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Ted Lilly Will Save Us: Cubs vs. Twins Preview, Sunday 6/14, 1:20 CT

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More photos » by Jim Prisching - AP

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We often joke here about the prowess of one Theodore Roosevelt Lilly. Today, his task is simple: throw a shutout and hit a home run to win the game himself. That way, Lou Piniella could continue his nap on the bench and not have to make any decisions.

You may have heard that the Twins sent yesterday's starter Anthony Swarzak to Triple-A after the game, leading to the inevitable jokes which don't need to be repeated here. Here's the real reason for the demotion:

Minnesota is winning despite an injury-plagued outfield. Michael Cuddyer sat out Saturday’s game because of an inflamed right index finger, and is expected to see a hand specialist Monday. Denard Span is sidelined with an inner ear disorder.

Those injuries meant the Twins needed to send Swarzak, who allowed four hits over seven innings, to Triple-A Rochester to bring up catcher Jose Morales to give the team another hitter. Without the outfielders, the Twins managed five hits Saturday.

The Cubs "managed" five hits too, yesterday. Didn't help. Although, Derrek Lee now has a 12-game hitting streak and has reached base in 22 consecutive games.

Ryan Freel (remember him?) is "close" to returning from the DL, and will start a rehab assignment in the next couple of days. Frankly, he and his "friend" Farney can stay there. He was -- and this is hard to believe -- less useful to the team than Aaron Miles.

Today's Starting Pitchers
Ted Lilly
Ted Lilly
Cubs
vs. Scott Baker
Scott Baker
Twins
7-4 W-L 4-6
3.00 ERA 5.59
63 SO 57
20 BB 12
11 HR 17
vs. Min -- vs. Cubs

W-L G GS CG SHO SV BS IP H R ER HR BB K ERA WHIP
2009 - Ted Lilly 7-4 12 12 0 0 0 0 78.0 62 28 26 11 20 63 3.00 1.05


W-L G GS CG SHO SV BS IP H R ER HR BB K ERA WHIP
2009 - Scott Baker 4-6 11 11 0 0 0 0 67.2 67 43 42 15 12 57 5.59 1.17

Scott Baker had a rough go early this year, but in June is 2-0 with a 3.00 ERA. This is his first start vs. the Cubs; he has faced three current Cubs (Andres Blanco, 0-for-2; Reed Johnson, 0-for-3; Milton Bradley, 2-for-6).

Ted Lilly made six career starts vs. the Twins (3-1, 3.52) in his AL days, but has not faced them since 2006. The Twin he has faced most is former White Sox Joe Crede (4-for-18). Delmon Young is 3-for-3 against Ted. Lilly has been the Cubs' most consistent starter all year and is likely going to be the team's only All-Star. Simply put, and without our usual Ted hype -- we need him to win today.

WGN today -- so you can see this game nationwide. (Maybe that's not so great, given the team record on WGN.) For other games today see the MLB.com Mediacenter.

MLB.com Gameday

Baseball-reference.com game preview

SB Nation game preview

Overflow comment threads will post today at 2:15 pm, 3:15 pm and 4 pm CDT.

Discuss amongst yourselves.

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Please Win!

"This is an environment of welcoming, and you should just get the hell outta here." --Michael Scott

by Reddevil on Jun 14, 2009 11:01 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Go Cubs!

If the Cubs were an international soccer team they'd be called Scotland.

by mrtobby on Jun 14, 2009 11:03 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm actually kind of enjoying interleague play so far.

It’s a nice change of pace to see the Cubs stink it up against opponents we don’t get to see that often.

But seriously, I can’t wait for the crosstown series to start. It will be the first time anything resembling electricity has been around this team in quite some time. Maybe that will help light a fire under their collective rear ends.

Just Win, Baby!

"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome

by Goodie1969 on Jun 14, 2009 11:11 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Sunday day baseball for the win...

… chill on the couch, nurse the hangover, chill. Excellent.

Go cubs.

"Political correctness is a doctrine, fostered by a delusional, illogical minority, and rabidly promoted by an unscrupulous mainstream media, which holds forth the proposition that it is entirely possible to pick up a turd by the clean end"

by AndrewJStone on Jun 14, 2009 11:11 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Why nurse one

When you can just start a whole new one, instead?

