July: New Month, Same Story. Cubs vs. Reds Preview, Friday 7/2, 1:20 CT

my day watching the game or doing something else….I think I’ll take the latter, but I do hope for a Cubs win (I’m an optimistic person which can create problems as a Cubs fan).

that the run differential at this point in 2006 was much worse — i.e. the Cubs were getting blown out more often. Am I right, Al? Anyone?

Also, I really think part of the explanation is lineup construction. I know it’s a tired debate around here — but the fact that the Cubs have three guys who are having good years (Soriano, Byrd and Colvin) means that this team should be scoring more. But Theriot at the top of the order, Lee and Ramirez in the middle, Fukudome getting starts and Hill starting too often over Soto is part of the explanation, IMO.

Is this team is just not playing small ball. I would like to see the hitters work the count a little more, start bunting a little more, and stop swinging for the fences. Add that and improve the defense and this ball club would be much more enjoyable to watch.

single, out, DP, K, single, DP, single, single, K

Wouldn’t that be awesome to see on the north side with Sandberg taking the reigns?

On the offense: I honestly think it’s the lineup. Mainly the fact that in changes all the time. I kind of wonder if all the platooning is counter-productive. Just pick your 8 best and fit them together in a logical way and don’t change it every week! This should have been sorted out in May! Lee and Ramirez aren’t 3 and 4 hitters this year, so deal with it. I also happen to think they should be giving reps to Colvin at first base to see if he remembers it well enough from college.

They swing at bad pitches. Soriano still can not hit a breaking ball, Fukodome lunges at outside pitches and overall they have poor plate discipline.

Wouldn’t it be interesting to hear how the other teams approach the Cub hitters? Can you imagine what they say? I can.

It’s pathetic. DLee hasn’t hit an inside fast ball in how many games?

The necessary adjustments are not being made. As a professionla hitter you have to realize what the other team deems your weaknesses.

ARAm: No longer a threat on the down and in pitches.

The list goes on and on. Work the count. If you want hackers go sign some dudes off the ‘Fantasy Camp’ roster. lol…

Here’s an idea, how about making them pitch to you. Possibly get into those 2-0 and 3-1 counts. How do you do that? Look at the pitcher’s tendencies. He’s looking at yours.

I’m truly amazed at how bad Cubs hitters look at times. Almost like they want to strike out and swing at horrible pitches. Granted, these are major league pitchers, but still.