Hurry Back, Aramis: Cubs' Offense Again Impotent In 5-3 Loss To Tigers
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 7:37 AM CDT
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198 comments
It occurred to me, watching Cub after Cub fail to bring runners home, that there's no one in the lineup that opposing teams actually fear when he comes to bat.
Not even Derrek Lee, who extended his hitting streak to 21 games last night. That's the longest Cub hitting streak since Jerome Walton's post-1900 team record 30, set in 1989. Lee is a fine hitter and is on a great run right now, but he doesn't strike the "this guy could hit the ball out of the ballpark on any swing" fear into opposing pitchers.
The Cubs lost to the Tigers 5-3 last night, and once again had an inning -- this time the sixth -- when they loaded the bases with nobody out. When you do that, you absolutely have to make it into some sort of crooked-number inning. The score was only 2-1 Tigers at the time, and the Cubs, even with the lower part of the order due to bat, should have broken the game open.
Instead, all they got was a consolation tying run, and they nearly didn't even get that; after Geovany Soto struck out, Mike Fontenot hit what might have been an inning-ending DP. He hustled and beat the relay, so a run scored, tying the game.
That's when the bullpen started to fail; Aaron Heilman was called on when Rich Harden got himself into trouble again (Harden has looked pretty mediocre since his return from the DL, save for the first start back) and he allowed two inherited runners to score.
And what's up with Carlos Marmol? His command is nearly completely gone. He is averaging an astoundingly bad 8.8 walks per nine innings, and he put the game out of reach by walking in a run in the eighth inning. Even at that, the Cubs managed to get the tying run on base with nobody out in the ninth inning off Tigers closer Fernando Rodney, but failed to even advance a runner. It got so bad that Milton Bradley couldn't even break his bat over his leg after striking out (maybe he should take some lessons on that from Z -- yes, I'm joking).
Bottom line: the Cubs left 13 men on base, so they're getting plenty of chances. They just need that big bat to bring them home.
Defensive notes: Jake Fox actually played credibly well at third base. He snagged a line drive neatly, and stopped another ground ball from going through with a diving stop, even though he was unable to right himself and throw the runner out in time. It's too bad that the power bat that Fox was showing in Triple-A has been mostly absent since his recall. Sure, he's hitting .300 -- 9-for-30 -- but that is comprised of six singles and three doubles, and he has scored only one run. Fox nearly hit into a triple play in the second inning; with runners on first and second he hit a ground ball to Brandon Inge, who was standing only a couple of steps from third base. Inge stepped on the bag, bounced a throw to second to retire Bradley, but Placido Polanco's relay was a hair too late to triple-up Fox. If Inge's throw hadn't bounced, they probably would have turned it. I saw the Cubs turn a triple play exactly this way in the second inning of a game on June 2, 1983. The hitter was Pirates pitcher Rick Rhoden.
Trivia aside, the Cubs need a win badly, even though they kept pace with the division-leading Cardinals, who lost 11-0 to the Mets last night. The game preview thread for today's afternoon game will be posted at 10:30 am CDT.
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Wasn't able to watch
But it didn’t sound very good from the MLB network reports
If the world didn't suck we would all fall off.
by carolinacub on Jun 25, 2009 7:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
A quick recap of our lousy offense in the last 3 games.
Monday: 10 hits, 0 runs, 0-6 RISP, 12 LOB
Tuesday: 7 hits, 4 runs, 0-8 RISP, 6 LOB
Wednesday: 11 hits, 3 runs, 1-15 RISP, 13 LOB
"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 25, 2009 7:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
See their improving , they got one last night.
"I daydream just like everybody else, I just do it with my body facing the field, so everybody thinks I'm paying attention."- Greg Maddux
by Doggie Stalker on Jun 25, 2009 7:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Although even that one
didnt score the run
by Ryanocm1 on Jun 25, 2009 7:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is the thing Aramis can fix
At least they are getting on base now.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 8:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point Al,
There’s no one in the lineup that puts any fear into the pitcher. It’s like the other teams’ defenses sit there and await the popout or DP ball. In the last 3 games we’ve gone 1-29 with runners in scoring position (thanks SackMan). 31 Left on base total… that’s frustrating. I wish they could just finish off one of those early rallies. With the scores as close as they’ve been, it would only take one big inning to change the entire game.
by Fonzie2178 on Jun 25, 2009 7:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Adam Dunn could have been that guy.
Sigh.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 7:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was with you all the way on that one.
But for now we’ll have to somehow make do with what we have. When Bradley slammed the bat on his knee, my wife asked me what he was doing. I said, “he was trying to break the bat over his knee” Right now we can’t even do that right. *kidding… The biggest enjoyment I got watching that game was the setup guy who was throwing 100+ just about every pitch. I forgot his name but that guy was bringin the heat!
by Fonzie2178 on Jun 25, 2009 7:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but so could Soriano
I am 100% in agreement that Dunn (or Ibanez) would have been the better signing, but Ramirez being out and Soriano being god awful has also strangled this lineup.
by Ryanocm1 on Jun 25, 2009 7:57 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Bingo...
….for whatever reason, the Cub’s offense has pretty much followed what Soriano has done over the last two seasons. He happens to be one of those guys that the lineup tends to feed off of.
The other point is Ramirez, and there is no question he has been the Cubs best and most reliable hitter since Lee’s big season in 05. With Soriano not hitting, and Ramirez being out for an extended period, has really exposed the warts.
You have to think Soriano will hit at some point, and Bradley will also. After Ramirez has a chance to get his timing (maybe 2 weeks after he returns), you may see a completely different offensive club after the all-star break.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who "fears" Soriano?
Honestly who does? Why is he always horrible in the playoffs? Good pitchers know how to pitch around him. And with him batting 1, there is no one really behind him that is feared, so pitching around him (which is virtually impossible because Soriano swings at everything), is pretty simple to do.
I chuckle every time a pitcher gives him something to hit.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Jun 25, 2009 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree...
…which is why a guy like Soriano tends to struggle against pitchers of playoff quality and in playoff mode.
Soriano has put up good numbers because he so physically gifted, and there are a lot of pitchers who simply can’t excute their pitches.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soriano hits good pitchers
I don’t know where this myth of him not hitting “playoff quality” pitching comes from.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Are these "playoff quality" pitchers?
