Cubs Visit Their Own House Of Pain: Cubs vs. Diamondbacks Preview, Monday 7/5, 3:10 CT
by Al Yellon on Jul 5, 2010 1:00 PM CDT
in Chicago Cubs Game Threads
Email
PrintAs you may know, the Cubs have not played well in Chase Field over its history -- and it didn't matter when it was called Bank One Ballpark, either.
The Cubs are 39-53 all-time against the Diamondbacks since their inception in 1998. This includes a 24-24 mark at Wrigley Field (3-1 this year), and 15-29 in Phoenix.
Yes, that's right. 15-29 -- and that's after going 4-2 there in 1998, the D'backs' expansion season. That's one of only two years the Cubs have had a winning record in Phoenix (2-1 in 2003 was the other). So since 1999, the Cubs are 11-27 in Phoenix, a .238 winning percentage.
The good news -- maybe -- is that the Diamondbacks' pitching staff this year is horrific. They have allowed 427 runs -- the most in the NL and 110 more than the Cubs. They've allowed 109 home runs -- 21 more than the next worst staff, the Pirates. Their bullpen has allowed 46% of inherited runners to score, worst in the league, and only one reliever on their staff has an ERA under 5.00 -- that would be ex-Cub Aaron Heilman, who took over as the D'backs closer from Chad Qualls, when Qualls simply couldn't get anyone out.
Seriously. If the Cubs hitters can't hit these pitchers, this season could wind up historically bad.
| Today's Starting Pitchers | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Ian Kennedy's only career start -- a win -- against the Cubs was on April 30 at Wrigley Field. Even though that was only a little more than two months ago, there are already three players who appeared in that game for the Cubs who are no longer with the team. Kosuke Fukudome hit a grand slam off Kennedy, but the Cubs were losing 13-1 at the time. Sound familiar?
Tom Gorzelanny threw seven solid innings vs. the D'backs on May 2 at Wrigley Field, getting that rare and elusive statistic for a 2010 Cub, a "win". He has only one "win" to his credit since then. Current members of the D'backs are hitting .319 off Tom (22-for-69) with four HR. He'll have to be on his game today.
Today's game is on CSN Chicago and FSN Arizona. Here is the complete MLB.com Mediacenter for today.
Baseball-reference.com game preview
Please visit our SB Nation Diamondbacks site AZ Snakepit.
Today's first pitch thread will be up at 3 pm CDT, and the overflows will post at 4:15, 5:15 and 6 pm CDT.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
162 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
Has it really been 12 SERIES IN A ROW the Cubs have started with an L?
Gotta break that streak today! To borrow from Al, that means Gorzo will have to pitch a shut out AND hit a HR. Cubs win 1-0! Hey, it could happen…
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
Well, the Dbacks pitchers DO lead the major leagues in HR allowed.
Gorz is a .084 career hitter. 12-for-143 with no extra-base hits.
This has got to be the game he breaks through.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
D'Backs starting pitching
not horrific at all. For the most part, they have been solid.
The question becomes whether the Cubs will be able to get into the bullpen early enough to do damage. I’m guessing no.
Going to the game today, jazz?
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
Unless I get a last minute invite, no
but I am going tomorrow and Wednesday.
Interesting stat: Diamondbacks have gotten 27 quality starts this season. They are 13-14 in those games, by far the worst in baseball. Typically, a team has a .667 winning pct or better when they get a quality start. That is how bad the bullpen has been…and how much of a disconnect exists between starting pitching vs bullpen.
Ah, but you are incorrect.
D’backs starting pitching has the highest runs allowed average in the NL.
Fourth-fewest quality starts. About the only thing they’re good at is going deep into the game — averaging more than six innings per start.
You’re right that the AZ bullpen is horrific, leading to the entire staff ranking low.
