very careful with Harden
I think they’re more worried about innings than climate.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions
I guess my point is...
…if you can throw Harden in two controlled environments, why wouldn’t you do that?
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
I don't disagree
But I wouldn’t be surprised to see him skipped early. Start him agains the Brewers and let him rest up for the Cardinals?
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions
Ah good point. I forgot about tomorrow's day off.
The weather in St. Louis should be okay temperature wise.
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
Harden said last year...
… that he prefers pitching in cooler weather (as he had most of the time in Oakland).
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
You think that the ball tends not to fly out of the park
as much in cooler weather has something to do with that preferance?
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions
Harden starts Friday against the Brewers
Lilly starts the home opener.
"I knew we were in for a long season when we lined up for the national anthem on opening day and one of my players said, 'Every time I hear that song I have a bad game.'" - Jim Leyland
Yes, Z on Sat, Demp on Sun
"I knew we were in for a long season when we lined up for the national anthem on opening day and one of my players said, 'Every time I hear that song I have a bad game.'" - Jim Leyland
That was on the left side of his back and ribs.
He left with right shoulder soreness.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions
Seemed like Len and Bob were trying to tear apart...
…every change Lou made later in the game last night. Anyone else feel that way? It kinda pissed me off.
Wait a minute... who am I here?
Well I don't remember them saying anything about bringing Gregg in instead of Marmol.
I was yelling at my TV about that. And I hope they continue to question/challenge the decisions made by Lou and the front office. Better than just being a couple of shills for the team (see: White Sox).
Ron Santo should sing TMOTTBG everyday. Period.
I was thinking that they are going to try to protect Marmol this year
and not literally use him in every other game.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Wait. Bob was questioning decisions made by Lou?
No way! I wonder if he’s ever won a WS as a manager. If only he had a story about it…..
"Pounding sand since 1982...."
Socking that an analyst would analyse the game!
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions
My typing stinks!
I meant shocking.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions
No worries.
I wrote “swining” earlier.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions
speak to the sock
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions
I thought it was because the game had slowed down by then...
Just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand. - Homer J Simpson
In spite of last night's loss
The Cubs look sharp on the field and to my eye stronger at the start than they were last year.
I choose to believe that Soto’s shoulder really is just a minor incident, that Hoff will find a permanent cure for the flu, and that Dome will regain his eloquence at the plate.
You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one…
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
I just realized that Lennon rhymes "one" with "one"
God I love this time of year!
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions
I hope someday you'll join us...
…and Milton Bradley will hit a home run.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Imagine there's no strikeouts...
It’s easy if you can.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions
I've said many times on these pages
Doug Brocail is a good addition to anybody’s bullpen, no matter his age. He comes very cheap, too.
The lack of the red-billed caps was much more noticable tonight, I thought. The entire uniform looked much better, as it did the day all teams wore the dark blue w/red/white and blue stars & stripes logo.
I’m thinking the red-bill cap is OK with the blue top, as to offer a little contrast. But I wish that uniform would vanish completely.
This was just one of those games one dink hit after another. It happens. I’d be hard pressed to say the bull pen failed.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Apr 8, 2009 10:26 AM CDT reply actions
I've always wondered why Z is so attached to the blue uni top.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions
To keep his pants up?
No, wait . . . that’s suspenders.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:29 AM CDT up reply actions
No, no...he wears a belt.
Don’t you remember him struggling to put it back on during the DLee-Chris Young fight?
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Ah, yes.
I remember it well.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions
That was the funniest part of that non-fight.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions
The best
was that a still photo made it look like he was removing it to kick major ass.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions
Didn't he say once
The blue top feels…“better”…with just one logo patch…rather than the C-H-I-C-A-G-O spread across his chest?
Which, of course — is absurd. So why not wear the home uniform with one logo — at home, than the blue one?
It’s all in his head.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Apr 8, 2009 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
I have wondered that, though.
Like if swining or throwing is different with one giant patch as opposed to individual letters, or a Cardinal-like giant all-over patch.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions
swining?
"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
It's a symbolic cry for help
denoting the emptiness, or blueness if you will, he feels inside.
Or, you know, not.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions
Man, that's deep
"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
TWSS
"I feel sorry for people who don't drink. When they wake up in the morning, that's as good as they're going to feel all day." ~ Frank Sinatra
I'm glad we lost the red-bill caps too.
And I wouldn’t mind the blue jerseys if everyone wore their socks like Reed and Sori. The blue-grey-blue looks good.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
The blue socks look even better with the all-grays.
Classy.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx
Indeed.