CC Sabathia v. Soriano 5 HR 1.248 OPS
Chris Carpenter/ 2 HR 1.000 OPS
Tom Glavine 2 HR 1.208 OPS
Al Leiter 2 HR 1.750 OPs
Jake Peavy 2 HR 1.382 OPs
Ted Lilly 1.300 OPs
Johnny Cueto 2 HR 1.166 OPS
Andy Pettitte 2 HR 1.750 OPS
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I never heard
of that Peavy guy before. :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 25, 2009 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps it's just Arizona and LA Playoff quality pitchers?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Jun 25, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Please ignore the 3-28...
in a Cubs uniform for the playoffs.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Jun 25, 2009 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
my point is that blanket statements about him not hitting good pitching
Is a load of crap.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In the playoffs...
It is not a load of crap. How has Soriano faired in 44 games in the playoffs? His 4 Hrs in 174 abs is a good example of how he hits good pitching? Or is .213 BA, or his .299 slugging %. Or the fact that his OPS is almost .300 (.562 vs .840) points lower in the playoffs?
That is where these statements come from. Talk to any Yankee fan, the reason they didnt want Soriano was because of his lack of ability to hit in the playoffs, which is usually against good pitching, and usually involves clutch situations.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Jun 25, 2009 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fine he doesn't hit in the playoffs
But that is different from hitting good pitchers.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If a good pitcher makes a mistake...
…Soriano has a good chance of launching it. If a good pitcher (or any pitcher) executes to the scouting report, he has almost no chance.
Soriano has great physical skills, but he has one swing and one mentality at the plate and that is why he is so streaky.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can't that be said for most players
If a pitcher executes the game plan he should never give up a hit. Don’t confuse playoff struggles- which many players far superior to Soriano have- with not hitting good pitching.
If he was only able to hit mistake pitches he wouldn’t still be in the majors.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Disagree...
…hitters like Soriano never adjust, which is why he is so streaky. The good thing is, most pitchers aren’t capable of hitting their spots all the time, and you can make a living by nailing the mistakes – espcially with his physical ability.
Their is nothing wrong with being a pure “mistake hitter”. Their have been plenty of very productive ones over the years (usually high power guys). You just have to expect them to look brutal when they aren’t getting pitches they can handle.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sympathetic to your case in general
here’s where I’m caught up –
If Soriano is the type of hitter who doesn’t change what he does and can only feast on mistakes, then he wouldn’t be streaky. The fact that he’s so extreme in his streaks has me thinking something in his approach changes between his hot and cold streaks, whether it be timing, or eyesight, or whatever, I don’t know.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jun 25, 2009 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Everything goes in cycles...
…sometimes you may run into 5-6 pitchers in a row that are able to make the right pitches against Soriano, and next week the opposite happens – that is one factor.
The other one is timing and pitch recognition. Soriano has A LOT of pre-swing movement, and that requires getting his swing going a little sooner than most players. This, makes him very vulnerable to change in speeds – if he is not picking the rotation of the ball up quickly. Some times hitters are picking up the ball early and sometimes they aren’t – another factor.
Lastly, when you have to start your swing early to catch up with the heat, the combination of not picking up the ball well and not getting good pitches to hit, can make a hitter look like shit (look familiar).
Soriano reminds me a little bit of Dave Kingman. They swing the same way with the same approach every single AB. This makes them prone to both hot and cold streaks, mostly depending mostly on where that ball is crossing the plate at any particular time.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I imagine his bat has to impact things as well.
The guy swings a log up there, so I’m amazed he gets any bat speed.
Obviously he’s not going to change it, but hypothetically, I wonder what a lighter bat would do to his ability to adjust mid-swing….
by CubsWin!Oregon on Jun 25, 2009 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think...
…a lighter bat would allow him to adjust better in mid-flight (because that is entrenched in his swing), but it would allow him to wait a split second longer before he pulls the trigger – and get fooled a little less.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pitchers don't expect no-hitters
If a pitcher executes his game plan he won’t strike out every batter. Most pitchers pitch to contact. Sinkerballers try to get ground balls and lots of ground balls go for base hits. The sharp grounder that turns into an easy double play is almost exactly the same as the sharp grounder that finds a hole in the infield; the weak grounder to the pitcher for an easy out is almost the same as the swinging bunt down the third base line that gets beat out. Sometimes a pitcher executes and gives up no hits, but it takes both great execution and great luck.
I think there is a difference between success in the playoffs and success against good pitching, although I bet they correlate. That would be an interesting stat to run.
by aldimond on Jun 25, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah he was a pretty good pitcher
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's a good list...
…but is a partial list of some quality guys he has had success against.
My point is this; if any pitcher executes the right pitch against Soriano, his chances of success are very very small. It is also true that any hitters success rate goes down when a pitcher executes the right pitch, but in Soriano’s case, it’s off the charts.
Very rarely does Soriano every do anything with a “pitchers pitch”, except to have a feable swing at it. This is why he is so streaky in regards to his performance. It’s simply because he can’t hit certain pitches, because he doesn’t modify his approach or his swing. Real good consistant hitters are less streaky because the will adjust, and won’t go into these long extended slumps.
With this said, there are enouph games in a season for Soriano to produce good numbers, because there are enouph pitches he can handle throughout the year. If he is on, he rarely misses a mistake, and there are plenty of mistakes that come from pitchers these days.
Also, when you get to the playoffs, mistakes tend to become fewer in numbers. The overall quality of the pitching has something to do with it, but there is also much more concentration on advanced scouting etc that elevates awareness.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thus...
Why Aramis is such a good hitter, he can hit a pitcher’s pitches. Soriano cant…
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Jun 25, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ramirez...
…has driven many balls into the rcf gap off a good low and outside breaking ball – Soriano couldn’t do that in a million years.
Ramirez has the ability to adjust has hands (and the bat head) after he has started his swing, and that is what seperates consistant hitters from streaky guys. Once Soriano starts his swing……….
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
didn't he do it
to win the game against the Sox?
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 25, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not quite the same, no.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's disappointing that...
The Cubs’ starting pitching isn’t exactly striking fear into opposing batters either, except maybe Crazy Z.
As for our relievers – it’s a situation that is markedly worse. Remember how much we hated seeing Hoffman, Gagne, and others close games against us? I feared those guys as a Cub fan, because they always killed us – killed everybody for that matter. We haven’t had a power closer since Lee Smith – though the lack of a bat is the thorn in our side so far this season.
"They say that money doesn't buy happiness...but it DOES by Cub tickets. You ever see a sad person with Cub tickets?"
by redivycubs on Jun 25, 2009 8:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you mean the bullpen is not striking fear into the opposing batters?
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jun 25, 2009 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Drumroll please...