That Edwin Jackson no-hitter was something. Cubs will face him on Wednesday.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Starting pitching has been solid
as I have said. There have been a few blow out outings that inflated the overall numbers (note the Dontrelle Willis experiment officially ended yesterday), a few incidents where the starter was left in to take a beating when the bullpen was worn down, and of course, all those inherited runners that scored and were charged to the starting pitcher.
But, trust me, i watch the team every game…the starting pitching has been very good. This is a good example of when stats do not tell the entire story. If the bullpen had been even average, there is a good chance this team would be near .500 right now.
If the bullpen had been even average, there is a good chance this team would be near .500 right now.
You could say the same thing about the Cubs.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
No, not at all
The Cubs problem has been their offense.
Yes, both the Cubs and D’Backs both have gotten good starting pitching, but if the D’Backs had the Cubs bullpen, their record would be much better.
The D’Backs offense is really schizo. They can really pound the ball sometimes. They score a LOT more runs than the Cubs, more HRs, etc. But, they strike out a TON. They lead the majors in Ks, by FAR and 10+ K’s a game is the norm. But, they have bangers that the Cubs don’t have, so on any given night…etc etc.
You're right that the Cubs aren't hitting.
But they have also had some memorable bullpen meltdowns.
Both of the blowout wins by the Reds this past weekend were close games until the 7th inning.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Oh I realize that
but the Cubs bullpen meltdowns have been nothing compared to the epic failures the D’Backs have experienced. And most of the time when the D’Backs bullpen has blown up, it has been when they had a lead late. The Cubs just haven’t had that many late leads. I don’t know how many times the D’Backs have given up leads in the 7th inning or later, but it seems like it is every other game.
D'backs have 14 blown saves, which leads the NL.
They only have 16 saves. They have allowed 46% of inherited runners to score — that’s awful.
They shouldn’t have any problem with the Cubs, since there won’t be many baserunners to inherit.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
That was kind of my original point
Not to beat up on the Cubs unnecessarily, but teams have been able to beat the D’Backs by not getting too far behind in the first 6 innings and then capitalizing when they do get into the Snakes bullpen. Not sure the Cubs are capable of doing that.
The key for the Cubs will be to stifle the D’Backs offense early, and then score late. Not exactly their specialty.
But, one thing to look for…the D’Backs pitching…both starting and relief, give up a TON of walks. I know the Cubs haven’t walked much this year, but even they should be able to work some free passes. Which means there will be base runners.
The Cubs strand a lot of runners historically, but when you have all those ducks on the pond, all it takes is a key hit or two, or a bomb by Colvin or Lee to break a close game open.
As I noted elsewhere...
… the two games the Cubs lost to the Reds were both close games till the 7th. Cubs pitchers have kept most games close.
Walks? What’s a walk? Cubs hitters don’t do walks.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
And I am repeating myself
but it is important to note that there is a HUGE difference between losing a game late, as the Cubs did against the Reds, when you are tied or trailing by a run or two, and losing a game late where you are ahead by two runs or more.
Check the stats out on W-L when leading in the 7th inning or later and W-L when trailing or tied in the 7th inning or later. It is one of the most important and meaningful stats in all of baseball.
If we see some first-pitch outs in the top of the 1st
we’ll know the Cubs aren’t paying attention to things like running up starter pitch counts. “What do you want me to do?”
Caption
TOOTBLAN + LWDYWMTD = !@$%^&*#
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
by EalyEagle on Jul 5, 2010 1:11 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Let's see if the Cubs can break their
11 straight series openers with a loss streak
A-well-a Byrd, Byrd, Byrd, well the Byrd is the word.
cubs lineup: *GULP*
Fukudome
Theriot
Byrd
Colvin
Nady
Ramirez — HE’S BAAAAAAAACK
Castro
Soto
Gorzelanny
"I’m not going to say a lot, because if you say the wrong the thing to me, then you (hanley) might wind up on the floor on your rear end," Dawson said with Tony Perez standing by his side in a coach’s office at Sun Life Stadium
How many other players have you seen hit leadoff and cleanup in the same week?
