Lineup Follies: Cubs vs. Astros Preview, Tuesday 9/1, 7:05 CT
by Al on Sep 1, 2009 5:00 PM CDT
in Game Threads
141 comments
As Alfonso Soriano's numbers tailed off during May and June -- now we know why -- the chorus calling for him to be dropped in the batting order got louder and louder. Finally, in early July Lou listened, and on July 4, Kosuke Fukudome was installed in the leadoff spot. The Cubs lost that game 11-2, but Fukudome led off virtually every day from then through August 7, a little over a month's worth of games. During that time Fukudome started only three times without batting leadoff (one game batting third and two batting fifth).
From July 4 through August 7, the Cubs went 18-12 (17-10 with Fukudome hitting leadoff), and Fukudome hit .299/.405/.495.
Then, for some unfathomable reason, Lou decided that the Cubs would be better off with Ryan Theriot leading off. Fukudome has continued to produce in the 20 games since then -- going .290/.372/.507, virtually the same OPS -- but the Cubs have been 8-14 since August 7, and even though Theriot has hit .303 in the leadoff spot, his OBA is only .333 in those games (he's started 20 of them), meaning he's gotten on base at a much poorer rate than Fukudome, over a similar stretch.
Since August 7, Milton Bradley has been installed as the #2 hitter (hitting third once), and is hitting.317/.423/.512 in 22 games (21 starts). That's outstanding production. I believe if Fukudome had remained the leadoff hitter, with Bradley hitting behind him, that would have produced a ton of baserunners for Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez to drive in. Theriot should have been dropped to eighth in the lineup. Clearly, it was working -- the Cubs were winning.
Why do managers do this? It's not the only reason for the freefall, but it has to be a significant factor.
Site note: Josh77 wanted me to let you all know that his internet service is out -- that's why there was no minor league wrap this morning -- he hopes to have it back by tomorrow.
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The Cubs have already defeated Brian Moehler twice this year and his ERA, in three 2009 starts vs. the Cubs, is 13.97. Seriously, this is a pitcher the Cubs should beat handily. (I know what I'm risking by posting that.) Moehler will be 38 in December and one of his teammates during his 1996 September callup was... Cubs bench coach Alan Trammell. Derrek Lee has used him as a BP pitcher (7-for-17, 2 doubles, 3 HR, 7 RBI).
Randy Wells has started twice vs. Houston this year, beat them at Wrigley Field on July 29, and has not allowed them a run in 14 innings, and only 10 hits, all singles. Seriously, this is a game the Cubs should win easily.
For the third consecutive day, WGN will be carrying tonight's game. I know it shouldn't matter, but the Cubs have a far better record on CSN than on WGN (see records on left sidebar). It's also on FSN Houston. For other games today see the MLB.com Mediacenter.
Baseball-reference.com game preview
Please visit our SB Nation Astros site The Crawfish Boxes.
Overflow comment threads will post today at 8 pm, 9 pm and 9:45 pm CDT.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
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Between the WGN jinx
And Al’s “We should win this one” jinx, I’m assuming the Cubs will lose 11-0.
Juuust kidding – go Cubs!
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Glad you said it
and you’ll bear the brunt of the flaming.
j/k
It’s pretty unreal how superstitious humankind is. I find it fascinating.
by chilango2 on Sep 1, 2009 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Speaking of which...
I’m wearing the giveaway shirt from my birthday (Saturday). Cubs did a good job on that particular day. :-)
Visit bloggingthebracket.com, SBNation's bracketology/hoops rambling site!
by Chris Dobbertean on Sep 1, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Superstition is a byproduct of our analytical minds
But then, so is the computer you’re typing on.
You take the good, you take the bad, you take ’em both and there you have…
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
tootie?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Sep 1, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jo?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Sep 1, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ms. Garrett?
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Sep 1, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rawr.
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What About Blair?
"The big possums walk late." - Harry Caray
by memphiscub on Sep 1, 2009 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wouldn't be into me.
