Five Questions With "Talking Chop": Cubs/Braves Series Preview

I look forward to seeing Jurrjens pitch

Last year we got lucky and he slipped on a step IIRC. I saw his numbers this morning and I can’t wait. Of course I’ll like watching him better if we win the game.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 8:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And...

…I believe this was the same game that Soriano was hit in the hand/wrist.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Correct, by Jeff Bennett, the guy who filled in for Jurrjens that day.

"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra

by Al on Jun 2, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow

Well talk about short term gain, long term loss. Why are the Braves always hitting us?

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah.

Had Jurrjens been pitching, he probably has more control and doesn’t hit Soriano. We ended up sweeping that series against the Braves, but the loss of Soriano hurt.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've answered this elsewhere

But it comes down to a mini-rivalry in the postseason and the boisterousness (is that even a word?) of our fanbase.

"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 2, 2009 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If Cubs fans are the reason that Braves players are hitting cubs players

Then I wish the wrath of 10 Ted Lilly’s on the Braves.

I think its more that Yunel Escobar has a bad temper, especially since I saw him try to fight the Reds three days in a row in April.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I really liked this, Al!

This here is a good idea. I wish it was possible for you to do this at least once for each team before a series.

It’s so nice, after a lot of the anger and back-and-forth bickering that seems to have permeated a lot of the threads recently, to hear what other people think of the Cubs and what they wonder about.

I thought it was a breath of fresh air.

Kudos.

"From childhood's hour I have not been as others were - I have not seen as others saw." - Alone, Edgar Allan Poe

by Edgewood on Jun 2, 2009 8:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Thanks.

I’ve done this before with other bloggers… since it seems well-received so far, maybe I’ll try it again.

"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra

by Al on Jun 2, 2009 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Definitely a positive.

Thanks for this. :)

Believe or Leave ~Cubswynn 9/9/2008

by slcathena on Jun 2, 2009 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I really enjoy reading both of them

I enjoy the questions they ask you and your answers… they give me something to ponder. Also I get a chance to learn something about a team I’m not to familar with. I hope that you can do it again w/ some teams outside the NL Central so we could get a chance to learn more about them.

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think one excellent time to do it....

… will be during the interleague series, since we don’t see those teams very often. I’ll try to do that.

"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra

by Al on Jun 2, 2009 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just don't do it with Evil BCB again

Since that guy had a number of d-bag questions before last season started.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A little research for my own good

this morning yielded a little support for what Lou said the Cubs are doing lately. Last 12 games DLee is hitting .363; last 8 games Bradley .357; last 8 games Fontenot .375; Theriot in last 9 games is hitting .353 and even Geo in last 9 games is hitting .275 (probably more “average” for his future). I realize small sample and missing power but we are starting to collectively hit the ball.

When we play Atlanta at home on July 6 it would be interesting for Al to ask the same questions about who the Braves would like to have and see if one of the five above mentioned “battered cubs” names appears on the list.

This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).

by mrcubsfan on Jun 2, 2009 8:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Theriot and Bradley noticably took off at home

Fontenot started hitting the end of the Padres series. When Lee hasn’t been sick he has been going. Now if only Geo would hit for some power we would be okay.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kelly Johnson!

Good comment over at Talking Chop, Al. I’ve been wondering why KJ gets no love in Atlanta — I agree entirely with your assessment of him.

Thanks for the tips about Atlanta/Turner Field. If I get any good pics I’ll post them here!

Don't Panic!

by Nuke LaLoosh on Jun 2, 2009 8:55 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Kelly Johnson is unloved here for a couple of reasons

But it comes down to the fact that he can’t handle pressure. Anytime the ball is hit to him in a situation which could be game-changing, he seems to always make the wrong decision or just plain bobble the ball. And his RBI numbers are invariably disappointing. Cox likes him for the things Al mentioned. The fans dislike him because he just can’t produce, especially when it could make a difference.

"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 2, 2009 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nuke--I loved you in Bull Durham.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mmmm...that was a humdinger.

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 2, 2009 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The last 3 seasons

It seems the Cubs have been in a similar situation. Each year trying to fill a void from the previous year only to have something they thought they could count on, fail. Just not being to put everything together in the same season. (Last year probably coming the closest to it, until October anyway.) This year the offense and bullpen.

Despite the fact we all think letting DeRo go was a horrible mistake, he would not make up for Lee, Milton, Soto and Soriano all batting under .250. I still think they will all get better. Maybe their season stats won’t reflect it but the Cubs record should.

The bullpen troubles should fall on Hendry and Lou. I hope that is where the focus lies when the trade deadline comes around.