Colvin = Mr. Versatile
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
by DKT on Jul 5, 2010 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions
Colvin =
only guy hitting the ball with any authority.
Scott Bora$ is satan.
by Canadian Cubs Fan on Jul 5, 2010 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Can we clone him?
Due up for the Cubs in the top of the first – Colvin, Colvin and Colvin. And if anyone gets on, Colvin.
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
by DKT on Jul 5, 2010 1:24 PM CDT up reply actions
At least he's playing Colvin.
And Ramirez is hitting at the bottom of the lineup.
Maybe next year is finally our year.
Ramirez.
All of a sudden his thumb’s OK again?
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
wonder if gary scott has two good thumbs these days?
bet he could hit .180
"I’m not going to say a lot, because if you say the wrong the thing to me, then you (hanley) might wind up on the floor on your rear end," Dawson said with Tony Perez standing by his side in a coach’s office at Sun Life Stadium
Urk!
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
Where's Steve Beuchele when you need him??
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
by DKT on Jul 5, 2010 2:38 PM CDT up reply actions
Luis Salazar?
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
No one knows ARam's thumb better than himself, after all
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
:parody of Theriot's comments regarding his swing:
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
That's just so unbelievable I have to walk away when I see it.
How stupid is that…wanting him in the lineup hurt when he’s hitting so poorly to begin with. Makes no sense at all.
"The ones who want to achieve and win championships motivate themselves." - Da Coach
by Sandberg's evil twin on Jul 5, 2010 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions
LOL
It’ll be 105+ degrees outside by game time, so you can rest assured all the Cubs will prefer to be in the climate controlled comfort of Chase Field.
Oh definitely
the roof stays closed from about mid-June to mid September for games. Without exception.
If memory serves me correctly
wasn’t the roof opened occasionally in the early years? I seem to recall getting a laugh out of all the season ticket holders complaining about it being too hot. Well…you wanted a baseball team and it tends to be 100 and change everyday…what’d you expect? lol
I also seem to remember Schilling making a big push for keeping the roof closed on day games because his wife had some skin cancer issues….
WWOZ.org - New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Station
by Gibbon Jockey on Jul 5, 2010 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions
No, you are somewhat mis-remembering
The issue the first couple of years, and is still an issue to an extent is that there are some seats, especially down the right field foul line, that, when in the sun, get HOT. Even at games in the early part of the year when the actual air temperature is very comfortable. They have dealt with this a number of different ways…they changed some of the A/C ductwork, and they give patrons that sit in those seats the option of moving to other, shaded seats. But, to the best of my recollection, they have never had the roof open during the really hot part of the summer. Not even at night.
The issue with Schilling had nothing to do with his wife. There was a school of thought, and there still is, that the ball carries much better with the roof open. Schilling wanted to the roof closed, even during the nice weather in April and May, because he tended to give up long balls anyway, and didn’t want hitters to have the ‘advantage’. They accommodated him for awhile, but then patrons complained (it really is a different experience with the roof open vs closed) and the ball club made a new policy…the decision as to whether to close the roof will be based on the temperature and patron comfort, and not the request of a specific player. It’s been that way for about 10 years now.
What is interesting is that now that it has some history on it, Chase Field has proven to be a hitter’s paradise. Offensive stats in the ball park approach the levels of Coors Field in the days before the humidifier. This is a great place to come play to pad your power numbers for a hitter, but not so good if you are a pitcher.
snakes lineup
Young, Johnson, Upton, Montero, Reynolds, LaRoche, Drew, Gillespie, Kennedy
"I’m not going to say a lot, because if you say the wrong the thing to me, then you (hanley) might wind up on the floor on your rear end," Dawson said with Tony Perez standing by his side in a coach’s office at Sun Life Stadium
I have a mancrush on Montero.
I think he’s the best catcher noone knows about.
Maybe next year is finally our year.
Cubs? Hit?
Two words that shouldn’t be in the same sentence together.
