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The Tyler Colvin Era Begins: Cubs vs. Brewers Preview, Monday 9/21, 7:05 CT

Write your own caption.

More photos » by Tom Gannam - AP

Write your own caption.

Tyler Colvin, the Cubs' #1 pick in the 2006 draft out of Clemson, will join the team in Milwaukee tonight and make his major league debut. Lou says we'll see a lot of him:

"We'll get another outfielder and we'll get a look at our future," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. "We'll put him in the outfield and let him play."

Good. Sometimes, solutions to problems are found elsewhere than expensive free agency. The Cubs might do well in 2010 with a platoon of Colvin and Reed Johnson (who may also be activated tonight; Johnson is quoted here as saying, "I'm healthy enough to play.") in center field and moving Kosuke Fukudome back to a position he plays better, right field. Doing that might allow money to be spent to upgrade other positions (perhaps shortstop?) and build a better bench than we've had in 2009.

In addition to Colvin, I'd like to see Jake Fox and Andres Blanco play every day for the rest of the season. Even if Fox isn't part of the 2010 Cubs, if he can put up decent numbers the rest of the year, maybe some AL team would take a chance on him as a part-time DH. Blanco should at the very least be the Cubs' principal backup infielder in 2010, and I think he could push Ryan Theriot to be the starting SS. Blanco hasn't hit much, but he will be 26 next April, doesn't strike out much, and his defense is outstanding.

I like this article on how to choose your favorite player. The choice made here is a good one, too.

Star-divide

Today's Starting Pitchers
Tom Gorzelanny
Tom Gorzelanny
Cubs
vs. Braden Looper
Braden Looper
Brewers
5-2 W-L 3-1
5.29 ERA 4.05
30 SO 18
12 BB 15
3 HR 2
vs. Mil -- vs. Cubs
Note: Gorzelanny's numbers below are with the Cubs only. See the pitcher box above for his full-season numbers.

W-L G GS CG SHO SV BS IP H R ER HR BB K ERA WHIP
2009 - Tom Gorzelanny 2-1 10 4 0 0 0 0 25.1 21 15 15 3 8 23 5.33 1.14


W-L G GS CG SHO SV BS IP H R ER HR BB K ERA WHIP
2009 - Braden Looper 13-6 31 31 0 0 0 0 178.2 199 105 97 35 61 93 4.89 1.46

Braden Looper's last start was against the Cubs against the Cubs at Wrigley Field last Wednesday. They hit him pretty well -- nine hits and three walks in five innings, scoring five runs; but Cubs pitching wasn't very good that night. At 5.7 runs per start, Looper has the 2nd-highest run support in the NL (behind only Jorge de la Rosa), 5.7 runs per start, resulting in his 13-6 record.

Tom Gorzelanny is replacing Rich Harden in the rotation; we don't yet know if it will be just tonight, or for the rest of the year. Gorzelanny has made four starts for the Cubs, none since August 20 at Los Angeles. Three of those were decent-to-good; one was horrendous. Overall as a starter, he has a 4.82 ERA in 18.2 innings; throw out the one bad start and in the other three his ERA is 2.08. He is 3-3, 4.92 in nine career starts vs. Milwaukee. Ryan Braun is a particular nemesis -- 8-for-17 with 3 HR.

After national exposure last night, the Cubs now get exposure in only a handful of zip codes on WCIU. If you have EI, you'll get the FSN Wisconsin feed. For other games today, see the MLB.com Mediacenter.

MLB.com Gameday

Baseball-reference.com game preview

SB Nation game preview

Please visit our SB Nation Brewers site Brew Crew Ball.

Once again, just two overflow threads today -- 8:15 pm and 9:30 pm CDT. If there's a need for another one, please post as a FanShot.

Discuss amongst yourselves.

0 recs  |  Comment 453 comments |

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Comments

Display:

Milton Bradley sucks.

Had to be done. :-)

Dum spiro spero…
Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.

by AndrewJStone on Sep 21, 2009 4:02 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

At least Ahab gave us a Bradley free post, yea.

But you just had to go there, didn’t you.

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 21, 2009 4:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Just playing, man.

Figured it’d give a smile to the people with a sense of humor about the whole thing, and would irk those who don’t… which is fine with me.

No intention of actually talking about the dude.

Dum spiro spero…
Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.

by AndrewJStone on Sep 21, 2009 4:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

We're on the same side, but I'm a little tired of it, 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 21, 2009 4:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exausted, personally.

Almost a relief he’s gone. Back to baseball!

Dum spiro spero…
Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.

by AndrewJStone on Sep 21, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sloth!

Wonder if we’ve seen the last of Harden as a Cub.

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 4:04 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

gonna be a lot of that in the next couple weeks

I’d say Milton, Harden, Heilmann and Gregg are pretty much in their final weeks as Cubs. I hope Miles is too. That’s a fifth of the 25-man, and I’d guess Reed Johnson is gone, too.

by elgato on Sep 21, 2009 4:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have a hunch Reed Johnson will be back.

It’s just a hunch, nothing more. The hunch includes him being the only new contract of the offseason.

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, in general.

But that’ll not come to pass, just because there are needs that the Iowa kids can’t fulfill.

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hope he's back.

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 21, 2009 4:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm kind of indifferent

I like Reed, but he gets paid pretty well on a team that’s about to be in need of cash. My guess is he’s gone.

by elgato on Sep 21, 2009 4:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

I’m not sure he brings much to the team that we couldn’t get from Fuld for cheaper. I definitely like him but I can’t see him getting less than a few million dollars from Hendry, and we desperately need whatever payroll space we can get.

by madcow256 on Sep 21, 2009 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I want Reed back.

Talk about improving team chemistry- he does it.

Works hard, keeps his mouth shut and is ready to play every day (when healthy of corse…)

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:45 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

And

Hes a Dropkick Murphys fan!

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree...

…and I wonder how much that will all cost?

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 21, 2009 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

well ...

you figure Caridad takes one of the bullpen spots, and Blanco takes Miles’ spot. They’re cheap, at least.

by elgato on Sep 21, 2009 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If Fox hasn't played to this point, why would Lou put him in now?

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 21, 2009 4:07 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Excellent question.

When he’s DHing somewhere next year hitting .275 with 25 HR, we’ll wonder “Why didn’t we keep that guy?”

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 21, 2009 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

no kidding,

but we could actually more say while there was a glimmer of opportunity for the Cubs to sneak back into the chase, Lou refused to play Fox regularly.

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 21, 2009 4:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But the Cubs needed Scales defense.

and Hoffpauir’s bat.

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 21, 2009 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If there was any indictment of Lou this year,

that has been the Scales/Fox situation in the last week or two. :(

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 21, 2009 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

More like the Fox situation all year

I still don’t understand why he wasn’t playing 3rd from the moment Rami was determined to be out for a long time.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fox's defense has been a strange situation for some time.

The Cubs are adamant that he is horrible at every defensive position, and then when he actually plays those positions, he is…. unremarkable.

I mean, Fox actually got into a feud with (catching coach) Scott Servais because Servais told Fox that he could not catch at a professional level.

When Fox was killing it for 2 months at AAA, we were told that he couldn’t play any position at all – not even 1B, because he was so terrible. If he played 3B, he’d be sailing every throw into the seats. If he played OF, the other players would be at risk because he’d run into them haphazardly and then throw the ball into the seats. If he played catcher, people may actually die just from being exposed to his suckiness.

And now, at the end of the year, he’s played sporadically, managed to finish among the team leaders in most offensive categories somehow, and has logged time at 1B, 3B, OF, and even C. And each time, we got the same reaction.

“Wow, Fox is playing (position). He’s not great, but he’s not embarassing himself, either. He’s probably better than (Adam Dunn, Ron Cey, Michael Barrett).”