Jair for Renteria? I never knew this but wow, that was a good deal. Renteria was and is still serviceable but Yunel Escobar has been great @ SS the past couple years. I also really liked the Derek Lowe signing, I think he’s another Ted Lilly. I know, there is no such thing as another Ted Lilly, but if there was, it would probably be Lowe.

Great exchange Al and Martin, thanks for doing this.

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

by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 9:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'd like Escobar playing SS for the Cubs

Good defense (and arm) and an above-average bat for a middle infielder.

"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 2, 2009 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I would too

but SS is the least of our worries right now.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So would most teams in baseball...

Brian McRae's 5 o'clock shadow

by PurpleLineToWrigley on Jun 2, 2009 3:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Darn

wanted to post over @ Talkin Chop but will have to wait 24 HRS to do so.

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by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 9:04 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, me too. I think it's that specific SBN's discretion to require a mandatory 24 hours or not. I don't remember every SBN blog doing that?

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Each blog sets its own policy.

"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra

by Al on Jun 2, 2009 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Really Al?

You’d take Kelly Johnson over McCann or Jurrjens? Johnson is a decent player, but McCann is the most valuable catcher in baseball, and Jurrjens is ont of the most underrated arms in the game.

Some people have 3 layers, like pie. Blog Blog Blog

by berselius on Jun 2, 2009 9:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well, the Cubs presumably have a good catcher.

Eventually, if Soto starts hitting, they wouldn’t need McCann.

And the Cubs also have good starting pitching. I was trying to fill a need — a good bench player.

"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra

by Al on Jun 2, 2009 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Koyie Hill has been good

but it wouldnt hurt to have an all star catcher backing up another all star catcher/rookie of the year. hahaha

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by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice Post!!

I would do a Dome deal to Atlanta with them picking up all his remaining salary and giving us anything of facing saving value.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 9:26 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Go on....?

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Excuse me?

You’d give them our best hitter? Fukudome has been outstanding so far this year.

"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra

by Al on Jun 2, 2009 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not that I would Love too but...........

He has a large contract and playing well right now. We seemingly have near no money for the future. Reed can play CF. What if he reverts back?? Just a thought.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What if he doesn't revert back?

What if Ramirez never plays again? What if Zambrano gets carpal tunnel again?

Questionable reasoning at best to trade someone.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Jun 2, 2009 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

All I'm saying..

Is we need to have some form of backup plan. We have near none. Our bullpen needs a face lift. Again we have no money and no prospects to obtain quality players.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If in July, the bullpen is the only glaring weakness,

it won’t cost $12,000,000 to fix it.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Jun 2, 2009 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I believe

the Pen can be fixed with the players we have, and we certainly don’t need to trade Dome to do it even if we do go outside the system.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll go so far as to say

If Lou limits most of the important bullpen innings to Guzman, Marmol, Marshall, and the ninth to Gregg, then the bullpen is fine.

The problem is the days where those guys can’t pitch, perhaps we get enough starting pitching to limit the Heilman, Patton, Waddel innings.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

I’d particularly like to see Lou use them one or two batters at a time. Maybe it helps them string along some good outings and build some confidence. It sometimes feels like Lou is just lazy to go back out to the mound more than one time in an inning. As much as I’d like a 3 inning save from Heilman, I’d be happy to just see him out there to get one big out.

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

by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If Lou tries to get a three inning save from Aaron Heilman

then somebody needs to take away his dugout margaritas.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I could go for a dugout margarita

What’s in that? Tequila, triple sec, sweet-n-sour, and a couple of sunflower seeds?

"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 2, 2009 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

and Gatorade.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 2, 2009 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

not anymore

(weeps)

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

there's still Gatorade

just not the cool dispenser

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

by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it's not the same, I tell you!

not the same!

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In fantasy baseball, sure

Sell High. But you get rid of him today and who’s your hot bat? Who replaces .946 OPS? After Dome you have 1 regular, Theriot, with an OPS over .8

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by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sell high...

Sounds like what people were saying with DeRo.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

but it's come out

that DeRosa was traded because they wanted to give Fonty a shot at the daily 2B position.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure but you clearly they coupled that with the idea

to sell DeRo high when they got all the inquiries about him in the offseason. One in particular that is slipping my mind right now.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

*clearly can see they...

typo

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

well of course

you try to sell high. But they did so thinking that Fontenot was a complete replacement.

We don’t have a Dome replacement.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

were platooning him now.........