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wouldn't be into her
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wouldn't be into her
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
dont they cancel each other out
Cubs win by 7.
by cozmotaylor123 on Sep 1, 2009 5:20 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Let's just win.
This is only the beginning....Lou Pinella end of '07 season and Chicago Transit Authority (the band when they were really good).
by mrcubsfan on Sep 1, 2009 5:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Wells
He has been one of the few pleasant surprises for the Cubs this season.
"The big possums walk late." - Harry Caray
by memphiscub on Sep 1, 2009 5:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully he gets his Internet back
I enjoy the job he does.
I would sleep with Blou if it meant the Cubs would win a WS. by Doggie Stalker on Aug 22, 2009 4:11 PM EDT
by cubsluver22 on Sep 1, 2009 5:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
"The big possums walk late." - Harry Caray
by memphiscub on Sep 1, 2009 5:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
August 7th the beginning of the downfall.
I think Lou changed the lineup was become he heard about the lack of RBIs from Bradley in the 5 spot and wanted to move himand his OBP in front of Lee and Aram. But then Lou had to have that lefty in the 5 spot and naturally he chose Dome to put there and that left Riot at leadoff.
It had reason, it wasn’t totally out of left field. But the big thing is that it hasn’t worked!
And whats worse is that when he moved Bradley, which many people were calling for, the team was scoring at a 5.03 clip/per game. Sometimes the fix is worse than the problem itself.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:10 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Actually, the downfall began on Aug. 5
Going into that night’s game, the Cubs were 9 over .500 and 1/2 game ahead of St. Louis. The Cubs lost that night to Justin Lehr.
What else happened on Aug. 5 that could have started the downfall? Hmm, I wonder….
by Jody Jody Davis on Sep 1, 2009 5:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That c-s’er m-f’er… Of course it’s all Miles’ fault. Brought the entire team down singlehandedly. Everything he comes in contact with becomes rotten. May his name and legacy live in infamy.
by chilango2 on Sep 1, 2009 5:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Notice how much better the Cardinals are this year?
Is that just a coincidence too?
by Jody Jody Davis on Sep 1, 2009 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not at all, it's a superstition!
I cannot think of a ML team who’d take him next year—even if the Cubs eat the contract. I really can’t think of who’d be so blind. Thusly, the curse will continue next year.
by chilango2 on Sep 1, 2009 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Unless we just cut him
He gets a paid vacation, we get a roster spot – win-win!
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where would he go? He's not tall enough to ride the rides.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have ideas
but I don’t want to be insensitive and un-PC.
by chilango2 on Sep 1, 2009 6:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, dwarf tossing should be outlawed!
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 6:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wat!
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 1, 2009 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's not up to your standards SWL.
I expect a photoshop version with Miles’ head on there.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That IS Miles head.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 1, 2009 6:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I didn't recognize him without his goatee, my bad.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 6:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, August 5th was the shutout that put Lou over the edge.
But Aug 7th was the date that the new lineup went into effect.
I’ll ignore the Miles thing like we all should ignore him.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
There was a new lineup on the 5th
Not only was Miles reactivated, not only was he inserted into the lineup that night, but for some insane reason Lou batted the guy with the worst OBP on the team second.
by Jody Jody Davis on Sep 1, 2009 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stupid Cubs named Aaron. :(
Believe or Leave ~Cubswynn 9/9/2008
by slcathena on Sep 1, 2009 6:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lineup Game 2 vs Astros: Same as Monday:
riot, milt, lee, rami, fuky, fox, baker, hill, wells.
Via twitter.
Follow me on twitter @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Sep 1, 2009 5:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Also of note from Twittermyer:
One more day for Sori. To play Wednesday.
Follow me on twitter @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Sep 1, 2009 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Le sigh
We have all of these guys up from Iowa, who could give some starters (Riot) a chance to rest, and Lou just trots out the same group that couldn’t buy a hit yesterday.
Thanks, Lou!
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Please no.
Lou was pretty good the last two years, I don’t get this at all.