MLBMilestone.com - following the numbers to Cooperstown

by D98 on Sep 21, 2009 4:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

all the reports of him being “a notch above horrific” haven’t been proven…

Its really ridiculous.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I remember the error he made

of a very catchable ball at first base, on a pickoff throw, that led to a Cubs loss.

He hasn’t been a disaster defensively, but I also don’t think he’s any better than below average.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He was one of a few Cubs who could hit the ball in that game, too.

Yes, Fox isn’t going to wow us with the glove, but he’s going to hit the ball. That’s more than we can expect from Scales, Hoffpauir, Taguchi and whomever else the Cubs are deluding themselves into starting ahead of Fox.

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 21, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I didn't say he's disproven them either

He needs more chances to show us what he has…

But he hasn’t embarassed himself either.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Theriot batting leadoff, Soriano STAYING in leadoff

Soriano staying in the lineup…..using Fox as the backup catcher when Soto went down(and never actually playing him) and on, and on, and on.

Lou needs to go

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LWDYWMTD?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 4:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Can we trade Lou and Milton as a package deal?

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 21, 2009 4:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

there have been plenty of indictments of Lou this season

his use of Fox and Scales is just a couple of those

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Another hunch I have is that Hoffpauir will be traded.

Again, it’s just a hunch and I’m not aiming to start any rumors.

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 4:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I could see that.

Though it seems the Cubs have been long-infatuated with Hoffpauir, while the opposite seems true of Fox.

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 21, 2009 4:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly.

That’s why I believe it’s Hoffpauir who’s being showcased and Jake Fox is riding the pine.

That may be a lot of faith on management on my side, but that’s what I’m thinking right now.

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I would agree...

…I don’t think Fox would be riding the bench as much unless Hendry has been told by someone they want a look at another player or two.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 21, 2009 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I wonder who wants a 30-year old Hoffpauir.

You and I talked about it earlier – I think the Cubs are trying to cover their ass on Fox, in case they let him go in the offseason.

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 21, 2009 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They're handists.

All hail the mighty lefty!

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Can you say Casey Ma-Ge-Hee? Hee-hee...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That "how to chose your favorite player" article...

… was interesting.

But more important was the writers point about the MLB and its weird policy of removing clips from YouTube (in reference specifically to the dad catching the foul ball and his daughter throwing it back). Such a failed policy, and truly to the detriment of baseball fans.

Dum spiro spero…
Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.

by AndrewJStone on Sep 21, 2009 4:09 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I disagree.

The video is still available, you just have to go to the MLB website to view it. (It’s still free to watch the clip on mlb.com.) Driving customers to your website generates $$$$. Sounds like a sound business strategy to me.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I routinly try to talk my clients out of similar thinking.

People like to play on their turf. This is why its so important for brands to embrace facebook and twitter these days. Your website is nice, sure. And you have complete control over it, which is great.

But everybody is familiar with youtube. Everyone feels comfortable there. People are more likely to click through to a site they have some comfort level with, perhaps even an account at already.

As the article stated:

MLB removed the video of Ichiro homering against Rivera from YouTube (and thus made it a blank on this site), because wouldn’t it be awful if people could enjoy MLB content anywhere outside approved sites? This came back to bite them when the video of Phillies Dad, the guy who caught a foul ball at a Phillies game, handed it to his 3-year-old daughter, watched her throw it away into the level below, then sweetly hugged her to assure her she’d done nothing wrong, was removed from thousands of non-MLB.com sites around the Web, just as the vid was getting ready to go viral (and provide great publicity for baseball as a family game, etc.). I understand copyright laws, but being smart in their application is something all sports leagues should strive to do.

Dum spiro spero…
Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.

by AndrewJStone on Sep 21, 2009 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Corrected for accuracy.
“…but being smart in their application is something all sports leagues should strive to do MLB has never done.”

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 4:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sadly very true

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The NHL has been downright amazing...

… in their embracing of new media. Their twitter and YouTube stuff is awesome.

Dum spiro spero…
Follow me on twitter or else: @andrewjstone.

by AndrewJStone on Sep 21, 2009 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

MLB gets blasted a great deal.

Personally, I think fans have greater access to MLB games than say, NFL games. You can view MLB games over the internet or purchase the package on cable or satelite.

The NFL, for example, only makes the package of games available through an exclusive agreement with Direct TV. This leaves millions of customers in urban areas (like myself) who live in apartments and are prohibited from their lease (or face the wrong direction) from getting satelite TV, not to mention the millions of fans who simply don’t want Direct TV.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

MLB has held eveyone with Dish Network hostage since their deal with DirectTV.

And their blackout rules are beyond stupid.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Or Ei

or the overall stupidness of mlb.tv which only works if you’re out of market.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't really see that

Because I live in the market for my favorite team and constantly get division opponents on basic broadcast television.

Which is something I cannot say for MLB even though I live in the same market for that team. But that has more to do with Dish than MLB, I guess and their unwillingness to offer CSN on a basic package. I don’t see well enough for HD to make a difference and am therefore unwilling to pay for it.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm talking about the Extra Innings Package.

and the blackout rules for MLB.TV

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You can't get extra innings on Dish?

Personally, I love MLB.tv. I live in Chicago so I don’t have any issues with blackout rules. I just enjoy watching other games. I really love that I can watch games on my iPod with MLB at Bat.. This is why I think MLB has been very innovative in access to their games.

I do agree that they need to revise their blackout rules.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:32 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nope. No EI on Dish. Sucks big time...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm ready to see if Direct TV will buy out my Dish contract to get me as a new customer.

They might do it given the economy…

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:58 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Being innovative with access to their games?

Not really. They have an app for mlb.tv for you iPod? Great….what about the the 175 bazillion people in the world that would like to watch baseball games and don’t have an iPod?

If MLB would simply let their customers buy the product, instead of holding them hostage to get it, they’d make millions more than they could dream or imagine.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 4:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Is the problem just with Dish?

Or would you have the same issue with any provider in your area?

Do you have the option to switch providers?

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Is the question to me or someone else?

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

SWL

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I could switch to someone else...

but again, MLB is extorting $ from the providers for them to offer the EI package.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

OK

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

MLB at bat may be the coolest sports app yet

MLB was really ahead of the curve on that… I hope they don’t f it up.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hard to say MLB held Dish hostage

Charlie Ergen was offered the same terms that everyone else was. He rejected them. Charie Ergen is famous for not being willing to pay what everyone else is.

Dish Network is a fine company—but no one who cares about sports packages should get it, because Ergen has made it clear he isn’t going to pay for them.

I don’t think you can blame MLB on this one.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe I was too harsh...

but you’ve got to admit that the original MLB/DirectTV deal was stupid and only after Congress talked about it, did they agree to even offer to let other carriers in on the deal. And yes Ergen turned down the offer to carry it, because they are raping the carriers for the rights.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed

Directv was paying for exclusivity and then they didn’t get it. I am assuming they all paid the high rate that Directv was going to pay to be the exclusive provider.

by LT on Sep 21, 2009 6:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No

The contract with DirecTV was renegotiated. Do you think DirecTV was going to pay for exclusivity and then not get it?

DirecTV did get some perks for agreeing to renegotiate, like home and road games for EI and the cable companies opening up channels like San Diego’s Channel 4, Comcast Philadelphia and Rogers Sports (Toronto) that had previously been unavailable to them. (But only for Extra Innings, not in the SD or Philly markets.) Dish was not offered those perks, but that should not have been a dealbreaker.

Sports are a loss-leader for DirecTV. Dish Network was not willing to agree to those terms.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 11:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm excited to get a chance to see

Tyler Colvin play. I’ve heard quite a lot about since he was drafted during that miserable 2006 season.

In fact, anytime I see a player make their major league debut or a first of any kind, it’s exciting. It’s literally watching someone’s dream come true which I think is really cool.

Good luck Tyler and I hope tonight will be the first of many to come in the major leagues!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:09 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Not to go old school on everyone, but the Cubs have a guy who made his major league debut late in the season in 1977

in Detroit. He came up with another young player from AA Brimingham for their first taste of the major leagues and wound up sticking and playing together for a few years.

