Silva No Longer Perfect; Cubs Lose Third Straight, 2-1
by Al Yellon on Jun 12, 2010 7:55 PM CDT
in Chicago Cubs Recaps
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PrintI could blame Lou again, but really, what's the point?
Well, wait, yes, there is a point. Here it is. With two out and Juan Pierre on second base (replays showed he was safe, sliding around Starlin Castro's tag), Paul Konerko was the due hitter. Carlos Silva, who gave up a run in the first inning, had shut the White Sox down quite well since then (one walk, to the almost unwalkable Pierre, and three hits from the second to the sixth).
Konerko is the White Sox' best hitter this year. Like, by a lot. Like, as in his 1.008 OPS is fifth in the American League.
The situation called for -- nay, cried out for -- Silva to issue an intentional walk to Konerko, then leave to applause as Andrew Cashner came in to face Carlos Quentin, whose offensive numbers would fit in real well with the Cubs' lineup today.
Nope. Lou sat there. Silva, to his credit, battled Konerko pretty well, but Konerko sent a sinking line drive into right field and Xavier Nady appeared to lose it in the lights. Pierre scored, and that turned out to be the difference in a 2-1 loss to the White Sox, the first time in 12 starts this year that the Cubs didn't score at least three runs for Carlos Silva, who was then left in to face Quentin, and he got him on a comebacker -- at which time TV cameras caught him yelling angrily and throwing something in the dugout.
Yeah, I know. You're going to say I blame Lou when he makes moves, when he doesn't make moves, and when he make the wrong moves. To which I say: you're right, and when that happens, it's time for the manager to go. I believe hiring Lou was the right move to make at the time the move was made. But it's three and a half years later and he is no longer engaged, seems no longer interested, appears to be just collecting his paycheck.
In respect for Lou's long tenure in the game, he should be allowed to announce his retirement -- for any reason he cares to give, "personal reasons", "want to spend more time with my family", whatever. But it is time for him to go. Let's start the Ryne Sandberg era right now. It would introduce some energy into this team and, as many managerial changes of this sort do, perhaps give this moribund team enough of a boost to at least pretend they are contenders for a month or so.
Incidentally, for Steve Stone and others (I'm looking at you, Jessica) who still were wondering where Tyler Colvin was today, obviously, it was because a lefthander was going. Yes, I know -- eventually, Colvin is going to have to learn to hit lefthanders, but I do understand that lineup choice. However, in connection with the pitching move I suggested that never got made, Colvin should have been in the game in a double-switch at the same time, instead of being wasted as a pinch-hitter (he singled and was stranded). The Cubs left ten men on base in all, four of them in scoring position, and had the tying run on base in the ninth.
Presuming the rain holds off Sunday evening (it rained for most of the 8th and 9th innings this afternoon), there will be at least one championship team in Wrigley Field, when the Blackhawks and their Stanley Cup are honored in pregame ceremonies. Congratulations again to the Blackhawks, and may your winning rub off -- soon -- on the North Side.
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FIRE LOU NOW!!
-end transmission
"Any player who gets the opportunity to play at Wrigley should welcome it"
A new manager won't help this team. Let Lou finish out the year
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
Why?
So we can hear “look, what do you want me to do?” for another 100 games?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
What is the other manager going to do with these guys?
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
Maybe instill some fundamentals?
Maybe use the bullpen better? Maybe have better lineup construction?
Maybe DO something instead of saying, “Look, what do you want me to do?”
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
These guys are professionals....they should know about fundamentals by now.
As for the bullpen, who’s out there that you feel comfortable with? MAYBE Marmol, Marshall, and Cashner, but honestly, I don’t know what more Lou actually can do….
Except quit starting Xavier Nady….he can stop doing that
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
These guys are professionals….they should know about fundamentals by now.
Yeah, they should. But they don’t. And that has to be a reflection of their leader.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
OK, so fire him before Spring Training or after the season...
In the middle of the season these guys have to focus on winning ballgames and don’t have the time to learn how to play the game again.
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
which i guess is after the season so I repeated myself
whatever…my mind is everywhere right now my bad.
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
Wait.
You said:
In the middle of the season these guys have to focus on winning ballgames and don’t have the time to learn how to play the game again.
And you think that Lou’s leadership is helping them do this?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Yes, and I'm saying it should have been done during ST
and shouldnt have to be worried about now. Yes, that’s on Lou, I agree with you. But it’s not March anymore and there’s not a lot Lou or anyone else can do about it at this point
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
I disagree.
A new manager often brings a boost. This team is underperforming. What harm would it do/
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
The previous "boosts" didn't change how the team performed
From moving Z to the pen to bringing up Castro, they haven’t changed anything. At this point, this team is what it is; mediocre.
It's a little different when you change the leader of the team....
… instead of single player moves.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Not really
If you want to fire Lou because he’s done poorly, fine. But it won’t change this team all that much. They are a group of aging all-stars whose best days were 2-3 years ago.
Well, agree to disagree, good sir.
I respect your opinion, and you might be right.
But I just don’t think there’s a lot that can be done.
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
No harm would be done...
…but you have a weak GM who is not likely to make that move with somebody that has a long successful career like Lou.
Unless Ricketts steps in (and I don’t believe he will), Lou is here for the duration.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I'm hoping Ricketts DOESN'T step in
I don’t want an owner who’s up to his elbows in the baseball side. I want him to find and trust people who know baseball (whether thats someone already on staff or not is up to him) and let THEM run it, only stepping in for huge major decisions.
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
We're getting to huge here
The management of the major league part of the organization is a mess. Who else can start making changes?
On field baseball decisions
should be made by baseball people. Not business.
By “huge major decisions” I mean things like renovations on Wrigley, giant leaps in payroll, overarching organizational philosophy. NOT basic managerial changes in a lost season.
No amount of change is going to make this team contend, I think. Everyone gets healthy, gets back on their whatever that made them good and they play .700 ball from here out and I’m still not convinced that the Cards or Reds don’t do better.
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
You disagree...
…with how Lou uses the pen, makes out lineups etc., but expecting him or any other manager to instill a heavy dose of fundementals to established players in unrealistic.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
hey
lous not a damn dummy
Self-Proclaimed President of the Castro Boobird Face Kicking Club
I love Patrick Kane, that ugly son of a biscuit.
"It's the Chicago Blackhawks, man"~JR
by jesus christos on Jun 12, 2010 8:24 PM CDT up reply actions
No no no no no no no no no
"I'll take one in the mouth over the eyes any day". - AJ Pierzynski
by lostinthevines on Jun 13, 2010 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions
Amen!
Fundamentals can’t hurt. ASt the worst, a new manager might make some of these guys realize that baseball requires hard work but rewards you with victories and accolades(ask your nearest Blackhawk).
"Any player who gets the opportunity to play at Wrigley should welcome it"
I think they need to not only get rid of Lou, but also make some moves
before the trade deadline. I don’t really know how all this contract stuff works so I may need help. I would just got ahead and get rid of Wells. Trade him along with someone in the minor leagues to get some kind of help. We have the bats, and the pitching, but the bats just aren’t performing. We need another Marlon Byrd in the clubhouse. Instead of a trade, we could just try to get Kevin Millar back. His veteran status, and clubhouse personality could be something useful.
by alabamacubbie on Jun 12, 2010 10:38 PM CDT up reply actions
trading a cost controlled pitcher to help a team that needs more than a comedian in the clubhouse isnt very smart
Self-Proclaimed President of the Castro Boobird Face Kicking Club
I love Patrick Kane, that ugly son of a biscuit.
"It's the Chicago Blackhawks, man"~JR
by jesus christos on Jun 12, 2010 10:57 PM CDT up reply actions
I'n glad you aren't the GM
Trading a cost-controlled starter while his value is low to obtain a “clubhouse leader” for a bad team would be just about the worst move this team could make. Season is basically over and 10 Kevin Millar’s in the clubhouse isn’t gonna help that.
by JSB on Jun 13, 2010 7:06 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
And I'm glad you aren't an English teacher
So you guys would rather keep Wells? Gorzo has got to get back into the rotation. I don’t see how getting rid of Wells, and trying to get a little in return for him would not be a good idea. With Cashner in the pen, and maybe call Jay Jackson up from AAA to take the spot of Gorzo. Granted the Millar idea may not be good, but with all the trouble we’ve heard of this past week with Z and Ramirez’s clubhouse personalities I just felt they needed someone like him in the clubhouse. If you could get a guy better at the game than Millar and still a good clubhouse guy then that would be better, I just don’t know where they would find one.
by alabamacubbie on Jun 13, 2010 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm pretty sure most would rather keep Wells than trade him for the return that you are suggesting.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 13, 2010 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions
You've got to trim the fat at some point and get rid of those who
aren’t producing. Even if their game is mediocre you still could see what’s out their in the market if you’re giving that particular person up.
by alabamacubbie on Jun 13, 2010 6:38 PM CDT up reply actions
You are advocating trading a cost-controlled, recently productive player for nothing
This isn’t fantasy baseball with a limited roster. What you are proposing would not make sense.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 13, 2010 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions
I was at the game today...
It was the first time in a while that I didn’t have fun at the ballgame.
Not because the whether was bad, but our guys just act like they don’t give a shit. They are very, very frustrating to watch, and I’m sick of it.