RIP Ronnie James Dio (July 10, 1942 - May 16, 2010).
Al, you should probably take the day off and do something enjoyable.
I’ve been hanging at the beach with Pat and Ron. Only paying attention when Castro or Colvin is up… then promptly going into the water.
"You win because of the quarterback. We have to get that position stabilized. We're fixated on that." -- Jerry Angelo (12.30.2008)
Jerry Angelo trades for Jay Cutler! (4.2.2009)
.
That's interesting, considering the game doesn't start for more than an hour.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I was referring to my typical routine, this past week.
"You win because of the quarterback. We have to get that position stabilized. We're fixated on that." -- Jerry Angelo (12.30.2008)
Jerry Angelo trades for Jay Cutler! (4.2.2009)
.
Gonna be driving back from Alpine.
Gonn try to listen til I can’t take it anymore
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
by dtpollitt on Jul 5, 2010 1:49 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
LOL
Well, wow. Berg for Stevens. That’ll make all the difference in the world. Glad to see management right on top of making key moves that will help the team.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Insert "rearrange deck chairs on the Titanic" joke here.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Gotta make sure those bullpen arms
Lou never uses remain fresh, he he.
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
DFA the Titanic
I'll go to my grave believing Armando Galarraga tossed the 21st perfect game in MLB history.
Exactly.
Can we try someone else? I actually think Dolis would be a GREAT bullpen guy. I dunno if he’s quite ready but if we are starting auditions for 2011, it’s worth a try to make a bold move.
Maybe next year is finally our year.
No it isn't
The minors serve a purpose. Pitchers need to learn to pitch. Dolis has 2 starts in AA. I don’t think the Cubs should start bringing up the AA just because the major league team stinks. Let them continue their normal progression.
I understand that.
I’m well aware of the 2 starts he has in AA. My point was the train going back and forth from Iowa and Chicago are really not worth it. None of these guys are solid MLB arms, IMO. I was interested in Blake Parker at one point, but I’m not even sure about him.
Maybe next year is finally our year.
Yeah.
I’m actually interested in him as a starter too. I know, I know, he’s a injury-prone, high walk guy, but I’m impressed with all of his pitches.
Maybe next year is finally our year.
I would be ok with DIamond and Parker
They are getting close to time anyway. I just saw your comment on Dolis and in his case, I would say no way.
I could really
use some legitimate Cubs rumors to obsess about for a couple days. Especially if it was something like Fukudome leaving for pretty much nothing or Lily leaving for a big-time prospect.
DEJESUS!!!
Here is something I was thinking about....
Do you think Lily purposely threw the game yesterday so he could stay in Chicago? I know this sounds crazy, but hey, crazier things have happened.
Since I heart Ted Lilly I am happy I napped though about 4 innings
"Actually, Major League Baseball is more like Neverland
And the Lost Boys don’t have to ever grow up. Some do, anyway, but that is not a universal characteristic"
by Madison Cub Fan on Jul 5, 2010 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions
Me too
I am glad I missed it also…
Just saw the recap on Sportcenter in which they had a HR counter for the Reds…
Although with late games this week
I will spared a lot of baseball, due again to sleep :)
"Actually, Major League Baseball is more like Neverland
And the Lost Boys don’t have to ever grow up. Some do, anyway, but that is not a universal characteristic"
by Madison Cub Fan on Jul 5, 2010 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions
The same thought
came to mind for me as well.
"I lof to hit de home ron!"
thats the big problem
because with the arb type A tag that’s what his value should be
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 5, 2010 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions
Yes, but this isn't just plug-a-name-in....
… like a fantasy league deal. Real people and real GM’s make trades like this.
My guess is that Lilly’s not going anywhere.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
should be and is.................
could be the exact words to describe this season.
"Actually, Major League Baseball is more like Neverland
And the Lost Boys don’t have to ever grow up. Some do, anyway, but that is not a universal characteristic"
by Madison Cub Fan on Jul 5, 2010 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions
Much better TJ
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
i'm not sure i understand
the plug-a-name in reference…
no specific names were mentioned just talking about the value in the abstract
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 5, 2010 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions
Thanks for proving my point.