Alan Trammel (and Lou Whitaker).

Together they hold the MLB record for longest tenure (most games played together) at short and second.

Seem like only yesterday…

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've missed Reed and

hope he gets to play tonight. I would love to see Fox get a start too (but I know it won’t happen). Good luck tonight Tom.

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 21, 2009 4:11 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Well I won't hold my breath.

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 21, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

that's a losing bet

unless you’re surprised by poor managing at this point

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:31 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

How?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:32 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Al said in the preview

that he may be activated tonight and Reed says he can play.

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 21, 2009 4:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, I didn't see that.

That’s good news indeed. I’ve missed Reed.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's been so long since Johnson has been inserted...

into the starting lineup.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 4:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

nice

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 21, 2009 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ohhhh. It took me a minute.

Sheesh!

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Reed

I was at the game last night and reed was taking batting practice and running around fine. It didn’t appear he was hurting at all.

Guy at bar: "Do you just like that hat or do you like Chicago?"
Me: "I'm in Love, Obsessed and Addicted to the Chicago Cubs!"

by KC in OK on Sep 21, 2009 4:23 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions   0 recs

Today's Transactions

09/21/09 Chicago Cubs activated CF Reed Johnson from the 15-Day disabled list.
09/21/09 Chicago Cubs called up Tyler Colvin from Tennessee Smokies.

by Sports_Fan on Sep 21, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Whoo Hoo!

We get Reed back tonight!

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lou inserted Miles

into the lineup the day he was activated we’ll see if he does the same with Reed.

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 21, 2009 5:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Excellent.

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

In case you missed the FanPost by daver

Cecil Cooper got fired today… thoughts?

I think it’s silly, it’s not his fault the Astros underperformed all year and had injury-ward starting pitching.

by lswaidz on Sep 21, 2009 4:12 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Why fire him now?

Why wouldn’t the Astros wait the 2 weeks until the end of the season? They sure are a puzzling organization.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

McLane is a lunatic

He also fired Phil Garner and their GM in 2007 on Aug 27 when they were sort of “in” the race.

by lswaidz on Sep 21, 2009 4:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What? That's nuts.

Coop deserved better…

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Weird that they'd start the clock on Colvin already

Cubs’ managment of young players is kinda weird.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:21 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Why not?

Start him now, its like pre spring training, hey it might even give us something new to watch tonight

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, we could just teach another infielder to play the outfield.

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 21, 2009 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Colvin was going to be added to the 40 man roster in the off-season

or the Cubs would risk losing him in the rule 5 draft in December.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I didn't know that

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Then does that also mean that his options clock would begin to tick?

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 21, 2009 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nope, since the minor league season is over,

the Cubs won’t use an option on him this year.

Next year, the Cubs will use his first option (unless he spends the entire season in the majors). He’ll have at least 3 option years.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What I meant was

if he hadn’t been called up due to the Bradley thing and been added to the 40 man roster in the off-season. Would have his options began next year no matter what?

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 21, 2009 4:32 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

TY

so it’s not a bad thing that they brought him up at all.

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 21, 2009 4:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the only reason he wasn't called up earlier this month

is they wanted him to get the experience of playing in the minor league playoffs.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That makes sense 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 21, 2009 4:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Doesn't it start his major league clock though?

something about becoming arb eligible.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't think that September call-ups count as being on the MLB roster.

I could be wrong on that, but that’s my understanding anyway.

MLBMilestone.com - following the numbers to Cooperstown

by D98 on Sep 21, 2009 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They guy is 24...

…so I don’t see anything wrong with giving him a little taste and see what he can do.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 21, 2009 4:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Because

people put way too much emphasis on service time and those things. It’s really only important for the big prospects in small markets.

I like Colvin, but I really don’t see him as the type of guy the Cubs are going to be worrying about making a big arbitration offer to in three years. And if he is that type of player, we need to know that now so we can make plans in the offseason. Best that we get a look at him in the majors. Heck, he might not even play in the majors long enough to make arbitration.

Basically, what I’m saying is getting Colvin experience and getting a look at him in the majors far outweighs the downside of him getting to arbitration one year earlier, especially for a big market team like the Cubs.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ah

Thanks, Josh. :-)

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

"he might not even play in teh majors long enough to make arbitation"

that hardly fills me with confidence about the guy.

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

by DC Cubbie on Sep 21, 2009 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Let's be honest

Most players don’t play long enough to get to arbitration. Baseball careers are short for all but the best.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sooo...

He’s an outfielder?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:29 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Lineup, per D-Bag#1:

PWSullivan Lineup vs Milwaukee: T-Ro, Fu, D-Lee, Rami, Hoff, Baker, T-Col, Koy-E, Gor-Z

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 4:30 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Thanks for the game-winning HR, Jake

Here’s a nice piece of bench.

by elgato on Sep 21, 2009 4:32 PM CDT up reply actions   1 recs

he's gotta be in his doghouse for sure and that's a damn shame.

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 21, 2009 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Reporters are still asking about Bradley.

There’s only so much they can do.

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 21, 2009 4:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Bradley wasn't a story a week ago

Fox was. I understand why there were other things to discuss last night …

by elgato on Sep 21, 2009 4:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

because he would make some BS comment about how he "has to find a way to get him in the lineup"

and the reporters would go back to chasing their balls of string. I really don’t get how a rube like Lou has become so beloved by the media in that town

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

which is weird

because you’d think with the way he was getting played that Scales was invaluable.

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what does Fox have to do to get into the lineup?

Become left-handed?

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 21, 2009 4:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

no

become micah hoffpauir

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Wait for Lou to be fired next year.

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 21, 2009 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nah, this season is mostly Voldemort's fault.

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 21, 2009 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nope, guess again.

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 21, 2009 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Riot in the leadoff spot

(shakes head)

And Fox out in favor of Hoff……again

Lou effing sucks giant monkey testes

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So

Hoff in left, Colvin in center and Fuku in right?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Okay SWL, get a pic up for that last line...j/k

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 21, 2009 4:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, no, no...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dude....

Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team

by carmen_fanzone on Sep 21, 2009 5:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I honestly don't think I've seen a worse tweet

Holy crap that is awful (not the lineup). Also no Blanco after a two-hit night is BS

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Sep 21, 2009 4:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My wife teaches Twitter to businesses (I know...)

and she advised me against starting a flame war on Sullivan. But I so want to do it.

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

God I feel bad for Jake.

I bet he hopes he gets traded this off season.

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 21, 2009 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm pretty sure he can walk in the offseason.

The Cubs have to tender a Major League contract to him if they want him to stay.

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 21, 2009 5:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

ah, okay. Thanks.

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 21, 2009 5:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm 90-percent sure that's what I heard.

It’s his 6th-year in the organization, so I think he can look elsewhere.

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 21, 2009 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Cubs have used 3 options on Jake,

2007, 2008 and 2009. Players get a 4th option year based on the amt of MLB service time. (I think it may be that they get a 4th option if they have less than a year of MLB service time, but I’m not sure if that’s correct.)

Regardless, as Jake is still a 0-3 player, in service time, is it almost certain the Cubs will tender him a contract. They will only have to pay him the minimum until he reaches 3 years of MLB service time. At the very least, they will bring him to ST for insurance to injuries on their planned roster. He could always be traded in ST if he is out of options if he is not traded during the winter.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gotcha. Thanks for the information.

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 21, 2009 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No problem.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Anyone know if Ryno will be joining the team?

Doesn’t the AA and AAA managers ususally join the team in September when their seasons end?

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:39 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Dont know

but i did notice an unfamiliar (old) face in the dugout las nite who was that?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, I did to now that you mention it. Who was that? He looked familiar...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

santa

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nah. Too thin...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 4:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Personally

I think Ryno needs to be away from the big club until he is named manager. It’s just going to stir up the media into harassing Ryno, Lou, and Jim.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Sep 21, 2009 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yes.