I mean cmon, Nady…game is on the line and a ball gets looped into right field and you make a half-ass attempt to catch it and let it land 3 feet in front of you? Come on. At least dive for it and make it seem like you give a shit.
Clutch hitting? Yea, right. Twice the Cubs got 1st and 2nd with less than two outs and they couldn’t even get the runner over to third.
This is a bad, bad baseball team, folks….I’m sorry to say.
It’s reminding me a lot of the ’06 team…no one cares, they suck, they all seem to hate each other, manager has no control over the team, etc.
At least that team had someone of an excuse (D-Lee hurt early on)….the ’10 Cubs though? No excuses. Just garbage.
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
by mikegncb34 on Jun 12, 2010 8:06 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
I'm gonna recommend this because it is the same thing I'm seeing on the television screen.
A lack of caring.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
We didn't have fun at the last game we were at either
and for the same reason. This team is just not fighting back. :(
"Fasten those seatbelts!"-Pat Hughes
blaming lou??
Please. Blame castro for not understanding a concept he should have learned in 2nd grade.
Blame nady for not going after the ball when Byrd was backing him up all the way if he missed it.
Those were more costly then anything Lou did or didn’t do.
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 8:06 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
Lets blame a 20 year old
rookie. Right. How about maybe just maybe a hitter can get a hit with a runner in scoring position, what a freaking novel idea.
there is enough blame for the season to go around
and no one is innocent of blame IMHO
Unofficial Self Appointed President of the Player Formerly Known as Castro Blocker Fan Club
Bleed Castro Blue
20 year old rookie is good enough to play MLB,,he
should know how to tag out a runner…yes there is plenty of blame to go around
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions
I only saw the 9th inning today
but the replay I saw of that, made it look like a damn good slide from Pierre instead of a poor play from Castro
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
by Allie on Jun 12, 2010 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
if you set the glove at the bag....you don't have to worry about Pierre's slide..
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 9:36 PM CDT up reply actions
why the reluctance to give credit to the other guy?
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
by Allie on Jun 12, 2010 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Cozmo is spot on...
Yes, Pierre did a great job of avoiding the tag. But if Castro does his job properly, then Pierre can make the greatest slide in the history of baseball, but the glove is still going to be waiting for him and he’d be out regardless.
it's not quite that simple
putting the glvoe in front of the tag is the best play, but Pierre or another prime baserunner could slide around the glove and slide in on the side of the base.
DEJESUS!!!
When the alternative...
is to lunge out at the runner, like he did yesterday, then yes, it is that simple.
This is baseball 101 here. Stuff you should learn in little league. Let’s not try and make it more complex than it really is.
This is one of the reasons I wasn't in favor of bringing up Castro
if we’re going to yell about fundamentals, let’s not bring up kids so early that they never have fundamentals pounded into their heads
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
by Nunyabidness on Jun 13, 2010 8:07 AM CDT up reply actions
Let's not forget that Castro is talented, but still really raw
He played most of last year in Daytona – A ball. Started this year in AA. The plan was to move to Des Moines this year with a cup of coffee in September. If you want to blame someone for Castro being up so early, blame Ryan Theriot.
i had tried as long as possible to not join the fire Lou bandwagon
but I did so finally. He is reminding me of watching a player who should have retired two years earlier still try to play.
Unofficial Self Appointed President of the Player Formerly Known as Castro Blocker Fan Club
Bleed Castro Blue
Nady was awful today...
Both of those basehits that scored runs should have been caught. And then he looks at strike three late in the game with a runner on.
And for the love of God, can someone PLEASE teach the Cubs middle infielders how to catch the ball and apply the tag on a stolen base attempt? Alan Trammel, isn’t that your job?
i teach that in little league
Something trammal shouldn’t have to re_teach
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 8:09 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
THIS ^^^^^^^^^^
Nady bugs the shit out of me. Castro is young and a lot more immature than I thought he was at first.
And what the hell is all this taking third strike crap? I learned when I was 5 not to do that. Unreal.
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
Everyone was talking about how 'mature' of a ballplayer he was about a month ago.
He’s 20……he’s got a ways to go. He’ll be fine, but he’s just a kid.
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
what?
Self-Proclaimed President of the Castro Boobird Face Kicking Club
I love Patrick Kane, that ugly son of a biscuit.
"It's the Chicago Blackhawks, man"~JR
by jesus christos on Jun 12, 2010 8:19 PM CDT up reply actions
I think he (she?) means
“Immature” not as in “acts like a kid, pitches a fit, etc” but as the opposite of mature, which means in this case “wise beyond his years.” So Castro isn’t immature in the way Patrick Kane is (and I love PK) but he’s immature in the way that as a 20 year old he doesn’t have a great understanding of baseball.
I could be wrong. The Internet is funny like that.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions
And in response to people blaming Lou:
Lou can only do so much when he’s got a garbage team to work with
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
by mikegncb34 on Jun 12, 2010 8:08 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
only six comments so far?
"I'm not much of a chemistry guy, you know. Chemistry to me is a pinch-hit double with the bases loaded"--Jim Frey, Chicago Tribune, 1985.
by zevkalman on Jun 12, 2010 8:10 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
Maybe they are that bad that they don't even deserve to be negatively commented on
I had to vent above though because I was at the game and it was sickening
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
Al is going to have lots of leg room
to stretch out if the Cubs keep this up. Can’t see many people showing up to watch .435 baseball all summer long.
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
And that ought to worry the Ricketts....
… you’d think, enough to do something.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
by Al Yellon on Jun 12, 2010 8:20 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Spot on JFCubFan...
I haven’t gone to Wrigley since 2008, cool story about that. I was an intern with Comcast SportsNet and I received a press pass to the Tuesday night September game against the Brewers, Dempster vs. Sabathia.
I was in the interview room when Wood struck out Fielder with a nasty 3-2 hook with the tying run on third, the place absolutely erupted!!! That’s one of my fondest memories seeing my favorite player strike out Fielder to reduce the magic number to 4.
But we all know how that year ended! :(
Yeah, many of them White Sox fans.
What will it look like next weekend when the Angels are in town?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
40,000 tickets sold maybe
but it seemed like there were a number of unfilled seats. Yes, the weather threatened. But it was the freakin’ WHITE SOX AND CUBS playing. If either team were in contention it would have been packed. People who bought tickets and don’t show up aren’t buying a buck’s worth of beer at $6.75.
Most seats were filled.
Also, there was bad weather in the morning, and more forecast, which probably kept the crowd a little low. On a nice day it would have been packed.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
My seats are in 224
and there were a fair number of empty seats – certainly many more so than 2 weekends ago against the Cardinals on a hot day. It also looked from there that the bleachers (especially center field) weren’t as stuffed as usual.
From my vantage point in LF
it looked like the only empty seats were in the upper deck and in the corners. Bleacher boxes were empty, but they often are.
Again, I think today’s weather had a lot to do with it.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
The tickets might be sold.....
But a whole lot of other revenue will disappear if this continues…..
The best defense is a good offense.....Lou Pinella...still hasn't managed the Cubs to a post season win. D. Lee still doesn't have a post seasson RBI for Cubs...ditto for Soriano
"It's so simple, it's unbelievable," manager Lou Piniella said. "When you score runs, you win."
Dusty Baker is the only manager in the last 100+ years to lead the Cubs to a post season series win....
"Take the hands off the clock, we're gong to be here a while"
Which is why you should emphasize regular ticket sales
BEFORE the season starts
Sorry Al couldn’t resist.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jun 12, 2010 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions
Once again, you have missed the point.
Since I don’t want to bore everyone here with our argument again, we can continue it on the next homestand.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Am I going to have to listen to this argument on July 21, too?
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions
The way you two have gone this year about ticket prices,
I take that as a “no”.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions
If you say so...
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions
???????
My point is the beer etc. ADDS UP…..not sure what “fight” I started here???
The best defense is a good offense.....Lou Pinella...still hasn't managed the Cubs to a post season win. D. Lee still doesn't have a post seasson RBI for Cubs...ditto for Soriano
"It's so simple, it's unbelievable," manager Lou Piniella said. "When you score runs, you win."
Dusty Baker is the only manager in the last 100+ years to lead the Cubs to a post season series win....
"Take the hands off the clock, we're gong to be here a while"
It's a long-running argument between Al and Jessica.
They’ve been arguing about tickets since, when … February? Gotten a little old, to be honest. I can’t imagine what it must be like in the bleachers with them trying to convince the other person that they’re right.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions
Oh, just you wait.
Like I said, you’ll enjoy the show. And no extra charge.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
And like I said, if you say so....
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions
:)
n/t
The best defense is a good offense.....Lou Pinella...still hasn't managed the Cubs to a post season win. D. Lee still doesn't have a post seasson RBI for Cubs...ditto for Soriano
"It's so simple, it's unbelievable," manager Lou Piniella said. "When you score runs, you win."
Dusty Baker is the only manager in the last 100+ years to lead the Cubs to a post season series win....
"Take the hands off the clock, we're gong to be here a while"
We can argue again but I have not missed the point
We just disagree. You think the push for the premium pricing was just a way to get some extra money but I saw how the Cubs pushed that AT THE EXPENSE of the regular first day of sale tickets and gave people an easy way to just focus on paying a bit more and get the hot games.
Vermont don’t worry. I will have a few games with Al before that one.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jun 12, 2010 10:34 PM CDT up reply actions
No, you have missed the point.