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

気に神が

Hat tip to chilango2

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 11:11 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Much obliged

I just hope Dragonsfanatic doesn’t get offended or nothing.

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Jun 14, 2009 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the Score

… just said something about Hendry talking to the media. Don’t quote me, but maybe the news is coming …

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:14 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I'll still put in a desperate good word for Ryan Freel.

If healthy, Lou could put him at third base (which is why he was acquired) and Fontentot could go back to playing second base (which was his job going into the season). Maybe if LBR could settle back in at his natural position, his bat would come alive. I know I’m reaching, but it’s something.

That said, my expectations of Freel are pretty low.

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 Jun 14, 2009 11:15 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I think it could be an improvement

Freel and Fontenot sounds better than Miles and Fontenot. But not by much.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree...

Freel hasn’t had enough playing time for us to really judge him. For all we know, he might end up making a nice, adequate contribution. I don’t see the need to hate on him, as some people seem to.

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree

I rather see him than Miles. Man do i hate Miles as a ball player

by Glacier on Jun 14, 2009 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh great Ryan Freel is coming back

Now we are saved for sure. I can’t wait to see him and Miles hitting seventh and eighth in the lineup.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 11:17 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

well ...

thankfully, Freel, Miles and Fukudome will likely never start at the same time. That would be pretty terrible.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

a nice three person DFA might be okay

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gerald Perry has been fired

Replaced by Von Johnson. So says the Score.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:21 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Well they've placed the blame on Perry

Fine Hendry you have your scapegoat for now. This won’t cover up your crap offseason moves.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

Perry was also

a big supporter of signing Bradley, from their days in Oakland. Wonder if that was part of Hendry’s decision.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's the scapegoat. F'n lame.

I’m sure the players are “suddenly going to respond” to new hitting coach. (sarcasm)

"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 Jun 14, 2009 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If it was a question of needing to do SOMETHING ...

I see why this happened. It’s easier to fire Perry than it is to fire Fukudome, Miles, Bradley, etc.

But firing Perry is the definition of “cosmetic.”

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

exactly

Von Joshua can’t stop Fukudome from tanking again. He can’t get Soriano hot magically.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

the scariest thing ...

We have a team filled with high-priced, under-performing veterans, almost none of whom are free agents after this season AND we have an ownership situation that prevents us from taking on much money.

Hard-core changes probably won’t happen for a year or two.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The worst part is Soriano's contract

"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 Jun 14, 2009 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

agreed

Fukudome’s is a close second.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

AND SOME ONE SHOULD

Get canned for writing that contract…It will hold the cubs back for several years….

by cubs north on Jun 14, 2009 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wow, so it goes.

Not sure how much difference this will make, but something had to happen. Thanks to Perry on some good years.

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 Jun 14, 2009 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What a joke

……

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The beat reporter from the score

implied that Perry might not be the hardest working hitting coach in the biz. Perhaps that’s part of the reason he was let go—if your team is not hitting, and you are the hitting coach, you should be putting in serious hours.

Sometimes older major league coaches seem to think of the job as a reward rather than a job. That’smy observation anyways.

DEJESUS!!!

by tomas21 on Jun 14, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

confirmed on Cubs.com

but there’s no specific information.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Scapegoat...

…..what has changed from last year?

Only the moves Hendry made.

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm a little dubious of the move...

…but sometimes the only way to send a message is to remove someone from the clubhouse. Perry is an easy target – and who knows what was going on behind the scenes.

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 Jun 14, 2009 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'll agree, Hendry's off season moves have not panned out to this point

but he seems to recognize this move as more cosmetic and reaching in the hopes that things will change:

“Obviously, we’ve been struggling for a long time,” Cubs general manager Jim Hendry, who personally fired Perry, told the Tribune. "I’m not one to dump all the blame on my coaches. But I think sometimes you need a different voice.
“Von has had a lot of success with our guys on the way up. We’re really, really struggling offensively for reasons way beyond Aramis [Ramirez] being gone. Every day we have guys in the lineup who have played in the All-Star game. For whatever reason, they’re just not performing anywhere close to the level they’ve performed through their careers.”

