Poor Fundamental Play Dooms Cubs In 4-3, 11-Inning Loss To Reds
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 7:00 AM CDT
in Recaps
183 comments
I like Mike Fontenot, but he's having a tough year. Offensively, his production is down -- partly because he's being asked to play every day, instead of in the platoon role he's more suited to. Against LHP, he's now 4-for-29 (.138), which weighs down his overall numbers.
And his defense deserted him last night; his first-inning error helped lead to three unearned runs when Ramon Hernandez smacked a two-run homer off Ryan Dempster after the third out should have been registered. All the runs off Dempster were unearned; in the 11 innings of the 4-3 Cubs loss to the Reds, only the winning run in the 11th off Sean Marshall was earned, again lowering the Cubs' team ERA over the ten games since their eight-game losing streak ended.
Fontenot also threw the ball over Geovany Soto's head on what should have been a "Thank you!" infield grounder by Adam Rosales with Jay Bruce on third base, allowing Bruce to score the winning run. But I'm going to call out someone else for a misplay that wasn't even mentioned by Len & Bob earlier in the inning. With Bruce on second after a walk and a wild pitch, Alex Gonzalez laid down a sacrifice bunt. Bob Brenly on WGN went on and on about Fontenot not being familiar with 3B, that's why he wasn't covering, etc.
Where was Ryan Theriot?!?!?! There's a runner only on second base. The only place for a base advance is at third. If the third baseman is creeping in to try to field a bunt -- which Fontenot was -- the shortstop has to rotate to third base to take the play. Replays showed Theriot somewhere in the general area of his own position leaning toward second base. It wasn't clear from replays whether Sean Marshall, who eventually picked up the bunt, could have gotten Bruce at third. But no one was there to cover.
Ugh. If there's been any game that really showed how much the Cubs miss Aramis Ramirez, this was it. And all of this on a night when Soto may, at last, have come out of his season-long slump by hitting his second homer of the year, and the Cubs fought back from the 3-0 first-inning mess to tie the game on a Jake Fox sacrifice fly. Fox, for his part, had no fielding chances and did have the sac fly, so I'd expect Lou to give him some more chances to play against lefthanded pitching.
Speaking of Lou, did you see him trudge on and off the field to talk to Marshall in the 10th inning? He looked like he was tired of life itself. He seems disengaged and uninterested this year -- even during the argument after Ryan Theriot was caught stealing in the first, Mike Quade and Matt Sinatro had to do the work of getting Theriot away from 2B umpire Damien Beal to avoid one of those automatic suspensions for touching a thread on an umpire's shirt. Lou came out slowly, said his piece calmly, and walked just as slowly back into the dugout. (Replays appeared to show that Theriot, who beat the throw, was out when his leg came off the base and he got tagged.) I'm not saying I want Lou to have an on-field tantrum every time a close call goes against the Cubs, but once in a while, a little passion doesn't hurt.
In a few hours, Randy Wells, who has deserved to win all five starts he's made this year, will give the Cubs a good shot to win the series and that would give the club a winning road trip. The Cubs have now played four straight one-run games (record: 2-2). I'll take another one, as long as the Cubs have one more run than the Reds score today. The game preview thread will post at 10:45 am CDT (and this time, for sure!).
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Poor fundamental baseball.
I would have called out the hitting and fielding of Sori last night too. Those strike outs were…umm….I don’t know what is going on with him.
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
by zevkalman on Jun 7, 2009 7:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Soriano
After Soriano’s fielding error, Brenly made some comment about how Soriano played that ball like he seemed so disinterested. Of course, this isn’t the first time Brenly has been critical of Soriano—remember the play at Pittsburgh last year? I don’t blame BB for being critical; I feel the same way!
Go Cubs Go! Go Cubs Go!
Hey Chicago what do you say,
The Cubs are gonna win today!
by revtrh on Jun 7, 2009 7:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Soriano
All he cares about is hitting, he doesnt care much to play the field it looks to me….and by hitting he is not even doing that…cubs are struggling peroid.
by Cubz24 on Jun 7, 2009 7:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wish Brenly were the manager. Or Sandburg. I'm not sure Lou looks like he himself is interested.
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
by zevkalman on Jun 7, 2009 8:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
I am hoping and praying that Brenly will stick around until Lou hangs ’em up. Love the guy.
by ErnieBanks on Jun 7, 2009 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is exactly
why I thought Hendry should’ve gone with a young, up and coming manager, not an old retread. The game has clearly passed sweet Lou by.
"I'm not so mean. I wouldn't ever go out to hurt anybody deliberately - unless it was, you know, important, like a league game or something." - Dick Butkus
"Invincibility lies in the defence; the possibility of victory in the attack." - Sun Tzu
by propheteer on Jun 7, 2009 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Poor fundamental baseball.
Welcome to 2009.
"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 7, 2009 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
sadly this is a +1
"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 7, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Was it a hard play for Fontenot to make at home?
Len and Bob said he was throwing over the runner, but it looked pretty routine to me
Oh Baby!
by cubswgnrocks on Jun 7, 2009 7:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, it did to me too.
He’s trying hard, but he really isn’t a 3B.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 7:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
On the MLB package
I got stuck with the Reds annoucncers, not bad, but rather have Bob and Len. They said Fontenot’s play was difficult, had to throw high or hit the runner. I don’t know, seems if Fontenot takes one step to the right and a good throw gets him.
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Jun 7, 2009 8:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My impression, too
One step over on a guy who’s only halfway down the line is not a tough decision to make. Too bad Fonty didn’t make it.
"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 7, 2009 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
ok
Can the Mike Fontenot era please come to an end? Have we not seen enough?
Jake Fox at 3rd please……………I doubt he could be worse and he might provide some O
That was a routine throw home………..1/2 step inside the runner and throw the damn ball. This guy has been killing us for too long
by plenz on Jun 7, 2009 7:12 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I believe Fox can be worse
There is no such thing as an ugly female breast
by Worf on Jun 7, 2009 7:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shame on Hendry for thinking a 29 year old journeyman could morph into an everyday player on a playoff chasing team
It really is inexcusable on all levels. Hendry lives in denial on things.