You think the push for the premium pricing was just a way to get some extra money but I saw how the Cubs pushed that AT THE EXPENSE of the regular first day of sale tickets and gave people an easy way to just focus on paying a bit more and get the hot games.
This isn’t the point. Discussion to be continued in the next homestand.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
You kids aren't gonna fight when Mrs. Zeke and I sit with you, are you?
If I wanna hear a fight, I can put my two teenagers in the back of the van and drive around the block. ;)
We have met the enemy and they are us! ~ Walt Kelly, Pogo, 1971
Oh, c'mon.
You’ll enjoy the show. And unlike the tickets, there’s no extra fee for it.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
If it gets too bad, you and Mrs. Zeke can come out and enjoy the game from the corner
view’s not as good, but it’ll probably be more peaceful… ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
You would think
I remember 2006. By September, there were maybe 20,000 in the park on a given day, regardless of what the official attendence said.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions
Right.
And this time, if that happens, the official attendance will be closer to the “in the house” count (though they never make that public).
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I just went through the schedule on BR
and all the home games in September were announced at 30,000 or more except for a Thursday, September 7th date with the Pirates that was announced at 27, 105.
I’m not blaming the Cubs, cause everyone does it, but I went to about half a dozen games that September cause scalpers were selling them below face to get rid of them.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions
The other difference
is that this year that could start a LOT earlier. Like July. There will always be a lot of people there on warm weather weekends, but I could forsee a ton of empty seats on weekdays this summer if they keep playing like this.
DEJESUS!!!
How long til NFL preseason?
What is a horse shoe? What does a horse shoe do? Are there any horse socks? Is anybody listening to me?
when do the Hawks report for camp?
Unofficial Self Appointed President of the Player Formerly Known as Castro Blocker Fan Club
Bleed Castro Blue
Is it July 1st yet? I need LeBron in Chicago
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
by mikegncb34 on Jun 12, 2010 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I had free tickets to the Soz game on Tuesday
It was Hawk Harrelson appreciation night (I appreciate him like he’s a kidney stone). Reinsdorf was there, so I made sure to let him know that I would appreciate Mr. James’ presence in Chicago.
When can I put my skis on again?
"Is there any truth to the rumor that the Bears gave up their first-round pick in 2011 for the decals?" - Someone registered as the DailyNorseman at PFT suggesting the Bears gave up picks in order to get Gaines Adams tribute decals. Stay classy Minnesota fans!
Tickets avail for tomorrow
Unusual for a Cub-Sox game. Can get 2 very good seats at $100 apiece online. Pass.
No way would Cubs fire Pinella given his stature and longevity in the game, and he’s unlikely to quit. Doesn’t want to go out that/this way, understandably.
Pretty pathetic all around, but D-Lee (who looks totally lost and almost disinterested at plate) is a good place to start w/o A-Ram to kick around. Only consistent bright spot all year has been Byrd. He and Silva were 2 major pickups, they’ve been great, it’s the holdovers who are killing us (mainly Lee and Ramirez). Hendry didn’t do enough to shake up an aging team.
No way would Cubs fire Pinella given his stature and longevity in the game, and he’s unlikely to quit. Doesn’t want to go out that/this way, understandably.
So instead he’d go out at the END of a horrid season? Why would that be better?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
somewhat agree...
potential PR issues firing him mid year,,,when either way they are not making the playoffs
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 9:10 PM CDT up reply actions
not quite sure..potential backlash
towards the Cubs for firing him….
you just never know…
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions
Given the comments on this site and elsewhere....
… I can’t see such a backlash happening. Can you?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
my thoughts were
more of the next potential mgr
I would think twice about working for a company if they had the reputation for firing a long time employee 3 months before he/she retired….
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions
Doesn't work that way in baseball.
There are only 30 jobs and they are highly desired. I doubt it would make any difference.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I agree......he should go....
BUT …. I’m glad to see expectations…..Jim should go with him…BUT I will always give Jim credit for creating expectations……
Hopefully it can be like a Doug Collins —→ Phil kinda thing
The best defense is a good offense.....Lou Pinella...still hasn't managed the Cubs to a post season win. D. Lee still doesn't have a post seasson RBI for Cubs...ditto for Soriano
"It's so simple, it's unbelievable," manager Lou Piniella said. "When you score runs, you win."
Dusty Baker is the only manager in the last 100+ years to lead the Cubs to a post season series win....
"Take the hands off the clock, we're gong to be here a while"
Hmm... don't you mean only 29 of them are highly desired?
I thought you were of the mind that Ryno would NOT want the Baltimore job if offered.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Man, you don't miss a thing, do you?
All of them are highly desired. Just don’t know if Baltimore is the right fit for Ryno specifically.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I bitch (and recall and nitpick and quote) because I care... ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
What backlash?
Based upon what I’ve seen here, I get the feeling most comments would be along the lines of “About damned time!”
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Backlash - you mean people would start coming to games???
I don’t think anyone would not come because the manager was fired.
One option is keeping things exactly as the are
With a team that is not only bad but totally uninterested in the game and not held accountable for either the play or the attitude. The 2nd option is let somebody new who might hold players accountable and make some major changes. It might not work but at least his has a chance of making the team better and more fun to watch for the next 3 1/2 months. If major changes had been made a month ago it had the chance to change the season, now it is mostly to have a team that gives a shit and get ready for next year.
I hate to say it, but this years Cubs are last years Mets.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jun 12, 2010 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions
One option sucks, the other rolls the dice
No one should underestimate how much dumb moves and a seemingly uninterested manager can get in the heads of a team. IMO, the current Cubs are a clear example of the kind of team that could change dramatically if they had a new manger with some fire and some smart dugout moves.
If we are all mostly agreed that Pinella is doing nothing good for the Cubs this season (is anyone arguing against this?), and that this is his last season, the change needs to happen ASAP. I for one am now waiting for the news of Pinella’s replacement before I start paying attention to this headcase team again. And I’m sure I have some company. The longer Pinella is manager, the more games and money this team is losing.
If Lou resigns, does he keep his salary?
If not, I’d make them fire me too.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions
Don't know.
Perhaps they can work out some kind of buyout.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
There is NO chance he resigns and give up the two million plus left
Cubs have to just eat it , the way they have with overpaid uneeded players.
"I am not ashamed to say I love Greg Maddux" - Jim Hendry
Me either Jim
by Doggie Stalker on Jun 12, 2010 10:36 PM CDT up reply actions
Think about it Al...
…do you think a guy wants to get canned in the last year he may be managing?
I really don’t think so, and Hendry does not have the balls to do it.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
it isn't "better" it's just what is going to happen
as I’ve said many times, if Dusty got to finish his final year here, Lou will get to finish his. Hendry is a chump
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
by Nunyabidness on Jun 13, 2010 8:10 AM CDT up reply actions
Then fire Hendry first
Sometimes a general manager has to fire a manager. It’s part of the job – part of the whole “you can’t fire all 25 players” bit. If Hendry won’t do it, he isn’t doing his job.
See I don't
buy this team is crap, devoid of talent, shitty, etc…. This team is dead, no emotion, no fundamentals and playing way below there talent level. Blame goes all around.
When team perform way below there capability for a long period of time, managers are held accountable. Why for some reason this manager is not. Lou needs to be fired. The old adage, " you cannot fire 25 players", well it sucks, but that is reality. Lou needs to move on.
by Grockcubs on Jun 12, 2010 8:21 PM CDT reply actions 6 recs
turn this green
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions
Nonsense, nonsense, nonsense
More of the enabling aspect of today’s society. It’s not the players’ fault for their lack of hustle, lack of ability and lack of interest. It’s the managers…the guy that doesn’t hit, doesn’t pitch, doesn’t field and doesn’t run the bases. Yep, it’s all on him….not the 25 guys that are paid like professionals and play worse than amateurs.
You’ve got a good majority of that roster that is flat stealing and pitching and hitting coaches that have absolutely no value whatsoever…but it’s the managers fault…he’s not a leader.
Unbelievable. There are many to be held accountable for this significant failure, including the manager, but to lump it all at his feet is laughable.
Even more true to actual reality, there is no legitimate reason why a cost-cutting organization like the Cubs would fire their manager just so they could shell out more money for another….like Sandberg.
Even worse, this sinking ship is going to get worse, perhaps way, way worse, before it can even show signs that it can get better. A long, long road lies ahead for a franchise with a significantly long road already behind them.
"When the day comes with that last winning run and I'm crying and covered in beer. I'll look to the sky and know I was right to think someday we'll go all the way." - Vedder
Today's society? Managers have been fired because players were underperforming for at least 100 years.
This isn’t exactly a millenial phenomenon. Ask Yogi Berra – he was fired when the 1964 Yankees lost the World Series. Same thing happened to Casey Stengel in 1960.
You have made my point
I am not saying this lies at the feet of Lou. Accountability needs to held for all 25. As long as I can remember in my 53 years, managers/Head coaches get fired, some are to blame some are not. This is the sporting world. Lou definitely deserves some of the blame with this club along with the players who are under performing.
Why should Ricketts tolerate this nonsense. This team looks and plays like they rather be golfing in Arizona. This is Ricketts business, you can’t fire the whole company, but you can fire the manager. Fair? Hell no, but this is sports, that is how it operates.