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 Jun 14, 2009 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wrong Guy Fired

Why didn’t Hendry DFA Freel & Miles, and then fire himself?

by JFCubFan on Jun 14, 2009 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, very frustrating.

It’s in the headline of the lead story but no details are provided.

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 Jun 14, 2009 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

DUMB. I feel like I'm watching an episode of THE WIRE...

And someone’s gotta fall on the sword just to look good in the public eye, just like Bunny Colvin taking the entire fall for Hamsterdam. Really has little effect and little repercussions.

It’s not the hitting coach’s fault we’ve gone Jekyll & Hyde in 2008 and 2009. KEEP THE CIRCUS GOIN’, JIMBO & LOU!!

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Uh...

Hamsterdam was totally Bunny Colvin’s idea and he hid it from Rawls and everyone else. The problem wasn’t him being the fall guy, it was the fact his idea worked yet the powers that be cared more about looking tough on crime than actually improving the lives of people in West Baltimore.

by Mike Martin on Jun 14, 2009 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You're missing my point.

Bunny created Hamsterdam because his commanders wanted results and demanded he do something, anything, to get results. When he did this, they didn’t like it, and forced him to take the sword on his own, even though it was the ineptitude of the entire Western District and BPD that failed, not one silly guy.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Unreal

If that’s not cutting off the nose to spite the face, I don’t know what is. Total desperation move… this team is a deep, deep trouble.

by lswaidz on Jun 14, 2009 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not surprised I guess...

But I was kinda hoping the “changes” we’d have would be some kind of trade, if only to shake things up a bit.

(Maybe someone should suggest Aaron Miles for Chase Utley, straight-up….)

sigh

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I called it

A month ago on here…kind of wish this change was made a little sooner.

by ak123 on Jun 14, 2009 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

good riddance

obviously most of the blame falls to the players, but something needed to be done to shake this team up.

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

by DC Cubbie on Jun 14, 2009 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

BAKER

LIGHT EM UP!

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 11:25 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Hammer!

where ya been?

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Closing my brain to baseball

…..otherwise Id lose my sanity.

Figured Id come back to help today…

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL

Did the same thing yesterday. Didn’t even watch an inning of baseball.

"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 Jun 14, 2009 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Help?

Everyone else lose their sanity?

Not too tough a job around these parts…

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nevermind, old lineup

Hopefully I’m psychic, though.

by lswaidz on Jun 14, 2009 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So Bradley is in?

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Jun 14, 2009 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good

I think benching Bradley to the point that he doesn’t play 75 games is the way to go.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I wonder if this is what's happening.

If so, that’s pretty toxic.

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 Jun 14, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

if Bradley''s not performing ...

granted — that puts pressure on Hoff to perform. But if he does …

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, and when you start messing with a guy's contract like that.

Bad things are almost sure to follow.

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 Jun 14, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

On the field, yeah.

This could get into some real nasty off-the-field stuff.

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 Jun 14, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

oh, I don't like that I'm thinking this way

And you’re right. Things could get ugly. But they’re probably already ugly off the field.

If the Cubs can’t start a run soon, I don’t have any problem letting the kids (Micah being still sort of a kid) play. And if Bradley doesn’t get to 75 games as a result, all the better.

BTW, I sincerely take back my support of the Bradley signing.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Woo-hoo!

Welcome to the dark side. It’s much more fun over here. We don’t like GameBoard.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

actually, it's not an issue of like or dislike

I feel bad for Bradley, actually. But I don’t see this situation improving for a lot of reasons.

It was the wrong signing, though. That’s pretty clear.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

there's a difference

between playing badly and messing with a legal contract.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

His bitch face is irritating enough IMO

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hammer

Lighten up!!!

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 Jun 14, 2009 4:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If that happened

the Players’ Association would FLIP. You can’t sign a contract with incentives and then keep the guy from attempting to meet those goals.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

if there's a better option in the lineup

why can’t you? If Hoff comes out and hits 25 home runs while Milton continues to struggle, how could the union say anything.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

unless Milton is actually injured

he deserves his shot.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I disagree

If he’s the best option, he should play — sure.

But if he’s not, we shouldn’t keep trotting him out there. And if he doesn’t get to 75 games as a result, all the better.