You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little messed up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
by BLou on Jun 7, 2009 8:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah
I don’t know why he didn’t side step to get a better angle. He had plenty of time.
Except for center field and Lee at 1st. This team is pretty poor defensively.
by salparadise23 on Jun 7, 2009 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
YOU ARE 100 % CORRECT....
And that is a play that they should have down solid… Don’t the coaches work with them on these plays ???
by cubs north on Jun 7, 2009 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This has been my complaint for a long time
mostly at Soriano, but now in general. It seems to me that no effort is made at instructing and helping guys play positions that they have never played before. Our infield has been out of sorts since Rami went down and there is nothing to show that extra practice or instruction is being used.
We all know that Sori is shy at going back on the ball and is lackadaisical at best coming in on a routine single. We have already seen that hitters are stretching singles into doubles on him.
In ST, Sori would take his normal 10 or 15 fly balls in LF and then trot in for BP. If you are a manager/coach, and you have an outfielder that has major issues, you would think they would work with him and help him get better. In anything you do in sports repetition and coaching is the way to get better. You don’t get better in real games. Those expose your weaknesses. Yes, Sori has a decent arm, but we all saw him the other night when he bobbled a slow roller hit to him and then came up firing 10 feet to the RF side of second base. He is signed for what, 4 more years? I hope to God that someone would take the initiative to help him improve. I can’t believe anyone on the Cubs coaching staff can honestly say they are happy with his OF play.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on Jun 7, 2009 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We all know that Sori is shy at going back on the ball and is lackadaisical at best coming in on a routine single. We have already seen that hitters are stretching singles into doubles on him.
No, we don’t all know that. Some of us know that Soriano has been going back towards the wall better, has made several running and diving plays this year, and has worked at becoming a better lead-off hitter.
Best LF in the league.
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 7, 2009 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
And homerism has reached new heights. Also, meet Ryan Braun…and guess what, he hits too.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and Soriano
is better than him.
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 7, 2009 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
Just wow. I wish you’d post that statement on the home page for all to see.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll make the post
anywhere it’s appropriate.
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 7, 2009 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
With all due respect drew
On that specific play, he did look lackadaisical. I’m not saying he isn’t a good fielder overall but during last nights game I did wonder if he was thinking about something else.
"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 7, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh,
I’m not going to attempt for a second to excuse specific plays. Everyone screws up. But on average, Sori is getting better, and he’s already the best.
He’s slumping. A players at-bats have an effect on their defense sometimes.
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 7, 2009 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So what would be wrong with giving him a day or two off
So that maybe after he rests a bit he can get his head back in the game. Sometimes that respite can relight the fire.
"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 7, 2009 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
absolutely
I’ve said in a comment today (can’t remember if it’s on this thread or not) that Sori should sit. Play RJ in left. Give Soriano a week.
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 7, 2009 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can see that
As long as the Cubs are on the road. Still don’t like the idea of Hoff or Fox trying to negotiate Wrigley’s RF with the wind blowing in.
"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 7, 2009 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
again
absolutely. :D I did say to play RJ. I wouldn’t put Fox on any field in any league.
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 7, 2009 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
take a chance on a day or two on this road trip
so we don’t have to play Hoff or Fox in the OF at Wrigley unless absoluty needed
"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 7, 2009 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I never mentioned his hitting once
so don’t put words in my mouth
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on Jun 7, 2009 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
chill out
it was a list of things he’s improved at.
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 7, 2009 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I doubt he could be worse
I wouldn’t take that bet.
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 7, 2009 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
so you like
sending out an 5’7" completely overwhelmed and overmatched AAA guy to play a position he clearly cannot play who also provides nothing at the plate?
hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
by plenz on Jun 7, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you said
Jake Fox at 3rd please……………I doubt he could be worse
And I disagree. Fonty’s not 5’7", he’s not completely overwhelmed, and he’s not an AAA guy. He’s out of position, yes. But he’s actually done pretty well. He just missed this one.
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 7, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
he cost 4 runs yesterday
would Fox at 3rd cost them more?
by plenz on Jun 7, 2009 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that is almost
so certainly true as to be a universal law.
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 7, 2009 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No not a universal law
We don’t know if LBR is taking extra fielding practice or watching film…… but maybe it’s something he could do a little more of it. This isn’t his first bad game. But we do know that he is putting forth the effort.
Real life example, if anyone of us are taken out of jobs, and put into a different one w/ high stress most of us will struggle. But some less than others. So why not try someone like Scales and see if he struggles as much. We don’t know if he will or not. But it never hurts to try. If it’s a failure than go back to Fonty.
"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 7, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have no problem with trying Scales or Blanco at third.
I’m suggesting that it’s almost certain that Jake Fox would have had at least the same problems Fonty did today, if not worse. Plenz is specifically saying that Fox would not be worse than Fonty at third. That’s utterly ridiculous.
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 7, 2009 11:12 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take Scales, instead
Fox may be working on his play at third, but Bobby’s done it before.
"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 7, 2009 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll take himover Fontenot as well
this problem is in the lap of baseball’s worst GM really
by plenz on Jun 7, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
this is
the worst 130 M + payroll team EVER………in ANY SPORT
by plenz on Jun 7, 2009 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Boy, you haven't
watched the Yankees the last few years, have you?
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah I think they win that prize hands down
"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 7, 2009 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are a couple of recent Mariners teams that would like to have a word with you.
Mets, too.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Scales is a really bad 3B.
I’ve seen him play there in spring training.
I’d rather have Fox, despite the risk of bad defense. His hitting might make up for it.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As bad as Fox behind the plate?
"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 7, 2009 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm really getting to dislike this team
They aren’t very enjoyable to watch. I still say Lou needs to go now. I think he may have given up on this team and is just going through the motions.