Krummy you’re one of the best posters on this site. And you’re right—it’s not the manager’s fault that a player doesn’t hustle. But how long have we said that? This team hasn’t has life for weeks—months! I’m still under the impression that firing a manager is entirely a symbolic gesture—it really gets nothing doen in the end game of a season—but it does send a message. And to me, this team is done, and has been done, for a long time. 2010 is over, and right now, without a fire sale, this team is done for 2011. A firing of the manager gets the ball rolling in the positive direction for 2011 and the future, IMO.
Dan
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
I still don't see Lou getting axed midseason
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
IMO...
…the biggest issue with this club is lack of leadership amongst the players. The stars of previous years – D Lee, Ramirez, Soriano etc. are all quiet guys who don’t want to ruffle any feathers. Sometimes, players have to be the one to ruffle the feathers to wake their teamates up, it can’t always be the manager.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
+1 for correct grammatical usage
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
I'd still
rather see Hendry canned during the season than Lou. There are going to be some major decisions to make in July, and I’d much rather a new GM, building for the long term, makes those decisions than Hendry who is perpetually playing for the short term.
If Hendry is still in charge, he is much more likely to chase respectability (to save face) than to make the difficult decisions that will hurt the team in the short term, but make them better in the long run. I don’t see Hendry trading Lily midseason. I don’t see him admitting his mistake on Dome and eating whatever salary necessary to get rid of him and open playing time for Colvin. I don’t see him asking Lee to waive his NTC.
If Lou gets fired, I think I’d ask Trammel to finish the season. If Sandberg is the future, I don’t want him getting mired in the mediocrity that is this season. I’d like him to get a fresh start.
DEJESUS!!!
by tomas21 on Jun 12, 2010 8:21 PM CDT reply actions 4 recs
Great points
This team has perpetually played for the short team. No better time than now to start with a clean slate.
"Is there any truth to the rumor that the Bears gave up their first-round pick in 2011 for the decals?" - Someone registered as the DailyNorseman at PFT suggesting the Bears gave up picks in order to get Gaines Adams tribute decals. Stay classy Minnesota fans!
These are all great points
n/t
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions
I agree...
…but not unlike Lou, I don’t see the benefit to canning either Lou or Hendry right now. Ricketts should have replaced Hendry before the season (or at least hired his new boss), but he has decided to take a wait and see approach, so he needs to wait until the end of this year.
One problem that could arise is this; I don’t trust Hendry to make trades etc, if they are sellers at the deadline, and Ricketts has no one else he can rely on to baby sit Hendry.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
The problem you see is the core of the "fire Hendry now" argument
Barring some Lazarus-like revival, the Cubs will be sellers or at least ought to be looking to sell at the deadline (balancing draft picks for Lee and Lilly with offers in trades). And as of right now, those decisions will rest with Hendry. Including, first and foremost, the decision about whether 2010 is a lost cause.
Actually, trades are one of the areas in which Hendry has done reasonably well.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Hendry
has a great job as a buyer in trades, and bad job as a seller in trades (the Silva deal is one noteable exception, if you consider that selling).
The times Hendry has been a seller there seems to have been a concerted effort within the organization to completely trash the player before they are traded, thus tanking any trade value. Patterson and Sosa come to mind there.
I just don’t trust Hendry to make the difficult decisions this year when he is somewhat disincentivized to do so when he’s trying to save his job.
DEJESUS!!!
So true..
I just don’t buy the argument that you can’t fire the GM midseason blah, blah, blah..why not? I mean for heavens sakes, do you really want Hendry around to create any more of a mess than he already has?? Put a new GM in, and this way he has half a season to do an autopsy on this corpse.
The problem to me with the arguments for firing Lou are exactly the same as they were for firing Baker in ‘06. Hendry gave the field manager a steaming pantload (actually Lou’s team is better than what Baker had) and everyone wants to lay the blame on Lou. Major league players don’t “learn” fundamentals in June. These players are what they are..not very good.
Favre-enfreude
The thrill of seeing an epic Brett Favre fail. Derived from schadenfreude - satisfaction or pleasure felt at someone else's misfortune.
Recommended because you're deep goat.
/sarcasm
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
I didn't even watch the game today.
I’ve gotten to the point of just checking the game recaps on the front page. Sounds like I’m not missing much these days.
It sounds to me like Lou’s just got this sucker on autopilot once the first pitch is thrown. So, a question to those who have been diligent in watching the games and/or observing Lou’s demeanor: does he just appear bored and sullen, or is he smug and angry looking? In other words, I get the sense that he’s being intentionally stubborn about stuff as if to prove a point, almost defiant, and uninterested in the results. Is this a fair assessment?
"One of the things I like about baseball is that between innings you can go to the restroom.'' ~Manny Acta.
Bingo...
There’s absolutely no fun in watching this team, it’s just too frustrating.
Buehrle seemed to be toying with the hitters, almost striking them out at will! This guy’s ERA in his last few starts has been around 10!!!
Why all the love for Sandberg as a manager, Al? I’m sure he’d be good but wouldn’t you want Girardi if the Yankees don’t re-up his contract?
But we might get another shot at him...
If the Yankees don’t make it to the postseason, or if they’re eliminated in the first round.
Not likely.
Girardi’s there to stay.
Sandberg has done his apprenticeship. I think it’s his time.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Me too. I think it will be Ryno this year...
and as much as I want to see him in there, I don’t want it to be until 2011…I don’t want him to deal with this team this year
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
yep..
this is a no brainer for Ricketts. Generate interest, please the fans, and don’t spend much money..you can see this one comming from a mile away. Hendry or no Hendry.
Favre-enfreude
The thrill of seeing an epic Brett Favre fail. Derived from schadenfreude - satisfaction or pleasure felt at someone else's misfortune.
That would be foolish of the Yankees
But if they want to be foolish, I’d be happy to have him. I was disappointed when Piniella was hired for 2007. Another “short term” decision.
There's really no reason to pitch to Konerko right now
No one else in the lineup, barring Rios, scares any pitcher. Just casually pitch around him or in a pinch issue him a IBB. The worst thing that could happen is do nothing with the team as it stands. Anyone but Lou could be a shot in the arm for a lifeless club. Better to be sooner rather than later.
"Is there any truth to the rumor that the Bears gave up their first-round pick in 2011 for the decals?" - Someone registered as the DailyNorseman at PFT suggesting the Bears gave up picks in order to get Gaines Adams tribute decals. Stay classy Minnesota fans!
by propheteer on Jun 12, 2010 8:27 PM CDT reply actions 4 recs
or he might hit a catchable fly ball to right
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
He should never have been given the chance to hit that fly ball.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
its baseball...how do you know the next hitter doesnt
hit it out of the park?
you dont…you can only deal with what happened..and that was a fly ball to right that should have been caught.
by cozmotaylor123 on Jun 12, 2010 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions
So what's the deal with...
the players now having songs played before their at bat? The Fox guys were saying they started doing that yesterday.
Personally, I think Ricketts needs to chill out on all these changes he’s making. From the Toyota sign to banners up by the marquee to now this. Relax, Tom. Wrigley is fine as it is. The team is what needs attention.
Yea I didn't like that.
I would much rather have the organ playing….its more “Wrigley Field” than a bunch of music blasting….most of the songs aren’t even good anyways
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
I was curious
how this played out to those of you at the game. Seems pretty lame to me. Salt and Pepa…………
There goes one over the fence...a Tru-Link fence.
by truelinkfence on Jun 12, 2010 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions
It's a big "who cares" to me.
Which is why I hadn’t mentioned it in the recap yesterday or today. The team is self-destructing and you’re worried about the song played when the player comes up to bat?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
IMO, it's kinda one of those things that put me over the edge today...
The team sucks, and they’re making all of these unnecessary changes to the ballclub (i.e. the songs and Toyota sign) that have NOTHING to do with improving the ballclub on the field. That’s why it bugs me.
And it’s not something I’m used to hearing at Wrigley.
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
The Toyota sign brings in cash
Now, if the Cubs are going to spend that cash on drafting Hayden Simpson…ducks
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Strage
I meant for the word ducks to have two astericks around it, yet it bolded. I was trying to be sarcastic. Yet another mystery of SB Nation
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions
You'd rather have kneejerk
changes now than things could actually improve the club going forward (money from signage, tweaking the atmosphere, figuring out exactly how to modernize the park)?
NOTHING they do right now is going to make this team contend. There is no back up plan in mid June to fix what is broken here.
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
I don't give a rat's ass!
I want the Chicago Cubs to win the World Series! Music playing before someone’s at-bat means nothing to me.
Just my opinion.
Agreed...
we should spend more time focusing on how bad of a job the WGN Graphics team does.
I just think it’s dumb. I associate that stuff with kiss cams, mascots and people shooting t-shirts into the crowd.
we should spend more time focusing on how bad of a job the WGN Graphics team does.
So today is cheap shot day, I guess?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Ha, I wouldn't say that's a cheap shot...
It was just humorous to me that you spent time writing about the graphical errors, but didn’t think that playing music before at bats for the first time ever was worthy of mentioning.
Partly because I didn't even notice it until someone told me.
If it’s hardly noticeable, why mention it?
The graphics were pretty noticeable, at least to me, maybe just because of all my years in television.
Anyway, hitter music is the least of this team’s problems.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
You know who has kiss cams, mascots and people shooting t-shirts?
The Chicago Blackhawks. How did their season end?