In a perfect world this trade idea is ignorant but were in a financial mess and need some players to make a run. We have no prospects or money to make trades work. We have a small window to get to a world series before this team will be in shambles. I like Dome as much as the next guy but let’s not forget his entire 2nd half and his near 30 million left on his contract.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

last year is last year

and if we’re not forgetting it, neither is anyone else. So any potential trade partner will wait till the deadline to see if he can keep it going.

I think trading him is a huge mistake.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Drew, I'm not sure you realize that was my original point.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

your original point

is that you want to trade Dome because you want the money.

I think that’s a mistake.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nope.

I was saying selling high was one of the main reasons we traded DeRo and look how that turned out.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh, I see

well, apparently some of the kids we got for him are doing well in the minors.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I looked them up

and you’re right, all 3 doing well. Archer and Stevens especially.

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by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Archer

has the chance to really be something special. Of course, he could also burn out and never make the majors. But if he can stay healthy and cut his walk rate even a little . . . Watch out.

by Josh77 on Jun 2, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

why would you do that?

Dome has been a force for us.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

30 million reasons why

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So should we give them Sori also?

I think sometimes people play too much fantasy baseball and start to think that MLB is actually like that

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Since Sori has a 1.191 OPS in Turner field

I’m betting they wouldn’t mind having him.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

how is that..

fantasy baseball?? Braves need a OF bat. They have a pitcher who is best friends with dome. Dome has a monster contract and were platooning a 48 million dollar player. We have no money for acquisitions. We need several acquisitions. You can’t wait until he reverts back to his 2nd half of last year style to trade him. You sell high not low. Why do you people think Hendry can make trades for helpful players and give up near nothing? We have no minor league help past Vitters.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It depends on two things

A trade of Dome is basically waving the white flag, perhaps if Aramis was out for the season it would be more justified. Second if you believe that dome will fall off in the second half, then you are for sure making a good deal.

I’m on your side here if you are working under the assumption that nothing will come of this season.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You and Ivy Walls should get together and come up with more ideas.

I’d subscribe to your blog.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you have something to add...

feel free to do so but if you keep attacking me as if I were stupid I will attack back!!!

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry, it was a joke. Reminiscent of Ivy Walls' "out there" idea the other day. I just can't take this seriously.

If the purpose is to get contracts off the books, the idea of trading Fukudome is a poor one. He is performing well right now, yes, or in your words, “selling high”. However, he is anything but a proven commodity in the arena that is MLB. No one is gonna take a guy that’s owed $24M in 2011 and 2012 without seeing a full season of production from him.

Zambrano, Soriano, Aramis, and Lee all have full NTCs. Lilly, Bradley, and Dempster, however, are on the books for another year or more and do not have such clauses.

If you are interested in getting rid of contracts that are of high value (and don’t have full NTCs), someone like Lilly—whom makes almost exactly the same amount as Fukudome—would be a much, much better option. He’s a proven winner and has friggin’ excelled while here in Chicago. Lilly would probably command the most in return out of the cards we have available to deal.

I just can’t even fathom a GM thinking about taking on $24M+ for a guy like Dome that’s still a crapshoot. This is fantasy ball stuff.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was really surprised

that Lilly wasn’t traded in the offseason. I was happy about it, but I was surprised.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If Ted got traded

I would die. Not to mention we don’t want to be on Ted’s bad side.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Like said above

I like Dome as much as the next guy and this does sound like fantasy but were in a crappy place right now. We have an estimated 1-3 year window before this team is done. Can we agree on that??

We have seemingly no money or prospects outside of Vitters to make any real moves. (none of us want get rid of Vitters) Can we agree on that??

In any trade were gonna either have to take on money or give up real prospects. Can we agree on that??

As far as players, were seemingly near our last line of defense so to speak. So if we have too many more injuries were screwed. We all know were gonna have them. Can we agree on that??

I brought up unloading Dome to free up money. You brought up giving up our #2 starter. What other ways can we improve this team without money or prospects?
This is a conversation I’ve been wanting to have.

p.s. Is Derosa gonna be Cardinal in your opinion??

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes that I agree on....

but my problem with your post was that in reality…. is this something that a GM would ever do especially in the middle of a season? That is why I used Sori as an example. No GM in his right mind would do either.

If your questions is what ways can we impove this time otherwise… that is a whole different thing. But saying lets trade Dome. At least from what I am reading sounds more like fantasy baseball.

Btw I read an article the other day on maybe Braves would throw their hat in the ring to get DeRo back.

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It does sound fantasy

but were at that point here. we have no more replacements. We have no money and no prospects. I’m not ledge jumping, I love my Cubs and I think we can win this year but were gonna need some outside help. I think right now we need good health, 2-3 bullpen arms, and a couple mid level bats.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

1 – We’ve already been bitten by the injury bug, and everyone outside of Aramis is performing very well upon their return from injury.