Yes indeed. I think he should be run out of town on a rail

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

There are many here who agree.

I wonder what the percentages are for Lou’s dismisssal at BCB? 20%…40%

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 21, 2009 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yah

But who would you rather have managing (that isnt under contract)?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why can't they be under contract?

Joe Maddon is my #1 choice, and you can’t tell me we couldn’t get him away from Tampa

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dont know

He seems like he likes to have fun and apparrently thats not allowed in Chicago….. What about Sandberg?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't know anything about Sandberg's managing prowess

And considering bringing him in as a minor league manager was Hendry’s doing, I have my reservations. I don’t trust anything that Hendry has touched

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:58 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

and even if you can't get Maddon

you can’t tell me there aren’t up and comers that good baseball people know, that I don’t.

Just because we can’t come up with a name off the top of our heads is no excuse to keep the waste of space that is Lou in Cubbie Blue

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd like to raid the twins or bosox organizations

they do things right and win.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 4:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gardenhire's welcome in MPLS seems to be wearing thin...

I’ve no clue why people would want to run him out of town, but that seems to be the sentiment. He still has one year left in his contract though.

Here’s a novel idea: bring back Pat Listach.

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 5:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This is why fans don't make baseball decisions.

It would very silly of the Twins to fire Gardy.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd LOVE to see Gardenhire in Wrigley for 81 games every year.

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Managers do that?

G’wan!

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

isn't that attitude what got us into the Lou mess

to begin with?

Oh he’s fiery! lets go for him!

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fiery is only a small part of it.

Fundamentals! It’s almost a religion to itself in Minny…

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh I know

I was trying (and failing) to be funny.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

OK. ;)

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I was talking less about gardenhire

and more about someone from their system.

i love that they don’t tolerate pitchers handing out walks and they play really fabulous defense.

wish we had some of that.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yep. That organization gets more out of their players and payroll year after year than any other I can think of...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yeah, the Cubs did that

with Andy McPhail. How did that work out?

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So one failure means you don't go back?

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

There's no reason to go back

I don’t think Gardenhire is leaving the Twins.

I think it’s highly probable Lou will be back next season, and for that I’m thankful.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I didn't say Gardenhire though

I just said “Twins” when asked about possible up-and-comers we could go after.

What about their AAA guy? Maybe he could be a candidate.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Stan Cliburn would be hilarious.

Great guy.

and if he brought along his twin brother, Stu, to be the pitching coach, all the better.

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 21, 2009 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not sure the Cubs job

is a good one for big-league managerial on-the-job training.

If he wants to get his feet wet in Kansas City or someplace like that, fine. If the guy doesn’t start out as the second coming of Miller Huggins, the jackals in the media and the bleachers will tear him to shreds before Memorial Day.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Meh

Gotta learn sometime. I’d rather get a young guy on his first job than another old guy on his last legs.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

A young guy on his first job

never would last in a place like Chicago.

You could cite Ozzie, but he was a White Sox player who had coached for a World Series champion. But some guy from the minors using the Cubs as his first job? I think the odds of success would be very low.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

How do you know

if success is defined by a Series championship, then we should try whatever we can b/c for 102 NO MANAGER has been successful

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 5:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's really better not to get into an argument with Bruce

he’s made up his mind, and no matter how illogical it is, he’ll stick to it until his death. And call you every name in the book on the way down

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 5:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If you are smart and state your case well

the way guys like Shanghai and Stone do, even if we disagree, we’re respectful and we get along fine.

If you’re a moron who spouts nonsense 24/7, you get what you deserve.

Which one are you?

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think he is

None of your business LOL

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 5:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Who knew throwing out an example of

who I’d like us to go after (and a really generic example at that) would turn into this.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not upset

You said someone on the Twins and I cited the last time the Cubs did that, they got a disaster of a GM. So that’s not always the answer.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I said Twins or BoSox

just someone with a strong baseball mind and strong fundamentals. I don’t know who that is, but I want that guy.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And I want a million dollars

even though I don’t know where I can get it.

Allie, I wish guys like that grew on trees. But I don’t think they do.

I just know changing managers every 2-3 years is not the answer.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

neither is keeping sub par managers

just because you don’t want to make a change. and Lou is EXTREMELY subpar IMO.

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 5:58 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i don't think they do either

all i was saying was IF the manager change went though you’d be more likely to find good fruit on a tree that had deep roots.

thats it.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what a ridiculous bar to set Bruce

so because one time we hired a guy from an organization, and he didn’t work out, no one, at a different position no doubt, will work out either?

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 5:58 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He's not Bruce

He’s Not Bruce.

Get it?

"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill

by vonde6 on Sep 21, 2009 5:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Is nuance lost on you?

Lou is not “extremely supbar” as a manger. His record attests to that.

And I was just pointing out that the last time the Cubs hired a Twins boss, he was a boy wonder who engineered two WS trips and was hailed as what the Cubs had been looking for. How did that work out again?

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Like shit

Lou was good in the past. He seems to have lost the will to manage. His moves last night were terrible. They won in spite of him.

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 6:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lou is crazy like a fox

(and not Jake Fox, either).

I think he knows when to hold ’em and when to fold ’em.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

you obviously have more faith

in him than me.

his use of the ‘pen, his having favorites of guys he will play once, they’ll preform and then be ignored for ages is ridiculous.

also his obsession with handedness instead of just going for who’s performing has been over the top.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 6:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Your complaints sound exactly

like the ones my Sox friends have about Ozzie, my Twins friends have about Gardy, my Cards friends have about TLR.

In other words, not all that much different than any other manager.

Think about it.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ozzie IS a terrible manager

Twins fans who complain about Gardy don’t understand how handcuffed he is with the payroll situtation there (not close to what Lou faces)

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Meh

All fans have similar complaints. Its one of the universal things in sports.

Others having the same complaints doesn’t make them wrong.

Way to be dismissive though. That really works.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You can call it dismissiveness

or you can call it nothing out of the ordinary.

All I know is getting rid of managers every few years hasn’t been working for the Cubs. Perhaps the merry-go-round needs to stop.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe it does

But I don’t think Lou is the guy, especially not for a long haul. I’m worried about his health, he looks awful.

And I don’t like the organizations complete indifference to the basics in every level. We have a chance with a new owner to go for a fundamental change. And I don’t believe Lou is the guy for that radical newness.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I believe in fundamentals, too,

but the right place for that is in the farm system, not necessarily at the big-league level.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I believe its an organizational thing

if Iowa watches the big leaguers get away with not doing it and still playing, what incentive do they have to do the right thing?

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 6:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What kind of an argument is that, Allie?

It is an organizational thing, but its strongest points of emphasis need to be at the lower levels. Then they (hopefully) don’t play that way when they get to the bigs.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:31 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

In a big market where you

buy most of your team you don’t always get a chance to instill them with the strong fundamentals.

Unless we suddenly have a shift where we really build through the draft, you need a manager with a willingness to still teach and hold players accountable for doing the right thing.

That may have been Lou at one point, but I haven’t seen it much in his Cubs tenure.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 6:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Your off base here...

…and when a player reaches the bigs, the fundementals should already be in place.

This is what quality organizations do to get the most out of their talent, because it is difficult at best to teach players baseball 101 at the big league level.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 21, 2009 6:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Such as

holding Fox on the bench and folding Scales into the outfield?

If you like Selig's handling of the steroid issue, you'll love his choice for next Cub owner.

by tharr on Sep 21, 2009 6:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think Scales doesn't figure

into the Cubs plans after this year and probably will retire from baseball once this season’s over. Maybe this playing time is his reward.

As for Fox, maybe he doesn’t figure into the Cubs’ plans, either, but they’re figuring his trade value will go down if he’s exposed more.