I absolutely love the blue socks and wish more would adopt it.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions
On one of the spring telecasts,
Bob mentioned that all minor leaguers in the Cubs system are required to wear the high socks.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions
And scrappy.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Apr 8, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions
it should be
baseball law.
"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 8, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions
I thought the lack of offense was why they lost the game.
Particularly in the inning where they had 1st and 2nd and no outs and failed to scored was what cost them the game.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions
That lucky crap won't happen again all season
Its hard to even get upset about a loss like that because the Astros got every single bounce and break the whole game.
www.talkingchicagobaseball.blogspot.com
Why did Lou trot Cotts out there in the 10th?
I really, really, don’t understand that…
Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow
by PurpleLineToWrigley on Apr 8, 2009 11:21 AM CDT reply actions
He was saving Marmol for Game 5.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions
No, he was saving Marmol in case he needed an emergency catcher!
"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman
i thought lou
should just have left heilman in…
by brian custer on Apr 8, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions
Yes, good question
Although the Astros won the game on account of lucky dinks and the Cubs’ lack of offense, I still fault Lou for bringing Cotts back out for the 10th. I mean, you have four righties sitting in the pen with a righty (Pudge) and a switch hitter (Berkman) coming up. Pudge looked absolutely atrocious against Dempster, so why let him face a lefty, especially a lefty who shouldn’t be used for a second inning anyway? If Lou was so high on Patton during ST, why not let him pitch? None of the Astros have ever faced him!
On the other hand, the game shouldn’t have even gotten that far — doesn’t Hawkins know that Soriano lives on low fastballs? Duh. It baffles me to no end that every single pitcher in the universe doesn’t just give Sori a diet made up exclusively of breaking balls away — the man would never get another hit.
Is anyone else here just sitting and waiting for Daver to get to 20,000?
"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
I'm afraid to go to lunch.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions
think I can make up the 1,000
I’m behind before he gets in those last two?
"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 8, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Sure, if you apply yourself
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions
1
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions
2
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions
apply
"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 8, 2009 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions
myself
"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 8, 2009 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions
Brocail's age
If you think Brocail had ancient teammates, Al, think about the still-active Jamie Moyer.
When Moyer debuted with the Cubs in 1986, among his teammates were Ron Cey, who had debuted in 1971, and Davey Lopes, who first played in 1972. Manny Trillo was another teammate, in his second stint with the Cubs after earlier playing with the Cubs in the mid-1970s. So in a way, Moyer is the only player left in the league who has an active connection with players from the 1976/77-era Cubs teams, the first ones I followed.
"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979
Hmmm..I smell
A 7 degrees of Jamie Moyer game…
"When two Whales Fight, many Shrimp Die" - Korean Proverb
by TheRiot Police on Apr 8, 2009 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions
Here's a good one...
One of Randy Johnson’s teammates as a rookie on the ‘88 Expos was Graig Nettles. Graig Nettles made his big-league debut with the ’67 Twins; his second game came against the White Sox, which at the time included veteran catcher Smoky Burgess. Burgess first came up with the ’49 Cubs – a team which included franchise legends Andy Pafko and Phil Cavaretta – and was the catcher for Ron Santo’s very first plate appearance in 1960, when Burgess was with the Pirates.
If you want to dig even deeper… one Burgess’ teammates in his Cubs days was pitcher Dutch Leonard, who started his career in the early ‘30s with the Dodgers. Amongst the players Leonard faced in his early days was Boston Braves hall-of-famer Rabbit Maranville, who as a rookie was a teammate of Johnny Kling – the star catcher of the Cubs’ turn-of-the century powerhouse teams, including both of their World Series winners.
And Kling, of course, had several teammates who played with Cap Anson – baseball’s first true superstar and a member of the inaugural Cubs team back in 1876.
So that’s just 8 steps from an active player (Johnson) to the birth of Cubs baseball (Anson).
Amazing how much time one can waste on Baseball-reference.com figuring that stuff out.
"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman
Nice work!
I love wasting time on that site.
And remember the famous quote, which has been attributed to many, including Mark Twain and John Lennon:
“It wasn’t wasted time if you enjoyed wasting it.”
"Hey hey, kiss it goodbye! That one's in Milwaukee! Man oh man did he hit it. Isn't that something?" - Lou Boudreau, May 17, 1979
I found an even shorter route:
Lou Piniella was managed by Charlie Metro for part of the 1970 season in Kansas City.
Charlie Metro played for the Philadelphia A’s in the mid-40’s, when they were still managed by Connie Mack.