2 – Our bullpen does suck.

3 – We don’t need mid-level bats if the middle of the lineup continues to stay hot.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

but..

Like I said were gonna have to make some moves and that will require creativity. Creativity that we will not like probably.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

not at the expense

of Dome, we don’t. And, as has been suggested, I can’t imagine a GM taking a flier on a player who is unproven in the summer and fall.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lmao

In one breathe oh we can’t get rid of Dome he’s our best hitter, the world will come to end!! In the other breathe no gm would want him because he is so unproven. Gotta Love it!!

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 12:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Right now

Dome is producing very well for us, although he’s down from April.

But GMs don’t trade for players they don’t know can play well for the entire season. Dome’s rookie year exposed a weakness, and it’s unknown if he really has fixed it.

I don’t see why that’s so off the mark.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't Understand why..

my point is being flamed so bad when I’ve clearly made a good argument to prove my point.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Admittedly

I haven’t read every single post… but I haven’t seen anyone really “flame” you.

No one else likes your idea. That doesn’t mean they’ve roasted you.

by Allie on Jun 2, 2009 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

no one's flaming you

we just don’t think you’re right.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

but...

you have said nothing to fix our problems but sit back and wait and hope they get better. I will go as far as to say you take this current team plus ramirez into the playoffs we will be watching another quick exit! I feel strongly about that and I’m not one that runs to this board everyday and pisses and moans about every bad play we make!

This is the worst bullpen I’ve seen in years and worst bench for that matter.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

But we have lot's of LH hitting.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 2, 2009 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

not really

as I’ve said, I think our problems are fixed from within. Scales and Blanco can cover second with Fonty at third till Rami comes back, and moving Marshall into the pen stabilizes that.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

not quite sure what you mean by flaming

the worst said to you was Mr. Big Picture. All we’ve done is tell you we don’t agree with your idea and we don’t agree with your idea.

I could say let’s try Geo @ 3rd instead of catching… I’m guessing a lot of people would also debate me on why this would be a crazy idea.

For the record I DON’T want to try Geo @ 3rd LOL

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not giving up on this team, so I'm not interested in selling the farm.

I have no idea how much monies we have or do not have; that’s private information and complicated by the team sale. Furthermore, I know our farm system isn’t well-respected, but it’s produced guys that come out of nowhere, so I don’t paint as gloomy (or bright) a picture for the future. Even so, we simply don’t have pieces that most people would want—key guys aren’t performing well, the rest are pricey and/or have full NTCs.

Yes, we have a small window left, and last year really seemed like the year we could break open in the playoffs. It’ll be interesting to see the two-face, dichotomous nature of this team in 2008 compared to 2011 or 2012. Scares the crap outta me.

What other ways can we improve this team without money or prospects?

To get guys to play up to their potential or capabilities.

Dan

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

so b/c he has a buddy on the time we offer him instead of Sori

How do we know that Sori doesn’t have a buddy on the team? If money is what we are looking at that also be a way to free some up.

How is that fantasy baseball? B/c you are guessing that it might be possible after players rookie year to gauge how a player is going to play in the second half and sell him high is a good idea. In fantasy baseball that would be ok to take a chance on that. On the other hand in actual baseball, that tends to not work so well.

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 10:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

narrow minded....

Look at the big picture! I’m just pointing out reasons why it could possibly work. I’m not talking fantasy baseball, I’m looking at the team as a whole. We have to many eggs in 1 basket if that makes sense. We just slotted our spot starter into the rotation and took our starter and patched up 1 of the many holes in the pen. We have players playing all over the field in spots their not accustomed too. We have no money or prospects for acquisitions. Were gonna have to be creative.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well Mr. Big Picture .......

tell me why Sori isn’t as good as an idea then?

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

maybe because of his....

near 90 million left on his contract.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

but that is three times the $$$ of Dome's and we are freeing up $$$$

to get other players.

Is that not your whole point? Or am I misunderstanding something about this?

Not that I would Love too but……….. He has a large contract and playing well right now. We seemingly have near no money for the future.

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think its safe to say

No one is gonna take on the Sori Commitment. Dome maybe.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

except

Sori has a consistent track record. He’s been an all-star for multiple years.

Dome does not have a consistent track record. No one’s going to take a flier on him.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I seriously doubt they would take either

Hence why I pick Sori as the example. Also that is why it is like playing fantasy baseball….. b/c both scenios in the real world would likely never happen. But Dome might be a good idea if one was playing fantasy baseball

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why are you even talking about this?

We’re 4.5 games out, Rami will be back. We shouldn’t be trading Sori or Dome.