Just theories on my part, but none of it makes me want to poleax a manager of Piniella’s caliber.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rewarding a player like that is really stupid.

Getting him into a game or two is a reward. Benching other players who have been productive is beyond silly and should get Lou and Hendry fired.

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 6:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Fox/Scales

issue isn’t the reason I think Piniella should be history. To me it’s the measure of his inability to deal with the team this year.

His overall decision making seems bizarre this year and I believe he has lost his edge as a quality manager. He does well when things are going well and seems to regress with less than quality teams.

If you like Selig's handling of the steroid issue, you'll love his choice for next Cub owner.

by tharr on Sep 21, 2009 6:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

+1

NBF,
I am 100% with you on this, but threads like this are a dime a dozen these days.

I used to enjoy second-guessing Lou’s moves, too, but there are so many who are ready and willing to throw out the baby with the bath water (Fire Lou!) here that I post very selectively. I only have so many hours in my workday, and they sometimes expect me to get some work done here.

"When you're going through hell, keep going." - Winston Churchill

by vonde6 on Sep 21, 2009 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

is common sense lost on you?

again, we hired one guy from an organization, who didn’t even hold the same position, and so we should now steer clear of the organization all together?

And Dusty’s record is pretty good too, you aren’t actually going to claim Baker is a good manager are you?

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's not what I wrote

but misinterpret it all you want.

I think v6 is 100 percent right.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I don't know.

As long as the manager is learning along the way, I wouldn’t have a problem going with a Triple-A or fast-rising Double-A manager.

Sure, Rochester is no Chicago, media-wise, but managing is managing.

If Cliburn or Sandberg or whomever can come in the door, preach fundamentals, light a fire under the team and manage the personalities on this squad, then I don’t care their background.

That said, I still think Piniella can/should be around in 2010.

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 21, 2009 5:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fox and Blanco sit again?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 4:43 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

great minds think alike...

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 4:44 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No Blanco, No Fox, no joy in La La Land. :-(

Maybe I watch 2 hr House premiere live instead of via the DVR.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 4:43 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That's my plan.

Although I’m intrigued to see Colvin.

by chilango2 on Sep 21, 2009 4:44 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Which is probably the only reason they called him up

in a last ditch effort to keep the fanbase coming back

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 4:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I Think

They brought him up cuz they know WE ARE DONE, and they want to get a look at him, in a reg season game

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think it had more to do with the AA season being over

as they were eliminated from the playoffs on Saturday.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 4:48 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And

Hes the top prospect from AA

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I too am excited to see Colvin (I forgot about that!).

I just wish I could watch Len & Bob. Maybe I will have to go with the mlb.tv feed and skip the big screen tonight.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I will be happy to

be able to get it on FSWI. It’s my only option. :-(

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 21, 2009 5:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

those bozos are only tolerable when the Cubs are winning.

Let’s hope that is the case this week!!

PS…yo, Sue!

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:31 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Got any red licorice for the game? :D

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 21, 2009 5:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

no, I am going to slip out for my frozen yogurt & snow caps at some point ;p

how about you?

BTW, congrats to da Bears.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks...

we just had apple/cherry crisp with vanilla ice cream. :-)

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 21, 2009 7:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

any word on whether wells gets shuts down?

i find it odd they shut down richie but not randy

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 4:52 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

richie and randy would make a good sitcom title BTW

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Even better

If it was about a dude with Dissociative Identity Disorder.

"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 21, 2009 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

its only odd if you're using logic

which is something inapplicable to cubdom.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sidebar: Over 880 comments on the earlier post/recap of yesterday's game.

That’s the most I’ve seen for a post…

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:03 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm pretty sure we've cracked a 1000 a couple times

usually on horrid losses

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ah, maybe that's why I didn't see them.

Can’t deal with it when we have horrid losses.

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ricketts eating $20 million over a deadbeat RF sounds like another horrid loss

for the organization.

From a morale standpoint, I think it was necessary and a shot in the arm for the players.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Who's this RF you speak of? ;)

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

bobby scales

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Scales is getting $20 Mil? Dang!

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

500k with the cubs

19.5 mil teaching part time in georgia

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 5:13 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ghost of Sosa

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

no he got suspended

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 5:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ghos-sa?

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

On a Recap post?

Game Threads where no one posts a FanShot overflow, sure, but Recaps don’t get that kind of traffic.

Only thing close was the Cat Thread.

"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 21, 2009 5:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

not usually on a recap

but i could’ve sworn we did… maybe i’m wrong.

course…i shouldn’t use “we”… considering I haven’t even read that post. No interest in it.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's a load of fun

Really. I mean 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 Sep 21, 2009 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I got my fill of the MB clusterfuck

when I read Bruce’s article on it and made the mistake of scrolling down to the comments section.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Some of us are just gluttons for that sort of thing

"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 21, 2009 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That one says it got 781.

This afternoon got a hundred more….

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Cat Thread one I mean...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Cat Thread was crazy

The MB Thread was twice as crazy.

"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 21, 2009 5:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i wonder how many "the cubs need to make a trade" has

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 5:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Comments? Not too many

Recs? Lots and lots.

"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 21, 2009 5:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Tyler Colvin Era beings

the 4 worst words written today.

He has no business being in the majors. Outside of 1 hot streak in AA, he has proven that he was a bad 1st round pick. If you think Sori swings at everything, wait ’til you get a load of this dude.

No win situation—if he plays really well, Hendry will think (if that is at all possible, right MPH73?), that he can go into 2010 with Colvin. If Colvin plays shitty, then it will show what a bad draft pick he has been.

Oh vey!

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:08 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

It's a momentous night for Jim Hendry

After seven years as Cubs GM, finally one of his first round picks will play in a major league game.

by Jody Jody Davis on Sep 21, 2009 5:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Really? This is his FIRST one?

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yep

Ryan Harvey, Mark Pawalek, Josh Vitters, Andrew Cashner, and Brett Jackson are the others.

by Jody Jody Davis on Sep 21, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

F7

"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 21, 2009 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

funny

how many of his 1st rounders from player development days have made it?

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

you do realize

that he’s not the scouting director anymore. Still able to make final calls, but by most accounts, the picks are Wilken’s decision now, and before this, the Stockstill’s.

by toonsterwu on Sep 21, 2009 6:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jesus.

and people think Hendry deserves a job here?

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Colvin

I’m not that bothered with pushing Colvin up, as he was going to make the 40 man anyways in the offseason, and AAA season is finished. He also had 2 good months in AA, sandwiched by a bad month. I also wouldn’t go as far to call him a bad pick – I was fine with the pick then, and here’s the thing, from that draft, our top two guys (Colvin/Samardzija) will see big league time. You hope for better, but there’s so many busts. Those two don’t fall in the Harvey category.

Now, I think the general feeling socalbob is expressing, unease about the handling of some guys, is valid for Colvin (and Samardzija). It sure feels like the Cubs are taking a stand on those two, intent on proving folks wrong. They badly mismanaged Shark this year IMO, with the yo-yoing (make him a pen arm would be the route I’d go). Both Shark and Colvin were initially rushed, and Colvin has been at AA for quite awhile now, so you take the numbers with a grain of salt.

Furthermore, I do think there’s a chance that, a tiny hot streak here, and the Cubs may give Colvin a shot. He might be able to succeed, but I’d caution against SSS (remember how Cubs fans got too giddy over Kevin Hart’s SSS)? I hope Colvin is in AAA to start 2010. Now, I’m not foolish – Tyler’s never going to be able to improve his discipline dramatically. But he could use some time to, by most accounts, become more consistent.

by toonsterwu on Sep 21, 2009 5:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

precisely

my original reply was to the headline “The Tyler Colvin Era begins” becasue with all due repsect, I don’t think there will be much of a Colvin era.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 6:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've seen him play live and video

and I’ve seen his stats over his minor league career.

And I’ve read all reports from Baseball America and John Sickels too.