Connie Mack frequently faced Cap Anson’s Cubs during his playing career in the 1880s and 1890s. (In fact, they were both player-managers in 1897, when Mack was with Pittsburgh.)
Sweet Lou to Cap Anson in 3 steps – I don’t think anyone can beat that!
"I see great things in baseball. It's our game - the American game." - Walt Whitman
I can
Lou was managed by Billy Martin. Billy Martin and Cap Anson are both dead, and in baseball heaven. Billy has a drink, of course… :P
"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 8, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions
Lou and Cap are both male human beings from Earth.
One step, bitches.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions
Congratulations?
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." ~Alvin Dark
by DamonBerryhillsMitt on Apr 8, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions
Wasn't sure if I should
congratulate you or feel sorry for you.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played - in God's own sunshine. And that's really living." ~Alvin Dark
by DamonBerryhillsMitt on Apr 8, 2009 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions
A little of both, probably.
Bear in mind, I’ve been here over two years (more than two full seasons) at this point, though.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
From someone who is on about the same pace as you:
I’d say 60% feel sorry, 40% congrats.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions
I can see your house from there!
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions
YEAH!
"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
You can have my BCB account...
…when you pry it from my cold, dead hands!
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
They finally got it last year
"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
The Gun, not your account
"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
That was awesome
"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
Thanks!
If you had any idea how much time I wasted trying to find that image, you’d…well, you probably wouldn’t be surprised at all, really.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Yeah, not surprised at all
lol
"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
CURSE YOU MEGATRON!
"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 8, 2009 11:58 AM CDT up reply actions
Y'know, you could probably catch up to me...
…if you combined your drewishdrewid account with your mambochicken account.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
hah!
Everyone knows that it’s my Shanghai Badger account.
"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 8, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions
Bleep you, Mambochicken!
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions
"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 8, 2009 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions
Quick hint
Do not do a Google Image Search for that phrase with SafeSearch turned off. At least not at work.
"I owe [Dunston] a lot. Nobody would know how good I was at digging balls out of the dirt if it wasn't for him..." -Mark Grace
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
There's a bad lesson to learn the hard way.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions
No pun intended, of course...
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions
Of course . . .
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 3:47 PM CDT up reply actions
Congrats brother man from 5th flo
Join the BCB Flickr Group: http://flickr.com/groups/bleedcubbieblue
Good work, my man
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions
Milton and EA are in the crowd . . . .
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions
nope
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions
You don't know that.
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! --Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Apr 8, 2009 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions
50th row
on the left, dots 2, 3 & 4.
"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 8, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions
Well, there'll be a game thread tonight.
That should take care of it.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
A present for your accomplishment
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
Too bad the joint closed
But I always enjoyed walking by here.
"I owe [Dunston] a lot. Nobody would know how good I was at digging balls out of the dirt if it wasn't for him..." -Mark Grace
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
Nice.
My wife and I drove by a Vietnamese restaurant the other day called “Pho U,” and I wondered aloud how funny it would be if there was a “k” at the end of that first word. And, of course, “Cafe Bong” reminds me of the sign for the Bong Recreation Area that I always see when I drive up to Milwaukee.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
Look closer
There’s three words in the restaurant’s name.
Yes, I apparently left my maturity at home today, too.
"I owe [Dunston] a lot. Nobody would know how good I was at digging balls out of the dirt if it wasn't for him..." -Mark Grace
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
That Hill pickoff was phenominal
Done so quick and smoothly, looked textbook. What makes it better is the ball was in the dirt
#34: You'll be missed!
That was an amazing reaction by Hill
He hit the ball solidly also. Seemed like everything the Cubs hit well last night was right at someone.
Fontenot had some good at bats vs lefties. He continues to impress.
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue." - George F. Will
I was following the game on my BlackBerry
and when I saw that Lavatory Hawkins was in, I said to myself, “Say good-bye to your lead, Astros.” From my Berry to God’s ears. Just wish we coulda sealed the deal.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played--in God's own sunshine. And that's really living."--Alvin Dark
Please, don't take offense to this
but predicting Hawkins gives up a lead doesn’t exactly make you Nostradamus.
"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
No offense taken
Given my overall abysmal record for predicting things, however, it’s nice to know some things are a pretty safe call.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs. That's baseball as it should be played--in God's own sunshine. And that's really living."--Alvin Dark
by spoiledcubbage on Apr 8, 2009 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions
for everything else
there’s mastercard.