And Hendry needs to be blamed for this terrible roster construction. How can he go into the season without a backup 3rd baseman? It’s not like Ramirez is a 24 y.o. kid in great shape that you can expect will play 160 games.
by rlpete on Jun 7, 2009 8:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Lou needs to go I agree, he is a sennial old man and it really does look like he does not care this year...
Get a manager in here that will fire up this team and yes not having a backup 3rd baseman is idiotic to say the least…
by Cubz24 on Jun 7, 2009 8:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Lou
but he loks like he’s on antidepressants or something. It looks like going through the motions to me out there.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on Jun 7, 2009 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's like the loss of Ramirez took all the wind out of his sails
"
"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 7, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's "senile"
and you’re wrong.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree personal attacks about a subject like that are uncalled for
Some of us in our real lives have to deal with older relatives that have those problems. Too me it’s no different than if you mocked people with special needs. Lou does look tired, but to imply that is senile or having dementia is just nasty.
"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 7, 2009 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As been mentioned to many times
Hendrys and Lou’s moves have put the Cubs in a tough spot. They obviously thought Fontenot was a everyday player, they thought Miles would be good, and they still think Theriot is a good shortstop.
This team is pressing at the plate big time. Players love to hit and when they don’t it drags there whole game down, at least with this bunch IMO. Soriano missed a change up on his second AB, middle up and fouled it back, then struck-out on a good change down. Soriano is trying rip everything, of course what is new.
This team is in a tough spot, and from my prespective they are not handling it well. I to agree they look like they are going through the motions waiting for the front office to make a move and bring in 4 new players.
Only saving grace is Cardinals are struggling and the Brewers can be caught, but the Cubs got to get going, enough
"Have You heard of the Boom on Mizar 5?"
by Grockcubs on Jun 7, 2009 8:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
As I've resigned myself to saying...
…this is a .500 style ballclub playing .500 type baseball.
The roster construction is truly wretched. Which is a dirty rotten shame given the quality of starting pitching in place. Cubs will finish 3rd or 4th in the NL Central. I don’t see this team putting it altogether and having a burst of any sort. And it is getting close to the time where I think you make a decision on whether it is in the best long-term interest of Aramis Ramirez to go under the knife and fix that shoulder the right way.
You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little messed up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
by BLou on Jun 7, 2009 8:31 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Do you think if you keep saying it it will become true?
You’ve typed those same words repeatedly, and they remain incorrect.
This is an above .500 team dealing with injuries to 1/4 of the payroll (including two middle-of-the-order hitters and a key starter) and still playing .500 ball.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 8:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry
But you’re wrong. They are indeed a .500 team playing exactly how their record indicates. No, they haven’t received even the slightest bit of luck this season, a diving catch and overslide in the first inning paint the exact portrait of 2009 and it repeats itself daily, but they just aren’t very good.
The offense is atrocious and as I have mentioned, Soriano is an albatross. Everyone else in the NL knows he’s a below average hitter with freakish hand strength…and that’s it. He can’t run anymore, he doesn’t hustle, is a terribly uninterested OF and quite frankly is going to continue dragging this team down.
The ony thing that keeps this team from finishing below .500 is the starting pitching and if it regresses…watch out, it could be a free fall. There is no magic wand that awakens an offense that includes way too many below average hitters on a daily basis and expecting that wand to be Ramirez is foolish at best. This season started and has continued to on the verge of spiraling completely out of control and the continued mantra that “it’s not over, it’s early” is laughably inaccurate because it is completely deviod of supporting evidence.
Sorry, but true.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They are an above .500 team when they're healthy...
that was my point. When you have 1/4 of your payroll injured, it’s hard to be better than a .500 team.
Harden comes back soon. Bradley theoretically comes back soon. If Bradley starts hitting, those things will push us well above a .500 team.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Still not good enough
Other teams have injuries too. If they get healthy, they’ll be even better as well. This is the classic fool’s argument…that things have to get better because they are so bad right now. The reality, as I have pointed out dozens of times, is that it doesn’t have to get better. It could get even worse. For weeks now, it has continued to be bad….all that shows is that as easy as you can say it will get better, it is becoming increasingly just as easy to state that new baselines are developing or have developed and that this team is already at its peak.
That in a nutshell is the definition of .500 baseball and pretty soon we’ll be in late August and the players will be producing sound clips wondering where the season went.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Point me to the other teams with 1/4 of their payroll hurt...
That’s not a fool’s argument – that’s reality. And I didn’t say it HAS to get better. Never did. Just that this team CAN play better. Unless you think Bradley will remain a .220 hitter forever.
I don’t expect more out of Scales/Blanco. I do expect more out of Bradley and Soto. I don’t have an opinion one way or the other about whether Fontenot will get better. Lee has already bounced back from the awful April, and will likely be solid (not great) the rest of the way.
But on aggregate, I think this team (without Ramirez) is an above .500 team that has played below it’s potential to this point.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 9:02 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nobody cares
Absolutely nobody cares about who is hurt and who isn’t. You are what you are according to the standings and there are absolutely no style points for playing with backups. But guys returning to health doesn’t guarantee improvement.
I like Bradley but yes, there is a very real possibility, closer to becoming a probability with each day, that he does indeed hit .220 this year. Same for Soriano. Same for Soto. Same for Fontenot. Same for all of the marginal major leaguers filling in for any or all of them. It would be one thing if these guys were continually hitting the ball hard or right at people but watching AB after AB, that just isn’t the case.
To be perfectly honest, there is a pretty significant body of evidence in 2009 to suggest that all of these guys have the worst years of their career. Hoping against hope is one thing but when that hope intersects with the reality of what these guys are doing, reality starts to become quite troublesome for 2009.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Now THAT'S a fool's argument...
Bradley has never hit .220 in his career, yet you think he’s just going to continue to do so? Wow.