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions
the roster construction is horrible
and you’re worried about the manager?
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jun 12, 2010 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions
Thats Hendry's middle name...
….“horrible roster construction”.
And he has lived up to it since the end of 2003.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
But seriously, this is what you worry about?
Honestly, I didn’t even notice it until someone mentioned it to me. A song played for five seconds when a player bats? Really, who cares?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
See my response above....
it just kind of pissed me off because it put me over the edge….it’s the changes that are happening that aren’t improving the team. It’s pointless.
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
As I see it the organ music is a big part
of the experience. From my TV I could hear it is not gone forever but it just seems strange. Kind of like Bison Burgers and a lack of focus on personnel.
There goes one over the fence...a Tru-Link fence.
by truelinkfence on Jun 12, 2010 8:53 PM CDT up reply actions
Kinda like the blue jersey thing, no?
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 13, 2010 8:38 AM CDT up reply actions
I won't say it's wrong
but I will say I don’t care for it.
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
Just another reason to be worried that Ricketts is more about...
…cosmetic changes than he is actually building a winning team.
Prove me wrong this off season Tom and start the rebuilding process with solid, experienced baseball people.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions
I see it this way
While very much a Cubs fan who is familiar with the team and its recent history, Tom Ricketts probably doesn’t have that much awareness of the state of the organization. Not even after owning them for a few months. It reminds me of when Lee Iacocca first took over Chrysler, saying that if he had known just how bad the company was when he took over he’d have never taken the job.
Even so, Ricketts no doubts wanted to show the fans that he’s an interested and committed owner. So he sets out taking down the concrete barriers and adding bison burgers and other relatively “easy” moves. The jury is out on the Toyota sign – I see it as kind of a test balloon, a way of gauging the feasibility of further advertising revenue.
Maybe Ricketts undertook these cosmetic changes as a kind of diversion while he gets his hands dirty and gets to the bottom of why the club has come up short. I sure hope that’s what he’s doing.
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
Easy
When the product on the field is as bad as this one truly is, you better improve the product off the field.
"When the day comes with that last winning run and I'm crying and covered in beer. I'll look to the sky and know I was right to think someday we'll go all the way." - Vedder
I know they do that in Cincinnati
And to me the practice would have to improve to get up to “lame.” And right now, for all the Cubs the only appropriate song would be “Nowhere Man.”
I think for Fukodome
“A Boy named Sue” would be apropos. Whenever he does that little spin out of the batter’s box, I feel like I’m watching softball.
I had the option to watch this game after the World Cup game
But just didn’t want to. Watching this team is painful, and I’ve found myself more and more opting to do something else and then checking the box score at the end.
The world's biggest BCS hater and damn proud of it!
Right now a 0-0 soccer match would be better than watching the Cubs
And the difference between a 0-0 soccer match and a root canal is that the root canal is over sooner.
That France-Uruguay match from yesterday was dreadful
I saw where one of the players basically apologized for it.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:40 PM CDT up reply actions
As punishment, they should make teams in 0-0 matches play until a team scores
No penalty kicks – make them atone for the sins they have committed.
dreadful??
I thought it was awesome. Uruguay played their asses off, and earned the draw, despite one of their players being ejected and having to play shorthanded for the end of the game. What is so dreadful about watching a team successfully defend an offensive onslaught?
fire the players
i doubt lou is going anywhere.sorry but this team needs a new manager. a shame this team will let the season go down the tubes rather than offend lou.another reason why its been 102 years.
I haven't watched a game in 2 week...
and ya know, I haven’t missed it at all…
Bluto: Over? Did you say "over"? Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!
Otter: Germans?
Boon: Forget it, he's rolling.
-------------
"Why people, who have not committed any punishable offense, listen to Country and Western music is absolutely beyond me" - John Cleese
All you had to do was watch the action of the two dugouts..
…to see just how much this Cubs team has given up. The White Sox actually seem to have energy…high fiving and cheering when Santos, predictably, caught Tracy looking to end a mini threat in the 7th.
The Cubs, on the other hand, just sit there looking barely interested. It would be nice if they had enough professionalism to fake it for a few hours.
I’ve rarely been as disgusted with a Cubs team as I am this one.
I do think the Pale Hose get themselves up for these games
more than the Cubs do.
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
I'm waiting to see the Cubs get themselves up for ANY games
There’s more to this game than cashing ridiculously large paychecks.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 9:00 PM CDT up reply actions
On the field, Silva was a joy to watch
His effort and intensity is matched by a select few on this team. He is on a mission and today was yet another great outing. Hard to believe that his team cant get behind him any better than they did.
There goes one over the fence...a Tru-Link fence.
by truelinkfence on Jun 12, 2010 9:32 PM CDT up reply actions
The winning team looks like it has energy?
No way.
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
You're right about Silva
He was the one exception to the general lethargy that has fallen over Wrigley Field.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 9:45 PM CDT up reply actions
Castro is fun
Colvin, when he plays, always seems to hustle and try.
Marmol, Soto, Z.
Lots of interesting pieces on this team… shame they’re surrounded by crap.
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
Well... here's a video of the season so far...
Bluto: Over? Did you say "over"? Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!
Otter: Germans?
Boon: Forget it, he's rolling.
-------------
"Why people, who have not committed any punishable offense, listen to Country and Western music is absolutely beyond me" - John Cleese
grrr...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yUc3wd4It8g
Bluto: Over? Did you say "over"? Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!
Otter: Germans?
Boon: Forget it, he's rolling.
-------------
"Why people, who have not committed any punishable offense, listen to Country and Western music is absolutely beyond me" - John Cleese
lol...
Bluto: Over? Did you say "over"? Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!
Otter: Germans?
Boon: Forget it, he's rolling.
-------------
"Why people, who have not committed any punishable offense, listen to Country and Western music is absolutely beyond me" - John Cleese
My Take:
I think we should just let Lou finish this season out and start over next season. I think its too late to make a difference at this point. A manager change in the middle of the season will just make it worse. Let Lou retire at the end of the year and then fire Jim. We need to find a new fresh manager in the off season that will bring some excitement and hype to the ballclub. These guys are out there like a bunch of dead beats and we need a new leader get them fired up. Lou just doesn’t seem to care anymore. Thanks for the 2 division titles but this your’s and Jim’s last season.
My $0.02
I’m beginning to think that it’s not just a problem with a manager, but with the players. If the players are just out there to collect their respective paychecks, it is time to clean house, starting with the manager, but getting rid of some of the players who are no longer giving it their all. I’ve had enough defensive lapses in this one season alone to last a lifetime.
And while we’re on the subject of defensive lapses, there was an epic goalkeeping fail in today’s USA-England World Cup game.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:10 PM CDT reply actions
not mutually exclusive
you can be a baseball fan and have some patriotism (even if not a soccer fan) and root for the country in another sport
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jun 12, 2010 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions
...Which is what I did today.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions
You can, I suppose.
If the USA wins a game, great. If not, they’re not really expected to. I’m just not really a soccer fan.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
that's fine
not sure why snark is necessary for others bringing it up
its not like it was some minor league bowling event
the world cup is kind of a big deal
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jun 12, 2010 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I know it is.
Just not for me. No snark intended.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
The best way to sum this up:
Each to his/her own.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions
See, Dart, this and your last post might be why
people have a hard time reading your stuff. It comes off as clinical, blunt, and not much in the way of relaxed conversation.
I’ve seen you kid around every once in a while, but in the main your stuff is strictly business. Which is fine, because you kind of do this for a living. You may not be here to make friends – maybe a lot of us aren’t here to do that either. But just keep in mind that a lot of us here don’t have the level of investment you do to, where we deal with stats and projections and define baseball in terms of numbers.
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
somewhat confused
by the post you picked to reply with this. Your point is an apt one and I understand where you’re coming from, probably hundreds of other posts i make that better fit this reply though.
I actually consider myself to have a very good sense of humor, though admittedly this is a tough medium for it to come across. But furthermore the Cubs and this blog are an area I find a hard time to get comedy out of. More than any other fanbase I feel like Cubs fans are out of sync with reality and since I read here everyday it wears on me seeing it over and over again. I grew up far away from Chicago and somewhat romanticized the intelligence of Cubs fans. As I’ve gotten older and experienced Wrigley more, i’ve realized our fan base isn’t any different than any other. We have a really broad mix. Some who know the history of the team pretty well, some who know the stats side of the equation very well, some who have experience on the field, and then some who are casual in their following and less into the nuance. I’ve learned the fanbase isn’t really any better than most fan-bases, with the exception of commitment, passion, and optimism. Now optimism, isn’t generally a bad thing, but when its sooooooooo out of whack with reality, it leads to volatile behavior patterns (which this site is pretty much a perfect example of)
for me its hard to derive comedy or be light-hearted or conversational (however you frame it) when so many people seem so “pained” by those unrealistic expectations.
As a result, i tend to approach my behavior on the site as trying to educate or help guide people to understand what are appropriate expectations. I realize this is divisive stance as some will interpret it as arrogant or condescending or a whole lot of other things i’ve been called. And perhaps some of that is true and worthwhile criticism, but If there’s a way I can help ease that volatility and the pain of the team not living up to unrealistic expectations i try to do that.
Whether that’s my “place” is very debatable and I get that, but it’s how i’ve positioned myself, and unfortunately it doesn’t leave a ton of room for comedic value or light-hearted conversation.