Believe or Leave ~Cubswynn 9/9/2008
by slcathena on Sep 1, 2009 6:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, I don't want it to be so either, but
Piniella has shown traits very familiar to us.
by chilango2 on Sep 1, 2009 6:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
unfortunately
Recipe for Disaster;
C'mon Cubs, hurry up and blow this so I can relax.
by Bluekoolaide on July22, 2009 3:08 PM CDT
by sue369 on Sep 1, 2009 6:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wtf
fukudome- .321 average lead off, theriot – .271
COOL BEANS!
by lexmarklover on Sep 1, 2009 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
sure, but irrellevent, the OBP there is damning. :(
Believe or Leave ~Cubswynn 9/9/2008
by slcathena on Sep 1, 2009 6:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And right on cue for the lineup
Inertia = means that an object will always continue moving at its current speed and in its current direction until some force causes its speed or direction to change.
Lou and his inertia lineup. Maybe we need to lose 10 in a row before he makes a change.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Time to start the 26 game hot streak....
Go Cubs!!!
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 5:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
+1
Recipe for Disaster;
C'mon Cubs, hurry up and blow this so I can relax.
by Bluekoolaide on July22, 2009 3:08 PM CDT
by sue369 on Sep 1, 2009 6:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
+1 to you both.
Believe or Leave ~Cubswynn 9/9/2008
by slcathena on Sep 1, 2009 6:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
win
one day at a time.
"I’m not going to allow Al Yellon to flush this thing down the crapper without a fight." (BLOU)
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2009 5:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I lke my dated sitcom reference more
:P
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, some of us never dated a sitcom.
if this was still new to me, i wouldn't understand
by N Oakley on Sep 1, 2009 5:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have
It’s terrible. They’re always telling you when to laugh or be sad…They’re never really that funny either. It was good for a little bit though, but it soon just gets soooo tiring.
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Sep 1, 2009 5:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Its nice when you're finished with her to hear the crowd applaud. :)
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
come with me
if you want to win.
The playoffs… the final frontier
1969, a crack baseball team was sent to prison by a commissioner for an error they didn’t commit. This team promptly escaped from a contention to the Chicago underground. Today, still wanted by the fans, they survive as players of fortune. If you have bleacher seats, if no one else can bring beer, and if you can find them, maybe you can hire… The Cubs-Team.
"I’m not going to allow Al Yellon to flush this thing down the crapper without a fight." (BLOU)
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2009 5:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
1969, Star Trek, Dwight Schultz
1969 was the year Star Trek: TOS was cancelled. Dwight Schultz played Howling Mad Murdock on the A-Team and Reginald Barclay on a few episodes of Star Trek: TNG and Star Trek: Voyager.
"The big possums walk late." - Harry Caray
by memphiscub on Sep 1, 2009 5:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
For the love of Pete
WIN THIS GAME!
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Sep 1, 2009 5:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
As long as Pete is betting on us to win, I'll take it.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
pete is not betting on us tonight
Is that a sign?
by cozmotaylor123 on Sep 1, 2009 5:58 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Can you repete that?
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope the Cub's five bar gate jumps and over stuff.
I don’t know what this mean, it just sounds distinguished.
by Cubbiegoon on Sep 1, 2009 5:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
How about a rousing game of Mornington Crescent?
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alright, back to work
Hope we win today. And, if any of you are there tomorrow, I hope we all get to take in a win tomorrow as well. Lets build one of those, what are they called? Streaks?
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Sep 1, 2009 5:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Gosh, I hope SWL is not around...(streaks)
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll just get it out of the way
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Down past the quad and the gymnasium
And the eighth and final rule: if this is your first time at Fight Club, you have to fight.
by Ace Venom on Sep 1, 2009 5:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As in...
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I forgot about you eths, you're making a name for yourself too.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I assume this is a compliment...
By the way, thanks for giving me the idea – there has been so much talk about the entire team going on a streak, that I should have thought about this sooner.