The Cubs are batting:
.223 with RISP
.219 with runner on 2nd
.216 with runner on 3rd
.109 with runners on 2nd and 3rd
"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 25, 2009 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh... and
We’ve hit 48 solo HRs, compared to only 25 with men on base.
"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 25, 2009 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, those seem to be lousy numbers
but where does this team compare to the best & worst in the league in these RISP categories?
Homework due today.
by JFCubFan on Jun 25, 2009 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't care if we have a constant home run threat
I just want someone who I can count on to get a bases-loaded single.
by Pre on Jun 25, 2009 7:58 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Zumaya.
That was it. I don’t recall ever seeing someone clock a pitch at 103. CSN had it at 104. Sheesh!
by Fonzie2178 on Jun 25, 2009 7:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The stadium posted 104 too.
Sitting behind the plate the last 2 nights, I can tell you those pitches SOUND every bit as past as they look. Some of the Cubs’ swings were “get me the hell out of here” swings…
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jun 25, 2009 8:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if the catchers on the rosters have to
draw straws when he comes into the game?
by Fonzie2178 on Jun 25, 2009 8:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Special custom Zumaya gloves
with extra padding. Looked like Soto was playing with one.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Jun 25, 2009 9:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Several pitches eluded the catcher's gloves in this series- in warm ups, game play...
Lots of stuff going back to the screen…
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jun 26, 2009 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is it possible that 2009 is simply a down season...
in the team’s extended run of contention? Sorta like the Red Sox missing the playoffs and finishing in third place in 2006? Maybe our problem is our sense of desperation (understandable, of course.) This hitting drought is obviously an anomaly. We’ll have a new closer next year. Soriano will be healed (from whatever it is that ails him), etc. I know it’s too much to ask a Cub fan for patience but maybe we ought to start looking at 2009 as a blip on the screen.
Joe, you coulda made us proud!
by copingwiththecubs on Jun 25, 2009 8:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I hope you're right about Soriano
I am really concerned, however, that much of his decline is age related. Soriano has always relied on incredibly strong and fast hands to get his bat through the zone with a ton of pop. Given his approach to the plate, when his hands get slower and weaker, he is going to be really bad. Im afraid that his hands are starting to slow somewhat and we are seeing the beginning of a steady decline (the rapid decline might be somewhat of a fluke, but I have trouble seeing him ever hit better than 250-260 with 25-30 homeruns)
Just my two cents.
by Ryanocm1 on Jun 25, 2009 8:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if anyone has suggested a lighter bat...
for Soriano.
Joe, you coulda made us proud!
by copingwiththecubs on Jun 25, 2009 8:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he wouldn't listen anyway
"We got some pretty good chemistry here. We got some toughness, and it's starting to show." - Lou Pinella
by Clutche on Jun 25, 2009 8:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have a hard time thinking Soriano's issue is age related
since he hit so well at the beginining of the season. He can’t have aged THAT quickly!
I would think it would be more likely be an injury that is affecting him, maybe the sore knee that has been reported.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jun 25, 2009 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tend to agree.
I don’t think age is a major factor at this point, but at 33 (I think) it may be starting to play a minor role in him having longer slumps than previously.
Soriano is a purely physical hitter, who relies on his reflexes and physical talent to be successful. At 33, you can certainly see a slight decline in those abilities going forward. Soriano is not going to use experience to think his way through an AB, and use that to his benefit, he simply reacts to what he sees.
I’d bet he goes on one of his tears sooner rather than later, and let’s hope it lasts a good long time.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What if...
He is not actually 33? He could be older, we have seen this stuff before in MLB. Soriano came out of nowhere when he joined the Yankees, he even played in Japan for awhile. I am not saying he is older than he says, only that it is possible.
by tripdenten on Jun 25, 2009 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soriano's age was already adjusted.
In 2004. He’s 33.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haha
Thanks Al. I did not know that. What is the story there? Did he at one time actually lie about his age?
by tripdenten on Jun 25, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The article tells the story.
Soriano’s birth date was initially listed wrong when he played in Japan. That information carried over when the Dominican-born infielder signed a contract with the New York Yankees.
Soriano got a multi-entrance visa to enter the United States from Japan after signing his Yankee contract. The type of visa he had didn’t come under the same scrutiny as others after the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
When U.S. immigration officials reviewed visas after Sept. 11, it was discovered that several professional baseball players from outside the United States were actually older than listed on their records.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who knows?
Soriano was streaky when he was young and he will be streaky as he gets older.
He could be seeing some physical decline in his skills but that is usually subtle in nature and not a dramatic drop off. IMO, he still can put up good numbers for 2-3 more years, but his cold streaks might become more extended.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm getting a feeling of deja vu here...
Player in his 30s has long slump…
… it’s obvious that he’s lost bat speed…
… he must be in…
… wait for it…
DECLINE.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Jun 25, 2009 8:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I assume you are referring to Lee
and how thoughts about his decline were clearly premature.
I think thats a valid point, but I think it is reasonable to have “concern” about Soriano and it was reasonable to have concern about Lee.
Also, Soriano is a different hitter than Lee. He relies on a freakish physical attribute that is susceptible to decline,
by Ryanocm1 on Jun 25, 2009 8:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
April 2009
Soriano was NL player of the month; not comeback player of the month.
Not really questioning his declining abilities, rather from where and how they came to make his drop-off so steep. I think it is the nagging leg or something mental.
by AboutTheCubs on Jun 25, 2009 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder
if Soriano ever makes any adjustments? Seriously. We may never know, but his approach never changes. Maybe its time, like mentioned a lighter bat would be a good start.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Jun 25, 2009 8:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
being able to shorten his swing would also
be appropriate with 2 strikes, but the swing remains huge.
Soriano in 2009 has a .190 BA and .238 OBP with 2 strikes and a .167 BA and .508 OBP with 3 balls, .157/.297 with RISP.
Does anyone know how these compares with the 2009 league average. The batting average with 3 balls and BA/OBP with RISP all seem woefully low.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Jun 25, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well as odd as this will sound,
I think we’ve got the talent, just not the chemistry. I also think another big shakeup in the offseason will put us back to square 1, again. Maybe these guys just have to learn to play as a team together. Maybe somebody should tell Lou that his team has lost it’s swagger. He seemed real infatuated with the word swagger last year. I don’t know how you get that back though, it’s not something you can practice.
by Fonzie2178 on Jun 25, 2009 8:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Chemistry?
What is that stat you speak of? Whats their Chemistry percentage or ratio? I don’t see that stat in my Bill James book.
by CalDeano on Jun 25, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very possible...
…and we will see soon enouph.