“value in the abstract”.
Real life baseball trades aren’t made “in the abstract”.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
huh?
i really dont get what you’re trying to get across
it seems like you’re ridiculing others for speculating on what the options are, which i’m guessing is exactly what GMs do before executing a trade
there are internal negotiations where front office members try to identify potential targets from systems of interest (based on teams who have shown interest in your player) and then you start externally negotiating with the team
the thread above was just doing some of the internal speculating/negotiating, which i get that you don’t like to participate in anything that talks about the future, but i dont get why you feel the need to ridicule it
or maybe i’m just missing your whole point altogether
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 5, 2010 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Yes, you're missing the point.
I’m not ridiculing anyone. Simply stating that “abstract value” doesn’t dictate who you can get in a trade. Just that simple.
But thanks for reading into it a zillion things that weren’t there.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
the arb value that type a would indicate
absolutely does indicate the level of compensation a team should expect back in a trade…
but whatever, you’re particularly snippy today so i’ll just leave it at “agree to disagree”
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 5, 2010 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions
Criminy.
Now I’m “snippy”? Where on Earth did you get that? Because I don’t agree that arbitration value dictates what you’d get in a trade?
You trade for players you think you can get and that give you the value you want. It shouldn’t necessarily be exactly to six decimal points equal to a Type A free agent comp pick.
Real life is messy and can’t always be boiled down to numbers on a spreadsheet.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
Isn't DCF simply saying
that as far as “the value you want,” the Cubs should be operating under the condition that what they get in return is equal to or better than the comp pick?
Of course, and I would agree with that.
I’m just saying that it’s not always possible to do that.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
that was my whole point...
my original reply was simply the big problem is what the Cubs should expect to receive back is equivalent to a top 50-100 prospect
and i dont see many teams paying that price
therefore its “tough” to figure something out
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 5, 2010 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Have there been
fewer games on WGN this year? Seems like every time I have an opportunity to watch them they’re on comcast. Maybe its a blessing.
DEJESUS!!!
Jeez
it seems like just the opposite to me. I lost all the Cubs WGN games the last couple of years when DirecTV moved WGN to a higher tier. Got it back this year when they finally picked up WGN HD. Seems like every time I have an opportunity to catch a game, there it is.
Same number as has been
since Comcast Chicago was created….no change in the # of games on WGN America…70-something….
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jul 5, 2010 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions
No, that's not correct.
I believe — haven’t counted — the number of WGN games is down to about 60. It’s been decreasing slightly every year.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
60 is the number I read somewhere
The article also pointed out that it is the lowest total in history and less than half of what it was as recently as 10 years ago.
what a roller coaster it must be
to be you Al
two weeks ago this team had the talent and was good enough to contend in a down NL
now we’re looking at “historically bad” headlines
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 5, 2010 1:58 PM CDT reply actions
Going 4-9 over those two weeks will do that to a team.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
my guess
is we went 4-9 over 13 game stretches a time or two before that this season
anyway… just by the tone of your posts the last few weeks it sounds like its taking a toll on you. Hope the Cubs make it a bit easier on you the rest of the way
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 5, 2010 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Once you realize the post season is not realistically in reach
it’s not as painful to read trhe recaps.
Of the many glaring issues with this team, the only one that makes me go “huh?” is Lee. This is a contract year, and he is sucking big time. Is it simply his age catching up with him or is he hiding an injury like Soriano did last year?