I know — it’s a chicken and egg scenario.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think

that’s as close to tampering as you can get without actually tampering.

I really hope that the Cubs don’t do that. If nothing else, they have a rep for dealing with players fairly.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yep.

Things could get real ugly.

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 Jun 14, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's doing the same thing to us.

He’s pinch hitting one game here, begging Lou to play him there, and already more than halfway to his 75 game vested option. He’s doing a pretty good job of getting PAID, that’s for sure.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

he's begging to play

because he wants to play. I know you don’t like him, but there is NO evidence he’s deliberately playing half-effort.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And the idea of him doing that...

flies in the face of logic and everything we know about Bradley. If there’s one thing Milton is, it’s an (insane) competitor…

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know you weren't.

Dan has a less charitable view.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed...

Wasn’t suggesting you thought this, elgato. Was referencing the otherwise esteemable Mr. Pollitt. :)

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Clarification:

I noted here that I think it’s well within Bradley’s best interest to play as much as possible. He’s doing this through pinch hitting (read: one late-inning PA) off and on throughout the season, and convincing Lou that he’s healthy enough to play—and perform well.

I’m not questioning the guy’s determination, hustle, or desire to play, but I am questioning why he’s so set on playing when he’s clearly not healthy. The guy gets “hurt” so much, he needs to go on the damn DL immediately when he is hurt. It is very, very detrimental to this team, both in 2009 and in the future, if he plays. However, it is clearly Milton’s penchant to do this. At this point there’s no way we we aren’t in for $11,000,000 for Bradley in 2011.

Dan

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I find it annoying as well....

when guys refuse to go to the DL when it seems pretty clear they need to. I guess I just think that that probably has little to do with the contract, given how many other guys do the exact same thing when there isn’t a clear financial incentive. (Such as Lee, Soriano, etc.).

I think some guys just have an image of themselves that they can play through anything. It’s up to the coaches to tell them otherwise, and I wish that ours would.

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

His lack of concentration

on more than one occasion just recently is “half-effort” enough for me. I gave Bradley his chance and was on his side at the beginning. So he’s a hothead? So he’s vocal? He plays hard though, and that’s ok with me. After 2+ months though, that is not what I’ve seen. On the field, he looks like he’s made of glass, and his mind is something even more fragile.

"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Jun 14, 2009 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, you can keep him from playing

if you can make the case his performance doesn’t merit him playing. If the Cubs really wanted to prevent Milton from meeting his incentives, then they could bench him for “performance,” or lack thereof.

The problem would arise if the Cubs tried to phantom DL Milton.

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 Jun 14, 2009 1:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's already played in 46 games...

We have 3 months of baseball left. I’m not sure how it would even be possible to prevent 75 games played.

And that’s besides the fact that Milton’s numbers for the last month aren’t that bad and are getting better with each week…

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

good points

I just don’t think this nucleus is a recipe for success over the next 2 1/2 seasons — which is what we’re looking at with Milton, Soriano, Fukudome until 2012.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You may be right...

I think on paper we’re a good team though. I’m somewhat agnostic about Milton. I think he’s a hell of a ballplayer (and that most of the criticism around here is off-base/emotionally driven), but I also find it draining to have a player that I’m constantly fearing will become unhinged or hurt himself.

It’s not the most settling team (nor the most likeable). But their peformance right now is something of a statistical outlier, so I’m willing to wait and figure the ship will right itself eventually…In the meantime I’ll just suffer through it.

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This team does look okay on paper, not great.

I mean, any team that has Fontenot, Theriot, Miles, Scales, & Freel (FIVE 2B!!) is questionable.

Seriously though, the real problem is that we had guys with career or above-average years last year, and this year everyone’s well below-average. It’s a complete 180.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah...

I meant a lineup sans-injuries looks ok. What we have now does not look ok (and our lack of depth from the get-go is disturbing).

I guess the 180 shows how fickle the baseball gods are. It’s infuriating though.

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Now that Joshua is the hitting coach

Get Fox back up here…

Completely dumbfounding why he was sent down, with our offensive struggles.

"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 Jun 14, 2009 11:41 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Has Miles been kicked in the shin, yet?