If you look over the past 20-30 years, teams who tend to rely heavily on FA signings have a tendancy to underperform what they look like on paper. On the other hand, clubs who build more from within, tend to be the over achievers.
I don’t think the Cubs have over achieved for a while.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've said this earlier
and i agree this is probably the case.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jun 25, 2009 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Laying off the
low and out curveball would help his average a lot.
by Fonzie2178 on Jun 25, 2009 8:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Soriano is a sucker for that pitch
and it seems like most big league catchers know it. Just watch how they set him up behind the plate.
by Fonzie2178 on Jun 25, 2009 8:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And Hurry Back Power from Soriano, Bradley, & Soto...
Going in to the season and expecting power consistently from Soriano, Bradley, Aramis, and Soto in total seemed like a reasonable expectation. I still think that there is enough time left in this season for this offense to produce but I’d qualify that with the presumption that these players are not injured to a point where their power is going to suffer significantly. It’s possible that 2009 turns out to be a year where too many injuries to key players cripple the offense.
And I agree with you on D. Lee having a fine season. He’s not a big power threat but it’s great to see a guy like him contributing.
by DudeVf11 on Jun 25, 2009 8:09 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Lee is still a big power threat...
he’s not a 50-HR power threat, but he’s hitting HR at a 30-HR pace over a full season (remember he missed a week or so with the neck injury early on), and that’s in spite of the horrific start. In short, he’s basically the same power hitter that he’s always been (with the exception of his monster 2005 season).
I agree though that Bradley and Soriano need to pick it up. Soto though has already picked it up a bit in case you hadn’t noticed. He has 4 HR in June and an .863 OPS for the month.
by SouthernCub on Jun 25, 2009 8:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for the information on Lee.
I did not realize that he was on a 30 HR pace. That’s an excellent season from him in my view. It’s also a good example for me of how my pre-season expectations of a player can still distort how I view them as I wasn’t expecting much from Lee in 2009 in the power area or at least thought it was in doubt.
You are also right on Soto showing his power in June. Hopefully we get to a point soon where a couple guys are providing reasonable level power and a couple are on a hot streak.
by DudeVf11 on Jun 25, 2009 8:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed...
It seems like we have at least two of our big bats ice cold at any given point in time (and usually 3). When Ramirez and Soriano were hot early, Lee, Bradley, and Soto couldn’t touch the ball. Lee got hot and Ramirez went out and Soriano cooled off. Then Soto started hitting and Soriano fell off the map. Bradley has gotten better at getting hits, but has no power (and he’s been offset by Fukudome’s decline).
by SouthernCub on Jun 25, 2009 8:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would help if I took a few seconds to review their current stats before posting.
Because looking at Soto he’s really had a fine June and his last 7 days have been excellent. I like his nearly 100 point differential between his OBP and BA for June. Also, Soriano and Fukudome are having an awful June. I don’t expect power from Fukudome but those numbers are dismal. I expect streaky play from Soriano, but just looking at his monthly OPS back to 2004, he appears to have had something somewhat close in April 2008 and I think he was injured then. I’d be more surprised if he is not hurt right now.
by DudeVf11 on Jun 25, 2009 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soto IS hitting for power.
Since May 12 — 99 AB — he has 5 doubles and 5 HR in 99 AB, SLG .465. (Not including last night’s game.)
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 8:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, it's really just Soriano and Bradley who are really letting the team down...
Fontenot is also really struggling, but less was expected of him. And Fukudome has really fallen off in June.
by SouthernCub on Jun 25, 2009 8:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Look on the bright side...
…only 5 1/2 years left on the Soriano contract !!!
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Fukudome thing was expected though
I agree that Soriano and Bradley need to improve, but the Fukudome thing was 100% going to happen.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree. But Soriano and Bradley will improve.
by SouthernCub on Jun 25, 2009 8:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
For sure
Soriano’s upcoming tear will be very enjoyable.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wake me up when it starts
"We got some pretty good chemistry here. We got some toughness, and it's starting to show." - Lou Pinella
by Clutche on Jun 25, 2009 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
To beat
the drum forever. It gets old and old, but Hendry needs to be held accountable for this mess.
When did Milton Bradley become this savior, Never knocked in over 80 runs or scored 80 runs in his career, two times over 20 homeruns. Fine, he has a wonderful OBP, I really don’t give a crap. He needs to get a base hit when it counts. He will take a pitch for a ball that is 2 inches off the plate to get a walk, but will not try to drive the ball the other way when the Cubs are in need of run producers. His walks right now are useless, because no-one is driving in runs.
You look at the Cubs outfield for the last 30 days, has to be the most un-productive OF in baseball. Soriano and Dome are horrible. But this OF is not going anywhere, this is what it is for the next two years, unless by miracle some team takes a horrible contract.
Cubs are stuck. Maybe try to move Fontenot, Hielmann, Marshall for a bat, who knows. Cubs just don’t have any attractive pieces to move except VItters, Jay Jackson at this point.
Maybe the Cubs thought in the spring that all they need to do was jog out to the field and everything will fall into place like the last two years.
Change is needed but where in the hell do you start?
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Jun 25, 2009 8:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Nothing you can really do..............
with or without ARam, this is a .500 team, or worse. The appearant decline of Soriano is crippling
"I still don't know what happened"- Fergie Jenkins on '69
by tommy veryzer on Jun 25, 2009 8:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fox's
nearly triple play was, again, piss-poor situational hitting. Instead of yanking the ball down the line, he coulda-shoulda-woulda been trying to hit it out of the infield to right.
by thermal54 on Jun 25, 2009 8:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Inge was overplaying to that side and got a good bounce...
initially I thought the ball might hit the bag…
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jun 25, 2009 8:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
How often...
…do you see hitters in today’s game give themselves up to do what you are saying? The answer is not to often and is one of the reasons baseball has gotten more boring to watch over the years.
No one chokes up with 2 strikes, very rarely does anyone give themselves up to move the runner along and very few can lay down a bunt. I am fully aware this has happened because of the power era we have seen in the last 10-15 years, but it is still painful to watch.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 25, 2009 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is becoming annoying
But this team is what it is. A .500 team without Aramis. Same thing it was last year when Soriano went out for 6 weeks. They are going to hit some days and not hit others.
Rich Harden will not be missed by me at the end of the season. I feel like every inning with Harden involves some sort of drama.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 8:20 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He certainly hasn't been the same pitcher this year
by SouthernCub on Jun 25, 2009 8:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
its because he is pitching too much IMO
The guy is glass. He can’t pitch more than 15-20 real good starts a year. After that he gets tired and breaks down, especially in the warm weather. Usually those starts involve some hardcore time on the DL to give his arm even more rest.