I hope he proves the reports and my thoughts about him wrong.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:12 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

What did you think of him when you saw him play in person?

Was it in a minor legue game or in spring training?

(Using the reply button makes it easier to read the comments.)

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Boise and ST

I thought I hit the reply button—sorry.

Plays the OF well. I thought he may stick at CF, but guess that didn’t work out. Decent arm and takes good routes.

Swing was a tad long and didn’t take too many pitches. I was disappointed in what I saw.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It'll be interesting to see him play in the majors.

I’ve only seen him play in ST on TV a couple of years ago. I’m excited to get a chance to see what he can do.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've seen him play live too

He doesn’t take pitches well, that’s for sure, although he does appear to be improving somewhat. But he doesn’t have an out of control swing either, at least not as I’ve seen it.

As far as BA and John Sickels go, neither one of them thought anything of Randy Wells, either. I’m not saying these sources are bad—they’re not. These people know what they’re talking about. But they’re also wrong from time to time and neither one has the resources to really follow the ins and outs of every player in the Cubs system. Often, they repeat information that is old and out of date.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:16 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

we are all wrong--it's subjective analysis

I thought his swing was a little long and he definitely took his hacks. Not impressed by him being a 1st rounder from college with the swing and discipline.

His walk rate is borderline pathetic and that always causes problems as players move up.

I hope he turns into a Shawn Green by next April. I really do.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know you do

And honestly, I agree with you—I don’t think Tyler Colvin is going to be a starting OF for the Cubs—or for any winning ballclub.

But I am very excited to see him play in the majors because I believe there is a good chance that I am wrong on that issue. And I want to see what he can do against major league pitching. Maybe he’ll stink—then it’s good to know that now.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:32 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

my real concern

is for Colvin going “Kevin Mass” on us and forcing Hendry to go to ST with him as the RF. I just do not trust Hendry’s judgment.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Heh

I’d take Kevin Maas at this point.

But with Colvin, if he does go nuts for the next two weeks and we pencil him into the lineup next year, I’m betting we get a backup plan in place if he falls on his face next spring—even if it’s only Reed Johnson.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

that's my 2nd concern

we’d haqve a pretty awful OF if Reed Johnson played CF and Dome in RF for the season.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe awful offensive OF

but thats a pretty solid defensive OF isn’t it?

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:51 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i'd rather have a plus defensive lineup

that can scrap out a few runs than a lineup that can’t catch the ball.

maybe that’s just me though.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

how you going to scratch out runs?

when those guys can’t get on base?

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

dunno

but a team that is incapable of making the basic plays to get out of an inning AND then incapable of doing the little things to get a runner on, over and in was frustrating as hell this year.

so a team that excelled at the first thing would make the latter easier to follow for me.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

amen to that

I’m holding out my hope on something big via trade to happen.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:58 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Our outfield was actually fairly solid defensively this year

and it got us our of contention by September.

Teams can’t contend with the lack of production we’d be looking at from our outfield unless they get a TON of production from quite a few other places. That would mean Soto returning to his ROY form, and getting a legitmate power hitting middle infielder. I don’t see either of those things happening this offseason

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 5:53 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what did these guys think of Pie as he was coming up?

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

top rated prospect

due to performance and tools—not the same reports on Colvin

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I saw him play a full year at Lansing. He was good.

I was pulling for him to make it with the Cubs. I still have his bobblehead in my collection of worthless junk…

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They loved him in the low minors

and soured on him as he moved up.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Too bad...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Colvin's minor league numbers are underwhelming (.785 career OPS)

Then again, Casey McGehee had a .741 career minor league OPS, so who knows?

by Jody Jody Davis on Sep 21, 2009 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

absolutely

I hope he turns into a monster—we need it.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

McGehee

bought some magic pixie dust in the offseason. The guy from the Crossroads he bought it from is going to expect payment next year.

Colvin’s numbers after he had TJ surgery were much better. He played a whole season with a bum shoulder, and that depressed his numbers.

Still, his numbers aren’t great, even taking that into account. They’re not terrible, but they don’t say “Major league star.” They more say “Reed Johnson.”

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If he has a career like Reed,

that’s an improvement on virtually all of the #1 picks of the Cubs for quite some time.

Seriously, I’d take that. If your #1 picks turn into decent players, you’re doing well. They don’t need to be stars.

Hey, it's a new century!

by cowsarecool220 on Sep 21, 2009 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I do think

that Colvin will be a decent major league fourth outfielder, like Reed Johnson is.

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:43 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah.....maybe.....well......

I just don’t think he will contribute enough offensively to stick on a roster. And it’s not like he has serious wheels. We’ll see on that one. He could very well be a solid 4th guy.

by socalbob on Sep 21, 2009 5:54 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well

I wouldnt put much creedence in either Baseball America or John Sickels, they have really butchered their evaluations of the Cubs especially in the last two years and especially Baseball America which will have to eat crow for quite a few of their comments.

by Slamdog on Sep 22, 2009 6:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

you realize it's an inexact science

so, yes, you do put credence into what they research. What a foolish statement.

They spend their entire job in this realm. They have a lot more credibility than anyone here.

It’s not the Bible, but they are pretty damn good at what they do.

by socalbob on Sep 22, 2009 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I met Jonah Keri once

Back then, his favorite player was Vladimir Guerrero, which would still be a good choice by his criteria. Of course back then, there were Montreal Expos and he was a fan of them, although Vlad had just signed with the Angels (but had yet to play a game for them.)

by Josh77 on Sep 21, 2009 5:13 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Okay

So has anyone figured out what extra coaches are in the dugout due to september callups?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 5:22 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

No problem. Hendry will call Fox Mulder and pull out the X File.

The guy is a human/alien hybrid. His contract is void.

The Truth is out There.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If you knew Hank Moody...

…he puts Fox Mulder to shame.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 21, 2009 5:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He works out at my gym (Fox/Hank)

doesn’t wipe up his sweat—gross.

But he is a real nice guy (except for the sweat)

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 6:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Watching The X-Files on Fridays and then Sundays became a religious experience for me. Now, it is watching Californication. That show is incredible.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 21, 2009 6:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I really liked the first season of Californication. season 2 was blah.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 6:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This is just the union doing its job

Anytime any player is suspended they file something. They are protecting members of their union, odds are they just want to make sure he gets paid.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Sep 21, 2009 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And they want to make sure they don't get sued by Bradley for non-representation...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah that too

this isn’t anything worth anybody freaking out about.

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Sep 21, 2009 5:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Nope. Pretty perfunctory, really...

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Jake Fox=Keith Moreland with more Pop

Why is it a foregone conclusion that Jake Fox can’t play every day? The 1984 Cubs won hiding Keith Moreland in RF. It’s not like Milton Bradley, Soriano, or Cliff Floyd were Gold Gloves?

I know he has had trouble adjusting to Major League breaking balls, but damn, the guy can rake. Can’t we see more before consigning him to the AL?

by perseman on Sep 21, 2009 5:30 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Apparently not.

It seems like the Cubs are either showcasing Hoffpauir or trying to keep Fox’s value at its present level, instead of risking it going up or down based on how he performs in the last 2 weeks.

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 21, 2009 5:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What?

Trey why wouldnt we want his value to go up, then we could wheel and deal and have a high hand in dealings with other teams.

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 5:34 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sure you would.

But if he struggles, then the value drops. It’s a double-edged sword.

And right now, for whatever reason, the Cubs seem to prefer Scales and Hoffpauir as opposed to Fox. I can only think they got scared seeing him flail at curveballs 3 weeks ago and decided not to let that continue, lest his value go down.

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 21, 2009 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well

at least we know he can hit in a jam right?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

as long as he'll see a fastball or two

I’m comfortable with him at the plate. If it was Cincinnati’s Daniel Ray Herrera pitching, then maybe not.