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jun 12, 2010 9:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Okay, you make some VERY good points
about the expectations of the fan base but I think you’re fighting a losing battle if you think you can make a difference in the way people think.
People simply don’t go to these sites to be lectured to. If anything, you’ll probably get the opposite reaction.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 10:03 PM CDT up reply actions
i understand that
people come to vent, share their opinions, etc. My thought process is if i’ post enough stuff and it comes off as intelligent and put together and then predictions or suggestions turn out to be good ones, maybe people will respect the viewpoints more and start to pay attention
that’s kind of my hope
regardless this is cathartic for me. Like i said I grew up far away from Wrigley, i’ve never had a friend that was a Cubs fan to share and talk about the Cubs with. The site provides me an outlet to share my thoughts/ideas on how to get things in the right direction or things i’m excited about (Soto, Marshall, Cashner, Castro, etc) and talk about them. It also gives me some good ideas and conversation about the direction of the club going forward, which I take in. Anyways, my point is even if its fighting a losing battle its: 1) something i enjoy and 2) a unique environment for me to share my opinions
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jun 12, 2010 10:08 PM CDT up reply actions
I understand what you are trying to do.
Nevertheless, this statement you made in a post above:
As a result, i tend to approach my behavior on the site as trying to educate or help guide people to understand what are appropriate expectations. I realize this is divisive stance as some will interpret it as arrogant or condescending or a whole lot of other things i’ve been called.
That’s how I see some of your posts, and it would be nice if you could make your statements in a more conciliatory and/or collegial way. “Trying to educate”? As if we are simply all the uneducated? Yep, that’s both arrogant AND condescending.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Al
You’re taking my comments much further than they’re intended to go and you’ve already reached a judgment on me in your head so there’s little I can do to break that barrier.
It’s not as simple as if everyone is uneducated. That’s not the point. Every poster on this site has strengths and weakness in areas. Every single person is more educated than someone at something else. I view myself as having a good handle on the stats side of the equation, roster construction, and projection both on individual players and the team. I feel like I’ve demonstrated that. Whether it be my projection calls at the beginning of the season on team’s, saying the A’s and Nationals would be much better than people were giving credit for, the Reds would be much improved, the Cubs would have a hard time contending, etc. Or individual players, Grabow, etc.
Of course i’m going to miss things as well like Silva, Colvin. But that’s part of dealing with future projection. Something you’ve admittedly said you don’t enjoy partaking in, yet jump in on most conversations regarding it.
Others on the site have a much greater grasp of Cubs history (such as yourself), perhaps better local sources, on-field experience, minor leagues, prospects, and many other aspects of the game.
Everyone is coming here to vent, discuss, and hopefully some people are here to learn. That’s how I view the site. I’ve learned a TON from posters like Cwyers, Toonsterwu, Josh, yourself, etc all about parts of the game I’m not as educated on.
As I’ve said I view myself as having a better grasp on some parts of the game than others and those that I think I have a better grasp on I try to share those opinions with the masses. They tend to relate to expectations for the club going forward and that tends to be an area of extremes on the site, so we run into a lot of “heated” debates because people are irrational in their exuberance or their pessimism.
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jun 13, 2010 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions
Goodness
I just want this team to be competitive and look like they give a shit.
High expectations, maybe, Can we not go 4-13 against the Astro’s, Pirates and White Sox? High expectations against these teams, wow
by Grockcubs on Jun 12, 2010 10:12 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
+1000 for the "look like they give a shit"
And if the manager won’t kick asses to get them to play, get another manager.
Anyone remember when we had batters that would break their bat over striking out?
What happened to those players?
Sorry if this was a "sucker punch"
My post would have been better suited in the other thread a few days ago, I agree.
Interesting perspective on the fan base being out of touch with reality. Maybe that’s where the humor and comedy come in – as a defense mechanism. For my part, I’m a bit of a show-off and the type of person that worries about being liked, so I’ll post a funny pic off the Internet or make one of my own or make a lame pun. And if it lightens the tension during what looks to be a long season, then that’s an extra benefit.
And I totally agree that the nuance and subtlety of human conversation is lost on the Internet. If you take comments at face value, many of them sound abrupt and terse. Then add in how emotionally invested people are in their team and how hallowed the team is in our hearts (mine especially), and you end up with disagreements and disputes.
Yours is a different perspective, but not one that shouldn’t be welcome here. A lot of these new metrics go over my head, and at times I feel dumb for not knowing them. It’s cool that you’re willing to explain them and share why they’re handy for developing expectations.
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
didn't take it as a sucker punch
don’t worry about that. Like i said everything you wrote is fair. I’m not immune to criticism by any means and I try not to judge anyone else’s “place” on the site. There are plenty of times I get a good laugh at stuff people post and it does lighten the burden of a long season, so i definitely appreciate that and get it. I just don’t do a lot of it myself on this site.
You should never feel dumb for not knowing something and (i know you’re not going here but…) one thing i regret most is when i make points in a way that comes off as trying to make someone look dumb. So forgive me if i’ve done that to you. I know i’ve done it to others and certainly could’ve chosen better ways of explaining my point, but sometimes i get frustrated and react poorly. Anyways, kind of a tangent there, you shouldn’t feel dumb for not knowing stuff. Everyone in the world comes in not knowing anything and its impossible to know everything. I’m certain every single person on this site no matter the education, age, etc are smarter or more educated than me at something. Its just the way it is. So don’t feel dumb.
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jun 12, 2010 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions
For what it's worth...
…you explain yourself well and I certainly understand your wanting to converse, etc., about the Cubs with like-minded people.
I’m actually blessed to have a lot of family members and several close friends who are diehard Cub fans and I STILL like coming here to converse, share opinions, etc. That’s, after all, the purpose of a site like this.
So no worries.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 10:36 PM CDT up reply actions
That's a long-standing joke
since before this website even started. When anyone brought up another sport, people would tongue in cheek ask what that had to do with baseball.
DEJESUS!!!
ahhh ok
perhaps i missed that joke with all the non-baseball references of late not getting the same treatment
hockey for example…
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jun 13, 2010 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, but as we all know
Soccer is for Europeans, ewwwww.
If you don’t like America, you can geeet out.
I can see where that may be true too
From what I’ve heard Rami and a couple of others haven’t been givin it there all. Hopefully a new manager can get them excited to get out there again.
The Guardian had a field day with that one.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:34 PM CDT up reply actions
Sunday Daily Mirror headline
“The Hand of Clod”
Now that's good.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Who hired those players?
The best defense is a good offense.....Lou Pinella...still hasn't managed the Cubs to a post season win. D. Lee still doesn't have a post seasson RBI for Cubs...ditto for Soriano
"It's so simple, it's unbelievable," manager Lou Piniella said. "When you score runs, you win."
Dusty Baker is the only manager in the last 100+ years to lead the Cubs to a post season series win....
"Take the hands off the clock, we're gong to be here a while"
Correct
And the first step is placing Ramirez on waivers as soon as he returns from the DL.
"When the day comes with that last winning run and I'm crying and covered in beer. I'll look to the sky and know I was right to think someday we'll go all the way." - Vedder
I don't disagree with it
But I’d be very surprised if someone picked him up.
With the way he's gone this year,
Who in their right mind would claim him if that happened?
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 9:34 PM CDT up reply actions
Isn't just about everyone "waived"
at some point in the season?
going on waivers isn’t news.. being claimed is.
Things work out best for those that make the best out of the way things work out - Coach Wooden
I'm almost positive you are right
n/t
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 9:42 PM CDT up reply actions
I posted at the time that they should work around Konerko but
after having some time to think, I don’t think firing Lou will help. Nady should have caught both balls that cost us the game. How is that Piniella’s fault. Castro let the lead run into second base. The players fault. You don’t know that if you walk Konerko and bring in Cashner that Quinten doesn’t get a hit.
The problem is our 3 and 4 hitters(Lee and Ramirez) are killing us. That will make any manager look bad. If Konerko and Rios were having the same years as our guys, the White Sox would be in last place. I think it is that simple. Without a healthy and productive Lee and Ramirez it doesn’t matter who is managing.
there is a 1 in 5 chance quentin gets a hit
i like those odds
Self-Proclaimed President of the Castro Boobird Face Kicking Club
I love Patrick Kane, that ugly son of a biscuit.
"It's the Chicago Blackhawks, man"~JR
by jesus christos on Jun 12, 2010 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Nady shouldn't be out there
He looks pretty bad out in the field whether it be at right or 1B, but disagree about Quiten vs Konerko debate. Pitch to the guys who are struggling, not the ones that are tearing the cover off the ball.
"Is there any truth to the rumor that the Bears gave up their first-round pick in 2011 for the decals?" - Someone registered as the DailyNorseman at PFT suggesting the Bears gave up picks in order to get Gaines Adams tribute decals. Stay classy Minnesota fans!
I agree about not pitching to Konerko
Buerhle seemed to having a good day and we were only down 1-0. If you think that you can eek out a couple of runs and win it, then you have to walk K. Historically, he has been one of the best if not THE best WS hitter against us.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
Haven't watched the Cubs in the last few weeks
caught an inning today. You would think that watching their compadres that play at the United Center win the Cup and the love that their fans showed them the past day or two would fire this bunch up. Nope. Still making mistakes on the field and in the dugout.
This division is so winnable and they look like they’re playing out the string already.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
Maybe the Hawks fired up the wrong team
The Sox seem to be the only ones motivated by them.