It just isn’t worth it after this season.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The visionary and objective move would be to trade Rich Harden to the highest bidder offering the best young prospect(s)
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This coming from the guy who wanted Harden here so badly last year.
I’d do that, too. Or include him in a larger deal somewhere to get a hitter.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 8:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I say this because...
A. The 2009 Cubs aren’t going anywhere
B. Cubs are doubtful going to have the financial appetite to sign a risk like Harden to a new contract
I call up Phillies, Mets, Dodgers, Angels and Rangers and tell them that Rich Harden is available to the highest bidder offering the best prospect.
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I know Harden's gone after this year.
But he might be valuable in picking up a useful piece for NOW, not necessarily the future.
I disagree with your contention that the 2009 Cubs aren’t going anywhere.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well... you know how I see it.
Try to win the darn division NOW… our window with this team is closing.
If that means you can move Harden in a three-way deal to get a major league bat, then do it. Better than the draft pick we’d get for him as a Free Agent loss (which would probably bust anyway).
"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 25, 2009 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Get whatever we can for him
But who would take him? He isn’t more than a 5 starter at this point and will probably spend more time on the DL.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 8:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and what, exactly
are we going to get for a pitcher who, in two of three starts after a DL trip, cannot pitch 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 25, 2009 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Harden should be traded come July 31st
for whatever Hendry can scrounge from Colorado, Minnesota, Atlanta or whichever team finds itself unexpectedly in a race.
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Jun 25, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
on the bright side
Gregg didn’t blow a save last night
Linus: Life is rarely all one way, Charlie Brown. You win some, you lose some. Charlie Brown: Really? Gee, that'd be neat.
by CyberCyclist on Jun 25, 2009 8:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Al, this inability to hit with RISP has been painful to watch in person these past two nights.
I can only imagine how frustrating it’s been for you seeing this all season at Wrigley. At least when we watch the games at home, we can turn it off.
I’ll be there again today trying to root them on to get at least ONE win out of this series.
A lot of bummed out Cubs fans in Motown right now…
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jun 25, 2009 8:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Last two nights?
How about all year. They have been horrible.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Jun 25, 2009 8:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the cubs always find a way to win when theodore roosevelt lillys on the mound
by jesus christos on Jun 25, 2009 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Um, not so much yesterday...
Go Green! Go White! GO STATE!
King Leonidas: Spartans! What is your profession?
Spartans: HA-OOH! HA-OOH! HA-OOH!
by Zeke on Jun 26, 2009 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A .500 type ballclub finding ways to play .500 type baseball
But hey, lets keep rationalizing to death that there are still 93 games left, the return of Aramis Ramirez shall be the silver bullet solution to everything, etc.
This Cub team as currently constructed will win in the range of 79 to 85 games in 2009. You have to ask yourself the question, is 85 wins enough to win the National League Central.
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Incorrect again...
I fail to see how a team that is underperforming (and missing one of its better players) and is still above .500 should be expected to finish at or below .500.
Soriano will eventually hit better. Soto is starting to hit better. Bradley will hit. Lee has already proved you wrong. And while Ramirez won’t be 100% this year, he will still most certainly be an upgrade over Fox/Fontenot at 3B.
This is certainly no juggernaut. But 85-90 wins is a reasonable range for this team. I’d say that will most certainly put them in the hunt. 90 wins will win this division. 85 wins might just do it too.
If Ramirez is unable to return, then it’s
by SouthernCub on Jun 25, 2009 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well your suppositions
are reasonable, however, there is no timetable to it.
So, when these things do finally occur, will the team be too far out of it with too many teams to hop?
The Wildcard will not come from the NL Central this year.
Also, you are pre-supposing that A-Ram will remain in the lineup and effective for the rest of the year.
No one knows.
by The E-Man on Jun 25, 2009 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The wild card won't come from the Central?
With 90+ games left in the season you can guarantee that?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I disagree completely
The Cubs have been blessed with remarkably good starting pitching performances yet we still sit at .500. It is not rationale to expect the starting pitching to stay this strong through the dog days of summer at Wrigley and given the highly dubious nature of this Cub bullpen.
I fundamentally disagree with the proposition that an Aramis Ramirez coming off a serious shoulder injury that was not surgically treated is going to be able to carry this team the remainder of the year like he has in the past. And if you are waiting for the guess hitting hack to go on one of his patented hot streaks and for that to be our magic carpet ride to offensive stupendousness, then I have a bridge to sell you in Brooklyn. Fact is there is not a single hitter in the Cub lineup that scares anybody. And a recuperating Aramis Ramirez shall not be that hitter either in 2009.
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is it rational to expect the hitting to remain this weak through
the dog days of summer?
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jun 25, 2009 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
so
it’s not rational to expect the starting pitching to stay strong, but it IS rational to expect the hitting to stay poor.
Uh-huh.
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 25, 2009 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There you go again Drew, you know we never let logic or the facts get in the
way of a good rant.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jun 25, 2009 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
darnit!
I keep DOING it, too…
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 25, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If it was just lack of hitting yes that could chance but it's not that
It’s the hitting w/ RISP that is killing the Cubs. (I believe they are dead last in that category) so even tho a variety of hitters have come around. They still aren’t getting the hits when it’s needed. So unless the Cubs figure out a way to get those RISP in it likely could stay that way. It’s that they make base running errors, have a diffcult time bunting, in the larger parks HR’s are going to be warning track outs. It’s that Cubs don’t have any good base stealers. I’m no sabermagician, but I don’t think those things even out.
So it’s not so simple as yep the Cubs will start hitting, b/c they have some.
Where as the starting pitching has been incredible, to keep up that pace just isn’t likely over 162 game season especially with the dog days of summer coming up where the ball is going to carry better.
"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 25, 2009 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just think
that it’s just as likely that the hits will start to fall in clutch situations.
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 25, 2009 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But that makes it sound like they are hitting it hard in those spots
They aren’t; they’re having terrible at-bats, by and large.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 25, 2009 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The final strike of the game...
to Kosuke was just an AWFUL call. Not even close to being a strike. Bases would’ve/should’ve been loaded… who knows what would’ve happened had the ump actually kept his eyes open for that pitch.
by kanderber on Jun 25, 2009 8:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Those sorts of thing happen in baseball
The breaks bounce both ways. Good teams ride out the bad breaks.