Believe or Leave ~Cubswynn 9/9/2008

by slcathena on Jun 2, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just Brainstorming

being proactive is better than being reactive isn’t it?

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

there's a difference between

being proactive and panicking.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not panicking

Harden is gonna be hurt sometime this year. Rami will be back in a Month or so. Will Z, Guzman, D Lee, Bradley, and Sori etc. be hurt for 2 weeks or more in the upcoming weeks/months? Track records say yes. Do we have money or prospects o make deals? NOO!! This is the time to think about these things. Let’s stop crying about past deals or expecting Hendry to pull a rabbit out of a hat after the fact.

Remember there were alot of you that made the same arguments about keeping PIE. made every excuse in the world not to trade him when his value was high. How good is he right now?? Crucify Hendry for that one since you seem to be so willing about the derosa trade.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

who is crucifying Hendry for DeRosa?

I’m not.

I remain convinced that Pie never really got his shot.

We have to expect this team to play up to its potential.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's all I've seen

this year every single day on here is how we shouldn’t of made the deal. Pie has had his shot—he is horrible period. A bust with a capital B!

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

then you have selective seeing.

Because plenty of people have said that they understand why Hendry traded DeRo. And a whole lot more haven’t suggested any opinion at all.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ny mention

of trading pie on bcb got you flamed and talked to like you were a baseball idiot. How did that turn out?

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't know

how did it turn out?

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pie is getting his shot right now

and his .581 OPS this season tell me he isn’t good, I just wish we could have traded him eariler and gotten more than Aaron Heilman back.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm gonna give him

more than half a season.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well, at this point...

…I’m not really expecting Felix to explode offensively. But he does have less than 100 PAs, and he’s playing in a pretty tough division. I’ve let go emotionally, but let’s see where he ends 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 2, 2009 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh no

most on BCB would have had a heart attack. Can’t trade a future superstar.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I still wish

we hadn’t traded him. After all, we ended up dumping Gathright altogether.

Nevertheless, there was a lot of debate about Pie.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it's not narrow-minded

to think that any potential trade partners for Fukudome are going to want to know how he performs in the second half of his second year.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

so what?

the money is irrelevant. All major league baseball players get paid too much money.

Dome is a great player. If he really has made good adjustments, and can keep hitting, he’s EXTREMELY valuable. Trading him away — GIVING him away — is a huge mistake.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Money is very relevant

Until we get the ownership situation resolved there isn’t much wiggle room in the budget.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

until Rami comes back, there isn’t much wiggle room in the batting lineup.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Like I said above

Trading Fukudome would only be justified if you were saying the season is over. Then I’d be all for it for the right prospects.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

See now that I could agree on.

Ten games under @ trade deadline….. then those are things the Cubs would have to seriously look at.

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Interesting that you would want to trade Dome now after his start. It seems like no matter

how they perform, there’s always some fan somewhere who wants to trade a player for who knows why. We have there ideas in our head of what we want for a player and if they don’t measure up 100% it’s “Let’s trade him for something!” That attitude is great if you are trading baseball cards, but in the real world, not so much. We have the luxury of having no patience and wanting things to change immediately. Baseball is a slow-moving process that belies instant gratification. We seem to always forget that fact.

"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris

by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jun 2, 2009 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess in the real world

every team team takes our Bobby Scales, Jake Fox , Micah Hoffpauier’s and give us what we need and pick up the salary for us too huh?? You know since we have absolutely no money to pick up any solid players for a late year run. You know like almost a whole bullpen or some bench help etc.

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

we don't need a whole bullpen.

with Marshall going to the Pen, our relief pitching is fine. Marshall, Marmol, Guzman and Gregg should be able to handle almost anything.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Marshall to the pen...

Isn’t a permanent fixture or at least don’t need to be. I’m all for doing it now but not for the long haul. Plus who spot starts?? We all know were going to need a lot of spot starting. Guzman is an unknown on may levels. Can he hold up and not get injured? Can he keep up the good work etc?

Marmol can’t pitch every single day and go into a short Playoff series in a tight situation and give us 2 innings every night too. We have to have someone else besides Marmol to 100% depend on. There isn’t another arm in that pen I feel safe with.

In trades the other party is trading for 2 reasons—either to unload salary or get prospects. Breaking News we have neither!

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

dood

EVERY player is a crap shoot. Look at Ramirez. No one could have prepared for this. 99% of the time, he makes that play, stands up and dusts himself off.