I didn’t say anyone cares. But that’s the reality for the team. It’s hard to be above a .500 team with that much of the talent injured for so much of the time.
Despite the injuries AND the poor starts by so many of the players, the team is .500. If they continue to stay injured and continue to play terribly, then we may end up around or below .500. But I don’t foresee that being the case.
Clearly, you’ve taken the pessimistic view that nobody is going to improve and everyone will have career-worst seasons. That’s your opinion. But it’s very likely to be completely wrong.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Silver linings
I get it, you’re looking for silver linings but when bad baseball becomes the norm, you’ve got a mediocre team not just a bad start. I recognize that some can’t see the forest through the trees but the signs here are much more alarming than just a “bad start”.
I find it humorous that you somehow are so sure that Bradley won’t hit .220 that you’ve convinced yourself that it’s an impossibility. That’s one step short of complete nonsense. But hey, if you believe it, maybe it will come true.
And I’d re-read my comments…do I think Bradley will hit .220? I don’t know but the signs are blaring that he’s closer to doing just that than hitting .300. By the same token, your assertion that he is going to heat up is no more valid than my assertion that he won’t.
We can agree to disagree if you’d like, but the body of evidence supporting my belief that this Cubs team just isn’t very good no matter what excuse, logic or wishful thinking you may tend to use. If you don’t like that opinion, I’m not really concerned. It will all sort itself out in the end and my analysis of this club after watching them for this entire season will not waver.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Southern Cub
Some people just enjoy being pessimistic, I think they aren’t happy unless they have something to complain about.
Krummy I don’t know you so I’m not sure if you fall into that camp. So for right now I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt. But I do hope if the Cubs start playing better you don’t disappear…. and that you come back and say Ok I was off base. Just like Al did w/ Hoff.
"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 7, 2009 11:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
be a man about it if thats the case
If it’s not, I’ll be a woman who says ok I sincerely thought they could pull it together, but I guess I was wrong.
Is that a deal?
"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 7, 2009 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Here's the deal
I’m a Cubs fan. I’m a realist and I take no particular joy out of complaining about the Cubs. Just the same, I take absolutely nothing out of the cheerleaders that can’t be even the slightest bit critical of this team. I’ve been overly critical this year because it has been appropriate. This team has earned the critical eye because it’s been bad for much of this year and entirely mediocre when it hasn’t been bad. If anyone disagrees with that assessment, I’m cool with that.
I want them to do well and if they do well perhaps I’ll be here, perhaps I won’t. Either way, it won’t be to cheerlead…there are plenty here that are capable of doing that. If they play well and I want to point that out, I will. I find no great amusement in ruffling feathers on here but discussing the reality of where this season is and where the great body of evidence points to where this season is headed, is apparently troublesome for some.
That’s where I’m coming from. And no, for the first 50-some games, I am not off base. Not even close. This team isn’t very good and it’s play is showing it. It’s not my fault, I’m not the one to blame. But sitting by idly and claiming that things will get better sure as hell seems to be fool’s gold.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My point is the rest of the season
If they don’t turn it around…. I’ll admit that I was wrong. (and it’s possible I am wrong)
But most people on this board disappear if there opinion is proved wrong. If you are one of those people so be it.
But personallly I will respect someone who mans up if he’s wrong. I’m not saying you are for sure wrong.
"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 7, 2009 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right and wrong
To be honest, I don’t care whether I’m right or wrong or whether anyone else is right or wrong. There are much more important things than opinions that are right or wrong, particularly when you’re talking about following a professional sports team. That’s why I find it so crazy that certain folks get so agitated when I provide my honest assessment of what this team has done in the first 50 games. I’m not trying to piss anyone off but am providing my assessment of this club at this point in time. If people don’t agree with me, they get all bent out of shape, a human failing of sorts.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you are one of those people so be it.
Krummy12 doesn’t even show up in winning game threads.
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 7, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pom pons
I leave mine at the door. And my cheerleading skirt is at the dry cleaners.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
When you pick it up
Will you take a picture and post a FanShot?
"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 7, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I tried to give him the benefit of the doubt
By offering that I’ll will admit I’m wrong but if he will. And he obviously doesn’t want to.
So much for trying to be someone who sees if they can get people to try and be lets polarized.
So you guys enjoy arguing and being nasty to each other.
Im off to the game thread b/c I don’t need to read you guys basically having a pissing contest
"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 7, 2009 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
but when you are unwilling to consider the reasons WHY they are playing badly
your criticism is merely more uninformed blah blah blah cubs suck blah blah blah jim hendry, blah blah blah lou.
This team is playing below its potential because a significant number of players are on the DL or working off injuries on the bench, and we have several defensive replacements playing. Since you refuse to consider that, your words don’t mean much.
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 7, 2009 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Words
Now you’re putting words in my mouth. I don’t complain about Hendry. I’ve very rarely complained about Piniella. I have never used the word suck. So far you’re 0 for 3.
But no, I don’t care about the excuses. In October, excuses get you nowhere. Are there reasons the Cubs are .500? Yes. Are they guaranteed to improve? Absolutely not. So unless you’re willing to accept that, which as a homer, you clearly aren’t, I’m not willing to accept your excuse that injuries are crippling this team.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
right
you won’t accept the facts, and I won’t accept your fallacious reasoning.
Works for me.
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 7, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The bottom line
here is that they’re still not far back.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
by TCobb1911 on Jun 7, 2009 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What does that mean? What does that have to do with the argument? I hate that
cliche. It goes right up there with “No one is going to feel sorry for the Cubs because they have injuries.” No one is asking for anyone to care or feel sorry for the Cubs. It’s a fact. The Cubs have a lot of injuries that are affecting the play on the field. Guys are playing out of position. Other teams have injuries as well. To say that “Nobody cares” add nothing to the discussion.