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My only argrument
is Dome fouled off pitches prior to the called 3rd that were out of the strike zone. It was borderline, the game was on the line, you can’t take a called third in that spot.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Jun 25, 2009 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
See that's the thing...
it wasn’t borderline. I agree that you have to protect the plate with two strikes, especially when you’re down to your final out. But that ball was absolutely not a strike.
by kanderber on Jun 25, 2009 8:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Kosuke had swung and missed that pitch
(which is likely considering how far outside it was) he would’ve been barbecued on this site today. I can’t fault him for watching that pitch.
"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome
by Goodie1969 on Jun 25, 2009 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Kosuke has reverted back to being useless
Let’s be very honest with ourselves. He has been a big liability in that lineup for several weeks. And quite frankly I have seen nothing out of his recent at bats to suggest the tide will turn soon or that he is hitting in bad luck. The corkscrew nightmare of last year is starting to rear its ugly head too. Kosuke might be a swell guy, but he is nothing more than a 4th outfielder type in the major leagues.
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not useless...
In a bad slump like everyone save DLEE. He is a plus-fielder still, and does well WHEN he gets on. However, I believe there are quite a few “plus-4th OFers”, in the Majors.
by The E-Man on Jun 25, 2009 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not going to go so far as to call him useless
but he is sort of emblematic of this year’s team—great one minute, godawful the next. It’s hard to get a true gauge of where he is at any moment.
"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome
by Goodie1969 on Jun 25, 2009 8:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kosuke is modestly souped up version of So Taguchi from a few years back in St. Louis
A nice commodity to have on the bench. Not a $48 million ballplayer who is being counted upon to be an integral part of your everyday lineup.
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
once Reed gets back
I think he will be getting more playing time. I’ll give Dome credit for being good a defense still, but he should be nothing more than a backup/platoon guy.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You JUST figured this out
NOW?
“It occurred to me, watching Cub after Cub…there is no one to fear.”
Man, I had this pegged on the day Aramis was injured.
There is no way, with this team at the bottom of the NL in RISP success, they are going to make the playoffs this year. It is an unfortunate fact. Particularly coupled with the problem that the starters just cannot throw shutouts every game. It just makes me want to hurl.
We have no idea how strong Aramis is going to come back, and the liklihood of Zell spending any Tribune money on a player is about as much as it would be for him to host “Free Day at Wrigley”.
And, yet they are still “in it”.
I wouldn’t expect it to last much longer, but strager things have happened. One thing is clear: This is NOT a good “team”. We have Jim Hendry to thank this year. Now, “have a Heilman”
by The E-Man on Jun 25, 2009 8:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
This sounds like what you said in 2007 too
Yes, I realize it’s a different season and a different team. But baseball is a marathon, and this division is really that bad that a team can tread water for half the season and still win it.
by SouthernCub on Jun 25, 2009 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed...
this is a much different team. AAA players/util guys did not make up a third of the starting 8.
Also, I would bet the team was not at the bottom of the league with RISP success.
I don’t think they are “out of it” – but do think they will be within the next 30 days, if they cannot improve with men on.
by The E-Man on Jun 25, 2009 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What irritates me
is with all the money spent on this team there is not one single player that I would consider a super star. No Howard, Braun, Pujols, etc.
by Mapmaker on Jun 25, 2009 9:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aramis?
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not really in my opinion but definitely the best hitter on the Cubs.
I just wouldn’t put him in that class.
by Mapmaker on Jun 25, 2009 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
IMO
He is at least on the same level as Ryan Howard.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point
But Howard has the MVP and post-season production. Since that grand slam in ‘03, I can’t remember Ramirez getting any big hits in the playoffs
by Mapmaker on Jun 25, 2009 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not like Ryan Howard was tearing it up in the playoffs
last year. I don’t think he did much until the last game of the WS.
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jun 25, 2009 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe there is a MLB rule against third basemen hitting in the playoffs
Since A-Rod has that same issue.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Remember LP's?
cuz this sounds like a broken record…..
The Cubs put on another display of offensive ineptitude – click
The Cubs put on another display of offensive ineptitude – click
The Cubs put on another display of offensive ineptitude – click
Cub fan since 1969 and Im not taking my avatar down until they show up in a playoff series.
by tedinSoCal on Jun 25, 2009 8:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
And just last week it was a different record...
Cubs pull out another amazing comeback—click
Cubs pull out another amazing comeback—click
Cubs pull out another amazing comeback—click
Hence the frustration.
"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome
by Goodie1969 on Jun 25, 2009 8:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
These two posts tell the story of a .500 team
Which is exactly what we are without Aramis, and might still be if Aramis can’t be Aramis.
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs are the worst clutch-hitting team in the majors, ranking dead last with a .219 average with runners in scoring position.
Cub fan since 1969 and Im not taking my avatar down until they show up in a playoff series.
by tedinSoCal on Jun 25, 2009 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thus why...
we have only scored 12 runs in 6 playoff games.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"
by HIGGY on Jun 25, 2009 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al -> I didn't read the rest of the comments but..
Please do not believe or agree to the propaganda that the return of Aramis Ramirez can cure the impotency of our offense. Loosing a big player is not always good but it shouldn’t make a 97 win team THIS bad.
This team has been under performing on so many fronts and it’s just not because of Aramis. It would be a false hope to even believe for a second that his return will make things better. Hell, we know for sure reading everywhere that he will be nowhere close to 100% and that he will require surgery sometime soon to fix his shoulder. People think MB is fragile? wait when Aramis gets back and everyone will gasp whenever a ball is hit to him.
Under performance happens as athletes are humans but managers are paid to fix this miss. Lou is not getting paid in millions to just sit back and make managerial mistakes game after darn game. He needs to shake up things to change the routine. Take out Soriano out of the lead off spot or just bench him to clear his mind. Why in the heck is Marmol used in sensitive situations. It looks like he can’t find the plate if you give him a telescope.
This whole mess is on Lou and Hendry. The return of ARamis will have negligible impact, if anything.
by cubsnlinux on Jun 25, 2009 8:47 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Further, the approach of our hitters with RISP is beyond pathetic
They are trying to hit it out of the park (with a gigantic swing) when all they need is may be a sac fly or a line drive. I know it’s not as easy as we write about it, but they need to take baby steps.
Call it pressing or whatever but they all are looking a deer caught in the head lights when they come to the plate with one or more RISP and with 0 or 1 outs. They are not relaxed. This same crap happened in the playoffs for the last two seasons.
by cubsnlinux on Jun 25, 2009 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
FIRE VON JOSHAU !!!