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 5:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was a comp
Although you do have a ways to go to get to SWLs level of funniness derangement though.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
SWL is afaict The True Master
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 5:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
::blushes::
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 1, 2009 5:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
me too
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 6:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
this guy could use a mangroomer so he can maintain himself
"Fasten your seatbelts"-Pat Hughes
by katie casey on Sep 1, 2009 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He needs some "manscaping"
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I warn yee, tis not pretty
People along the Isar river in Munich during the summer months.
These are the true needy, oh manscapers and groomers….
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can imagine doing many things in my life.
riding a bicycle naked is NOT one of them.
"I’m not going to allow Al Yellon to flush this thing down the crapper without a fight." (BLOU)
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2009 6:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Imagine a wipeout, oh the humanity.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
According to article:
The saddle does “rub” as much when naked. Nude bathing I understand, but buff bike riding is not my scene.
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 6:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not as worried about the rubbing
"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 Sep 1, 2009 6:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't buy your Lineup-Follies theory
Regardless of who was batting first & second in the lineup, production went down from July to August for both Lee (9 HRs in July vs. 6 in Aug) & Ramirez (5 HRs in July vs 2 in Aug) with corresponding declines in BA/OBP/OPS. So even if Fukodome continued batting in that position with same BA/OBP, fewer runs still would have scored.
I think the real reason for the drastic July-August decline is a little more complex than Fukudome getting moved in the batting order.
by JFCubFan on Sep 1, 2009 5:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
how about the
5.00+ Team ERA over the same stretch and bullpen follies. I think that had more to do with the lousy stretch than who was batting leadoff. I agree with you.
by socalbob on Sep 1, 2009 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They were some other issues
But Lou did take a lineup that appeared to be “clicking” so to speak (the record was good), and began tinkering with it. In doing so, things have gone south.
Obviously, Kevin Gregg’s meltdown, injuries and other matters didn’t help, as well.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Sep 1, 2009 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In July we scored 141 and gave up 124
In August we scored 105 and gave up 140. I think the pitching and hitting were both to blame in August.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on Sep 1, 2009 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I liked the idea of getting Bradley in front of Lee and Rami
both to get his OBP there, but also to get him pitches to hit so he could start showing more power.
But I’ve said before and I’ll say it again, Ryan Theriot is not a top-of-the-order bat. He just doesn’t get it done there.
Randy Wells - You continue to astound me.
by DGU on Sep 1, 2009 5:42 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
"this is a game the Cubs should win easily"
the Karma Kops would like a word with you, Al. Aren’t the Cubs having enough problems?
It’s not like Aaron Miles was dropped from the roster today. The living voodoo doll will still be sitting in a Cub uniform tonight. Nothing comes easy as long as he keeps suiting up for the Cubs.
"I love California. I practically grew up in Phoenix."
-- Dan Quayle
by LAcarl519 on Sep 1, 2009 5:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Maybe we just need...
an Aaron Miles voodoo doll bobblehead night. :)
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 5:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lou would start the doll
Taller, better range, better OBP.
"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 Sep 1, 2009 5:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
no doubt they would have to make it larger than lifesize to make it a standard-size Miles' bobblehead
"I love California. I practically grew up in Phoenix."
-- Dan Quayle
by LAcarl519 on Sep 1, 2009 5:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If the Cubs follow their monthly trend
they will play over .500 ball this month. Too bad they tanked in August and made the playoff chase pretty damn tough. If we go 23-10 the remainder of the season, all STL has to do is limp along at 8-22.
Even if we played .500 in August, we’re still 8½ out with 4 weeks to play. Making up 2 games + per week would still be difficult.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on Sep 1, 2009 5:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Chilly and clear wih a breeze blowing in from right
so says wunderground.com.
This is a good day to win!
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 6:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
blanco or miles
Who gets more at bats between now and end of season?
by cozmotaylor123 on Sep 1, 2009 6:01 PM CDT via mobile reply actions 0 recs
via Len and Bob
Soriano must have talked his way into the lineup. He’s in for Fox.
9/14/08 - Big Z throws a no-hitter and my son attends his first Cubs game. The perfect combination.
by Scrapptastic on Sep 1, 2009 6:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Now that is funny, just typical Lou.