"Is there any truth to the rumor that the Bears gave up their first-round pick in 2011 for the decals?" - Someone registered as the DailyNorseman at PFT suggesting the Bears gave up picks in order to get Gaines Adams tribute decals. Stay classy Minnesota fans!
The Cubs seem, by and large, to be too old and rich to care much
…about the example a first class team like the Hawks set.
As for me, following them as closely as I have since their “resurrection” has caused me to see just how dysfunctional the entire Cubs organization is.
I read the other day about how each player on the Hawks busts his ass so as to not let down the other guys in the locker room. They also take pride in working hard for the fans that support them. I wish I saw the slightest bit of evidence that the Cubs cared enough to follow THAT example.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions
You are 100% correct
IN 2004 the Hawks were the laughingstock in all of sports. A few years later, Old Man Wirtz dies, Rocky takes over and corrects DECADES of mistakes made by his Dad and a couple of days ago, they hoist the most cherished trophy in sports (IMHO).
IT CAN BE DONE! It starts at the top and cascades all the way down. I am hoping that the Ricketts family has seen what has happend on West Madison Ave, and can bring that to West Addison.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
by BigJohnAZ on Jun 12, 2010 10:10 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Excellent synopsis
The Cubs have some building blocks in place, but now need some structure and salary relief to begin the rebuilding process.
"Is there any truth to the rumor that the Bears gave up their first-round pick in 2011 for the decals?" - Someone registered as the DailyNorseman at PFT suggesting the Bears gave up picks in order to get Gaines Adams tribute decals. Stay classy Minnesota fans!
I'm happy for John McDonough
but I wish he was still the Cubs President…
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
I was thinking the same thing
Somehow I have a feeling things might be a lot different if he has stayed with the Cubs. He has exactly the mentality you want in a team president, namely, to win at all costs.
Instead we have a guy who knows how to cut endorsement deals but not much else.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 10:39 PM CDT up reply actions
I just read
that not only was Ladd injured but Hossa as well. Ladd came back in game 4 of the finals and Hossa played thru an injury to his right knee since game 1 of the finals.
They are the hardest working group of guys and talented too. The Hawks organization from Rocky on down to the players are all on the same page at the same time.
IMO the Cubs organization is a mess from Crane Kenney on down to the players. Ricketts certainly has a huge job to contend with in straightening the mess out.
I haven't too
I’ve thinking there should have been a Game 7 last night!
I was perfectly happy to wrap it up on Wed.
I don’t think my heart could have taken ANOTHER game.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 9:57 PM CDT up reply actions
They did what they had to do
I’’m not exactly happy about how it ended. But when it goes to OT, all bets are off!
+ infinity
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
how bad is this team,,,when I
am spending time looking at my fantasy team to see who pitches against the Cubs next week so I can pick them up……..man this is bad
Good tip
I may do the same thing. After all, how wrong could we be?
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Wow! Where is the heat for Bob Bradley?
Should have won the game today, 2-1.
We had the 3 Lions!!!!!
We did.
I have the feeling, having watched the match today, that both teams were a little out of sync today. Thankfully, England is the toughest team in Group C, and we played them to a 1-1 draw. Going to have to do better against Slovenia, though I think we can beat them.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 10:00 PM CDT up reply actions
If Jose hits it 6 inches right
USA wins 2-1. Love how all the UK papers blame it on Green.
Still think the USA tie at some point during that game!
Clarification:
Love how all the UK papers blame it on Green.
To say they are angry would be an understatement. The tabloids are already having a field day with that blunder.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 10:06 PM CDT up reply actions
Part of the reason I'm still awake
is that I want to see what the front pages of tomorrow’s papers in the UK are. They are 6 hours ahead, so hopefully by midnight I can see them online. Should be entertaining.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 10:21 PM CDT up reply actions
Some of them are already up.
The Sunday Daily Mirror’s front page online reads “THE HAND OF CLOD”.
And there’s this one from The Guardian.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 10:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Just did.
Which article is the one I’m supposed to be laughing at?
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 10:59 PM CDT up reply actions
The one that said England outplayed the USA
I thought the match was even.
I love how the English press are making it that Green blew the game.
Is it...
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions
LOL
Yes.
They think it’s all over, but it is now!!!!
LMAO.
I think I’ve found a winner. Link.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 11:09 PM CDT up reply actions
Can't see it
But if it’s anything like the ending of Ashes to Ashes.
I’m hearing Wham “Club Tropicanna” when I go to hell!
LOL
Here you go.
BP dispute spills on to World Cup pitch
By Roger Blitz in Rustenburg
Published: June 12 2010 19:17 | Last updated: June 12 2010 23:55
US fans celebrated, England’s wore glum faces. Their teams’ World Cup encounter at the Royal Bafokeng stadium outside Rustenburg ended 1-1, but it was the Americans who were the real winners of this tense and taut "grudge" match.
England should have won. They had the better players, the more chances. England scored early through captain Steven Gerrard, the US equalising through a soft goal from Clint Dempsey that slid agonisingly – for England fans – through the butterfingers of England goalkeeper Robert Greeen.
As they left the stadium, US fans argued that, but for the post preventing striker Jozy Altidore from scoring in the second half, this would have been a famous victory for the underdogs. Still, it was the US players who stayed on the pitch to thank their flag-waving fans, while England’s trooped off looking for all the world like losers.
Football is the closest England and the US get to sporting rivalry. But England, inventors of the game, have yet to beat those upstart Americans in the World Cup. As the two groups of fans gathered at the stadium entrance ahead of the match, Americans were keen to point out that the only previous World Cup encounter between the two sides, in 1950, ended in another American team of outsiders beating what was then a mighty England team 1-0 in Sweden.
It had already seemed rather bad timing and a poor omen for England that, on this of all days, the Queen should in the morning award a medal to Bert Williams, England’s goalkeeper that day 60 years ago, for his services to football. And so it proved.
Note the spelling of Robert Green’s name at the end of the second paragraph.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 11:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Be aware a segment of this article is dedicated to talking about BP.
It also briefly covers fans and their attempts to buy alcohol. And it ends with the reaction of Americans as they left Rustenburg.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 11:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Doesn't matter now
Game is tied at 1.
USA gets 4 points out of the next 2 games, they’re through!!!
It shouldn’t come to this! I hope the US showed up.
It sucks that the world cup is going to show in a politcal way. It should be all about sport.
What BP is doing in the gulf is a disgrace!
I’m going to be quiet now. But they should clean it up!! Your rig, your cleanup!!
Yep
I understand his talent pool isn’t the best (imagine if the USA cared about soccer like other nations do, and guys like LeBron were soccer starts…) but sooner or later the underachievement’s got to stop. I’m content with the tie but wanted three points.
Ricardo Clark is a disaser.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions
I agree
It should have been a full 3 points for the USA.
Jozy should have it 6 inches right. It goes in off Green. But it didn’t. It’s a great result!!!!!
Yeah
Either way if they win their next two they are in business. It was good to see Onyewu’s (sp?) knee hold up. He got better as the game went on.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 10:35 PM CDT up reply actions
They should win the next two games!!
There is no excuse! If you want to be a soccer (footbal) power, you win the next 2 games!!
It’s not like playing the teams in our hemisphere.
Very true.
England and USA are, as I think many (including myself) believe, the two best teams in Group C. So against Slovenia and Algeria, the USA should establish some distance.
However, I will hold off on saying what the USA needs until after tomorrow morning’s match between Slovenia and Algeria.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
Preparing to hike to the summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire on Saturday, June 12....
State high point count: 2/50
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 12, 2010 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions
judging by the train video endrick posted
they seem to be the same thing…
Self-Proclaimed President of the Castro Boobird Face Kicking Club
I love Patrick Kane, that ugly son of a biscuit.
"It's the Chicago Blackhawks, man"~JR
by jesus christos on Jun 12, 2010 10:09 PM CDT up reply actions
OK
Just like Adam Burish is going to run Chis Pronger ?
Congrats! The Blackhawks won but lets compare Burish to Pronger.
Chris Pronger won the Hart, the Norris, 2 Gold Medals, and 1 Stanley Cup. And 2 Finals appearences in the past few years.
What has Burish done? Someone that was scratched for the past few games.
That's what Burish does...
…he’s a wise ass who lives to tick off the other team. Surprisingly, a lot of the time it works.
As for Chris Pronger though, you’ll get no argument from me about how good he is. In fact, the past series not withstanding, he’s always been one of my favorite players.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Chris Pronger is a first ballot hall of famer
in both the hockey and [explitive] hall of fames. The guy is REALLY GOOD.
As are the team he plays for.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions
LOL
Did you hear what he said on get-a-way day today?
The Blackhawks won the series but Pronger was on their heads! Way in their heads!!
I did not
I’ll see if I can find a video. Also, now that the series is over I’m very very happy Ville Leino is no longer a Red Wing. Speaking of Leino he’s got a Hossa-esk “curse” going: two straight cup final defeats with two different teams.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 10:37 PM CDT up reply actions
Not even close to Hossa
Hossa was a great player that was a mercenary. The fact that he moved from team to team to win a cup in the past few years. What does that tell you?
He was such a mercenary
That’s why he signed a 12 year deal before this season started…
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 11:03 PM CDT up reply actions
And by "this season"
I meant 2009-2010, the one that just concluded.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 11:09 PM CDT up reply actions
can you blame him for not wanting to a pen or scum?