$136 million payroll for a .500 style ballclub. Good work Jim.
by BLou on Jun 25, 2009 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure if that is sacrasm or not BLou
but I think that proves what everyone knew… that Hitting coach was the sacrifial lamb not a major piece of the prob
"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 25, 2009 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is true.
I was less upset with Kosuke’s called third strike in the 9th than I was when Geo K’d looking earlier in the game with the bases juiced and no outs. It was a fastball right over the outside corner of the plate, and he didn’t even offer at it. He was on his way back to the dugout as soon as the ball hit the catcher’s mitt. He knew he’d guessed wrong.
Therein lies the problem. In that situation, Geo should have been looking to drive the ball the other way, and when he got a pitch which was ideal for that kind of hit, he just let it go by. That tells me he was looking to do something else. Just a frustrating approach.
"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome
by Goodie1969 on Jun 25, 2009 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The question why the heck he is "looking" with 2 strikes? Why was he so darn selective?
by cubsnlinux on Jun 25, 2009 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In Geo's case my guess would be
that with the bases loaded and no outs, the last thing he wanted to do was hit a ground ball with a force play at every bag. The pressure in that situation, however, is really on the pitcher, who could easily give up runs in any number of ways. Geo was likely waiting for his pitch, something up in the zone. Problem is, he should still be protecting the plate.
It’s a situation where you should just see-the-ball, hit-the-ball. Thinking too much up there will just get you in trouble.
"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome
by Goodie1969 on Jun 25, 2009 10:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even a slightly productive Ramirez might have helped us to a few more wins
Even with the rest of the team slumping, just a few more wins and we’re at the top of the division
by Mapmaker on Jun 25, 2009 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even with Ramirez back the bullpen is still
brutal. You can’t continue to walk runs in. Ramirez is not going to be the same player when he comes back. He will probably need surgery at the end of the year. Bradley will continue to underachieve and SOrian will just continue to be Soriano.
by cubdreamer on Jun 25, 2009 8:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
This game...
marked the first game I couldn’t watch/listen to the end of for the first time this season…it was horrifically bad seeing inning after inning where the Cubs had 1st and 2nd w/ no outs and failed to even ADVANCE the runners let alone get a hit to score 1.
1 for 15 w/ RISP last night, 1 for 23 w/ RISP for the series…that’s just plain pathetic.
by desmoCubbie on Jun 25, 2009 8:53 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I kept flipping to
LSU/UT game. Better baseball.
by thermal54 on Jun 25, 2009 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sad but prolly true
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It felt like they had two on with not out every innning
which made it seem that much more painful to see them fail
by Mapmaker on Jun 25, 2009 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can't add anything that hasn't been written thus far
But Geobarney and the Fukuchopper are really rubbing me the wrong way lately.
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Jun 25, 2009 9:10 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
If I had the ability to make an mpeg
I’d have one where Dome was flying over the city by swinging and Fontenot was on his lap giving a traffic report.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 25, 2009 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
But you do have time to make a nice GeoBarney photoshop
I trust…
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Jun 25, 2009 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Time, yes. Talent, not so much....
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 25, 2009 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs have 23 games left by my count
against teams ahead of them in the Central standings. Those are the really important games. While it’s true to say that every game counts, some count more than others. Beating Milwaukee, St. Louis, and Cincinnati is the truly important task for this team. Not to mention, there are still a lot of games left against the Nationals and Pirates. As horrible as things look now, there are silver linings out there on all the dark clouds.
It’s not over just yet.
"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome
by Goodie1969 on Jun 25, 2009 9:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That will make the next homestand critical.
Eight games vs. St. Louis and Milwaukee (including the makeup game from the 4/19 rainout vs. St. Louis).
We should know a lot more about this team after July 12.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Random thoughts from last night
tough loss!
Impressed with Jake Fox at 3B! He handled every chance, and I do think teams will fear his bat. He hit two shots that almost went out. 10ft. further and he could have had 5 RBIs.
MB is useless to the team. He walks but he can’t hit with RISP. Why is a guy with 16 RBI hitting in the 5th hole???? He should be hitting 2 or 3 hole. In the 7th/8th a stupid drunk Cub fan in the RF Pepsi porch area was heckling MB for a quite awhile. Stuff like: “I hate your guts Milton”, Throw me a ball Milton, there is only one out"! Us Cub fans below him gave it right back to the drunken idiot! I do tink that may have caused MB to stike out in the 9th, however.
Sori still has skill (especially in BP) and very quick hands…but is all about plate discipline…which he really lacks.
Zumaya really blew the guys away again last night with his 100+ gas.
Cub’s lack of hitting with RISP will kill this season. We had so many chances to score last night (bases loaded at least 4 times). Very frustrating.
Things you don’t see on TV, like body language of outfielders when a Cub pitcher gives up a HR. You can tell it really takes a lot of “energy” out of them (which I think carries over to their next at-bats).
If you think you've seen it all...just wait!
by CubFanSince1970 on Jun 25, 2009 9:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
"Aaron Heilman was called on when Rich Harden got himself into trouble again (Harden has looked pretty mediocre since his return from the DL, save for the first start back) and he allowed two inherited runners to score."
To be fair, those were unearned runs. If Soto makes the catch in foul ground, no runs score.
by salparadise23 on Jun 25, 2009 9:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
True.
Or, if Heilman had done his job.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Aaron Heilman
Signing Miles was stupid. Trading for Heilman still doesn’t make any sense.
by elgato on Jun 25, 2009 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The President of the Aaron Heilman Sucks Fanclub approves this message
One day I hope to come up with something worthy of this space.
by chilango2 on Jun 25, 2009 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The dropped foul was the back breaker.
I realize the fence distracted Soto, but he has to make that catch.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Jun 25, 2009 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I find it very strange that the 2008 Cubs led the NL
with hitting with runners in scoring position and the 2009 Cubs are the worst.
Does anyone happen to know if this has ever happened again?
I’d say this is definitely an instance of a “Cubbie Occurrence”
Hey, it's a new century!
by cowsarecool220 on Jun 25, 2009 9:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Or, more likely, it's a statistical anomaly....
Meaning this particular stat is due to change within over the next three months.
Joe, you coulda made us proud!
by copingwiththecubs on Jun 25, 2009 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm going with "Cubbie Occurrence"
until they prove otherwise. :)
by salparadise23 on Jun 25, 2009 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bullcrap...
maybe last year was the statistical anomaly and this year is the norm. Witness the last 2 playoff appearances. Perhaps these 2 flameouts were not fluke “small sample sizes” as so many suggest, but are indicative of what this Cub team is all about- crapping their pants with even the slightest amount of pressure.