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I could take him.

Erin Inches cant even hit the ball out of the infield. Seriously – swing agressively once.

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Every inning that Miles plays, provides more proof that Lou doesn't give a shit anymore.

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Jun 14, 2009 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, come on

That’s ridiculous.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Anybody with a pair of eyes can see the guy can't play.

He doesn’t even work the count, get on base, or have any speed. What does the guy offer that you couldn’t get off the waiver wire or from Iowa? Don’t switch hit, sucking from both sides of the plate doesn’t make that talent an asset. The other reason for playing him is that Hendry is paying the guy and expects him to play.

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Jun 14, 2009 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly

Honestly I like Lou but it appears to me he doesnt care anymore.

After pushing to get “his” team too.

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've received 20-30 text messages over the last two days from my Minnesota friends.

Hopefully we can NOT get swept today, sigh.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 11:44 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Ted Lilly's perfect game

Will be complimented by his 5-run homer in the fifth. Cubs win 5-0.

YHIHF.

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

and the runs will be scored in the 5th

complemented by Judd’s stellar commentary and Ronnie story hour in the background

by doofus cubs guy on Jun 14, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So you'll be relying on us to tell you when Lilly's ball lands on Sheffield, then?

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The umps

Will be so impressed by the blast that theyll let him run the bases twice.

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No I have faith in Judd making that home run call!!

it just may not happen until a batter or two later

by doofus cubs guy on Jun 14, 2009 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

the Cubs officially ...

are a mess. Really, really disappointing.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 11:44 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Ugh!

I’m officially sick to my stomach. I hope Lou is next, his attitude lately is disturbing. If he doesn’t care get someone in here who gives a damn!

by TheRamZamDLEE on Jun 14, 2009 11:50 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Is there a replacement

named for Gerald Perry? Von Joshua? Billy Williams? Ernie? Lou?

I wish they could just sit some of these players for a few days – Soriano, Soto…ugh.

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 11:58 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I wish Soto had an option left

So we could send him down to AAA for a time.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We can criticize Soto's hitting all we want

But our pitchers are throwing fantastic lately and he has to be given part of the credit. The guys been behind the plate for most of these games.

by ak123 on Jun 14, 2009 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That made me LOL.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

From the Cubs.com front page:

After replacing hitting coach Gerald Perry with Von Joshua on Sunday, the Cubs tab seven-game winner Ted Lilly in today’s 1:20 CT series finale vs. the Twins, live on MLB.TV.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 12:00 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Wasn't Von Joshua fired by the Sox a few years ago?

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Jun 14, 2009 12:04 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Indeed...

I don’t know for certain, but I’d guess 2006 when the exact same thing happened to the Sox with team batting.

When you sign up for the gig, it comes with.

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 12:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Was Joshua at Iowa before this?

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Jun 14, 2009 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yep.

AAA Hitting coach

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Joshua was with the Sox from 1993-2001

with the big league club from 98-01.

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 Jun 14, 2009 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Benching Soto

That would be my next move if I were Lou. I’d argue he’s had the worst year of the regular, and has shown the fewest signs of life.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 12:04 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Hill ain't much of a hitter either

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Jun 14, 2009 12:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know

The point is to give Soto a rest/shot in the arm/kick in the ass. Whatever you want to call it.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

All I really want from the catcher's spot

Is a well-called game and a .220 average. I think either Hill or Soto can provide that.

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

.220 Average?

That’s it?

IF that’s the case, then bat him 8th…OH wait…that’s Aaron Miles spot!

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I wish Miles could hit .220

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed...

Hitting catchers are a luxory, not something to be expected. We were just spoiled last year and seem to assume that that was something we should always count on.

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lets not get on soto as much...

His May splits are .278 .376 .354

His June splits are not nearly as good, but he has only started 6 games this month and has had only 28 bats.

by desmoCubbie on Jun 14, 2009 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Soto really sucked yesterday

Two lazy pop flies with men on BEFORE Lou pinch-hit for him to avoid a DP.

by elgato on Jun 14, 2009 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

cant blame her though shes out of town

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+oo

sorry to hear we’re on the same boat buddy

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Jun 14, 2009 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I missed you Hammer.