Self-Proclaimed President of the Castro Boobird Face Kicking Club
I love Patrick Kane, that ugly son of a biscuit.
"It's the Chicago Blackhawks, man"~JR
by jesus christos on Jun 12, 2010 11:04 PM CDT up reply actions
Don't blame him at all
He’s a great player and a pain in the ass every time he played the Flyers!
He had the Flyers number!!!
That's the Blackhawks fault
You won the Cup, now go figure out how to get under it.
The Flyers are a great team...
…hard working, talented and VERY gritty. I really feel that they made the Hawks earn the Cup which makes the accomplishment that much sweeter.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions
As for Hossa being a mercenary...
…I’m not going to argue the point but, if you’re going to be a mercenary, it’s better to be one in the pursuit of something as special as the Stanley Cup rather than just a big payday (which he could have gotten from any number of teams).
by bluekoolaide on Jun 12, 2010 10:45 PM CDT up reply actions
The Hawks are a great team!
If he wasn’t a cocky SOB, I would love Kane after what he did in Vancouver.
He should be a Flyer. Shame how the video disapeered. The worst season for the Flyers ever and they pick #2, and the Blackhawks draft #1. Way too many people here think the NHL have it in for the Flyers after 1974-1975.
It was the luck of the pingpong ball
that the Hawks drafted #1…….glad they got lucky and drafted Kane. :)
Talk to me now.
I would take Kane over JVR. We’ll see what happens over the next few years!
If only Kane would forget about 20 cents from cab drivers!
....that had a very easy trip to the Finals.
No Pens, No Caps. Please don’t tell me the ‘plucky Fliers’ would have beaten either one of those teams. It wouldn’t have happened. However, you play what’s in front of you.
Please don’t tell me about the 0-3 to Boston. If a team was going to blow such a lead, it would have been the Bruins, who barely belonged in the playoffs. The Flyers were significantly better. However, the Flyers should never have been down 0-3 to that just-above-average team.
This was a 1-year fluke by the Flyers, who played WAY over their heads.
I’m sorry, but they won’t be a factor next season. 2 journeyman goalies. That won’t fly 2 years in a row.
I apologize if this assessment is harsh. But…..the Flyers were a lucky bunch, with an arrogant coach. I really don’t have any respect for that scruffy bunch.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jun 13, 2010 1:50 AM CDT up reply actions
If you're a Blackhawks fan
You shouldn’t care about the video!! You won the Cup for the first time since 1961!
Celebrate!!!
Leino was a steal this season. Didn’t really show up until the playoffs!
Is anyone else watching Angels-Dodgers?
The Angels have another bullpen guy named Francisco Rodriguez! He wears #45 and looks kind of like a thinner Carlos Silva. What are the odds two guys named Francisco Rodriguez would both be Angels within a few years of each other?
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 12, 2010 11:14 PM CDT reply actions
I'm not sure...
…but if we head down the coast a bit (and turn back the clock to the mid 80s), we could ask Greg Harris. And if he doesn’t know, we could ask Greg Harris…
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
It's not even about Lou managing anymore
This team is simply miserable. Despite the rumors on here earlier this week; the guys just aren’t having fun. You can see it in the field and on the dugout. They are putting stress on themselves and I think unfortunately a change of scenery can do wonders for many of these guys.
I don’t know who/what to blame but this team is not a cohesive unit anymore.
The season ended the day we cut Millar
We were winning in spring and everything felt so good….
"I'd rather hit home runs you don't have to run as hard." -- Dave Kingman
by BucknerKongCardenal on Jun 13, 2010 12:13 AM CDT up reply actions
Lose t of 3 to the Pirates, Astros, Brewers, Cardinals, and a possible sweep to the Sox
Pile that crap on top of the underachieving team last year and I’m wondering just what exactly a team needs to do to get a manager fired. I mean seriously, would this fly in any other major market?
It’s clear to me that this team tuned Lou out after they choked in the last playoff series
Positive changes
I think its time to look at Darwin Barney from AAA Iowa to play 2b. He also plays ss. Castro is the only player not being given a day off & his play shows it once in awhile.
Everything started downhill when Big Z left the rotation…poor “panic” decision by the coaching staff. Wells needs to go to the bullpen NOW & be replaced by Cashner or Gorzellany. Another mistake by Lou & Larry. At some point this season, lets look at Vitters at 3b who is playing pretty good at AA Tennessee. We have to go to a 4 man rotation in the OF to get Colvin playing time. Nady is not an OF. Move Lee & ramy down in the order. How long does that take to figure out. Jaramillo is not the problem here as some idiots suggests. The problem is players don’t want to listen anymore. To keep Wells in the rotation is a big mistake, similar to leaving Gregg as a closer last year as a closer over Marmol. It took 5 months to figure that HUGE mistake out. I like Lou but its now time for Ryno to come in & pick a new coaching staff that has some energy & fire.
Keep Jaramillo & build from there. Start looking at the FUTURE and forget the past & present stages.
The problem with this game was not Lou
It was our offense sputtering again!
I t was obvious on TV that guys like Lee, Soriano, and Soto were not battling (grinding as Karros described it) in their at-bats. This was clearly evident with DLee who continually swung at all outside pitches without adjusting to where he was being pitched. Even Eric Karros called the pitch locations, and sure enough, DLee would chase way outside every time! Soriano, the same way. Only Byrd and Tracy seemed to grind out at-bats.
On the other hand, Kornerko grinded out some sweet at-bats and was able to produce, as a result.
The onus is on the offense now to get it right and grind it out EVERY AT-BAT.
If you think you've seen it all...just wait!
by CubFanSince1970 on Jun 13, 2010 7:21 AM CDT reply actions
Speaking of grinding
If I had a shot every time Karros said that word I would have been rushed to the hospital by the 3rd…someone buy that guy a Thesaurus.
"Your eyes can decieve you. Don't trust them." Obi-Wan Kenobi, the first sabermetrician...
"He has a gift. And his gift is Mario Kart." Troy Brouwer talking about Niklas Hjalmarsson, the day before the Chicago Blackhawks won the Stanley Cup.
by Curtain Jerker on Jun 13, 2010 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions
WHAAAAA WHAAAAA
fire Lou! the team sucks because of Lou!
when are you going to realize the team sucks because it’s the team? what happens when Lou leaves or is fired and they continue to play the same way? who are you going to blame then? Hendry? fine. blame someone – anyone, but don’t blame the players for not playing the game well – no. don’t do that. Ramirez and Lee have been garbage. the rotation outside of Silva has been up and down and even when we get a solid performance from Dempster or Lilly it’s pissed away by a complete lack of offense — which has been happening all season. christ Al. another post about Lou and you might as well stop updating this drivel.
Darwin Barney stats
courtesy of IowaCubs.com:
BA .298, OBP .323., SLG .376, OPS .699
For comparison’s sake, here’s Theriot’s and Castro’s numbers:
Theriot – BA .294, OBP .326, SLG .322, OPS .648
Castro – BA .264, OBP .313, SLG .347, OPS .660
So, while not a huge uptick, Barney is slightly better offensively (albeit against AAA pitching).
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
An Opinion
One indication that this Cubs team just doesn’t have it is there have been no exciting come from behind late inning wins that inspire confidence and lead to winning streaks or stretches. Think Rami’s 9th inning gamw winning HR agains the Brewers in ‘07 or the comeback from an 8-0 deficit against the Padres in ’08. This year, even more so than last year, as soon as this team hits the smallest bump in the road, it’s almost a guaranteed loss.
"All I'm asking for is what I want." -- Ricky Henderson
There has been one.
The walkoff HR by Ramirez in extra innings vs. the Rockies on 5/17.
The Cubs are 10-13 since then.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
True, but...
Nice as that win was, it wasn’t quite the same as the kind of come-from-behind wins I was thinking of. As I recall, the Cubs essentially came back from the jaws of victory that night after Marmol walked in the tying run. Maybe I’m splitting hairs, but it wasn’t a momentim shifting kind of win.
"All I'm asking for is what I want." -- Ricky Henderson
by sweetswinger on Jun 13, 2010 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions
No, it doesn't.
If the huge storm complex heading this way keeps going the way it’s headed, they should just call the game early.
Both teams are off tomorrow; they could make it up then.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Don't think that would work - Ron Santo's charity golf event is scheduled for tomorrow.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
Not to mention the 70% chance of more storms.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Sure fire Lou now, but is really the ideal replacement available NOW?
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
by eths on Jun 13, 2010 1:20 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
Oh and BTW: Go Cubs and Go Germany!
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
by eths on Jun 13, 2010 1:23 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I actually emailed Tom Skilling.
One of his guys answered me. He said he is not sure about tonights game. He said there is alot of rain coming but it could wind down by game time. He said it could start late but it is NOT a slam dunk rainout.
I guess it depends on how bad management wants a full house.
Probably won’t get one for a makeup game.
OT: FWIW Ger 4 - 0 Aus
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
by eths on Jun 13, 2010 3:19 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
Prost
.
I'm singing, "GO CUBS GO! GO CUBS GO!" -- DrCrawdad on Jun 12, 2009 7:23 AM CDT
Facts are meaningless. You could use facts to prove anything that's even remotely true! -- Homer J. Simpson
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 13, 2010 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions
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