Guzman looks like he’s figured it out. I don’t think the team should be held responsible because you don’t feel confident in him , Marshall or Gregg.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You can prepare for Aramis much better than Hendry did

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

probably

sure. I agree that they were focused too much on the lefty thing.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The fact they didn't is something that does perplex me

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I can see the thought process now

Hmm lets take our best RBI man and most important middle of the order bat, who happens to get injured once or twice a season, and plan to back him up with a 5-5 midget or a career minor leaguer.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Which would've been fine

had Rami not gotten knocked out for 2 months.

He misses time every year, but I can’t remember the last time he was out for 8+ weeks in a row.

Font/Scales/Fox could’ve weathered the storm while Rami dealt with a 2 week calf strain.

by Allie on Jun 2, 2009 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't know that for two weeks they would have filled in fine

But every other position has an acceptable long term replacement except third base. Whats up with that?

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

it seems to me

that Fontenot is doing fine. Freel and Miles haven’t succeeded, but a Blanco/Scales platoon at 2nd while Fonty is at third seems to be doing fine as well.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't know

Probably just banking on the idea that Rami rarely goes down for extended amounts of time.

Gambles like that always suck.

by Allie on Jun 2, 2009 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is the second time

in four years they’ve lost that gamble. I understand that you can’t plan a complete production replacement for Aramis or 2006 Lee, but there has to be a better plan than waiting 2 months and trading for Phil Nevin or hoping Mike Fontenot can learn a new position on the job.

And without suggesting the DeRosa thing again, the two years he was here we avoided a ton of damage with Soriano out because of him, that happened because there was a backup plan.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not to mention the Prior/Wood years

We did a good job with Harden this year having a backup plan for when he got hurt.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Miles was supposed to be that guy.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow you're right

So it all comes back to him. I think that along with Soto’s lack of power is what makes the replacements look so poor. If Soto was hitting doubles and driving in runs there wouldn’t be as big an issue.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oh, absolutely

Or if Rami weren’t hurt, Lee might be batting lower in the order, or Milton, and the not-so-much-with-the-bats would be broken up more.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The thing is

though, you can “easier” replace a corner OF or a starting pitcher (esp when you have as much pitching as we have) than you can an All-Star 3B cleanup hitter.

by Allie on Jun 2, 2009 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry

i just realized how “know-it-all” smartass this reads.

I just mean that I’m not really upset about not having backup plans in case Lee or Rami miss significant time. With Fonz, if/when he hurts hurt you can have someone else hit leadoff and survive. When Harden goes down, you can have Wells/Marshall pitch maybe more innings instead. But losing 3/4 in your lineup is harder, IMHO. And they’ve both usually been reliably healthy, so why would you sign someone to fill in completely for them for 3 months?

by Allie on Jun 2, 2009 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No you are right

Those slots are easier to fill, and like I said above, I think if Soto was driving runs in and hitting for power it would be easier to see Blanco/Scales/Miles/Freel play.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hopefully

now that Bradley is heating up, maybe Geo will start to loosen up? Maybe he’s just been trying too hard to live up to the hype?

(Yeah, reaching for straws here…)

by Allie on Jun 2, 2009 1:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I am surprised

that he didn’t even mention Marmol as a player they would covet. Goodness.
I would trade Dome and Theriot for Escobar and a young arm.

"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"

by Grockcubs on Jun 2, 2009 9:27 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yeah I thought that covet line was a little silly.

I think there is one player on every MLB team I’d covet.

"Pounding sand since 1982...."

by cubswynn on Jun 2, 2009 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Statswise, the Braves and Cubs are very similar thus far in the season.

Nearly identical records, pretty close to same R/G, ATL is a bit better in OPS+ than we are, and as good as we like to think our overall pitching is, our ERA+ is only one percentage point better than ATLs.

Last thing I expected was to be on par wtih the friggin’ Atlanta Braves on June 2. Sigh.

Dan

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 9:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This series may prove pivotal for both clubs

I’d like for the Cubs to show some creamy goodness, sweep, and take off.

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

by chilango2 on Jun 2, 2009 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you and me

both

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They took

2 of 3 from the red hot best record in baseball Dodgers. Played competitively in 3 of the 4, no reason we can’t get hot and sweep… but I’ll take a series win right now.

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

by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

FWIW, the Cubs were a perfect 6-0 against the Braves last season.

Of course, with our luck, that was all Mark DeRosa and Aramis Ramirez. (<— Joke.)

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 2, 2009 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

First time the Cubs franchise has had a season sweep against the Braves franchise

For two teams that go back as far as these two do, that’s saying something. Of course, they played each other a lot more times per season before divisional play started.

"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 2, 2009 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wanna hear something worse?

It’s June 2, and the Cubs have the same number of wins as the San Diego Padres.