MAKE IT GREEN just for posterity’s sake.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If that's not a "message," I don't know what is

But, hey! Tomorrow they’ll go golf with Ronnie and the media, forget about hitting and magically start hitting on Tuesday.

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Jun 14, 2009 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And Friday, too

and Thursday

and Wednesday

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That is an awful slugging percentage

which is what we need soto to do. HIT FOR SOME FREAKING POWER

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

u are asking for alot

from a team that just isn’t hitting…be happy to get hits in general…then we can talk about power

by desmoCubbie on Jun 14, 2009 12:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

lol true

baby steps

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's not a catcher...

…but Adam Dunn hits for power. A lot of power. He’s a lumberjack.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Is he ok?

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He sleeps all night.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

does he sleep all night

and work all day?

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Move Soriano to second

put dunn in left. At this point, I don’t care about defense.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Get his fat ass on a treadmill

And run him until he’s in hitting shape.

"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 Jun 14, 2009 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Unfortunatley,

the off-season is when this stuff happens.

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And again...

to keep the young guy in spots in the order where he has RISP right now is unfair to him, unfair to the FANS (sorry for raising my voice a little)

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 12:15 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Remember in 07

Wen the Cubs couldnt score for crap and then one game in the first inning Dero hit a granny and everyone relaxed and they started winning.

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 12:18 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

....well we need that today

"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip

by Hammer on Jun 14, 2009 12:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Remember when we had DeRo?

That was awesome.

One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.

by chilango2 on Jun 14, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

HAHA!

Well played. well played.

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If only we had DeRo

sigh

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This is where he

is more close to Dusty than I’d like to believe. Stubborn as a mule.

Neifi. Neifi. Neifi. Neifi.

Give RJ and HOFF some starts! R or L!

by The E-Man on Jun 14, 2009 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I never thought I'd be cheering for Micah Hoffpauir to start on a regular basis.

But I am. I’m scaring myself.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

it's not Neifi-esque

At least Soriano can produce, he’s just in a huge slump. Neifi just flat out sucked

I'm a lefty, maybe Lou should give me a shot for a position in the bullpen!!

by Chanman25 on Jun 14, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I never thought I'd be cheering for Micah Hoffpauir to start on a regular basis.

But I am. I’m scaring myself.

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Still?

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Because we have 19 pitchers and no bench players?

"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks

by dtpollitt on Jun 14, 2009 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here is what needs to happen

we need to clone 24 other Ted Lilly’s. nuff said.

by desmoCubbie on Jun 14, 2009 12:20 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

This needed to happen a long time ago

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The firing of Gerald Perry does absolutely nothing

nobody can make Miles, Freel, Blanco, Scales effective ML batters

I'm a lefty, maybe Lou should give me a shot for a position in the bullpen!!

by Chanman25 on Jun 14, 2009 12:25 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

i'd rather have blanco and scales than

freel and miles…dunno why u are grouping all 4 of them together…

by desmoCubbie on Jun 14, 2009 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You don't get much more with either,

the bench is so depleted its ridiculous, but I don’t want to beat a dead horse..

I'm a lefty, maybe Lou should give me a shot for a position in the bullpen!!

by Chanman25 on Jun 14, 2009 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah it is depleted...

but you gotta work w/ what ya got and with what the cubs have, I think blanco and scales are the obvious choices…except for you know…hendry and lou and all the ppl that make the decisions.

by desmoCubbie on Jun 14, 2009 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah, but they should have patched it up with better options

Not Brian Roberts or an All-star, but an available player such as Kouzemanoff or Mark DeRosa (yes I know!!)