"Hats for bats.....keep bats warm." - Pedro Cerrano
"Hey bartender, Jobu needs a refill !!!!!!!" - Eddie Harris
by willie mays hayes' gloves on Jun 7, 2009 10:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The standings
It’s all about the standings my friend. It’s all about winning games you should have won…like the one last night. Pile up a bunch of those, like the Cubs have done for the better part of 2009, and you end up looking up in the standings…just like they are doing now.
That is why the “nobody cares about injuries” comment is not only valid but is accurately reflected in the standings. Come October, all anyone looks at it where you stand, not how you got there.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and the day before
they probably should have lost.
You’re trying to take two different arguments and mash them together. We’re arguing that this team’s potential is above .500. You’re saying “they’re a .500 team and look at their record.”
We know they’re not playing as well as they could. You’re not surprising anyone with your constant repetition of that. But there are REASONS why the team isn’t playing as well as they should, and a big part of that is that this team STILL has not had more than ten games with Lou Piniella’s #1 lineup.
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 7, 2009 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Excuses
Deal with excuses all you wish. A team is as deep as its organization is. If the Cubs don’t have the depth to fill in for injuries, it’s still on them. Nobody else. Ask the Dodges how they’re doing without Manny Ramirez for 50 games.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Manny Ramirez is one guy
we have four on the DL, including two starters, two backups, and another starter is working an injury off the bench. The Dodgers have not suffered the injuries we have.
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 7, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And the Dodgers had their backup, Juan Pierre...
… play out of his mind for three weeks.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely correct
Krummy is being a mile wide and an inch deep with his analysis.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fine
The Cubs didn’t. It’s why the Dodgers are the Dodgers and the Cubs are the Cubs. And Manny Ramirez is the heart of the Dodgers order just the same as Aramis Ramirez is for the Cubs. Same situations, completely different results.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
NOT the same situations.
The Cubs haven’t had their #1 batting order play for more than ten games.
THIS is the problem. You actually look at the Dodgers, where they lose ONE player for 50 games, and then look at us, where we have not had our full compliment of starters for more than ten games all season, and say “yeah, that’s the same, and obviously, that makes the Cubs a worse team.”
You are comparing two different things, and that’s poor analysis.
And you may not say the word “suck” but it oozes out of every freakin’ statement you make.
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 7, 2009 11:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
an amazingly oblivious comment
no other team is struggling with the injuries we are. Our best hitter, two of our back-up infielders, and a top line pitcher on the DL; Bradley on the bench, Sori still with a bad-knee.
No team has this much of their payroll injured like this. Add in Soto still struggling at the plate, Fontenot playing out of position, and Marmol’s struggling when he comes in, and yes, it’s a team in crisis.
A team that’s less than five games out of first place, too.
This is not a team playing up to its potential. The record does not indicate what they are capable of doing.
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 7, 2009 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Quit whining
Nobody cares about injuries. But if you can look into your crystal ball and tell everyone for sure that no further injuries will happen and all injured players will return and contribute in major ways, I’ve got a few other question for you to answer.
Dreaming and reality…always obscured by drew….
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
you can be
as ignorant as you wish. The facts are the facts. And one fact is that krumm12 is always ready to criticize.
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 7, 2009 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yawn
This isn’t a personal attack Drew. Your problem is that you bang the drum on all things positive and refuse to believe that there is an alternative side to your childish belief that the Cubs are the only team in existence. I can’t help that but until you recognize that things are far less than rosy, you come off as an angry old man.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're the one who's whining
Drew and southern are correct.
If your hypothesis is correct, we might as well shoot anybody who gets sick for longer than two months, because it’s unlikely they’ll ever recover.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yawn
Your comments never have merit.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't care if this gets me banned
but you, sir, are an idiot.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nice
Name calling is cool….and fully supports my previous comment.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I take my comment about giving you the benefit of the doubt
B/c obviously you just want stomp your feet and insist your right.
I don’t expect that if the Cubs improve you will come back and say hey I was wrong. B/c you just want to argue with people who think the Cubs will rebound.
"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 7, 2009 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Look
Again, it’s not about being right or wrong, it’s about my assessment after 50 games. If you don’t like it, believe me, I’ll sleep tonight.
But while I make my opinions known, I just can’t understand the anger and ignorance thrown my way. Agree to disagree…I’m good with that.
But to suggest someone has to be right or someone has to be wrong or that someone has to “man up” for opinions spewed on a message board, confuses me greatly. What’s the point?
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You might be right....
but if you really want to have a legit conversation on this board as opposed to just arguing with people on the opposite side which leads to name calling.
But if you come back and say hey I was wrong. Then you are not someone who just wants to cause arguments.
I admit that sometimes I think Drew and NBF take it too far. But so does Blue Mike.
But I tend to think if myself or a lot of others who like that sometimes say hey I was wrong on that. But at the time that was my opinion. Someone who is willing to support their opinion and say if they are will come back if they are wrong. Is someone who is being reasonable and willing to admit they are wrong. Isn’t that what we want during these discussions? Where is clutche who was so nasty about DLee?
"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 7, 2009 12:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It won't get you banned.
But you really need to stop personally attacking other posters.
Disagree with the opinion. Attack the position the person is taking.
But no name-calling. Stop now.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al,
I’d rate the initial post as a personal attack. But I digress.
Besides, it’s like libel. Truth is my defense.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not on this site.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
things happen
for a reason. This team isn’t playing .500 ball in a vacuum.
This team has won games it shouldn’t have. This team has won games it should have. And this team is 4.5 games back with over 100 games left to go in the season.
But all you ever say is “.500 team! .500 team! We suck! We suck!!!!!”
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 7, 2009 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Suck
I don’t use the term suck. It was coined and is used by people that have never played the game.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
that I agree with
"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 7, 2009 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You could make the argument
that the Cubs haven’t missed Harden at all. How much better could he have pitched over Wells? The Cubs could of/should of won nearly everyone of Wells’ starts.
by rlpete on Jun 7, 2009 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wells
has been a real find.
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 7, 2009 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Let's just wait
Until a team sees him for a second start.