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 21, 2009 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

theres an equal chance his value would go down

im guessing if jimbo plans to trade fox, he doesnt want to take that risk

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

According to Lou, NO!

he will let Theriot make 2-3 errors a week, but Fox makes one error on a pick-off play at first and he is in the dog house forever.

I don’t understand. I’m tilting my head like one of border collies as I write this.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

theriots scrappy

fox isnt

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 5:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No he isnt

But hes a way better hitter!

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

When did scrappy become the code word

for “small, white and undertalented”…

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

im not sure

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 5:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Baseball Almanac definition of "Scrappy"

Scrappy: (1) a one tool baseball player, (2) a baseball player known as having limited talents but tries hard, but to be kind, an “s” is added to the adjective defining the player’s talents. See Ryan Theriot.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's a thought

Why don’t you e-mail Bruce Miles and ask him to ask Piniella why Fox doesn’t play more regularly? He just might have a perfectly good reason.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I bet he doesn't.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 21, 2009 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

agreed

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 21, 2009 5:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just emailed the question to Bruce Miles.

Do you want me to email it to Aaron Miles too?

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 5:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yes

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

now that would be funny...

to have Aaron Miles ask Lou about Fox’s playing time. that I would pay to see!

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 6:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That would be awesome

Maybe Aaron Miles would discover a second career as a baseball journalist. Certainly would be better than his first career was this year.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes, he had a bad season

Unlike many around here, I don’t think he should be executed for it.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

so NBF, what do you do with a guy who bats well under .200?

offer him an extension?

does he make up for it with his fielding? running?

Given that we have Blanco & Baker now—what would cause the Cubs to keep this guy around next year? I am willing to be enlightened…

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 6:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

conclusions....

stop jumping to them.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 6:30 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Please cite where I said Miles should return next year

I defy you to find it anyplace, anywhere.

If you do, I’ll be willing to accept you aren’t a moron.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:29 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I didn't say you did want him executed

Were you absent on the day they went over reading comprehension in third grade?

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:46 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

NBF: please don't go there calling me or anyone a "moran"

But if you will note above, everything I stated was done in the form of a question to you, so I was citing NOTHING. All I was asking was (in a sarcastic way) what you wanted to do with Miles.

See, question marks at the ends of statements are that, questions. I was asking what you would want to do with Miles since you seemed to be defending him to some degree.

But turning around and calling me or anyone else on BCB a name seems a rather immature way to banter.

Save that for the Brewers.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 6:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Sorry, Carl, but as Frank Zappa once put it,

you are what you is.

How about this: I want Miles tied to a wooden stake on top of the pitchers mound and have fans stone him until he’s a quivering pulp.

Or maybe they should just try to get rid of him for next season.

Is that acceptable to you?

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 7:15 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'll bring the stake, you bring the stones.

But stop with the name calling. We are all on the same side.

Names are unnecessary. :-)

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 7:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good point, Carl

I apologize.

What time should we meet at the stoning?

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lou....

“Well were gonna look into getting that young man some more at bats, some time in the near future. Anything else, okay guys well see ya later.”

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Proof, then,

that it’s a lot easier to bitch than it is to do something about it.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You don't know

if you don’t ask.

Maybe neither of them think it’s that big a deal.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 5:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

At this point of the season

I don’t think it matters much one way or the other.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

how about before we got to this point?

Because Fox sitting while guys who weren’t remotely productive started over him has been going on for quite sometime. Or are you admitting, that despite your admonitions of anyone else who said it, you actually knew the Cubs were out of contention long before this?

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not to get political

but you sound like some of these idiots who, if you don’t criticize each and every move Bush or Obama make and call for their heads each time, you must love them and think they’re perfect.

I don’t think Lou is perfect. But I also don’t think there is a better alternative out there, at least if you want the Cubs to win it all and do it soon.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:24 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

WOW

You are weak debater

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 6:25 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Better a weak debater

than a weak thinker. Then again, I consider the source of this criticism and do what most rational people would — ignore it.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:28 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fox could have had a solid month of playing everyday

Instead we got Scales, and you give answers like “it does not matter”

What would have been your solution? You usually avoid these type of questions.

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 6:07 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My solution to what?

IIRC, Bobby Scales was quite the flavor of the month around here in May. Kinda like Hoffpauir was, too.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:17 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

for about a week, yes

then he reminded us why he was a 31 year old rookie

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 6:19 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly

When I was a kid, I though Oscar Zamora (put that in your way-back machine, folks) was going to be great. But there was a reason he was 30 years old and a rookie.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

and yet Lou is playing him

like he’s worth a damn. Over better players. In other words, what you figured out when you reach adulthood, Lou still hasn’t

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ever stop to think

Putting Fox in against, say, Carpenter or Wainwright puts him into a position to fail. But putting him in against, say, Mitchell Boggs puts him in a position to succeed.

Of course, guys like Ramirez and Lee play against everybody, but that’s because they’re All-Star caliber good. Fox isn’t. Not close.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fox is in a better position to succeed than Scales is

against everybody. He’s better than Scales. I think you can admit that. So, yes of course he’ll struggle against the best pitchers in the game, so did most of our lineup. He’s also a better bet to do well than Scales is.

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

And you know what?

Probably neither Fox nor Scales will be with this team next season.

Spend your energies thinking of possible alternatives for right field and middle infield in 2010. That’s more worthwhile.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:35 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So, are you under the impression Scales is a better player than Fox?

Because Scales was playing more over Fox before we were really out of contention. Therefore whether or not either is going to be back was less important than which one helps us win this year. Do you think that’s Scales?

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:37 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Scales has played in 41 games this year

None between June and September.

Fox has played in 77 games this year, including 42 in July and August, when the Cubs still were considered to be in contention.

I think you need to change your argument.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:43 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not sure how that's relevant

but are you going to answer the question?

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's the answer

I don’t think it matters either way. But since Nunya’s main point — that Scales played more than Fox whie the team was in contention — has been debunked, my answer really doesn’t matter, anyway.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Umm, that's not an answer, and you missed my point

and still refuse to answer the question. My point was, since Scales was called up, in September, he has played FAR more than Fox has, despite the fact that in early September the Cubs were still in contention (if not smack dab in the middle of the pennant race.) Yet we didn’t play the best player we could.

NOW we’re out of contention,and it still makes no sense to just not play fox at all.

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fox is playing

He’s been in 11 games this month.

How many games has Scales played in left field in September? And when in September?

I think there isn’t much difference between the two. Scales has a better glove (in general) than a bat, and Fox has a better bat (in general) than a glove.

You’ll just have to accept that as my answer. Which basically has been my answer all long. Sorry if you don’t like it.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 7:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not ony did Fox play more than Scales

But Scales WASN’T EVEN ON THE TEAM in July and August.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:55 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

considering you chastised someone for reading comprehension

I’d read what I posted again. Or you can continue to argue something completely different. However you want to play it

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

and yes, to answer your question

I am 99% certain that Fox is a better player than Scales.

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:38 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

99% of us know this

A few excuse makers do not.

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 6:44 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Absolutely...

…and Fox is just not a national league player and never will be.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Sep 21, 2009 7:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Maybe he fails like most hitters do vs that duo.

Scales sure did….What is your excuse for Lou when he didn’t play vs the AAA pitchers The Nats, mets, and reds were throwing at us? I think he would have been a pretty good option.

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 6:41 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You are answering the wrong question

Answer the cards pitcher question

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Who the hell are you, a trial lawyer?

I did answer it. Tough shit if you don’t like it.

Enough.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 7:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I will try again

Why did he not play vs the bad teams with bad pitchers? That would be a good time for him to play according to your logic.

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 7:08 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You also have to go by which pitcher

is pitching that day. Even the crappiest teams have good pitchers.

Of course, simpletons don’t see it that way.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 7:18 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

if lou is hiding fox on the bench to keep his value up

ill take back everything i said about the fox and scales fiasco. but if he isnt.. well you got some splainin to lou

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 6:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

to do even

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 6:26 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Scales is a cute story

and for what he was (a nice energy guy off the bench when we badly needed a kick) he was good.