Say this much for big league baseball - it is beyond question the greatest conversation piece ever invented in America. ~Bruce Catton
by KaliCub on Sep 1, 2009 6:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
yep.
higher salary = more playing time
9/14/08 - Big Z throws a no-hitter and my son attends his first Cubs game. The perfect combination.
by Scrapptastic on Sep 1, 2009 6:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah,
this is just a total disaster. (rolls eyes)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 1, 2009 6:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What the hell?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 1, 2009 6:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
as was true with Soriano's last game in LF,
his defense, or lack thereof, will likely lead to at least 2 runs for the Ass-tros tonight. I hope the offense is ready to make up for the weak leak in LF.
"I love California. I practically grew up in Phoenix."
-- Dan Quayle
by LAcarl519 on Sep 1, 2009 6:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And they were winning so much
the last two days with Fox out there. Oh, wait …
by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 1, 2009 6:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some things in life are bad,
They can really make you mad,
Other things just make you swear and curse,
When you’re chewing life’s gristle,
Don’t grumble,
Give a whistle
And this’ll help things turn out for the best.
And…
Always look on the bright side of life.
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 6:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't even know what to say
I just hope Lousty knows something we don’t.
by chilango2 on Sep 1, 2009 6:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Of course he does
that would be…umm…well…
What do you want him to say?
It never gets to be easy
by chitownhawkeye on Sep 1, 2009 6:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He'd better hit, then.
I love to play baseball. I'm a baseball player. I've always been a baseball player. I'm still a baseball player. That's who I am. - Ryne Sandberg
by Trey2317 on Sep 1, 2009 6:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
does Lou not care about my fantasy team?
This makes me angry
by cozmotaylor123 on Sep 1, 2009 6:30 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Oh Lou.....
make your damn lineup and stick to it.
Recipe for Disaster;
C'mon Cubs, hurry up and blow this so I can relax.
by Bluekoolaide on July22, 2009 3:08 PM CDT
by sue369 on Sep 1, 2009 6:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
cmon.
There were something like 120+ line-ups last year.
It’s not like the lineup with Fox produced the last two games. If Soriano is ready to play, then let him play.
"I’m not going to allow Al Yellon to flush this thing down the crapper without a fight." (BLOU)
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2009 6:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't have any
faith in Soriano being productive at all.
Recipe for Disaster;
C'mon Cubs, hurry up and blow this so I can relax.
by Bluekoolaide on July22, 2009 3:08 PM CDT
by sue369 on Sep 1, 2009 6:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
can't find out
without putting him out there.
"I’m not going to allow Al Yellon to flush this thing down the crapper without a fight." (BLOU)
Forget all that other stuff. I gotta believe.
by drewishdrewid on Sep 1, 2009 7:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We'll see.
Recipe for Disaster;
C'mon Cubs, hurry up and blow this so I can relax.
by Bluekoolaide on July22, 2009 3:08 PM CDT
by sue369 on Sep 1, 2009 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
150 hits in 125 innings...
…let’s hope the Cubs don’t make him look like Greg Maddux in his prime.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Sep 1, 2009 6:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I agree, in general, with Al's...
…analysis of Fukudome’s drop correlating with the slide. But, in the last month Aramis’ production has also dropped off. That has been mitigated, however, by Lee’s continued production.
It’s interesting that Al posted this because it was just over the weekend that I commented to my wife about how I couldn’t understand why Fukudome was dropped. There’s theory (l-r-l-r-l-r, etc.), and then there’s the reality of your team. If a few righties bat back-to-back and the team keeps winning, then you don’t change things until the team proves you wrong.
And I thought all Americans were a posteriori/inductive thinkers. Pragmatism clearly does not rule. – TL
by timlacy on Sep 1, 2009 6:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Line Ups ala Yahoo
Houston
AB R H RBI HR BB K SB LOB Season Avg
M. Bourn cf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .292
M. Tejada ss 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .303
L. Berkman 1b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .276
C. Lee lf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .308
G. Blum 3b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .259
H. Pence rf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .281
K. Matsui 2b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .243
C. Coste c 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .226
B. Moehler p 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .029
Chi Cubs
AB R H RBI HR BB K SB LOB Season Avg
R. Theriot ss 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .293
M. Bradley rf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .266
D. Lee 1b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .294
A. Ramirez 3b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .323
K. Fukudome cf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .274
J. Fox lf 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .286
J. Baker 2b 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .281
K. Hill c 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .245
R. Wells p 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 .189
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 6:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
so where is Fonzi?
did Lou come to his senses?