"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 7, 2009 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is what is so frustrating
The starting pitching has been excellent. That is the only reason the Cubs are .500.
by rlpete on Jun 7, 2009 8:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep
And like the poster above accurately stated, this team will go in a free fall if the starting pitching doesn’t hold up. This is a poorly constructed, insanely expensive .500 ballclub, period.
You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little messed up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
by BLou on Jun 7, 2009 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
...and it is worth adding Lou Piniella looks absolutely disinterested and miserable in that dugout
He looks defeated and homesick all at once. His managerial decisions haven’t led to this nightmare in 2009 so I’m not naive enough to think a new man in charge would change things with this roster, but I’m absolutely convinced Lou is gone soon. He’s going to quit.
You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little messed up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
by BLou on Jun 7, 2009 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
OMG
Are you admitting you might have been wrong about Pinella?
"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 7, 2009 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no
he blames Hendry and the team for beating Lou down.
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 7, 2009 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There's no reason to expect the starting pitching to fall apart...
And there’s no reasonable reason to expect the offense to stay this bad.
- Soriano will play better on aggregate (he’ll be explosive for weeks and disappear for weeks, but on average will be better than what he has been).
- Bradley will play better.
- Soto will play better (how much better is debatable, but he won’t remain a sub-.600 OPS guy).
Some of that will be offset by the fade of Theriot and Fukudome. But on aggregate, this offense will very likely play better.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gambler's fallacy
That’s all that is. Blind faith and gambler’s fallacy.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, you have
blind pessimism, if there is such a word.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cheerleaders
…come in all shapes and sizes apparently.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't have pom-pons
nor a skirt. So I don’t know what the hell you’re talking about. Then again, it appears I’m not the only one here who believes that.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alfonso Soriano
I used up all my disgust and venom in 2007 and 2008. But how in the world did this guy ever coax $136 million out of Jim Hendry. Unbelievable how wretched he can be at the plate for so long of stretches. I really cannot watch him play baseball anymore without turning my head the other way. And to think we have 5 1/2 years left of that contract.
You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little messed up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
by BLou on Jun 7, 2009 8:34 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Soriano...
Looked awful at the plate, and awful in the field last night. He needs to sit today. Reed Johnson has an OPS of 1100 the last 28 days. Soriano’s is 646 during that same period. And he’s hitting in the freaking .240’s overall this season. I don’t care how much money he makes, sit his ass down today.
by kanderber on Jun 7, 2009 8:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Take a look at the sound system in back of Soriano's car. Would you care if you get benched? :-)
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
by zevkalman on Jun 7, 2009 9:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I absolutely agree
that Soriano needs a more extended rest than off-days will give him.
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 7, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The bunt....
Al, unless you know what play was on, it’s wrong for you to blame Theriot. My guess was the wheel should have been on, Fontenot holding third, with Theriot rotating towards second, Scales towards first, and Lee charging. That, or we could have played Lee and Fontenot charging with Theriot covering, Marshall covering the middle, and Scales grabbing first (though were the runner to safely reach first and notice, he would have a sure shot at second. Then again, with the winning run at third, does it matter?)
My point is, unless you know the bunt rotation assignments, calling out Theriot with nothing more seems wrong.
"I make love to pressure."
-- Stephen Jackson
by USCKB on Jun 7, 2009 9:10 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
BB was blaming Font
for not to get back to 3B
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Jun 7, 2009 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree...
The replay looked like a 1-3 wheel on and Font was out of position. But I also agree that unless you no specifics it’s hard to say.
by farr1776 on Jun 7, 2009 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why would Theriot be going to 2B?
There was only one runner on base, on second base. Why would you need to cover 2B?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's just basic bunt coverage...
on a 1-3 cover (which is the usual with a runner on 2nd) #5 stays home, 6 rotates to second and 4 covers first, pitcher has third base side and first has his side…if a bad play happens it keeps the batter held to first
by farr1776 on Jun 7, 2009 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
So no one covers third with a runner on second?
That makes no sense.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 8, 2009 7:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I mentioned this last night
And I don’t know specifically how different plays work in the MLB, but on every bunt, we teach the Little League kids that first and third charge the ball, while second covers first and SS covers third.
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 7, 2009 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOU LOOKS LIKE HE
Is a million miles away ..From the shots into the dugout . Is he starting to lose faith in the club ?? As for Soriano I don’t have enough time to cover that topic……
by cubs north on Jun 7, 2009 9:27 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm not going to blame Fontenot for last night
He’s not a third baseman and he’s not an everyday player.
Hendry’s off season moves continue to boggle the mind. That we could have a nearly 140 million dollar payroll and no legitimate back-ups to an oft-injured guy like A-Ram is unbelievable.
I can already hear the excuse that will follow this season; we couldn’t anticipate the injuries and we couldn’t add anybody because our hands were tied from the ownership issues and blah…blah…blah.
All I can say is that I hope Hendry enjoys the rest of the ride because I think his days as a GM are numbered.
The question for me is who does Ricketts (assuming the deal goes through) bring in to start fixing this mess?
by bluekoolaide on Jun 7, 2009 9:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Hard to put too much blame on Fontenot
As you stated,
A. He is not an everyday ballplayer
B. He is not a 3rd baseman
He’s doing lousy because he is being asked to serve a role he is ill-equipped for.
You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little messed up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
by BLou on Jun 7, 2009 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed
If the new owner doesn’t hire a new GM I will be shocked.
by salparadise23 on Jun 7, 2009 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
SURE HOPE YOU ARE RIGHT....
Just wonder where HENDRY will end up after the sale??? So many of his moves had made no sense…
by cubs north on Jun 7, 2009 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We led off the 1st and 2nd innings with a double, and couldn't score either time.
Again… failure to execute at the plate + poor fundamental baseball in field.
This team is not very good. And it’s a shame, because they are wasting away good pitching performances.
"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 7, 2009 9:47 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Interesting nobody mentioned Chris Dickerson yet.