I'm a lefty, maybe Lou should give me a shot for a position in the bullpen!!

by Chanman25 on Jun 14, 2009 12:31 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rotoworld puts it best

“The Cubs fired hitting coach Gerald Perry on Sunday and named Triple-A Iowa hitting coach Von Joshua as his replacement.
Milton Bradley deserves the most credit for Perry joining the ranks of the unemployed, but Geovany Soto, Mike Fontenot, Alfonso Soriano and Aaron Miles have surely played roles as well. Perry was in his third year as the Cubs’ hitting coach. He presided over what was the game’s best offense in 2008 (the Rangers scored more runs, but they had the DH and a terrific ballpark for hitters aiding them). "

I'm a lefty, maybe Lou should give me a shot for a position in the bullpen!!

by Chanman25 on Jun 14, 2009 12:28 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

It's a shame that they fired perry

If you absolutely have to fire someone, then the most deserving candidate is Lou. If the firing orders came from the top brass then both Lou and Hendry should be fired together. I still think this will happen if the players don’t figure their s*** out by the all star break. Once we get a new GM in place then all gentlemen agreements Hendry might have with the players will be thrown out of the window.

by cubsnlinux on Jun 14, 2009 12:31 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Lou won't be fired, he'll be here for next season I believe

I'm a lefty, maybe Lou should give me a shot for a position in the bullpen!!

by Chanman25 on Jun 14, 2009 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Doubtful

Lou will ride into the sunset at the end of this season.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

who replaces him?

Trammel??

I'm a lefty, maybe Lou should give me a shot for a position in the bullpen!!

by Chanman25 on Jun 14, 2009 12:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Mr or Mrs outside hire

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 14, 2009 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed.

If this thing doesn’t turn around, Lou leaves after this season. He’s getting too old for this crap, and I think he knows it. Hell, I feel that way sometimes and I’m only half his age.

"We are not equations with hats." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Jun 14, 2009 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Has today's lineup been announced?

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Jun 14, 2009 12:36 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I heard on the Score that the lineup today had the same bunch of bozos as yesterday.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Jun 14, 2009 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Beautiful

I guess Lou figures that they’re all due! LOL!

"He can't hit, he can't field, he can't run—all he can do is beat you."

by Itchy on Jun 14, 2009 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

On Gameday

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2009_06_14_minmlb_chnmlb_1&mode=gameday

"No enemy is more dangerous, than the enemy that has nothing to lose." Mark Grace

by GateCity, VA Cubs Fan on Jun 14, 2009 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why Lou? Why?

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Shhhhh! Don't talk to Lou. He's taking a nap.

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Jun 14, 2009 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

except for Miles

because these guys are supposed to be the best on the team.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hate to say this...

But for the first time since 2003, I have absolutely no interest in watching this game. I didn’t think it would come to this, but I’d rather clean my house than watch the Cubs. I have no interest in this team anymore… I’m sure they’ll get back to their winning way, and that’s all well and good… but until they make a move that HELPS the team, I’m washing my hands. I hope they win today, just not really interested in seeing Lou run the same bunch of clowns out there everyday and then take a nap in the dugout. I’d rather see Alan Trammel lose 120 games with these team and show some interest, than have Lou nap through another game with no interest in anything but where he’s eating after the game.

by lswaidz on Jun 14, 2009 12:53 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Here's an idea...

Perhaps Lou is just as frustrated as we all are, and is at his wit’s end. He obviously doesn’t blow up like he used to, and have “Lou moments”, but I think he is at a loss as to this team at this particular point. With Perry now gone, I think that Lou demanded it. Why? I believe that Lou was against the Bradley signing, and that Hendry and Perry talked him into it. Now, Lou sees the big mess, and demanded a change…

I don’t think Lou is napping, I think he’s just pissed that he let a decision be made basically for him, and got screwed against his better judgment.

I'm a truth teller, I'm a risk taker, I'm like Johnny Cash - I walk the line...

by Jimmyeatworld on Jun 14, 2009 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Isn't it the managers job to manage the team?

All he seems to be doing lately is filling out a lineup card… At least Dusty chewing his toothpick proved he was breathing the dugout most of the time. Maybe I’m frustrated, but I just have no interest in seeing the same losing product over and over again. Certain players have proven they can produce this year, and I just can’t understand why 2009 Neifi Perez and Sammy Sosa keep getting trotted out there… It just doesn’t make any sense to me. I’d like to see him at least doing SOMETHING to shake things up… otherwise Jim is going to be firing another coach and I highly doubt it’s going to be Larry Rothschild.

by lswaidz on Jun 14, 2009 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what, exactly

are we expecting to happen? Lou cannot bat for them. He cannot throw for them. He cannot field for them.