Hang in there, Cubs fans.

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 2, 2009 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't see Kelly Johnson's versatility...

He’s played 2b and LF his entire career, the majority being 2b. Doesn’t really help us. We’ve already got 8000 second basemen.

Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team

by carmen_fanzone on Jun 2, 2009 9:56 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs

Can someone tell me where to find SoS-like data? I want to compare difficulty of schedules for teams, kinda like college football, but can’t find this info. I’d like to know how strong our schedule and opponents have been; I’m assuming we have had a pretty difficult schedule thus far. I know BP has EQR/EQRA, but that’s not the same thing here.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 10:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

ESPN does something like this

Apparently, the Cubs lead the league in their SoS rankings at the moment. Don’t have the ability to post a link about it at the moment, but someone recently posted a FanPost/FanShot with the info.

"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 2, 2009 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks, but "Ugh" to ESPN.

Found it here, but there’s literally no explanation of how they do this. We’re #2 in SoS, but the stat’s a bit empty without an explanation.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Betcha it's just overall opponent W/L

But, yeah – no reason not to explain a stat.

"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 2, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Eh?

At the bottom of the table is this:

W: Wins, L: Losses, PCT: Winning percentage, RPI: Relative Power Index+, SOS: Strength of schedule , PWR: ESPN Power Ranking , RS: Runs scored, RA: Runs allowed, EXW-L: Expected W-L*, EXWP: Expected winning percentage*

+The basic formula is 25% team winning percentage, 50% opponents’ average winning percentage, and 25% opponents’ opponents’ average winning percentage.

*ExW-L and ExWP are derived from Bill James’ Pythagorean theorem of baseball: Runs scored [squared] / (Runs scored [squared] + runs allowed [squared]). This formula was designed to relate a team’s runs scored and runs allowed to its won-lost record.

by dr stabbingworth on Jun 2, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No explanation of how they got the SoS stat

And one of their intrinsic stats for the overall ranking is based on a poll. Very scientific stuff there.

"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 2, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

There is nothing that explains SoS. At all.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe ask on a site like beyond the boxscore

I bet a site like that would either have the answer or be able to direct you to where to find it.

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 12:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

speaking of which

seems they’ve had a similar discussion there

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by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ah, I missed that part of the conversation

by dr stabbingworth on Jun 2, 2009 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Something tells me

Peavy won’t be league average if he came here. He’d be better than Zambrano.

Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008

by Unique on Jun 2, 2009 12:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I guess we'll never know

by jerry morales rules on Jun 2, 2009 1:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You never know.

Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008

by Unique on Jun 2, 2009 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So he'll never know what we'll never know?

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 2, 2009 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

how do you know that?

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol

Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008

by Unique on Jun 2, 2009 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Several of the Braves fans...

…. commenting on my answers to the questions posed to me by Talking Chop had the same comments about Peavy.

"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra

by Al on Jun 2, 2009 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well,

that might be true. But Peavy is one hell of a pitcher. I just don’t think he would be league average… despite how different his home/road splits look.

He would be the best starter on this staff — even though we don’t even need him.

Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008

by Unique on Jun 2, 2009 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I disagree.

We’ll never know for sure until he pitches for a team that doesn’t have Petco as its home park. Petco has a park factor of 89 this year — it’s the most extreme pitchers’ park in the majors.

Peavy has a 2.73 ERA at Petco this year and a 4.15 ERA on the road. That mirrors his career numbers (2.79 at home, 3.84 on the road).

I think any team that has a hitters’ park that gets Peavy is going to be real disappointed.

"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra

by Al on Jun 2, 2009 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Peavy

sure looked good against us that last start!!

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 4:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In PETCO.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 2, 2009 5:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

for the record

he would of looked good vs us in little wrigley!

I sit at home after the Cubs lose and wanna pound sand but I know I live in a state without that kinda land. I know in my heart Sori isn't a guess hitting hack and that Dero will never be back. Pitching is King, some do say and hopefully Aaron Miles doesn't play in a Cub uniform another day. By October this I know, to the playoffs we are for sure to go. Go Cubbies!!

by cubsluver22 on Jun 2, 2009 5:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Didn't see anyone refute this, but Jurrjens is not this good.

K’s are down, BABIP is down (to .270), and his FIP is sitting at 3.78. You can safely expect some of those batted balls to start dropping for hits, bringing his WHIP and ERA up in the process. Very solid pitcher, but not a staff ace IMO.

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by Schwa on Jun 2, 2009 2:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I've seen him pitch alot this season.

I think he’s a solid number 2-3. But yeah, not a staff ace.