Yeah, we played lousy fundamentally but there were still some hard-hit balls and some almost-bloops that didn’t drop for us. We might’ve won that game if not for the Superman-style catches (I think there were three) by Dickerson in center. Sometimes you have to tip your cap. That guy is the real deal on defense.
"I'll never forget how I felt last October." ~Kosuke Fukudome
by Goodie1969 on Jun 7, 2009 9:47 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
he had
some good plays against us.
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 7, 2009 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Almost time to apply the "Cub-killer" label to him?
"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 7, 2009 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Win today...
… and the Cubs win the series.
Where was Ryan Theriot?!?!?! There’s a runner only on second base. The only place for a base advance is at third. If the third baseman is creeping in to try to field a bunt — which Fontenot was — the shortstop has to rotate to third base to take the play. Replays showed Theriot somewhere in the general area of his own position leaning toward second base. It wasn’t clear from replays whether Sean Marshall, who eventually picked up the bunt, could have gotten Bruce at third. But no one was there to cover.
Great observation! I didn’t think of that, nor do I remember hearing of that anywhere else.
"People shouldn’t bust your chops just because you’re a Sox fan on a Cub board — but I know it happens. FWIW, I think sites like this are more interesting when fans of other teams join in the conversation." by Shanghai Badger on Mar 13, 2009
by DrCrawdad on Jun 7, 2009 9:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
if you watched the game
BB explaiend that Font should have been back at 3B not Theriot
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Jun 7, 2009 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Out of position
I remember hearing Brenly say that Fontenot should have been at or returning to 3rd but I don’t recall him commenting on Theriot.
I agree with Al’s comments, as I noted above, that Theriot should been more than a spectator on the play.
"People shouldn’t bust your chops just because you’re a Sox fan on a Cub board — but I know it happens. FWIW, I think sites like this are more interesting when fans of other teams join in the conversation." by Shanghai Badger on Mar 13, 2009
by DrCrawdad on Jun 7, 2009 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Its not
Theriot’s fault. A vast majority of the time in that situation its Fontenot’s job to creep, read the bunt and if its bunted hard towards him, he needs to field it and make a play at first. If not, he needs to retreat back to 3B. It was very clear that bunt was not going anywhere but to the pitcher.
Its funny, you spend most of your life gripping a baseball. And in the end, its almost always the other way around.
by TCobb1911 on Jun 7, 2009 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
exactly
it is inexperience at 3B that hurt him
baseball is a game of outs......pop out, ground out, line out, pitch out, strike out, fly out, and Fox and Bud's favorite black out
by Cubbie-Tim on Jun 7, 2009 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Look For Some More Bats --
Why are the Cubs carrying 12 pitchers? Three of them — Waddell, Ascanio, and Patton — haven’t been used in a week.
Bradley is hurt and except for last night’s appearance, he hasn’t been available for almost a week.
The Cubs have played 3 extra inning games this week with only 4 bats on the bench.
As poorly as the Cubs have been at the plate, don’t Hendy and Pinella see the need for a bat or two?
With Ramirez out for at least another month, something has to be done to find the missing offense.
When you have 5 or 6 guys in the lineup doing a good job at the plate, you can afford to hide one or maybe two .220 hitters in your lineup. That is not the case with the current lineup.
If the Braves can ply McClouth away from the Bucs, why can’t Hendry do something to fix the current situation?
by ceegeewow on Jun 7, 2009 10:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I think Ascanio was warming last night
Or that may have been my eyes acting up.
"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 7, 2009 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right. The Braves had a need and they aggressively filled it
The Cubs sit on their hands.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 7, 2009 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is maddening that Bradley habitually does not play yet still doesn't go on the DL
You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little messed up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
by BLou on Jun 7, 2009 10:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
He's supposed to come back against Houston...
I agree with you on the first injury, but this one seems like it makes more sense to stay. He pinch hit last night, and is expected back early next week. If you’re only going to miss a couple of games, why go on the DL? He’s a better option as a pinch hitter than anyone we could call up.
Now the initial injury (which had him out over two weeks) should have been a DL stint.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He has utterly sucked as a pinch hitter
You mean, let me understand this cause, ya know maybe it's me, I'm a little messed up maybe, but I'm funny how, I mean funny like I'm a clown, I amuse you? I make you laugh, I'm here to amuse you? What do you mean funny, funny how? How am I funny?
by BLou on Jun 7, 2009 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Correction: "He has utterly sucked."
"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 7, 2009 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's 0-6 with a walk...
I agree that he’s not done well in his limited chances as a pinch hitter. But what minor leaguer do you expect to come in and do better as a pinch hitter?
Further, my point was that if Bradley is only going to miss a few starts, there’s no point in DLing him. Doing that merely costs us about 6-7 starts by him.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jake Fox and Micah Hoffpauir have both done better as pinch hitters
And they were straight out of AAA. Hell, Bobby Scales has been a better pinch hitter. Let’s just call up Vitters and see what he can do against real pitching.
"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 7, 2009 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As for Fontenot...
I agree that he needs to return to the platoon 2B role. He still has a respectable .757 OPS against RHP, but that .423 OPS against LHP is utterly intolerable.
Given that he’s stunk defensively at 3B anyway, it might be worth exploring the possibility of Fox at 3B against LHP. But right now, we’re getting bad defense AND bad offense against LHP at 3B. Might at least see if we can get good offense there.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 10:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
We should've dealt for a Ty Wigginton-type 3 weeks ago.
"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 7, 2009 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's another thing about this team that gets me
We lose a vital piece like Ramirez and, instaed of aggressively trying to find a replacement (like the Red Sox or Mets would do), Hendry seems content to try to force Fontenot into a role that he’s completely unsuited for.
This reminds me a lot of ‘05 when the Cubs took a similiar approach to Lee’s injury.
In the meantime, we’re losing games that we should be winning.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 7, 2009 10:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, we don't know what Hendry's trying to do...