"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 8, 2009 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions
no 2-0 for you
Listening to Hughes and Santo on the drive back home yesterday, they made an observation that the Cubs hadn’t started a season 2-0 since before they’d started announcing games together…apparently, not since 1995 or something…
The end of that streak will have to wait another year…though, Soriano sure made it seem possible for a minute there…
Yeah, I heard that, too...
…and thought to myself, “Y’know, they probably shouldn’t be talking about it.” Sure enough, the streak was not broken.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
1995....the last time the Cubs won the first two games of the season
They won 4 straight before losing the next 3.
They won 3 in a row to start 1988.
"I knew we were in for a long season when we lined up for the national anthem on opening day and one of my players said, 'Every time I hear that song I have a bad game.'" - Jim Leyland
Forgot to mention that Pat joined the WGN radio team in 1996
Ron became the Cubs radio color commentator in 1990
"I knew we were in for a long season when we lined up for the national anthem on opening day and one of my players said, 'Every time I hear that song I have a bad game.'" - Jim Leyland
with the pen getting used so much in the first two games
i figure we’ll see patton throw a deuce or two tonight.
Remember Marshall is available for long relief
"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 8, 2009 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions
He should be good to go tonight if needed
IIRC, he threw a simulated game on Sunday, which is why he was in the dugout last night instead of the bullpen.
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
I recall reading in one of the notes from one of the beat writers
that he wouldn’t be available in the bullpen untiil Friday. Not sure if that’s still correct.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Apr 8, 2009 4:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Well that sucks.
Hurry up and get ready to pitch, Sean.
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
Ted Lilly Fact No. 102:
Ted Lilly doesn’t need backup.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions
Ted Lilly fact No. 103:
If Ted Lilly were playing offensive line for the Bears, Kyle Orton would still be the starting QB.
"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 8, 2009 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions
103a:
Ted Lilly doesn’t allow neckbeards.
make*art
by neverAcquiesce on Apr 8, 2009 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions
The force of his stare incinerates them instantly
"I owe [Dunston] a lot. Nobody would know how good I was at digging balls out of the dirt if it wasn't for him..." -Mark Grace
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
neckbeard
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 3:05 PM CDT up reply actions
this takes fugly to a whole new level
Steal a little and they throw you in jail, Steal a lot and they make you king -- Bob Dylan
TWSS
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 4:05 PM CDT up reply actions
At first glance
I thought this guy had managed to separate the beard from his face/neck without wrecking the beard. It looks like it is just hanging beneath his chin, not attached to his neck.
"Respect" ~ Ryne Sanberg
Damn, Matt Murton has really lost his way since leaving the Cubs.
"Let it begin! Let it begin!" ~ Rhino
"Besides, seeing's the important thing."
"I owe [Dunston] a lot. Nobody would know how good I was at digging balls out of the dirt if it wasn't for him..." -Mark Grace
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
The Cubs are undefeated
When I watch and can’t win when I go to bed. Does this mean I have to sacrifice sleep for the rest of the season? Or can I let a week or two more of measurable baseball take place?
BTW – Chag Sameach to the Jewish BCB’ers out there. I’m making the first of what promises to be many matzah melts.
The day we lose our will to fight - Is the day we lose our Freedom.
you can catch up on sleep when we make the playoffs....
but then can’t sleep until we hoist the WS trophy
it is a small sample size.
oy, what are we going to do? :D
"That’s the great thing about baseball, you never know what’s going to happen till you get the final out." — Lou Piniella
by drewishdrewid on Apr 8, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions
I cannot speak
to sanantonecub’s sleeping habits last year, as he was in the AL, and had a designated sleeper.
"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 8, 2009 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions
Nice one
But I think if I was in the AL I might have to kill myself.
The day we lose our will to fight - Is the day we lose our Freedom.
to use a soriano-ism
from pat last night, “if you’re going to give me a day off, make it in november.”
plenty of sleep time available in november.
Winning series
I’ve always liked the notion that a good team typically wins a three game series by winning one in a blowout and splitting the two close games. Of course if you happen to win both the close ones you get a sweep and if you are unlucky and lose both you lose the series. But most often you just win the series 2-1 and move on to the next one.
We’ve split the two close ones. So let’s get the blowout win tonight then, Cubs.
I agree
but Monday didn’t feel like a close game to me, even though it was 4-2.
"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 8, 2009 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions
Relax...
we don’t have Howry or Eyre in the bullpen anymore.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Apr 8, 2009 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions
Yes
I know what you mean, it didn’t perhaps feel as close as the scoreline suggests. Still close enough to keep me nervous till the final out was made, though. Not that that’s a good indicator either, by that standard they’d all have to be called close games.
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