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
everything is relative to expectation
i didn’t enter the season with much expectations for this team, i had hope, but no expectation
so when things started to unfold in a way that wasn’t to our favor i quickly tuned to focusing on smaller subsets that make me happy (farm system, Marshall, Marmol, Colvin, etc)
just seems like if you entered with big expectations its been a very difficult and emotional season to navigate, and we’re only halfway through
follow me on twitter for fantasy sports analysis @http://twitter.com/DrewDinkmeyer or get the full analysis at www.fantistics.com
by DartmouthCubsFan on Jul 5, 2010 5:58 PM CDT up reply actions
:: lifts head carefully ::
:: looks around nervously ::
:: whispers ::
go cubs, please
:: ducks ::
:: crawls silently back to hiding place ::
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
by eths on Jul 5, 2010 1:59 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
I was hiding in a cabin in the woods for a week.
Had no info on the Cubs except for my mom texting me the final scores. Came back so I could go to the game yesterday. Wish I could have stayed out there.
"Fasten those seatbelts!"-Pat Hughes
Hi Katie, long time, no read
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
by eths on Jul 5, 2010 2:11 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Hi eths! I was debating about coming back.
This team has really got me down. So much so that I don’t even care to read back to see what I missed. I’m surprised how little I care.
Being at the game yesterday and seeing Byrd go all out on that catch in the 9th helped though. It was awesome to see that at least one of them didn’t give up. I also decided it’s OK to be fickle and transferred some of my affection for Lilly to Colvin.
"Fasten those seatbelts!"-Pat Hughes
These are the times
that separate the real fans from the fair weather fans. Believe me, we are going thru this in Phoenix right now, too. I am amazed at how people have hung in there and how hopeful they are over the management change. If you guys think you have had it bad…trust me, your season has been a picnic in comparison.
They have me down too Katie
but I’ll be watching today hoping they find a way to win.
A lovely story:
One day, long, long ago, there lived a woman who didn't whine, nag or bitch. That would be me....
But that was a long time ago and it was just that one day.
The end
sue-
sorry but I wasn’t able to snag one of those 4th of July caps for you.
I’ll be watching too. The rest of the family is watching “Empire of the Ants”. I’d even rather watch another game like yesterday’s than that.
"Fasten those seatbelts!"-Pat Hughes
That's not a problem Katie.
Thanks for thinking of me any way. Maybe I’ll see you in the game thread?
A lovely story:
One day, long, long ago, there lived a woman who didn't whine, nag or bitch. That would be me....
But that was a long time ago and it was just that one day.
The end
I've tried to stay away some too katie.
No fun with this team.
"The ones who want to achieve and win championships motivate themselves." - Da Coach
by Sandberg's evil twin on Jul 5, 2010 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions
beginning to wonder????
there this many games under .500 and you are still here.
"Actually, Major League Baseball is more like Neverland
And the Lost Boys don’t have to ever grow up. Some do, anyway, but that is not a universal characteristic"
by Madison Cub Fan on Jul 5, 2010 2:51 PM CDT up reply actions
I never give up. Never surrender.
Too bad the team looks like it has though.
"Fasten those seatbelts!"-Pat Hughes
2006 was brutal
today hopefully they aren’t to woeful as I have house hold tasks to do
"Actually, Major League Baseball is more like Neverland
And the Lost Boys don’t have to ever grow up. Some do, anyway, but that is not a universal characteristic"
by Madison Cub Fan on Jul 5, 2010 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions
THIS kind of statement should worry Cubs officials a great deal:
I’m surprised how little I care.
You’re not the only one Katie.
We have met the enemy and they are us! ~ Walt Kelly, Pogo, 1971
They should be worried.
About a month ago our family spotted Ricketts at a game. He was going up the ramp as we were coming down and he ducked behind a door to a employees only area. Yesterday, we knocked on that door jokingly as we walked by wondering if the poor guy was crumpled on the floor in fetal position.
"Fasten those seatbelts!"-Pat Hughes
Byrd's catch was one of the few highlights in yesterday's game.
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
I thought about offering
to text Doggie Stalker score updates while she is in the backwoods of Wisconsin, but then I thought, shoot, who wants to be the guy who is always the bearer of bad news?