But Lou’s playing him like he’s something more than that.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 6:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

To playing time when Soriano went down

Scales was popular here as a 2b when Fronty sucked and Miles was terrible.

I am trying to go slow for you.

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 6:21 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

why all the hate for theriot?

theriot has been the second most valuable position player on the cubs this year.

his fielding is slightly better than average — for a key defensive position like SS, that’s pretty valuable. he’s nothing to write home about, but he’s a decent player and consistent and cheap.

the truth can't hurt you, it's just like the dark/ it scares you witless, but in time you see things clear and stark -- macmanus

by tom s. on Sep 21, 2009 6:00 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

because he is a terrible base runner, has a subpar arm

and has stopped doing the litle things (like hitting to the opposite field) this season. He should be a second baseman, but Lou steadfastly refuses to play him at his natural position

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

He'll be 30

he’s an idiot on the bases, he’s got the weakest SS arm I’ve ever seen and should not be leading off.

When he’s hitting, he’s a damn find 2B.

Jerry’s been so distant lately and Lovie barely calls.- Just Dave

by Allie on Sep 21, 2009 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can assure you that as long as our defense is as weak as it has been at 2B/SS

I can’t see us getting very far (in the future). I just think strong middle infield defense cures a lot of ills. I just hope the new ownership makes this a priority.

When you have strong middle infield defense, your pitchers pitch to contact more and stop trying so hard for Ks. It would be a nice change in attitude for our pitching staff if they could have confidence in the guys behind them.

"Truth hurts. Maybe not as much as jumping on a bicycle with the seat missing, but it hurts." - Leslie Nielson

by LAcarl519 on Sep 21, 2009 6:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Look at the Mariners

They stress defense, and that alone has them a winning record despite batting Ken Griffey JR every night

Just say no to players named Aaron on the Cubs.

by nji232 on Sep 21, 2009 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

quick thoughts

a) A Reed Johnson/Tyler Colvin platoon for CF? Seems a bit iffy. I’m hoping for better defense. While Colvin could probably be passable in CF in his youth, he’s still better off in the corners. I worry that the consequence of carrying a Colvin/Johnson platoon in CF would be to carry a pure defensive OF in center.

b) Not sure the Cubs offense is good enough to carry Andres Blanco’s bat as a starter. I mean … the potential is there, but you need Soto hitting, and that’s never a certainty with catchers due to the wear and tear. You need Lee/Ramirez/Soriano at their peak. You need an improved top of the order. You get all those components, and sure, I can buy giving a no-hit/all defense player a starting gig, but those seem like a lot of expectations to carry for the start of a season.

c) I have never been on the Theriot train … but I’ll be a tad surprised if we upgraded at shortstop this offseason. The market’s iffy, trading for a quality shortstop is always iffy. Don’t get me wrong – I wouldn’t mind taking a gamble on say, Ivan DeJesus Jr. or another youngster, but I don’t see that happening (and while JJ Hardy would be solid … don’t see that one either). But even if you don’t buy defensive metrics, Theriot is at least an average defensive player who overachieves relative to his physical capability due to trying to be a “heady” player. He’s been miscast as a top of the order bat – as a bottom of the order guy, where he should be, he’s solid for the role.

d) I would love to see us, for once, only carry 1 backup MI. For that to happen, I think you need a guy that the team buys as the full-time starter, and not in some platoon role. I think Jeff Baker could be that guy … but 2nd base could be a spot to look for a top of the order bat.

by toonsterwu on Sep 21, 2009 5:50 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Why not Blanco at SS today?

Got some big hits last night and is a real SS…..

Lou strikes again

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 5:51 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

So how did Fox go to the 26th man on a roster of 25?

Or in this case of September call-ups 41 on a roster of 40???

It really, really makes no sense.

"Pain don't hurt you none" - Sparky Anderson (1987)

Obviously Sparky was never a Cubs fan...

by Zeke on Sep 21, 2009 5:51 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

No it doesn't

Also the one day he did start he batted cleanup. So if you are good enough to bat 4th……

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 5:52 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Aaron Miles batted cleanup this season

doesn’t really have anything to do with Fox, I just like to point out how insanely moronic Lou is.

by Nunyabidness on Sep 21, 2009 6:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

So if Tyler Colvin succeeds...

our RF void is filled??

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

by Chanman25 on Sep 21, 2009 6:06 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

dont jinx it

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

For the time being

I’d like to see Colvin put into #2 hole ahead of Lee and Ramirez. He’d see more fast balls and likely get some confidence.

If you like Selig's handling of the steroid issue, you'll love his choice for next Cub owner.

by tharr on Sep 21, 2009 6:21 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

No

youcant do that hes a rookie!

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 6:22 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

MUST PLAY FUKUDOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

.130 hitter of late-even with Reed Johnson back.

Go Lou—-Nice Managing.

One of at least 3 screw up in the lineup today.

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 6:23 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If the Cubs win

I fully expect you to apologize.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, you should

apologize to society for being such an unmitigated cipher.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 6:33 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Or the baby.

Beanie: Don’t say sorry to me, Frank. Say it to the baby.
Frank: Sorry, baby.

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

by dtpollitt on Sep 21, 2009 6:36 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fukudome is hitting

.237 in the #2 hole and .260 as leadoff. Bradley was .326/.421 at #2, Bradley got moved down to #5 where he hit .217.

I’d suggest that if Lou’s using a book he needs to get reading glasses.

If you like Selig's handling of the steroid issue, you'll love his choice for next Cub owner.

by tharr on Sep 21, 2009 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

oh joy Hoff & Riot

over Fox and Blanco ( sorry for being late to the party but been out for a bit). After all Hoff is so much more likely to
be part of the Cubs future. Does anyone think Lou just benches Fox because he can ? Oh let me guess his reasoning is
“Hey when my veteran bullpen guys blow another lead I NEED a guy on the bench who can come in and hit game winning homer” Makes the most sense.

"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim

by Doggie Stalker on Sep 21, 2009 6:29 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

AGREED

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 6:58 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LWDYWMTD?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on Sep 21, 2009 6:58 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

what

The official slogan of your 2009 Chicago Cubs:

Why?

by jesus christos on Sep 21, 2009 6:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What the hell does that mean Santo?

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 6:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lou's reply to eveything...

Look, what do you want me to do.

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 21, 2009 7:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You got it

Now go play on the freeway and waste someone else’s evening.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Sep 21, 2009 7:02 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You are right it is getting old. Its too easy for me.

He can’t handle simple questions. Time to move on to the game….

by TJ11 on Sep 21, 2009 7:05 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

agreed

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 21, 2009 7:09 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

"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 21, 2009 7:01 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Thoughts

I don’t think we should bring Reed back. I love how he plays but he gets injured all the time. And I’m SO sick of hearing people saying Andres Blanco is such a crappy hitter. In 111 at bats, he is batting .270. I will take that sort of production from a guy as defensively talented as he is. And I think if he is given the chance to play everyday, he will be a solid hitter.

Blanco has a better BA than Fontenot, Miles, Soto, Hill, and several other Cubs. I would love to see him as our SS next year, and Riot back to 2B, with Baker as a utility sub.

by Mulhollandmania on Sep 21, 2009 7:04 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Finally

Alright im done with the dishes, now i finally get to sit down and watch the Cubs…. Oh wait, I dont live in Chicago. Guess I’ll have to settle for Pat and Ron. I hope Ron makes fun of some of the Brewers’ facial hair like he did Brendan Ryan!

"That ball left a vapor trail" - Pat Hughes on Derrek Lee's 27th homer of 2009

"I hate to ound like a broken record, but I guess it's better than sounding like a broken mp3 player because then you would'nt hear anything." - Len Kasper

by JMG1984 on Sep 21, 2009 7:16 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

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