A manager is part therapist, part boss, part father figure. I have a son, and I’m constantly amazed at the ways he can misinterpret my meaning, and how he can come up with ways to do what he thinks I’m asking him to do as opposed to what I’m actually asking him to do.

I just… what are we expecting to happen? Lou cannot MAKE them play well.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think I'd rather see Lou up there taking hacks

Than Soriano in a slump. Betcha that Piniella kid could lay off the slider away.

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

probably

but he’s not allowed. :P

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Im more upset at Lou

for the roster moves, we dont need this many pitchers if he isnt going to use any of them

"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."

by jkobus on Jun 14, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

alright.

so, we send Waddell down. What next? Jake Fox doesn’t appear to be able to play a position.

I'm a Cubs FANATIC. They are my team, through thick and thin. When they play over their heads, and when they play under the gutter. When they win the division, and then get swept in the division series. When they get no-hitters and when they blow no-hitters. And some day, when they go all the way and get those rings. This is the kind of fan I am.

by drewishdrewid on Jun 14, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Anyone is better than Miles

And I mean I keep thinking these guys will come out of their slumps

"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."

by jkobus on Jun 14, 2009 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We'll never know until he actually plays a position

At this point, Fox’s offense may outweigh any defensive deficiencies.

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 Jun 14, 2009 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I sympathize with you. Maybe just watch the game for its comedic value?

Maybe someone will do something silly like overslide 2nd base, miss a bunt, misplay a ball in LF, forget the number of outs, spin himself into the batters box, flail at pitches outside the strike zone? That has some entertainment value….

"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.

by zevkalman on Jun 14, 2009 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

"Ted Lilly Will Save Us"

pitching aint gonna save anything, its the hitting that needs to, pitching has done great

Go Cubs Go, Fly Eagles Fly, http://twitter.com/mlbtrivia

by ManBearPigMBP on Jun 14, 2009 12:56 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

ur right, that's why

ted lilly is batting cleanup

by desmoCubbie on Jun 14, 2009 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe he can rap out another three-bagger

"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root

by Clutch16 on Jun 14, 2009 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I am pretty sure

watching this game might just create another hangover for me.

by williamzabka42 on Jun 14, 2009 1:06 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Good Lord

What a bunch of angry people we have in here today. And on a beautiful Sunday, no less.

If you get so agitated about watching this team, why do you bother watching? Spend time with your kids. Go for a walk. Take out your frustrations on a golf course. Make love to your spouse.

Anything rather than watch something that makes you spew bile and spout nonsense.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 14, 2009 1:07 PM CDT reply actions   1 recs

SHHH!

This is the Cubs bashing board for Sox and Cardinals fans, I think.

by Mike Martin on Jun 14, 2009 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I feel sorry for Jason Waddell...

He just had be the catcher for quite the number of “first pitch” moments, was running all over, shaking hands, etc…

Hopefully he’s not too winded for when Lou decides not to use him. :-p

by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 14, 2009 1:07 PM CDT reply actions   1 recs

FTW!

"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome

by Goodie1969 on Jun 14, 2009 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah man

The flag totally knows and gets totally pissed off if you don’t remove a random article of clothing during a song.

by williamzabka42 on Jun 14, 2009 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's not the point

It’s called respect. Have some.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 14, 2009 1:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But

How is not removing a hat disrespectful? It makes no sense.

by williamzabka42 on Jun 14, 2009 1:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

For the National Anthem?

That’s pretty much universal everywhere you go. It’s like wearing a hat at the dinner table or in church.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 14, 2009 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I am not going to argue

But just doing something for no reason other than “its universal” is not something I want to take part in. Not being confrontational, just seems like another way to tell someone “do this or your an unamerican scumbag.” It is a hat. Honestly there are worse things to get indignant about, like why in ten years Soriano hasn’t learned to lay off a ball in the dirt.

by williamzabka42 on Jun 14, 2009 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You're free to do whatever you want

I’m free to think you’re disrespectful and perhaps not of good character. Decisions have consequences.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 14, 2009 1:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well, you asked

I’m not in the mood for an argument, either, but decisions do have consequences. And I don’t think I’m alone in making that judgment.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 14, 2009 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here you go

Jump

"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."

by jkobus on Jun 14, 2009 1:15 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

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