Besides, I’m sure she has some way to get Cubs updates…
Contrary To Popular Opinion
The Internets has made its’ way to Wisconsin
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jul 5, 2010 2:51 PM CDT up reply actions
my parents are literary in the middle of nowhere on a farm in northern wi
and they have it. Just a matter of being able to have access to it
"Actually, Major League Baseball is more like Neverland
And the Lost Boys don’t have to ever grow up. Some do, anyway, but that is not a universal characteristic"
by Madison Cub Fan on Jul 5, 2010 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions
We must've been staying at the same place.
Although I could have gone into town to get internet if I wanted to. I just didn’t want to. It was great to unplug.
"Fasten those seatbelts!"-Pat Hughes
Caption: "But I got under the tag!" Ump: "you run like an idiot"
As for the Cubs, funny even when they are on TV how easy it is for me to find some ‘honey do’ project more interesting than watching another weak ground ball for a inning ending double play
Piniella: "This is a tougher job than I thought it would be, I'm going to be honest with you."
I like keeping theriot near the top of the lineup!
His baserunning skills are of better use there. Castro had to good of a series to bat that high and Fonty had 2 hits yesterday so he can’t play 2B.
Lou is AMAZING!!!!!!!!
the season has gotton bad enough that even TJ
isn’t as enjoyable as he’s been the past few weeks. :(
"Actually, Major League Baseball is more like Neverland
And the Lost Boys don’t have to ever grow up. Some do, anyway, but that is not a universal characteristic"
by Madison Cub Fan on Jul 5, 2010 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, he needs new material, updated stuff like,
WOW, Berg is on the team again! This will definitely solidify our middle relief corp!! Great call up Hendry!!
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
The Cubs need to give me new material!!!!!!
Its hard to work the same storyline on a daily basis! LOL!
Not a thing.....
Take a look at Theriot batting 2nd today after making yet another amazing baserunning play yesterday and after Fonty got 2 hits he is sitting…..
Lou is as amazing as he was before you went on your trip!
Define miss. Define anything.
"A waist is a terrible thing to mind." - Terry 'Fat Tub of Goo' Forster
by eths on Jul 5, 2010 2:14 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Miss-----opportunities to score runs.
Anything—-What D Lee has done nothing of to remain in the 3rd hole….
Yeah, we forgive you man
You can only do so much with what you are given, he he
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
How about look forward to 2012
When the Cubs sign Albert, then ALL our problems will be solved!
"Actually, Major League Baseball is more like Neverland
And the Lost Boys don’t have to ever grow up. Some do, anyway, but that is not a universal characteristic"
by Madison Cub Fan on Jul 5, 2010 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions
Not sure if this was posted or not...
but per a survey by MLBTR.com, cubs are favorite to become a seller
Of the four teams in the survey.
Not much of a survey, IMO.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
I agree but...
I have to somehow fill my baseball void though since it is hard to watch this team….
I like how Lou has rewarded Theriot with a start today!
Fonty and his 2 hits just don’t rate as high as great baserunning!
I've said this before...
…it’s like Piniella is holding up a flashing neon sign that reads…“FIRE ME…PLEASE!!!” and Hendry and Ricketts don’t comprehend it.
Ron Santo - 8,143 ABs, .277 BA; 342 HR; 1331 RBI = NO Hall of Fame?
Brooks Robinson - 10,654 ABs, .267 BA; 268 HR; 1357 RBI = Hall of Fame.
Any more questions ?
There would have been a point a month ago.
It’s too late now.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
It should be.
But again, 11.5 games behind — they seem to have given up.
"You can observe a lot just by watching." ~ Yogi Berra
And a new manager wouldn't be able to change that?
I’m still not understanding this. Ok, playoffs aren’t gonna happen regardless. But if Lou is as bad as you and others have said, then a new guy coming in should at least improve the team, even if it’s Trammell.
Sure
A new manager may not lead them to the playoffs, but if they continue to get demolished and play terrible baseball, people will stop coming to the games. A new manager and some changes (more youth) may spark some interest in the team, therefore drawing more fans.