"I love California. I practically grew up in Phoenix."
-- Dan Quayle
by LAcarl519 on Sep 1, 2009 6:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Y! is always a little slow
On the last-minute changes…
"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 Sep 1, 2009 6:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
On WGN Lou just said the Fonz will play tomorrow.
Today he might pinch hit.
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 6:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
CSN just showed Fonzi playing instead of Fox...ugh.
let’s hope that shot did “magic”
"I love California. I practically grew up in Phoenix."
-- Dan Quayle
by LAcarl519 on Sep 1, 2009 6:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't lineup orders not matter?
I GUESS I’ll watch this game tonight…at least until SHAQ VS. comes on.
Shaq’s playing Pujols tonight!!!
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Sep 1, 2009 6:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That should be fun
I saw Shaq on the Cardinals game a few weeks ago, wearing a Cardinals jersey. That alone was hilarious.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 1, 2009 6:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hate linking to the Trib, but:
PWSullivan Should Cubs play young guys down the stretch? Lou says: “We don’t have any young guys coming up.” In Hardball. Link.
by chilango2 on Sep 1, 2009 6:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's
umm…bad, right?
It never gets to be easy
by chitownhawkeye on Sep 1, 2009 6:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We all knew this, right?
The Cubs have had plenty of injuries this year, and we have seen everybody from AAA who might be ready to help in any capacity. It seems to me that is all Lou is saying here.
You should read the minor league reports that are periodically posted here, so you would know that our best apparent prospects are still a year or two away in A or AA.
"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill
by vonde6 on Sep 1, 2009 7:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's 1:49 AM here - I gotta turn of the light now - Guten Nacht.
Maybe someone can use this in about three hours from now.
You see, wire telegraph is a kind of a very, very long cat. You pull his tail in New York and his head is meowing in Los Angeles. Do you understand this? And radio operates exactly the same way: you send signals here, they receive them there. The only difference is that there is no cat. - Albert Einstein
by eths on Sep 1, 2009 6:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Having a hard time understanding him, but Soriano says on WGN that
he’s feeling better and will play today and tomorrow.
by chilango2 on Sep 1, 2009 6:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Anybody else having issues with SBN sites?
This site and at least 1 other don’t seem to be loading properly on the main page, and when I reply to comments, the reply box is showing through the comments below, not just moving them down
It never gets to be easy
by chitownhawkeye on Sep 1, 2009 6:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
no prob so far, but I am using Safari on a Mac
"I love California. I practically grew up in Phoenix."
-- Dan Quayle
by LAcarl519 on Sep 1, 2009 6:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Fine with Firefox on a Mac.
Follow me on twitter @andrewjstone.
by AndrewJStone on Sep 1, 2009 6:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
and the common denominator is???????????
Albert Pujols for Cubs Starting 1B in 2012
by heine41 on Sep 1, 2009 6:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nobody else is using my crappy work computer
which, in addition to being slow, is not just using IE, but is still using IE6.
Have I mentioned that I don’t much like our IT dept?
It never gets to be easy
by chitownhawkeye on Sep 1, 2009 7:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Need some help?
I could use the work…
"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 Sep 1, 2009 7:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
same here, everything works as usual :)
Albert Pujols for Cubs Starting 1B in 2012
by heine41 on Sep 1, 2009 6:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not having any issues.
Recipe for Disaster;
C'mon Cubs, hurry up and blow this so I can relax.
by Bluekoolaide on July22, 2009 3:08 PM CDT
by sue369 on Sep 1, 2009 7:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Time for a
"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 Sep 1, 2009 7:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
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