The mistake, in my opinion, was made in the offseason when the team failed to find a backup. However, it’s very difficult to find a good option this early in the season. Fontenot probably seemed as good an option as what was/is currently available.
I agree that we need an upgrade at 3B right now. But it’s not as easy as just snapping your fingers. We don’t have a deep farm system, and teams aren’t looking to dump good 3B right now for nothing.
by SouthernCub on Jun 7, 2009 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand what you're saying and I agree that to us
things like that probably seem easier than they really are. It just seems though that Hendry hasn’t been the aggressive trader her used to be in a long time.
It’s hard to believe that a guy like Freddy Sanchez wouldn’t be available for the right price-if Hendry is nervous about trading prospects for a ’stop gap" type player then I have news for him; at this point his career is on the line-he has nothing to lose by being aggressive here.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 7, 2009 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the question isn't whether or not Sanchez is available for the right price
it’s whether or not we can come up with the price itself. I don’t see how. The pirates aren’t going to want Freel or Miles or even Scales. They’re going to want young, cost-controlled, good prospects for their perennial rebuilding.
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 7, 2009 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fine.
Let’s give them two or three mid-level guys then.
It’s not like the Cubs track record of scouting or developing these guys is particularly good any way.
For once I’d like to see them trade a prospect when his value is high.
My point is that, if Hendry is thinking he’ll hold on to guys and wait for them to develop, then he’s dreaming. No incoming owner in his right mind would retain Hendry after this debacle.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 7, 2009 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
do we have
those guys? I don’t want to give up Cashman or Vitters for a guy who has no position when Rami comes back.
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 7, 2009 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There's a 2B at AA named Tony Thomas who's the latest
“future hope”. I’d have no problem packaging him and one or two pitchers.
I’m not necessarily advocating trading Vitters at this point but, down the line, if we’re in it and a true difference maker is available, I’d have to give it some serious thought.
And why couldn’t we look into shifting Sanchez to 2nd if and when A-Ram makes it back this season. I might be wrong about this, but didn’t he start out as a second baseman?
by bluekoolaide on Jun 7, 2009 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes he did
but I’m not sure it’s fair to suggest that if Fonty got to play his position again — which he would, if we brought in Sanchez to play third — that he would prove he doesn’t deserve it.
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 7, 2009 11:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
It’s Cashner…not Cashman.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe he doesn't want to give up the Yankees GM!
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al on Jun 7, 2009 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh noes!
I got the name of a low A prospect wrong! That clearly invalidates anything I have to say!
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 7, 2009 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
absolutely pathetic
When the game went into extras last night I just knew we weren’t going to win-you leave that many potential runs on the bases, you make key defensive mistakes, you don’t DESERVE to pull the game out.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 7, 2009 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Too much of a mess
With hands tied on payroll, Hendry won’t be able to do anything with enough impact to get out of this mess. We usually get a promise that there is money to make pre trade deadline changes, but I don’t remember whether that was done earlier this year or not. When there are injuries or unexpected lack of production that extra lift is really needed.
Without hitting, bad defense, and with too much stress on the bullpen, this is going to be a long season. Sure we are only 4.5 games out, but having three teams to overcome makes that number decieving. They have to start winning with some consistency.
The Cubs have 6 starting pitchers. I’m wondering if the they can afford to trade Harden when he comes off the DL. I think he is a free agent at the end of the season. They might be able to really get something for him. Just an idea.
I think Gregg would go Scott Eyre way if they had somebody else in the bullpen that Lou felt he could count on. I think Gregg is a free agent after this season too. Just another thought.
by AboutTheCubs on Jun 7, 2009 11:23 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Hendry's hands might very well be tied
And that’s all the more reason to be disgusted with his off season moves.
I know this isn’t going to be a popular thing to say, but this team, as currently constituted, simply isn’t very good and has very little chance of seriously challenging the three teams in front.
Will they be better when Rami returns? Probably (depending on how quickly he gets his stroke back) but, I have a feeling by the time that point comes we’ll be mired near the bottom of the division and starting to turn our attention to the Bears.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 7, 2009 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't let the masses here you say that
You’ll be heavily criticized and shot down for recognizing this in June. You know, unless you share their opinion, the masses will claim you’re the ignorant one.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or you will claim how ignorant they are.
IMHO both extremes are bad.
"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 7, 2009 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, you are
if you believe none of the players who currently are cold will never perform close to their historical averages.
Do we know if Hendry’s “hands are tied” financially? I hear this from everybody, it seems, except Hendry himself.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 7, 2009 11:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Last for the day
If the Cubs played as hard as the posters on here do when they react to negative commentary sprayed towards their beloved club, no matter their current level of play, we’d be talking about a team 20 games over .500. Certainly an interesting phenomenon.
Who needs a stinkin' tag line? What are they for anyway?
by krummy12 on Jun 7, 2009 11:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
if they were as bad...
We’d be 10 below .500
"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 7, 2009 12:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Little or Bush league throw
It bothers me that the Riot forgot to cover third, but I’m almost positive Marshall wouldn’t have had an option there anyways (too risky with no outs). Sori not hustling is concerning, but again everyone and their mother knows he sucks at defense. Ultimately, Fonty has to make that throw on target and it’s pretty much a routine play. I mean he had all day; all he has to do is take one step to his left to create a throwing lane.
"I'm not so mean. I wouldn't ever go out to hurt anybody deliberately - unless it was, you know, important, like a league game or something." - Dick Butkus
"Invincibility lies in the defence; the possibility of victory in the attack." - Sun Tzu
by propheteer on Jun 7, 2009 1:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Blood on his hands
Chalk up another loss directly attributed to Hendry’s piss-poor moves in the offseason.
"I'm not so mean. I wouldn't ever go out to hurt anybody deliberately - unless it was, you know, important, like a league game or something." - Dick Butkus
"Invincibility lies in the defence; the possibility of victory in the attack." - Sun Tzu
by propheteer on Jun 7, 2009 1:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
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