That is one of the biggest reasons
that teams make managerial changes in mid-season. Not that they are expecting a huge turn-around, but to try to salvage fan interest.
by azjazzman on Jul 5, 2010 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
That has to be it. Their waving the white flag like the rest of the team.
Ron Santo - 8,143 ABs, .277 BA; 342 HR; 1331 RBI = NO Hall of Fame?
Brooks Robinson - 10,654 ABs, .267 BA; 268 HR; 1357 RBI = Hall of Fame.
Any more questions ?
Anything said about A-Ram possibly DLing again with his thumb?
Ron Santo - 8,143 ABs, .277 BA; 342 HR; 1331 RBI = NO Hall of Fame?
Brooks Robinson - 10,654 ABs, .267 BA; 268 HR; 1357 RBI = Hall of Fame.
Any more questions ?
Ah...didn't know that
Ron Santo - 8,143 ABs, .277 BA; 342 HR; 1331 RBI = NO Hall of Fame?
Brooks Robinson - 10,654 ABs, .267 BA; 268 HR; 1357 RBI = Hall of Fame.
Any more questions ?
yep...my bad
Ron Santo - 8,143 ABs, .277 BA; 342 HR; 1331 RBI = NO Hall of Fame?
Brooks Robinson - 10,654 ABs, .267 BA; 268 HR; 1357 RBI = Hall of Fame.
Any more questions ?
Why the wait on trades (not just us)
Seems strange and self-defeating for no trades to be made NOW when team needs so apparent…Phil/Boston down some players, Philly needs an INF, why not do it now instead of waiting when Rollins, Utley out for 30 days or more? Games are being lost NOW!
And if you’re in market for an ace like Lee why not get him for an extrta 3-4 starts instead of waiting until end of month? Are the offers going to change that much?
Most likely Cubs to be traded: Lilly, Nady, Fontenot, Theriot, Lee (NTC), Zambrano (another team has to be really desperate and Cubs desperate to get rid of him NOW).
It’s about only thing to look forward to with 2010 Cubs.
The economics of the game
and recent history have really but the kabosh on the "trade an established vet for prospects’ type of trade. First of all, the prevalence of no trade clauses and other contract complexities make it very difficult. Secondly, the value of draft pick compensation for a player who will become a free agent comes in to play. Thirdly, you have to at least get in the ballpark on matching up salaries.
But, more than anything, teams just don’t want to give up high level prospects. They are cheap, cost controlled assets that can be under team control for a number of years. And there seems to be more and more young players who make an immediate impact at the major league level every year.
Exactly
The Reds could have Lee if they offered Alonso and Wood. Not sure they want to give up both though.
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Related FanPosts on Bleed Cubbie Blue
FanPosts
Community blog posts and discussion.
Recommended FanPosts
Recent FanPosts
FanShots
Quick hits of video, photos, quotes, chats, links and lists that you find around the web.
Recommended FanShots
Recent FanShots
Cubs By The Numbers
Cubs By The Numbers is a history of the ballclub by uniform number, but the biographies help trace the history of our beloved team in a new way. For everyone who's a Cubs fan, anyone who ever wore the uniform is like family. Cubs By The Numbers reintroduces readers to some of their long-lost ancestors, even ones they think they already know.
Click here to order your copy, available now!
Recent Stories in Chicago Cubs Game Threads
Recent Stories in Ticket Exchanges
Baseball Nation Recent Stories
In Association With
Big League Stew - MLB - Yahoo! Sports
- College player makes impossible over the fence catch to save tournament game (Video)
- Security!: Camden Yards guard collides with Royals’ Mike Moustakas
- The Juice: Nelson Cruz matches career high eight RBIs, Pujols stays hot in Seattle
- Benches clear at Fenway as Red Sox-Rays rivalry heats up
- Keeping good company: Albert Pujols becomes fourth-youngest player to hit 450 home runs