Blow this team up. They can’t handle the pressure of Cubdom.
by reedjohnson on Jun 25, 2009 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't know if I'd draw too many conclusions
about this year’s team from the failure in the playoffs two years ago. The team was very different in October 2007 compared with June 2009.
That said, there’s something to what you’re saying. I don’t buy the argument that clutch hitting is just luck. That’s one place where baseball stats just don’t convince me.
by elgato on Jun 25, 2009 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't discount the human element
Confidence when it starts out well, lack of confidence now.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 25, 2009 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
this whole season has been very "Cub"
Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.
by nji232 on Jun 25, 2009 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see how everyone thinks Ramirez is going to be such a huge improvement
when he comes back. Sure, he’s probably our best hitter, and can be clutch, but he’s only one guy, and most likely won’t be 100% when he does come back.
If the guys in the lineup now could get it done, we wouldn’t have to have the “come back Rami” chant.
by Cubs and Hawks fan on Jun 25, 2009 9:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
ugh
This team reminds me more and more of the 2004 squad. The reason? Big names with proven track records who couldn’t get it done when it really mattered. That team and the ’09 team seem to lose heart-breakers every other night.
I’m still convinced that Bradley, Soto and Soriano will get better. But Fontenot and Fukudome seem overmatched. The Fontenot experiment really looks like a failure, and Fukudome might be the most annoying Cub to watch (which is saying a lot this season).
Aramis will help a lot, I think. But this team doesn’t seem to mesh. I don’t think it’s as simple as saying that DeRosa should still be on the team, or that Dunn would have been a better signing than Bradley. Except for D-Lee (since his horrible start) and Theriot for the most part, every offensive player is underperforming/not executing.
As we all know, that’s very frustrating to watch.
by elgato on Jun 25, 2009 9:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I said that just last night about the 04 squad
First time all year I said 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 25, 2009 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hard not to make the comparison.
Most of the successful playoff quality team back providing management and roster stability. Single biggest hole filled via free agency in RF, very high expectations and major suckage to show for it.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Jun 25, 2009 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agree on the '04 comparisons...
like that team, this year’s version just can’t seem to go on any kind of a difference making roll; we win four straight…start feeling good and then, just like that we drop the next three (so far).
Lou sits on his hands and won’t make any meaningful changes-he really seems to have checked out.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 25, 2009 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't buy the Lou won't make changes argument
What should he do? Fox and Micah have gotten more playing time, and the offense doesn’t seem that much better. Decisions that so far haven’t panned out — signing Bradley, Fukudome and Miles and giving Fontenot more playing time — were made in the offseason. Lou shares some of the blame because he had input on those moves, but what can he do RIGHT NOW with the guys he has on the roster?
I wouldn’t be opposed to benching Fukudome, but that won’t work now with Reed on the DL. Maybe giving Fox the third-base job (over Fontenot) until Aramis gets back?
All that said, I don’t think Lou’s statements about not knowing what to do are at all helpful.
by elgato on Jun 25, 2009 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
also ...
Returning the successful nucleus from a team that is under a lot of pressure after a post-season meltdown.
Part of the reason the ‘08 team succeeded in the regular season (I think) was that the loss to Arizona, while disappointing, wasn’t shocking in the ’07 playoffs. The ’07 Cubs only won 85 games and almost sneaked into the playoffs that year.
But last year’s playoff collapse was so shocking that this year’s team is playing very tight. I was an advocate of the Bradley signing over the winter, but I wonder if getting someone as intense as Milton was a good idea when the team already seemed to stress itself out. And yes, I know team chemistry is often hard to quantify.
by elgato on Jun 25, 2009 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd wait on that comparison.
Although there were a number of players on 2004 that I rooted for, overall I came to loathe that team and their manager. And as I recall that team seemed to have the wild card in hand until they choked big time. The 2009 Cubs have yet to get in position for anything, although they are in position to be in position, and I don’t get the impression that they are making excuses as a daily mantra.
If the Cubs never get in to position in 2009, I’ll likely attribute it to too many injuries to critical players and mis-use of the roster.
by DudeVf11 on Jun 25, 2009 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Agreed and rec'd
That was the most unlikable Cubs team I can remember.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 25, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
However...
… if not for a final-week meltdown, that team would have won the wild card, and in the playoffs, who knows?
This team is more like the 2007 team. Remember, in late June the 2007 team was still under .500 and 8 games out of first place. The 2009 team is much better situated.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 25, 2009 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know what I can't stand?
That every time this team gets runners on base with 0 or 1 outs, I am overcome with feelings of dread. I don’t feel that way when we don’t have guys on base – because at least then I don’t have hope that we’ll turn it around or that one of our absurdly paid hitters will make contact when it counts.
I don’t like having heartburn during situations where I should be excited.
Do not want! UGH!
by hmlee on Jun 25, 2009 10:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Me too
I kept checking updates on my phone last night and sure enough, after getting guys on, the inning would finish with no runs.
At least I didn’t have to watch it.
by Mapmaker on Jun 25, 2009 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've been so frustrated this year, I'm actually trying to NOT watch games sometimes...
i still find myself almost compulsively checking the score, the situation, etc….it’s almost like I’ve become a glutton for punishment.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 25, 2009 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I turned the radio station several times last night
Figuring, “ok, you may waste another inning, but I don’t have to listen to it.”
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 25, 2009 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You think the 08 NLDS has anything to do with it?
After watching them disappear vs. the Dodgers, I’m not sure I would fear pitching to any of these guys. Seriously, if I’m a Major League pitcher, I come in to a game against them with my confidence high, that even if I get in a jam, this team will help me out.
In fact, if I was pitching I’d probably try to get a guy on second every inning, then pitch to a team hitting .219.
Somewhere Gerald Perry is somewhere shaking his head. He should be laughing and yelling “I told you so” but from what I hear he’s too classy a guy, and probably still cares about this team.
by CalDeano on Jun 25, 2009 11:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't care what the Cubs are batting with RISP
If they have the bases juiced, with nobody out, I better start seeing some suicide squeezes. We have had a helluva time scoring any sort of runs, and I’ll take one run in the inning as opposed to zero. I’ve been advocating small ball for a while with this club, especially since Rami went out, and it’s about time we start doing it. If Rod Gardenhire were our coach I bet we’d have seen a few by now.
Andy R.
by WindisBlowingOut! on Jun 25, 2009 12:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Look at that
Today we lost ANOTHER 1 run game. This team has got to learn to manufacture runs.
Andy R.
by WindisBlowingOut! on Jun 25, 2009 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
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