Tamia Lynn Davis:
Born: August 18, 2008

by Unique on Jun 2, 2009 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Slight OT question:

With the well known, much discussed racially insensitive “tomahawk chop” and “war chant” the Braves fan’s have done for so long….(do they still do that?)…hasn’t anyone complained about the SBNation site referencing it in the name of the blog?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 2, 2009 2:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well, if you can wait a day...

…you might join “Talking Chop” and write a Fanpost. Be sure to include a poll.

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 2, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just seems odd, considering how overly sensitive people sometimes get about stuff here.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 2, 2009 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, my best guess is...

…there’s just a lot less participation. I see only a couple posts with comments in the triple digits.

Did you see this Fanpost about the FAILCOEUR t-shirt? Pretty funny.

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 2, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you really gotta dislike a player

to go to the point of making a hate-shirt.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you should know

I saw the template you made for the Cotts t-shirts

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

by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I made a template for a Cotts shirt?

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 3:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Felix Pie got off easy.

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 2, 2009 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think that's awesome.

I’d be pretty mad with Heffy if he was on my team, too. He was their hometown savior, only to magically let the entire fanbase down. He was akin to someone like David Wright—the possible face of the club.

Somehow Francouer says he’s fine, he’s “rejuvenated” himself year and year, only for it to be a crock of B.S. He was third in RoY voting after only playing 70 games. Basically, he’s like Geovanny Soto, if Soto was born and raised in Illinois, won the RoY (check), gave us all high hopes and dreams for the future (check), then steadied himself to a career below-average player (ummm…).

Dan

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or Derrick Rose to the Bulls

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

by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 3:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

except that Derrick Rose is good

despite him not being smart. Basketball players rarely drop off unless they get injured.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 3:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's classy

I wonder why the shirt hawks outside Wrigley haven’t come up with something similar…

/sarcasm/

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

by chilango2 on Jun 2, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They still do it

It’s still tacky, bush-league, and a rip-off of Florida State University.

"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 2, 2009 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My lord, they STILL do that chop?

Do they still wear Oshkosh B’gosh, listen to Milli Vanilli, and have bowl haircuts? Awesome Braves, way to live in the 90s. I hated it back in 2003 when we played them, and I thought it was dated back then…

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It was cool when the bleachers did it

when we wanted them to beat the Brewers.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

that was really cool

even if it was completely out of sync. :-P

by Allie on Jun 2, 2009 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Braves

or David Justice in particular, introduced me to Halle Berry (no, not in person) and that woman never goes out of style.

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

by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Um....if you say so.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 2, 2009 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow, that pig is totally smiling.

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 2, 2009 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wouldn't you?

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

by chilango2 on Jun 2, 2009 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

haha yeah

so would I

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

by tony412 on Jun 2, 2009 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Works for me.

Can’t post anything from Monster’s Ball now, can ya??

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 3:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

looks plenty stylish

to me.

"I don’t really play baseball, I feel it." -- Milton Bradley

by drewishdrewid on Jun 2, 2009 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not worthy of a FanPost...

…but June could be a real good month.

3 @ ATL (.500)

3 @ CIN (.540)

3 @ HOU (.429)

3 vs. MIN (.481)

6 with CHW (.500)

3 vs. CLE (.415)

3 @ DET (.571)

3 @ PIT (.451)

3 vs. MIL (.588)

That’s 21 games against teams at or below .500, and 3 against Dusty Baker. I feel pretty good about this month.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 3:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Actually, the MIL games are in July, as is the last PIT game. Sorry.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll say a prayer that we avoid Verlander later this month

Since he has become awesome at pitching again.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Jun 2, 2009 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Twins swept the Brewers

Still gotta play the games, Dan.

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

by Shanghai Badger on Jun 2, 2009 3:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

They scored 23 runs in 3 games.

I’m just gonna say, without looking it up, the Twins don’t average 8 runs a game.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 3:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Point being, don't take any opposition too lightly

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

by Shanghai Badger on Jun 2, 2009 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Damn Badger, I'm just lookin' ahead a bit, not crowning our asses already, com'on!

You gotta feel pretty good about going on the road and playing 4 / 6 series against at or below .500 teams, and all three home series at or below .500, too. Sure better than playing the Brewers, Cardinals x 2, and Marlins every weekend in April, like we did.

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

by dtpollitt on Jun 2, 2009 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you decide to crown their asses.....

Dan please don’t show any pics :)

"That's what you live for. You live for the opportunity and when that day comes, you better be ready," Soto said. "I tried to make sure that whenever they gave me a chance, I was ready and I knew I had to take advantage of the opportunity."

by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 2, 2009 4:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs