Astros 3, Cubs 1: A Blast From The Past
by Al Yellon on Jun 1, 2011 5:30 PM CDT
in Chicago Cubs Recaps
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Today's 3-1 Cubs loss to the Astros, the first time the Cubs have been swept this year (and outscored 22-11 by an offensively-challenged team), reminded me of the 1976 Cubs, a similarly bland team that played in front of disinterested crowds. The '76 Cubs drew 1,026,217 (an average of 13,328 per date, as there were 77 dates due to four doubleheaders) and this year they'll surely draw more, although the number of no-shows is likely to go way up if this sort of play continues.
Like this year's team, the '76 Cubs dabbled around .500 for a while early, but never saw it again after they were 4-3 on April 17. They somehow managed to post a 32-28 record after August 1; the team's mark of 43-59 on July 31 presaged a 94-loss season, but they managed to make it respectable at 75-87.
Mike Quade is starting to remind me of Jim Marshall, one of the least memorable managers in Cubs history. Marshall managed two 87-loss teams and then managed only once more, in Oakland. Quade coached in Oakland, coached for the Cubs (as did Marshall) and is now playing the role of Marshall quite well.
With that in mind, here are several of the principal players from the 1976 team and their 2011 counterparts.
Pete LaCock = Tyler Colvin
Mick Kelleher = Darwin Barney
Joe Wallis = Tony Campana
Champ Summers = Blake DeWitt
Rick Reuschel = Ryan Dempster
Mike Krukow = Matt Garza
Steve Swisher = Koyie Hill
Darold Knowles = Jeff Samardzija
Steve Stone = John Grabow
Bill Bonham = James Russell
Steve Renko = Doug Davis
Bill Madlock = Carlos Pena
Andre Thornton = Aramis Ramirez
Ray Burris = Carlos Zambrano
Oscar Zamora = Scott Maine
Ramon Hernandez = Rodrigo Lopez
Joe Coleman = Casey Coleman
And, of course
Bruce Sutter = Carlos Marmol
What more can I really say? Kosuke Fukudome led off the bottom of the first inning with a home run. I was surprised to learn that this was the third leadoff HR of his career -- I couldn't remember any, quite frankly. After that the Cubs offense took the rest of the afternoon off, having just three more hits and seven more baserunners, and it took an error and a hit batter to even get to that many.
Doug Davis deserved better. He left the game in the seventh inning having allowed only one run. After Kerry Wood loaded the bases with a walk, Wood struck out pinch hitter Angel Sanchez for the second out of the inning, after which Sean Marshall gave up a two-run single to Michael Bourn.
You pretty much knew that was it. The Astros offense is impotent, but the Cubs looked absolutely pathetic against Houston pitching most of this series. Despite getting a runner to second base in the ninth inning, there was really no chance against Houston closer Mark Melancon.
Fortunately, the injury to Aramis Ramirez -- man, injuries every single day? -- doesn't appear to be serious. He got hit in the face by a ball hit by Houston's Chris Johnson and suffered a split lip. He'll have stitches, but should be OK to play on Friday in St. Louis.
At this point, I think Cubs management should go to the MLB offices and decline having a player on the All-Star team. There really isn't anyone who's put up anything close to an All-Star performance. Darwin Barney was hitting early on, but his average is down to .303 and other than his good defense, there's not much to recommend him. Carlos Marmol -- maybe, but that meltdown Wednesday night probably takes him off the list. Sean Marshall -- I guess, if you're willing to put a setup man on the team. Marshall is about the only Cub who has had consistently good performance all season. If Carlos Zambrano has another 3-4 good outings in June, he might qualify; he deserved better last night.
Back to 1976 for a moment. That year, the largest home crowd was 44,818 on Opening Day against the Mets -- if that seems large to you, before the fire department came into the park in 1979 and told the Cubs they couldn't just keep selling standing room tickets and seating people in the aisles, they would occasionally announce crowds that large. Not a single other date that year drew more than 28,287 -- and that was also in April, against the Phillies. 31 dates drew fewer than 10,000 and 10 fewer than 5,000, bottoming out with a "crowd" of 2,005 on the season's final Friday, Oct. 1, against the awful Expos (who lost 107 games that year).
Times are different and this year's team will draw better than that. But of the 31,340 who paid today, there were about 10,000 no-shows and, from what I understand, little or no walk-up sale, despite the outstanding late-spring weather. Season attendance to date -- 31 dates -- is 1,079,368, more than the entire season in 1976. But back then only turnstile count was announced and the Cubs likely had only a couple thousand season tickets. The average this year of 34,818 is down 9.5% from the same number of dates a year ago. A year ago after 31 home dates, the smallest crowd was 33,868 on May 27. Already this season there have been 11 crowds smaller than that.
That's a cautionary tale, and no $3 beers, T-shirts or $1 hot dogs are going to bring crowds back. Only winning baseball will. And right now, that seems about as far away as 1976.
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Scott Maine will not be pleased to be compared to Oscar Zamora
the pitch is so fat, when the ball meets the bat, that’s Zamora.
That describes Scott Maine perfectly.
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http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oscar_Zamora_(baseball)
" Tell me something Steve, How does a guy from Puerto Rico loose a ball in the Sun? "
That's actually what Cubs fans sang when Zamora came into the game.
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I really used to think Zamora was going to be great
because he was, like, 29 when he came up from the minors.
Of course, I was too young to realize 29-year-olds in the minors weren’t a good thing.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:43 PM CDT up reply actions
I remember the Maine
I hope to forget him.
If that were song lyrics
the 1976 counterpart could be the Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.
Fasten those seat belts...
For '76, go with the theme from "Welcome Back, Kotter," with the following cast...
Former Cubs first baseman Jim Marshall = Mr. Kotter
Salty Saltwell = Mr. Woodman
Pete LaCock = Vinnie Barbarino
Rob Sperring = Arnold Horshack
Bill Madlock = Percy Washington
Dave Rosello = Juan Luis Epstein
"Elder White! Look at the talent on those Cubs!" Harry Caray, KMOX Radio, 4/22/62
"And you have to wonder – What's the matter with Broglio?" Harry, KMOX, 5/24/64
We laugh, but Marshall probably had an uncle, or at least an old college roommate, to help him land the job in '75...
"Elder White! Look at the talent on those Cubs!" Harry Caray, KMOX Radio, 4/22/62
"And you have to wonder – What's the matter with Broglio?" Harry, KMOX, 5/24/64
Percy? I thought Washington's name was Freddie "Boom Boom"
but you nailed it with Dave Rosello playing Juan Epstein, the Puerto Rican Jew
by holy mackeral on Jun 2, 2011 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions
You are correct – I need to take a remedial class in sitcomology...
I wonder if Buchanan High offers any adult education courses.
"Elder White! Look at the talent on those Cubs!" Harry Caray, KMOX Radio, 4/22/62
"And you have to wonder – What's the matter with Broglio?" Harry, KMOX, 5/24/64
I wonder how "Hotsie Totsie" is looking these days?
presumably not so hot. There used to be a dive bar at Division and State with that name, now a CVS store. I used to always think of her when going in there.
by holy mackeral on Jun 2, 2011 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions
Sorry to see that Debralee Scott, who played Hotsie, died several years ago...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Debralee_Scott
"Elder White! Look at the talent on those Cubs!" Harry Caray, KMOX Radio, 4/22/62
"And you have to wonder – What's the matter with Broglio?" Harry, KMOX, 5/24/64
Al, don't remind me of 76. I tried to forget most of those names.
Gosh, what a thing to bring up!
Yeah, I tried to forget that too.
But it felt like ’76. Probably a lot of that left, too.
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76 was when I really started understanding baseball
I was a fan when I was younger (earliest Cub memory is Banks’ 500th on TV), but by 75 and 76 I had a much better understanding of the strategy of the game.
It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??
1976 was the first time I was at Wrigley.
11 years old Ray Burris pitches a shutout against the Expos and I was a Cub fan. And you all know the rest of the story.
No kidding
Darold Knowles? Steve Renko? Ray Burris? I hadn’t thought of any of those guys in years, and I’d never like to think of them again, if you don’t mind. :)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Didn't Randy Hundley return to finish up his career in '76?
I seem to remember reading somewhere that he made a PH appearance, got a hit, then (according to Randy) had to wipe the tears from his eyes after receiving a thundering ovation.
He came back for 2 games in September in 77
But neither game involved a hit. Maybe it was the first of these 2 games where he PH, but he started his last game.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 2, 2011 4:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Randy did return in 1976, and played 2 more games in 1977
4/14/76, he doubled on his first at bat upon returning to the team. http://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CHN/CHN197604140.shtml
Randy was a coach briefly, then managed in the minors. Then the team was sold to Trib Co, who immediately hired Dallas Green as GM. Green immediately cleaned house, which included firing Hundley. That is when Randy began his fantasy camps.
Whereas Trib and Green cleaned house immediately, let’s hope the Rickettses are simply being methodical and patient, and that their house cleaning is coming very soon.
by holy mackeral on Jun 2, 2011 11:39 AM CDT up reply actions
Glad to see I did not miss much...
Is it October yet?
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
Pathetic
My brother and I were at the game today and we were in the left center field bleachers. We were excited to see Fukudome hit that HR but that was it. Just 3 hits with the wind blowing out? At least the Astros weren’t doing much better. I thought it was going to be an 11-10 game.
You know
for some reason this team looks tight, I mean real tight. I would of thought Quade would be able to handle this. I didn’t want him here, but thought “Ok, lets see what happens”
But boy I was wrong just like others, this team is tighter than, well I will not go there.
A nun's cu...rfew rules?
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
My thrice assassinated aunt was a nun!
"A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality." John Lennon
"My favorite food is Macaroni and Cheese, from the blue box." Geovany Soto
And to think...
…all of this has happened in their “easy part of the schedule.” Scary to think what this team will look like at the end of June after the upcoming brutal 10 game road trip and then a 7 game homestand against the Brewers and Yankees…yikes.
I never thought this year would be so bad so early.
Yep, this is going to get ugly.
The June schedule is brutal. I could see a 10-19 month very easily.
Couple of things: I understand Marshall is strong against lefties, however I can’t recall Wood getting pulled for a lefty/lefty situation. Just saying, seemed odd.
Injuries or no Injuries, this club is a collection of players not a team.
Lastly, give Barney a day off. Play DJ for a game or so, and play Colvin. Who cares at this point if he hits .150.
The 76 club, always loved Joe “Tarzan” Wallis and of course Oscar Zamora.
Colvin would have to go on a tear to hit .150
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
by Easy Ed on Jun 1, 2011 6:03 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Nope.
We don’t have a light-hitting shortstop who can’t field.
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That was back in 2008-2010
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions
Not That It Matters Now, But...
Theriot was actually okay in 2008. I’m saying he was great or anything like that, but he was a lot better in 2008 than he has ever been since.
2011 - The 103rd time is the charm.
Blake DeWitt?
Since we’re reaching to get him in the lineup anyway.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:12 PM CDT up reply actions
You're right...
We got a good-hitting shortstop who can’t field.
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
I'm willing to cut him some slack
Because he’s only 21. I can only hope he gets better at it as time goes by.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions
The number in the middle of the C on the batting helmet is interesting
Never noticed that before.
"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)
The Cubs did that all the way through the 1960s and 1970s.
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Tarzan Joe Wallis had a "?" in the middle of his...
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 1, 2011 6:31 PM CDT up reply actions
Is this an adult mad-lib?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions
Match Game '76
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 1, 2011 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions
And this year's Cubs team is....
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 1, 2011 6:34 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
How Dumb Was He?
Mike Quade was so dumb he went to Ireland and instead of kissing the Blarney Stone, he kissed the _________________________.
by The Underground Conservative on Jun 1, 2011 7:00 PM CDT up reply actions
In Agreement
Even Charles Nelson Reilly’s toupee agrees.
by The Underground Conservative on Jun 3, 2011 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions
"Future as Cubs Mamager goodbye".
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
by jeffstorm2 on Jun 1, 2011 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I thought he was already a bobblehead...
You're not deep, You're not an intellectual, You're not an artist, You're not a critic, You're not a poet... You just have internet access.
=========
I didn't climb to the top of the food chain to eat lettuce...
Quade's postgame remarks tell all....
He does not look the least bit pissed off that his team got swept by the worst team in baseball… At least Lou in his first two years, would should some emotion that he cared. Quade said something along the lines of " its still only one game and one series..ill go home now and eat a nice dinner, and we will get ready for the weekend.." This dude is a joke..shake up this team.
I never thought Piniella was anywhere as bad as people here thought.
"It's easy to do what's ordinary, it's difficult to do what's deemed impossible -- I guess that explains why my life is so hard, because nothing is impossible for me"
by Unique on Jun 1, 2011 6:09 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
1st 2 years were good...3rd year not so much...4th year he was done.
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
Fair judgement.
3rd year was good until the latter part of the year.
"It's easy to do what's ordinary, it's difficult to do what's deemed impossible -- I guess that explains why my life is so hard, because nothing is impossible for me"
I think Lou was exactly what we thought from the beginning...
We were just planning on a WS winner in the first 2-3 years of his contract. After that failed to happen, it was bound to get bad.
Lou really seemed at a loss after 2008
It’s like the guy who has everything he spent his life believing to be true turn out to be a total sham. Piniella was shellshocked, so much so that he wouldn’t have been able to tell black from white.
I don't think he retired cause of us, maybe he even agreed ;)
"Well-behaved women seldom make History"---Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
Piniella...
…was a very good manager, the Cubs just got him when his tank was running a little low.
In 2007, that team looked about as bad as this one did and he simply didn’t tolerate it. Do you remember some of his press conferences; “what do you mean whats wrong, you watched the damn game didn’t you”?. He also was very blunt in stating we need guys “who can catch it and run the bases”.
Lou had the winning past to be able to do that and command respect and I think he was the main reason that 07 team woke up and played to a higher level the last half and he also knew which guys to launch.
Quade just doesn’t bring that kind of horse power with him (not even close) and this club, just isn’t very good on top of it, but it shouldn’t be playing this badly and I think he has to shoulder some of just how bad they are performing.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
This isn't meant in any way sarcastic,
But is there anything Quade can do to get the pitching to be any better than it is? I’m not even going to blame injuries, because those happen. They’re just giving up way too many runs, and I don’t think you can blame a lot of it on the team behind them. Some of it, yes, but I don’t know how much of it. When over half of your games you’re giving up 5 runs or more, it’s pretty disastrous for the win-loss ratio.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions
Well...
…I think he overused Dempster early in the year when he had some real high pitch counts when it was 40 degrees. Who knows whether some of his struggles have been from an early dead arm? Using Russell as much as he did was lunancy and I will never figure that one out.
Today, Marshall gave up the winning runs didn’t he? Well, he also pitched last night, in a game he shouldn’t have been in and could have been fresher for today’s game. When Marmol was losing it, Quade should have had two guys up in the pen, so he could save Marshall if the game got out of hand which it did.
Here is the other thing, Quade’s pitching coach also looks like “a deer in headlights” and that can’t do much to give the pitchers confidence to actually listen to him. It’s one thing to have a rookie manager, but someone on your staff has to bring a respectful reputation with experience, to help offset what a rookie manager doesn’t bring.
I remember a game in 07, when Dempster was still the closer. I think it was against the Reds and Cubs were up by 3-4 runs in the ninth and Dempster had just walked two guys in a row. Piniella doesn’t send out his pitching coach, he went out himself and you could read his lips and he nodded towards the scoreboard; “what the f@ck are you doing, just throw f@cking strikes”. It was classic and although it can’t be overused, but it comes in handy every once in a while.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I agree that the Russell "experiment" was an abominal failure
But since that point, it seems like we’ve used the options that would have taken Russell’s starts and none of them have really panned out either. I’m not sure if there’s anyone else from the farm that we could have called up that would have made much more difference.
I also agree about Riggins. I don’t have much faith in him at all at this point. Sure, some of the arms are a year older, but it seems like the pitching has fallen off a lot harder than “one year older” would explain.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 11:49 PM CDT up reply actions
That 2007 game was in April.
Lou was still new to the team and that incident definitely set a tone for the season, a good one.
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I was at that game in 2007
It was in Cincinnati, and it was freezing cold that night.
That might have been the best mound visit I’ve ever seen.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 2, 2011 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions
Good memory...
…I remembered it, because I thought it did set the tone very well in regards to Lou’s loathing of walks and the fact the Cubs were always near the league lead in that area.
It also rung a bell because our pitching coach in college had a similar temperment towards base on balls. He used to walk out to the mound and call in all the infielders to join him. He would than look the pitcher in the eye and say; "do you see all these guys? They are here to help and they can’t help you if you don’t throw mother f@ckin strikes!!!!
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I wonder if Quade is more aware of this than any of us give him credit for
As in, he knows this team sucks, isn’t going anywhere, and he’s already checked out for the year and is putting on a TJ-esque performance.
Yea, if that's the mentality, I agree he should be fired.
But I doubt that’s his mentality at all, I think he just approaches press conferences differently, and that rubs BCB the wrong way sometimes.
We'll all miss you Ron.
we have yet to see a coach
Who pleases this crowd with his press conferences. I frankly don’t know how someone could.
But what I really don’t understand is why anyone gives half a shit what a coach says in press conferences.
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
by vonde6 on Jun 1, 2011 8:08 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Maybe if he was able to say "Hey, we won for the tenth time in a row! Aren't we awesome?"
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
LOL
Okay, I don’t know why I didn’t think of that. (Well, yes I do)
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
I'd agree
People here spend too much time trying to analyze stuff like voice inflections, facial expressions … it’s almost like being a Sovietologist was back in the ’70s (or maybe what North Korean observers are like today).
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions
I get mildly annoyed by the stuff Quade says.
I’m not looking for new info or anything, but at least show that what’s going on isn’t up to snuff.
The stuff Ricketts says, however, pisses me off.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Ricketts
really could use a good PR person, or several of them. Hey, maybe I should apply …
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:35 PM CDT up reply actions
LOL. I'd pay money to see that.
Reporter: Tom, how long do you think it will be before the Cubs win the world series?
Tom: Well, as my PR guy NBF likes to say, I’m not sure if they ever can win one, not with the pressure. And anyways, Cubs fans are stupid and don’t deserve it.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
by shoemile on Jun 1, 2011 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
LMAO
OK, maybe he doesn’t need a PR guy. Not this one, at least.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:42 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
How about an interview with Joe Buck?
JB: What do you say to all those fans who have been waiting since 1908?
NBF: You’re no different from Mariners fans. Well, except for the women – female Cub fans are much prettier.
;-)
LOL
You guys are bringing it better tonight than the Cubs did today.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:12 PM CDT up reply actions
you are killing me this morning!
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
Lou was kind of awesome in 2007.
Obviously, its easy when you’re winning. But in the first half of 2007, we were losing and Lou was sarcastic and awesome.
Still one of the very few best managers in Cub history.
MLBMilestone.com - following the numbers to Cooperstown
by D98 on Jun 1, 2011 8:44 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
No question about it...
He was handling a lot of guys in their primes, not everyone can do that and win.
RECENT Cubs history.
Frank Chance, Frank Selee, Joe McCarthy, Gabby Hartnett, Charlie Grimm — all more successful.
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I said "one of best". In RECENT Cubs history, he is the best.
MLBMilestone.com - following the numbers to Cooperstown
I agree with Lou
And the bottom line is winning. And IMHO the coach’s job is to win, not to say stuff at press conferences that pleases the fans. They are not the ones who need to be motivated, because they are not going to win or lose games.
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
People might bring up Blou as a *the* BCB troll
But I think Quade might be considered the biggest troll on this site. Every move he makes, every comment he says, every nuance of his starts up bigger fights, arguments, and idiotic fan posts than Blou could’ve ever dreamt of.
/Tinfoilhat
If he ever wants to manage...
…again after he gets his 1 or 2 years with the Cubs, that wouldn’t be a good idea.
Regardless, I would guess Quade will never manage another major league team after he is done with the Cubs.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Which would essentially make him..
… Jim Essian.
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It would...
…and I will add, I don’t believe Jim Hendry will get a gig as a GM anywhere else once he is done with the Cubs. He will be hired by one of his friends, but as a special asst or something of that nature.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
One of the reasons for that is...
… Hendry is in his mid 50’s. Most teams seem to be hiring younger GM’s these days.
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That's because it's a paradox...
The Cubs cannot sweep themselves.
Quade has another year left on his contract
but it’s a bit easier to get rid of that last year for a manager than it would be for a player. But remember that I said this. Quade will not be a major league coach ever again after his tenure with the Cubs is through!
by alabamacubbie on Jun 1, 2011 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions
I guess I didn't miss anything. :(
Sorry that Aramis got hurt. Hope he’ll be ok.
I don't always block shots, but when I do....I block yours.
Kyle Korver is open as soon as he gets out of his car at the UC. -
Stacey King
It seems that almost everyday I have to include another person in my memoirs.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 5:46 PM CDT reply actions
Did you cross Osama Bin Laden off that list?
#10 You will be missed.
by Bricks and Ivy on Jun 1, 2011 5:48 PM CDT up reply actions
Don't do it!
If u click on it, you are automatically entered!!
by daily2b on Jun 1, 2011 6:15 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Are Marlon Byrd and Aramis Ramirez in there?
’Cuz that would be harsh.
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
thinking about it i have no issue with the "it's the injuries" comment from ricketts
i mean the red sox dealt with injuries last year and all they did was get agon and crawford
WE’RE GETTING AGON AND CRAWFORD, BOYS
flippity floppity floop
I think it's more that he's putting all the blame on the injuries
"Well-behaved women seldom make History"---Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
i know that
but if he wanted to take a page out of the red sox book, he shouldnt stand pat after a year of injuries in biblical proportions (that said the red sox were still pretty good last year)
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 5:51 PM CDT up reply actions
hopefully he is
just PUBLICALLY putting the blame on the injuries but chewing some ass behind closed doors…
HA!
that’s cute.
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
It is the injuries...
It is the injury Soriano suffered three years ago.
and the one Rami suffered two years ago,
and the one Wood suffered a decade ago.
and the one Angel Guzman suffered a year ago.
And don’t forget Prior. Him too.
Yup, all about the injuries.
I think I speak for everyone here when I say, "Wait, what the hell are you talking about?"
Don't forget Sosa's sneeze.
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
And the injuries done to this roster by Hendry
If a quality pitching start is 3 runs and 6 innings, then a quality hitting day is 1 for 4.
Never...
…should anyone in a leadership position; owner, GM or manager mention we are struggling because of injuries. It sets the stage for it to be ok to be bad to the players, because they have injuries.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
This is really getting depressing.
A tough pill to swallow indeed. The Cubs are likely the worst team in baseball right now, no doubt about it.
And so it goes.
not to me anymore. I'm numb to it now.
#10 You will be missed.
by Bricks and Ivy on Jun 1, 2011 5:48 PM CDT up reply actions
At least were the best at something for a change.
We’re the best at being the worst.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 5:48 PM CDT up reply actions
Practice makes perfect.
"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will
Avatar provided courtesy of AndrewJStone.
Which of course means we'll soon find a way to screw that up
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
by winning?
or quitting?
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
I'm so glad i'm not giving any of my money to this team
In fact, nobody should be.
I just want to know how
in the world Jim Hendry still has a job.
I mean, Milton Bradley? Ryne Sandberg? How has this guy not been run out of the city of Chicago yet?
the same way all the banking executives and insurance guys all still have their jobs after the ecomonic collapse...
they’re friends with their bosses.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 5:52 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Getting swept by the worst team in the NL
is a new low. I just don’t know what is going to happen next. This is just not much fun. I’ll still watch every game but man alive, let’s get something going.
We'll miss you Big Boy. #10 for Hall of Fame.
by mrcubsfan on Jun 1, 2011 5:51 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
Here...watch this...it always cheers me right up.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 5:53 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
MAGIC Q BALL says...
"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)
by SackMan on Jun 1, 2011 5:51 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Great!!!
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
No mention of Blake Dewitt?
Shocking! I’m half kidding.
This team sucks. We just got swept – at home – by the worst team in the league. Or did Houston just sweep the worst team in the league? I’m never going to throw the towel in on any season on June 1st, but at this point I don’t see any sign of hope at all.
Get ready for the towel drill
"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)
You & I don't often agree.
But I’m with you here. This season appears done.
DeWitt slipped again. He doesn’t take good routes to balls and caught one today almost by accident. He simply does not belong in the outfield, ever.
This isn’t Double-A, but Quade is managing like it is.
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
by Al Yellon on Jun 1, 2011 6:08 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I don't understand why DeWitt wasn't moved to 3B after Ramirez left the game.
Doing that and playing Montanez in LF was the play there, I’d much rather have DeWitt at 3B over LeMahieu, its his best position. DeWitt did make a nice catch on Myers’ fly ball to the track, but let a blooper by Carlos Lee drop in after misplaying one of the bat. He should not be out there (in LF).
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
So Quade finds ABs for LeMahieu and Colvin...
But still that’s not enough to end the DeWitt whining because he couldn’t get to a blooper in time…I’m really not sure this fanbase has any clue what they want this year.
I hope to see more of these 3 this year, especially if it keeps actual garbage players off the field.
Come on man
he ran back 5 steps before he came in on the ball. That wasn’t a blooper, that was a can of corn any outfielder older than twelve should catch.
OK...that'd explain why he's not a starting OFer but rather...
a guy filling in for an injured one.
No one is saying DeWitt has significant upside as an OFer or that he’ll be Andy Van Slyke out there with the glove. OTOH, when the roster is this depleted I’d rather see him out there than Montanez or Snyder. I have no idea what’s so special about those guys that they’d suddenly make Quade seem like a non-minor league manager.
DeWitt also happens to be a better option at LeMahieu at 3rd.
DeWitt is out of position in left, put in Campana, move Colvin there, play Montanez there, or even Snyder. LeMahieu is a 2B, why was he at 3rd?
LeMahieu also needs to hit the weights, he does not have the physique of a major leaguer.
I just want the Cubs’ manager to put his team in the best possible position to win, playing DeWitt in LF is not achieving that objective.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
If Dewitt was a guy with power or hit .340 I could see playing him out of position, but he's not. He's a poor offensive player
who is playing a position he has never played. He is the worst offensive left fielder in baseball, and the worst defensively. I’d be fine with him playing two games a week at second or third.
Don't say that...
Only an idiot would keep advocating putting DeWitt in LF, but check out the Mariners’ LFers before you say he’s the worst offensive left fielder. None of their LFers hit over .200 and almost never walk either.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:21 PM CDT up reply actions
I know exactly what I want: a manager that puts his team in the best possible position to win games,
and so far, I’m not getting that on a consistent basis.
Starting Russell 4(!) times and giving DeWitt starts in LF is not doing that.
I get that the Cubs were playing against a tough RH starter today (at least tough on the Cubs) and Quade wanted to stack the lineup with lefties, but start Campana in CF, and Colvin in LF then.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
by tripdenten on Jun 1, 2011 8:19 PM CDT up reply actions 6 recs
He's started Russell 5 times.
MLBMilestone.com - following the numbers to Cooperstown
by D98 on Jun 1, 2011 8:47 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
You nailed it...
…the most important thing a manager can do, is have a feel for what his players are capable of and also a good feel for each individual game on how it is evolving.
Even though a good manager wouldn’t have this club in the playoffs, they would be able to at least have this club be more competitive. A good manager can still be fun to watch even when they don’t have the greatest roster. A bad manager combined with a below average roster, is just painful to watch. I have a feeling, that is what we have with the 2011 Cubs.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
The cubs are the worst team in baseball.
by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Jun 1, 2011 11:07 PM CDT up reply actions
I'd have to disagree.
The Minnesota Twins are just atrocious. Their pitching isn’t much better than ours and their hitting is abysmal.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 11:10 PM CDT up reply actions
They'll beat us...
for the #1 pick no matter what. Their high-priced relievers have completely shiatsud the bed, and they can go injury for injury with anybody in baseball. They don’t even have the KC Royals to kick around as much anymore and prop them out of the cellar.
…but maybe… just maybe I’ll say that the Cubs are the worst TEAM in baseball, but the Twins will have the worst record.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 11:34 PM CDT up reply actions
I think it would be interesting
To see how the Cubs would be at this point if they weren’t a walking M*A*S*H unit. I honestly don’t think it’d be any better than one game on either side of .500, but I guess that’s better than 23-31.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 11:38 PM CDT up reply actions
Probably not,
but not really worth caring about either. Two teams in our division started off the season without Cy Young award winners, and it didn’t stop them from being competitive. At the peak of their value, it would be hard for anybody the Cubs have lost to add up to 7-9 games difference by this point.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 2, 2011 11:29 AM CDT up reply actions
Especially...
since they have young players to play who might turn into stars… not glorifying mid-level prospects and praying guys improve their utility player abilities.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 2, 2011 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions
This poor play by the big league club
only enhances my following of the minor leaguers, which is already bordlerline obsessive. Not good.
I think we are all following the minors closer.
At least we have the team with the best record in baseball! For how much longer I don’t know since they are gradually being called up as they should.
At this point there is really nothing that will surprise me this season.
We could sweep the Yankees and I’ll say who cares. We could be swept by the Ast… oh wait never mind .
#10 You will be missed.
Not sure I agree with Madlock-Pena
Madlock hit his stride that year and had several very productive years with high BA/OBP. Pena… not likely so much.
I think I speak for everyone here when I say, "Wait, what the hell are you talking about?"
by Ross on Jun 1, 2011 5:58 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Bill Madlock was far better than anybody on the 2011 team
It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??
by Invalid User on Jun 1, 2011 6:01 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
Bad news for Tom Ricketts
if this team is 1976. It means he dies during the first week of next season like PK Wrigley did.
by Josh Timmers on Jun 1, 2011 6:02 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
But then the team next year will blast into contention!
(If only we could avoid the second half of 1977.)
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Please don't rec this.
But it is a good post.
by BrewCrew'sPrinceofDarkness on Jun 1, 2011 11:10 PM CDT up reply actions
3-9
This year against Houston and the bucs! Wow, what’s worse than absolutely, disgustingly, awfully, terribly, horribly pathetic!
Here.
The Cubs are 12-19 at home, 11-12 on the road.
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Blow up Wrigley Field?
(ducks)
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
I've heard worse ideas.
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
Let Wood start games?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 6:13 PM CDT up reply actions
How much worse could it be than Lopez, Davis or Russell?
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
He's the only one of the three to provide the team with a quality start.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
Chicago Cubs
"A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality." John Lennon
"My favorite food is Macaroni and Cheese, from the blue box." Geovany Soto
flagged
Inappropriate !
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
cubbiegoon's vulgarity disturbs me
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 6:11 PM CDT up reply actions
here ya go, bruh
http://uncyclopedia.wikia.com/wiki/Jesus_Christos
"A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality." John Lennon
"My favorite food is Macaroni and Cheese, from the blue box." Geovany Soto
an uncyclopedia article about me?
ive made it now!
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 6:30 PM CDT up reply actions
Flagged
Too truthful!
They have two liter bottles now? To think I spent all that time demanding a liter!
Potty mouth!
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
This is a family friendly site....
please read the BCB Community Guidelines regarding profanity. You’re on thin ice.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 1, 2011 6:14 PM CDT up reply actions
At least there is no t.v. In the corner
so you guys have to watch the cubs. Punishment on you really!
....
"A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality." John Lennon
"My favorite food is Macaroni and Cheese, from the blue box." Geovany Soto
by Cubbiegoon on Jun 1, 2011 6:24 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Can someone do that to
Quade, Crickets and Hendry?
The sun is up. They sky is blue. It's beautiful, and so are you. Dear Prudence, won't you come out to play? ~Lennon & McCartney
by SouthWabashSoul on Jun 1, 2011 6:46 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah...Yellsy will reprimand you.
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
by Easy Ed on Jun 1, 2011 6:18 PM CDT up reply actions 4 recs
Perfect
I have PMS & a GPS -- which means -- I am a bitch, and I will find you.
by cub in louies nest on Jun 1, 2011 8:53 PM CDT up reply actions
44,818?
Wow. Cheek to jowl, eh?
I loved the player by player comparison.
There are 108 beads in a Catholic rosary and there are 108 stitches in a baseball. Who says baseball isn't a religion?
And yes, there was actually a Cub once named "Champ".
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Champ Summers,
the pride of Madison, Ill.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:37 PM CDT up reply actions
i sat next to Champ summers on a plane from chicago to san diego
when i was 11 ( early 90’s)…he saw my cubs hat, and gave me two of his baseball cards, and then autographed them….nice guy…talked baseball with me the entire flight.
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
that is so COOL!!!!!!!!!!!!
lucky dog :)
"Well-behaved women seldom make History"---Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
he still had a killer mustache.
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
He was a fan favorite when he was a Tiger.
There are 108 beads in a Catholic rosary and there are 108 stitches in a baseball. Who says baseball isn't a religion?
That's how I remember him
Early 1980s with the Tigers, along with other obscure favorites like Ricky Peters and Jerry Ujdur and some guy named Rothschild.
my dad wasnt with us
but when i called him from california and told him i sat next to a former cub his exact words were, " Champ who?" i still have those baseball cards somewhere…
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
I would love to sit down and talk baseball with a MLB player...
…PLUS have him sit next to me on a plane so he couldn’t go away when I stared blankly in awe at everything he said :)
p.s. talking with all you here is the next best thing tho
"Well-behaved women seldom make History"---Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
by cooliogirl47 on Jun 2, 2011 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions
Mark Grace Called me for my 11th Birthday
all i did was stammer, he asked me if i was right or left handed and i said Right, he said too bad if you were left i would have given you one of my gloves! the phone call lasted for all of about 3 minutes because i was offering nothing of interest to the conversation…
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
what's worse is
Come trade times we won’t be able to get anything for anyone because of no trade clauses,way to much salary,bad years and under-*chieving garbage! This franchise is in A LOT of trouble!
by bleedinblue76 on Jun 1, 2011 6:13 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
No trade clauses???
Bet you Zambrano will be glad to get out of town!
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse
I agree 100%...
any player on this team, with a NTC, would have to be insane NOT to waive it to get the hell off this train wreck. You tell Z he can go pitch for the Yankees or the Red Sox and I bet he’d be packed before you could draw up the necessary paperwork. Same thing with Shark or ‘Dome. Maybe not A-Ram because of that asinine option clause that’s in his contract (who the hell comes up with those brain farts, by the way?), but, I think he’d even think hard about it.
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
NTC/option brain farts = Jim Hendry
But the players love him!
They just never call again after the first date……
you are correct...something...
not much, but something.
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
Was 76 the year that Jewel gave out 8x10 glossies of a player if you bought $10 of groceries
I remember that I had 8-9 of them on the back of my bedroom door. I definitely had Jose Cardinal’s photo in the group.
It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??
Yes, I think it was
I had a ton of those as well.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:37 PM CDT up reply actions
If winning is contagious...
then losing is a disease. This team has basebal syphilis.
Now they play St. Louis, CIncinnati, Philly, Milwuakee and the Yankees?
Kill me now.
Scott Bora$ is satan.
by Canadian Cubs Fan on Jun 1, 2011 6:16 PM CDT reply actions
Ah no with this team they will play .500 against them
causing all of us to think “wait till we play the bad teams so we can make some ground up”. Ah no, really if this is going to happen let it be an epic failure so they are forced to clean house. If they show any signs of success like they did at the end of last year it will be more of the “we are almost there, all we need is this one guy to get us over the hump” syndrome which is what got us here in the first place, starting with Milton Bradley.
…but curable.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Losing is a disease...
as contagious as polio
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions
…as contagious as syphilis
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions
…as contagious as bubonic plague.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions
…attacking one…
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions
…but infecting all
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Gently rocking.
Gently rocking.
Gently rocking.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:27 PM CDT up reply actions
Wasn't able
To catch the game today. Was there a lot of booing? I’m guessing that, assuming things don’t change (and nothing lately has indicated that it will), that they will be out in full force soon.
At which point Quade, the players and Ricketts will become baffled and collectively ask, “Why are you booing us?”
Anyways… At least this means (probably) that come the trade deadline Hendry won’t be moving any players from the farm system for an aging vet, who will block a younger player for the next couple years.
They have two liter bottles now? To think I spent all that time demanding a liter!
Fair point
Though it’s been spattered before. I guess I was wondering how loud it was today compared to other.
They have two liter bottles now? To think I spent all that time demanding a liter!
Shame there isn't a way to boo management directly
The players are who they are – they’re really not trying to lose. But owners/management…….
any chance we can get another strike like in '94?
this is seriously worse than the cubs not existing for me.
The TMOTTBG song
Did the guy screw up the song today? I was singing and it sounded like the guy slowed down for some reason because I couldn’t keep up with him.
he did stop singing the words at some point in the middle....(that was the best part)
"Well-behaved women seldom make History"---Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
I posted in the game thread...
… that on the radio broadcast, he was almost as bad a Jeff Gordon. No Wrigley Stadium, though.
I think I speak for everyone here when I say, "Wait, what the hell are you talking about?"
Good grief...
can’t we even do this right? I didn’t hear this guy, but enough with these guest conductors that don’t even know the words. Oh and to those of you that might not know…IT’S CRACKER JACK, NOT CRACKER JACKS! It’s not plural! Ugh!
Ok. I feel better now.
Fasten those seat belts...
Wait...I may have said that wrong.
Cracker Jack can be plural. It just doesn’t need the S.
Fasten those seat belts...
*With* the crowd
With…
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
Is it
I don’t care if I ever get back, or never get back! I’m an ever guy.
Grammatically equivalent, though
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
On TV it seems
that the organ is off tempo, slower that it should be. I noticed it first on the bleacher broadcast afternoon.
it would also be nice if they mentioned that the microphone amplifies their voice quite nicely...
… and that they don’t have to yell into it.
I think I speak for everyone here when I say, "Wait, what the hell are you talking about?"
by Ross on Jun 1, 2011 8:12 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I don't understand the badmouthing of the Astros offense
“light-hitting” and ‘impotent’ being a couple descriptors that come to mind, they’re tied for 1st with the Cubs in team BA at .275 (yet managed to exactly double the cubs hit output in this series and cool 40-20), are 3rd in runs scored at 348 and 9th in slugging at .422.
yeah, their record sucks which ultimately is all that matter, but as to the Astros being labeled as poor hitters, what am I missing?
WWOZ.org - New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Station
They really suck...
we’re worse… most of the time. The Cubs have been ridiculously lucky so far this season (highest BABIP in the majors) and don’t have enough to show for it.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions
...and they still won't have much to show for it
For what it’s worth, giving regular at-bats to Tony Campana should actually increase the BABIP (though it’s hard to get higher than what Marlon Byrd was sporting in that spot). Swapping Soriano for Campana is a real stepforward in that respect, though high BABIPs alone don’t win you games, as we’ve seen.
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 2, 2011 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions
To be fair, the starting pitcher for the Astros
has owned the Cubs during his career, so a W today wasn’t really in the cards anyway. Didn’t they say that his only wins this year were against the Cubs? So typical.
Soto can’t hit a curveball to save his life, i don’t think he’s even fouled one off since his return. Oh, and he looks fat again. You know what that means.
Michael Bourn has more steals than the Cubs will have all year.
Looks like after the Snakes swept Houston in Houston, they got pissed and took it out on the Cubs.
Today’s game was the first game I’ve watched all year, start to finish. What a waste of time, I feel bad for the folks that paid hard-earned $ to see this crap.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
Myers has two wins all year.
Both of them against the Cubs.
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Right.
Against everyone else this year, not so much.
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Against the Cubs, at least, he's
the modern-day version of Randy Johnson.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:38 PM CDT up reply actions
To compare with the other pitchers that the Cubs' hitters make look like Cy Young.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
Kevin Correia...
says hi!
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by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 11:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Rebuild this team from the ground up.
No bullshit job. Whomever will be the GM of this team from here on out, we have to hope they build this team not only to contend for 1 year, but for several years. No more band-aid players (Carlos Pena, Marlon Byrd) — no more overpriced second-tier talent (Alfonso Soriano, Kosuke Fukudome) and no more waiting until after a guys stock goes down to trade them.
In hindsight, 2007-2008 was really the only shot the Cubs had, and they simply weren’t good enough to win a title. Hendry tried to add pieces here and there to make another run, but the time had already passed.
"It's easy to do what's ordinary, it's difficult to do what's deemed impossible -- I guess that explains why my life is so hard, because nothing is impossible for me"
by Unique on Jun 1, 2011 6:46 PM CDT reply actions 1 recs
'76 was the year I moved to Chicago for the 1st time
so that or the ‘77 team would’ve been my 1st.
How pathetic this team plays. We need someone’s head to roll. (figuratively, I mean)
The sun is up. They sky is blue. It's beautiful, and so are you. Dear Prudence, won't you come out to play? ~Lennon & McCartney
At least Bruce Sutter
would go at least 3 innings without his arm falling off. Now we have fan shots alleging Marmol is ‘losing velocity.’
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jun 1, 2011 6:51 PM CDT reply actions
Your memory is bad
Sutter missed most of July and August of 1977 with arm problems. It was a major reason for the collapse that year.
And then to make matters worse...
…we went out and got Dave Giusti to replace him. God, the last two months of that season were brutal. My first Cubbie heartbreak.
I'm really surprised Millsy would let his team break one of those unwritten rules against his good friend Quade.
I mean, c’mon – stealing a base in the top of the 9th when you’re up 3-1 on the Cubs? Sheesh….
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
LOL. Yeah, Millsy, what's going on? Demp wasn't happy with that.
"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.
and thanks for playing!
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
This is such a bad team.
I feel sorry for you guys who watch these games everyday. So far this year I’ve kept myself to Garza starts and…yeah that’s pretty much it. I have my snooze button set for when LeMahieu, Jackson, Castro, and Colvin are all on the field at the same time.
This is also a bad dream for every Cubs fan.
"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.
I can see that
It’s sad when the snooze is set for when players on the field are worth looking at. On your other note – unless the Cubs are on a nationally televised game I can only view WGN (or Dodgers Cubs which are over). Even then I usually set the DVR and keep pace on the radio (iphone app) or online
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on Jun 1, 2011 7:38 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
This explains a lot.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
The Cubs scored 2 runs in 10 innings against the worst bulpen in baseball.
Here is my recipe to rebuild this team: it requires a Wrigley Field and a lot of salt….
In the Astros pen's defense...
it’s been better with Melancon and the call ups who owned the Cubs this week. Lyon was a disaster.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:30 PM CDT up reply actions
Ricketts continue to humiliate himself
this guy is the Donald Sterling of baseball, he’s turned the Cubs into the Clippers of baseball. He doesn’t know his ass from a whole in the ground when it comes to running a baseball team. Today’s quote was, “we’ll be fine, we’ve just had a few injuries.”
When does papa Ricketts fire his son and hire a real CEO to run the franchise, this is a billion dollars wasted.
CSN had a pole tonight
on their site about what Ricketts said. Take a look at what the fans say about his quote.
http://www.csnchicago.com/pages/main
I don't always block shots, but when I do....I block yours.
Kyle Korver is open as soon as he gets out of his car at the UC. -
Stacey King
crap, I meant poll.
Posting while on meds and being tired is not a good thing.
I don't always block shots, but when I do....I block yours.
Kyle Korver is open as soon as he gets out of his car at the UC. -
Stacey King
Cubs that bad on ya that ya gotta take meds?
Not a bad idea.
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
Yes, hence the airing of grievances
I guess I'm just a worrier, that's why my friends call me whiskers
I got a lot of problems with you people and now you're gonna hear about it!
Kooger, I hear you couldn’t shimmie a pole if a…..I lost my train of thought.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
That's it! My Seinfeld quoting abilities are slipping.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
It's a classic,
mine might be “The Frogger,” mostly because of Slippery Pete.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
One of my favorite Kramer lines, ever.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
pole dancers?
"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.
CSN had a woody?
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
So true so true...
Ricketts, in his two years here, has filled this roster with guys going nowhere or approved of it at least. It’s disgusting.
Sterling has run the Clippers since
1979. Mr. Ricketts has a while to go, so this is a bit of an stretch, don’t you think? He’s purchased an old team, with big contracts that had its’ window to win — and did not.
It’s now time to reset. He obviously paid attention to the baseball people who were in place. They convinced him that their course would still be successful. What has been done — did not work.
Did you want somebody who didn’t know the game to interfere? Yes, he could have cleaned house immediately. He could have started acting as junior GM? How about that? — Blame any Ricketts you can find for not firing current management. That’s a legit point of view.
This is what we have. I do not fathom how everything short of not getting 5 outs to go to the 2003 World Series has been blamed on the nearest "Ricketts.’
I’ve had it with these half-assed people who want immediate firings, DFA, DFA, send Soriano to the minors.
I thought Cubs fans were knowledgeable, but I’m slowly losing my religion on that opinion.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jun 1, 2011 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Can't say I disagree much
SDSJM, per usual, is on it.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Not really
The sun is up. They sky is blue. It's beautiful, and so are you. Dear Prudence, won't you come out to play? ~Lennon & McCartney
by SouthWabashSoul on Jun 1, 2011 10:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah I can't throw Ricketts out the door.
Goodness, Soriano, Grabow, Dome, Z, Demp, Bradley/Silva debacle, and the rest lays on Hendry.
Lets give RIcketts a few years here. If Hendry is retained for next year, then I will be pissed, but still not going to say "Sell, Sell, Sell. Lets slow down here.
As others have said, Tom has lost a lot of the goodwill he had when he bought the team.
Does that mean he can’t be successful? Of course not. It’s just that thus far, the things he’s said and done have been pretty bad and/or stupid.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Completely agree.
We can say the same thing about the upcoming draft.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
You find no fault with current ownership so far?
Ricketts had over two years to kick the proverbial tires on this team prior to the deal closing on the purchase.
The same management that are still in charge today were the ones that allowed McDonough to walk. That same management that oversaw one bad free agent deal after another are still in charge. Hendry (and I was stunned that he kept his job after last season) was allowed to oversee the search for a new manager.
Ricketts was going to foolishly ask the state to pay for Wrigley for the bulk of ballpark renovations in an economic environment neither you or I have experienced in our lifetimes. This same guy that states “that he can’t stand it when he hears people say that they can’t afford to come to a game”. He has proven himself as out of touch to say the least.
I thought McDonough left because he wasn't guaranteed a job moving forward due to the ownership change.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
You're right about that...uncertainty played a part but I believe
the opportunity that McDonough was given with the Hawks was to great to pass up. The same kind of opportunity could have been offered to him stay with the organization.
Yeah, but no one was in charge to offer him it.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
The Sainted John signed Soriano,et.al.
If the Cubs win in 2008, the contracts don’t matter.
If the Hawks don’t win last year, McD gets killed for all the salary they had to dump.
No to Otto, etc.; Yes to Moreland for the 2011 Radio Booth
by Dan Serafini on Jun 1, 2011 11:28 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
And potentially the Hossa deal if he continues to underperform.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
Wait. This post conflates issues.
It seems to claim that
1. Ricketts did the right thing at the outset.
2. It didn’t work.
3. Cubs fans calling for firings are “half-assed.”
4. Give Ricketts more time
but this is not a linear line of thought. We have the moment Ricketts realized it wasn’t working, and are now calling for some jobs to straighten things out. That’s not a half-assed opinion, in my opinion. For reasoning why, see #2 above.
The sun is up. They sky is blue. It's beautiful, and so are you. Dear Prudence, won't you come out to play? ~Lennon & McCartney
by SouthWabashSoul on Jun 1, 2011 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions
I didn't really say Rickets did the right thing at the outset.
He probably did what a first-time owner would do, given choices. (Save for Peter Angelos, and how has that worked out?)
Let me repeat. he listened to the baseball people that were already in place, re-signed by old ownership. I assume (Hell, I don’t know for sure? Do you? he deferred to Hendry.
Did he really want to pay EVERYBODY for not working and hire a new staff? Yes, he could have. That is a point worth an argument.
You obviously haven’t read many of the posts here over the past two years. When I read “Send Soriano to the minors” I want to scream. When I hear DFA this guy! Cut this guy! It’s just nonsense.
We’re dealing with huge sums of money here, and the contracts are in place.
So many times I say this is not fantasy baseball, in real life what people yell for cannot be done in REAL major league baseball.
Ricketts more time? Yes. Sorry, immediate gratification just can’t be had on a daily basis.
Is this an important off season? Absolutely. I think sweeping changes have to made in the front office. If we don’t see things change this winter — this team is in trouble.
Fire Hendry TOMORROW? Of course not.
Yell and scream all you want if it helps. (And I mean this on a general basis, not specifically) but nothing is going to change this season, save for probably the deletion of some veterans that can be easily moved.
It’s hard to turn around the Titantic. Some deck chairs will be moved around this season. If sweeping changes take place it will be in the off-season.
We can only hope that type of action takes place.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Jun 2, 2011 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Question??
I already have a natural nickname. WWQCM??
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on Jun 1, 2011 7:35 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
Hammy or Hamm Hamm
"Who ever heard of the Cubs losing a game they had to have?" -Frank Chance
"If [Ruth] had [called his shot], I would have knocked him down with the next pitch." -Charlie Root
Hammster
Hamm-a-rino
Hamm-on-rye.
I think I speak for everyone here when I say, "Wait, what the hell are you talking about?"
My bros names Ryan so that may work
"Hey.....Cubs win!!!" ---Harry
"Swung on belted!!!"---Chip
by Hammer on Jun 1, 2011 8:30 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Big Duh on
the “Hamster” :) Tooo easy!
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
Ricketts is the new breed of Cubs fans
The experience of Wrigley Field is more important than the joy of winning. That’s his Way. Shame on the fans who can’t afford the tickets. It’s not anybody’s fault. We’d be in contention if it weren’t for the injuries. Go to other parks and enjoy their stadiums.
Ultimately it’ll be….Hendry and Quade will be back in 2012 because it wasn’t their fault.
If a quality pitching start is 3 runs and 6 innings, then a quality hitting day is 1 for 4.
by tharr on Jun 1, 2011 7:42 PM CDT reply actions 3 recs
Couldn't have said it better myself
Little did he know that in his 2nd year the Wrigley experience for many fans would no longer be a legitimate reason to go to the park.
Well, everyone knows where to find him...
It’s not as if he is hiding in an ivory tower somewhere – Ricketts is at every game. Let him hear it and demand some answers.
I think I speak for everyone here when I say, "Wait, what the hell are you talking about?"
Well if he's going to keep showing his face in public he needs to keep his mouth...
…shut because he’s not doing himself any favors.
The sky's like...
right there isn’t it?
Jeebus…
Agreed
Went to the game on Saturday and received the follow up email from the Cubs on Sunday with a link to a fan survey. I completed the survey and most of the questions seemed to be geared around the “Wrigley Field experience” – the concessions, the souvenirs, the washrooms, the ushers, the parking, the PA announcer. No questions about the quality of the product on the field.
If you look at some of the things Ricketts said when he purchased...
…the team it was as if all of his Cub memories were centered around Wrigley field, this is exactly the reason why I feel as if Wrigley has become a millstone around the necks of fans that want to see this team win. Don’t get me wrong I’m not saying Wrigley is the problem, I’m saying that it’s those in charge that can’t look beyond selling the Wrigley experience.
I understand exactly what you are saying.
And you are correct. This group has tried to sell “the Wrigley experience”. That means nothing if you don’t win. If they continue to market this way, they will fail. They may have already killed the golden goose of the bleachers.
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Gimme a break
Buying tickets gives you a seat at the table about the roster?
Can I tell Tom Cruise how to plot his next movie if I buy a movie ticket? No, but I can tell the manager the theatre smells like piss.
No to Otto, etc.; Yes to Moreland for the 2011 Radio Booth
by Dan Serafini on Jun 1, 2011 11:36 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions 6 recs
What?
No GM of the Week contest next year?
Frowny face
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
Gimme a break
Buying tickets gives you a seat at the table about the roster?
Can I tell Tom Cruise how to plot his next movie if I buy a movie ticket? No, but I can tell the manager the theatre smells like piss.
No to Otto, etc.; Yes to Moreland for the 2011 Radio Booth
by Dan Serafini on Jun 1, 2011 11:36 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Well said Tharr
And I agree that Ricketts is already positioning himself to retain Hendry, Quade, Kenney.
I have a bad feeling that we’ve officially entered the dark ages for Cubs baseball.
No way, dude
If you lived through most of the ‘70s and a good chunk of the ’80s, you’ve already seen it.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:46 PM CDT up reply actions
history has a way of repeating itself NBF
"Well-behaved women seldom make History"---Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
Those who don't learn from the past are condemned to repeat it...
"They sell every ticket to every game, win or lose!" - Tom Ricketts
Didn't everybody back then?
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Well, in comparison to other teams of the era, I mean.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Possibly. I'm not really sure on that one.
It seemed like back then a lot of teams were closer to each other in payroll. Or maybe that’s just how I want to remember it.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:57 PM CDT up reply actions
You may be right.
Can’t say I know one way or another.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
1946 to 1983 would like to have a word with you.
(I wasn’t alive for 25 of those years, but still.)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:47 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, I lived through the 70's and 80's...
…but I survived through the optimism of youth.
I’m older now and, sadly, much less innocent.
Plus there’s nobody here with Dallas Green’s energy to create new hope.
Hell, at this point I’d almost take Bob Kennedy.
by bluekoolaide on Jun 1, 2011 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm just not sure what can be done
When the Cubs’ pitching has been as horrid as it has. They’ve played 54 games and have given up 5 runs or more in 29 of them. That’s a 54% clip, and they’ve only had 3 other seasons in the past 30 where they’ve given up 5 runs or more in over 50% of their games. Those seasons were 1999 (final record 67-95), 2000 (65-97), and 2006 (66-96). And the Cubs are doing great when the pitching only gives up 4 or less; they’re 19-6 so far this year in those games.
I’m not sure what else they have left to try. Coleman didn’t work; Russell obviously didn’t work; Davis has been less than stellar; Rodrigo Lopez got shellacked in his shot at it (granted, only 1 start on a breezy day). I don’t know what else they can pull out of the hat to attempt to fix the pitching issue.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:12 PM CDT up reply actions
To amplify your stat on the Cubs pitching record when giving up 4 runs or less
the other half of the balance sheet shows that the Cubs are only 16-31 when they score 8 or less. That’s horrible! So far this year, the only way you can guarantee a Cubs win is if they score 6 or more.
That means they need to score a touchdown to have any chance of winning. They have a losing record when scoring less than 6 per game. Their run differential is now a minus 37, that shows that they have to score a boatload of runs to win a damn game.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
same here. Madlock was better than Carlos Pena IIRC.
"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.
Madlock won FOUR batting titles,
two as a Cub and was a career .305 hitter, case closed.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
OK, so I whiffed on one of them.
The rest, pretty good, right?
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Madlock = Castro?
Ugh. Let’s Castro wins a couple batting titles and we keep him around for a couple more.
The sun is up. They sky is blue. It's beautiful, and so are you. Dear Prudence, won't you come out to play? ~Lennon & McCartney
by SouthWabashSoul on Jun 1, 2011 10:32 PM CDT up reply actions
Yep...
…and Pena’s not really that bad since a few Cubs fans have evolved to realize BA isn’t a good way to evaluate anybody. I expect Pena to continue to perform like he did in May, until the Cubs find him a home with a competitor in July.
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:35 PM CDT up reply actions
Cubs are 9 back and 9 under vs. Central....
Coincidence?
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
In fact...Cubs have worst in division record in baseball
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Really not much to say anymore
I hope the hell Quade plays all the kids and let it ride.
But unfortunately this will not happen.
When this team is 20 under .500 by July 1, maybe then something will change.
1976
Tom Detorre = Rodrigo Lopez ?? We need someone to give up prodigious, tape measure home runs to Dave Kingman.
reminds me of this
Northern Exposure – Rick is killed by a satellite
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
I was wondering if anyone knows of a way to get the Monday free t shirt without going to the game?
I live near Cleveland and am only going to two games this yr (one being Ron’s statue day). I really want one of those t shirts. Anyone with an extra shirt willing to sell theres? I’ve already checked on ebay.
#10 You will be missed.
I've had no luck finding one either.
The closest thing I’ve found is this which subtlely suggests that they may eventually be sold to the public. Not sure how reliable they are.
Fasten those seat belts...
Those shirts give me chills each time I see them.
I need one of those shirts.
#10 You will be missed.
by Bricks and Ivy on Jun 1, 2011 8:38 PM CDT up reply actions
The PASS10N design was done by Cubs catcher Koyie Hill on the back of an envelope
go koyie hill?
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions
It's alright, everyone!
Now you can let go, let go and let the healing begin!
Just think, now you don’t have to care about day-to-day scores or how Aramis looks at the plate, or if Soto is eating too many Cheetos. You can focus on more important things, like 2012 and 2013, and getting new players and new management that’ll help this team improve.
YAY! Welcome to the club!
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
I like the way you think.
Makes the losing hurt less.
#10 You will be missed.
by Bricks and Ivy on Jun 1, 2011 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions
I wrote this season off last year
but I had no idea that the fall would be even this bad. I figured ~72-75 wins, but they are knocking on the door of upper 60’s now.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
Signing Pena was the "white flag moment"
Because the Cubs’ record of judging how well injured players can recover is so, so good……
Who would they have signed that would have been better?
Adam Dunn? Adam LaRoche? Not to mention they would have taken multi-year deals. He obviously has to put up numbers like May instead of April going here forward, but we’re really close to saying this is something Jim Hendry got right.
Something that blew my mind… Pena had the same WAR in the month of May as Joey Votto, .1 higher than Miguel Cabrera, Albert Pujols and Paul Konerko. He did this with one of the lowest BABIPs as well (not that his was lower than normal).
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 2, 2011 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions
I was probably too harsh in my post
Pena was a better idea than the other available FAs. I’m just beginning to think they would have been better off saving the$10M, especially since $5M of it will be overhang onto 2012.
And before anyone says the second $5M doesn’t really matter, it does. The Ricketts almost certainly signed a loan agreement with an operating cash flow covenant in it. That second $5M will count as an expense in calculating their covenant compliance for 2012. They will treat that money as part of the 2012 payroll target.
If wishing only made that so...
if they didn’t give the money to Pena, they would have pocketed it and acted like they never had it. I’m still hanging the productivity of this season on the ability to get Byrd back healthy and keep Pena productive and maybe, just maybe trade them to recover some of what was lost in the ill-conceived Garza trade.
(To clarify: Decent trade, bad timing. There’s no reason to expect they couldn’t have gotten someone like Garza next year and not had to spend the money or prospects this season, which was lost whether or not Garza pitched to the peak of his possibilities.)
As far as the money goes, god help all of us if the Cubs just went from bad owner to worse, and only an owner like they have in Pittsburgh would think and act like this.
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 3, 2011 12:55 AM CDT up reply actions
I'm not real optimistic on the owner front for the next several years
Until the Ricketts pay off the $175M bank loan, team spending is likely to be constrained. That may mean they wait nearly all the current big contracts roll off and we don’t see the team active in the FA market until 2013 or 2014. The “bought by a fan” idea is probably off base – the team was bought by finance types in a leveraged buyout. That almost never precedes spending on the company/product.
2011 payroll is about $15M below 2010; I wouldn’t be surprised to see the target drop again for 2012, especially if attendance continues to be weak this year.
Ugh...
then we’re going to need one of them uber-genius GMs who can do the most with the least and rebuild this team completely while we’re resigned to sucking until 2013.
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 3, 2011 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions
Loads
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Jun 1, 2011 11:33 PM CDT up reply actions
There's no way to sugarcoat getting swept by the Astros at home
There just isn’t.
Just try to come out and play better next week. Frankly, just winning a game or two right now would do a lot for people’s spirits.
I guess they’ll be almost exactly where they were on this date in 2007. Maybe Quade will get thrown out Friday while arguing a play at third base or something.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:34 PM CDT reply actions 2 recs
I've about had enough of your pragmatism, NBF.
It’s throwing this whole site off.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Z also has to punch the Cubs catcher in the face.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
We could get really Bill Veeckish with this:
I’m thinking the Cubs should do a “Turn back the Clock Night,” sign Barrett for one game, and re-enact the whole thing.
"You've got to get your damn shirts rolled up and go out and kick somebody's ass. That's what you've got to do. Period." -- Lou Piniella
I wouldn't be adverse to hiring a midget (sorry small person)
to take a walk every once in a while…that could work.
Tho this might seem a bit extreme...
Sorianos quads are shot…amputation an option? And, the Walks wouldn’t hurt his stats…
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
We could use someone to shrink the strike zone...I mean this cubs team
might hit more home runs than draw walks this year.
if he does amputate his legs,
but doesnt retire, does he still get paid? will Quade still cart his torso out to left field?
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
"Stumpy ain't missin' a game out there in LF.
I’m a big believer in past performances, and in 2007 Stumpy led the league in OF assists. So, we’re just gonna ride this thing out to the tune of 35 or 10,000 HR’s and a $hit load of OF assists"
"Beisbol been berry berry good to me." -Tony Oliva
Only if they bring in AJ, too
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
IIRC it was exactly 4 years ago this week (today?)
that Z had his confrontation with Barrett… and the next day Lou staged a tirade against the 3rd base umpire. Within a month Barrett was gone, and the team turned around.
Still. Cannot. Believe. I .Let. My. GF. Go. To. Game. Today.
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
And
I told her…I smelled the SWEEP COMIN!!!
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
The problem with that comparison is that in 2007 they had talent and were underperforming
This looks like a bad team finding it natural level.
Yeah
When Theriot went to the Cardinals, I told my Cards-fan friends to get ready for a lot of suckage, unless he was baptized in TLR Holy Water. Guess he was.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:44 PM CDT up reply actions
TLR kind of shows what a good manager can do for a team
by troutfishin on Jun 1, 2011 8:45 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I can't stand TLR
But he’s a hell of a manager.
I think St. Louis fans are pretty ambivalent about him. They’ll never warm to him like they did to Whitey, but he did win a World Series, and that’s got to count for something.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:47 PM CDT up reply actions
I wouldn't turn him down
I suspect he’ll go another year or two in STL and then hang it up.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Oddly
I had counted on Quade to correct our fundamentals…yeeeouch
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
Tho I didn't think that was possible
I must agree
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
Aint it something?
I cannot think of any potential positives in 2011, other than the ending of some bad, bad contracts. Both Fielder and Puhols frighten the heck out of me as 2012 options… I could easily see both ending badly. On that note, depressed and having nothing encouraging to add (without snickering at myself…) I’ll bid you all Good Evening.
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
Why could you see both ending badly?
I’d rather have Fielder, but I wouldn’t kick Albert out of bed, either.
Please don’t tell me it’s — gasp! — because once they put on the Cubs uniform they’ll suck.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:00 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm with you on Fielder.
I just think the Soriano contract has everyone a bit wary.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Five years for Prince would be fine
I don’t think you’re going to see the mega-year contracts anymore.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:05 PM CDT up reply actions
The Brewers offered him five and he turned it down.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
What was the cash on that?
Maybe he just doesn’t want to play in Milwaukee, for whatever reason.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions
I just gotta toss this out there...
Then, if you guys want, you can label me crazy… What if we could get Puhols for 4-5 years at 40-45mil per yr??? I know it’s a big IF… but, how would the masses feel about that? I think my biggest fear, more than the money…is the TIIIIIME involved as it is.
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
I mean, I guess I'd be okay with that.
Depending on what kind of payroll Tom plans to have once all the contracts he’s signed off on are gone. Right now, we just don’t know. 140-150 million? Sure. 100 million? Nah.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Me? I think I'd rather
see more money as a trade off for lless years.
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
The Ricketts won't put that kind of money into payroll
At $40M, they’re done for 2012. Put in the existing commitments, pay the arb-eligible guys, and you’re at $130M. Any upgrades at 3B or to pitching have to be internal.
If they refuse
we may already be looking at 2012…now. (Tho no doubt we’ll have bidettes in the johns and fillet mignon sandwiches in 2012…
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
I'd give "now is the future" about a 40% shot of coming true
The classic leveraged buyout strategy is to cut expenses as revenue falls. And the Ricketts bought this team in a leveraged buyout and so far they are running like LBO firms do (they call themselves “private equity” now).
I tell you true, I LMFAO for five minutes after reading Jeff's comment
I couldn’t even get the words out trying to tell my wife, without breaking into laughter each time.
Accroding to USA Today...the White Sox are now spending....
More than the Cubs
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Here...
http://content.usatoday.com/sportsdata/baseball/mlb/salaries/team
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
And doing about as well...
Yes. They just beat out Cubs (Largely on Dunn?) And they are lookin to be “Dunn-for”. :)
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
......and which team competes...
within its division?
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
So far this year,
niether
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
I'll take 5-7
over 7-16 anyday…..
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
16-20mill
cant remember exact amount
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Fielder?
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
no one will sign him for 25mill per year
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions
i dont think anyone is stupid enough to
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 9:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Cripes! I just thought of this...
What if we get niether?!
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
And might be our most likely option.
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
it's scott moore time!
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions
YEESS!!!
“The youth movement”!!!
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
^Most definately this^
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
Ya Think?! :]
No. I just feel at Puhols age (and 10 yrs/300mil potentially) and Princes “weight issues” and sometimes “ifffy” performances at the plate… it just creeps me out. Maybe I’ve watched the Cubs too long…but, what if my gut is right?. Tho Prince would seem the lesser of two evils…who’d be surprized if both went into the crapper on the Cubs payroll? Puhols owns IMHO, bith the bigger upside, and the potential for the biggest downside.
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
B-I-th Jeffstorm...really?!
B*o*th silly…BOTH
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
Maybe you have watched the Cubs too long, Jeff.
You’ve resorted to talking to yourself.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
MAYBE?! LOL
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
I want both!!!
Albert at 3rd and Prince at First.
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
Wonder if that explains why he got
tattooed the other night.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions
hooray
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 1, 2011 10:37 PM CDT up reply actions
Al..Thank You So Much!!!
Al…I have to put a shout out to you for calling out Quade for the ignorant nickname game yesterday To me it just shows that this dope thinks he’s on the playground instead of being the boss. From the beginning of the year I have switched off the pre game simply because I coundn’t stand the interview with him. “Cassy”, “Demp”, “Sori”, “Marmz”… How does he expect anyone to take him seriously Can you imagine what is going through “Ricksy’s” mind right now with his team spiraling. Have enjoyed the blog for years…please keep up the good work despite our awful team.
"Ricksy" just today declared that he thinks the team is fine...
…and that somehow there poor performance is injury based.
Ground Control to Major Tom.
And the poll on the CSN website
Says 5% think he’s right, while 94% think he’s wrong.
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
State high point count: 3/50
If you are grouchy, irritable, or just plain mean, there will be a $10 charge for putting up with you.
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 1, 2011 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions
You know, this is a stupid argument
I can’t believe people are making an issue of this.
Like I said elsewhere, if this team were just a little bit better, people would find that affectation charming.
There’s enough stuff to bitch about without manufacturing some more.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:03 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Sure, but...
… when the team isn’t going well, maybe the cute could be avoided?
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
I don't think he's trying to be cute
I think that’s just who he is.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:36 PM CDT up reply actions
You're in my head.
There’s not enough room in here for both of us. Get out. :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions
You can have part of Peoria.
I’ll take the other part. Just don’t leave me with all of the dregs of it.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:41 PM CDT up reply actions
You take east of Knoxville, I'll take west
This way, we each get some goods and some dregs. :)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:42 PM CDT up reply actions
You just did that
So you could get Agatucci’s and The Fish House. And leave me with Joe’s Crab Shack. :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:45 PM CDT up reply actions
I must say,
It’s very nice seeing you two divide Peoria up into personal territories. Two questions remain:
One, will you two be friends once you have divided Peoria?
Two, exactly how will you defend your territories and make sure there is no trespassing? :)
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
State high point count: 3/50
If you are grouchy, irritable, or just plain mean, there will be a $10 charge for putting up with you.
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 1, 2011 9:46 PM CDT up reply actions
Given that it's Peoria
I’m not sure how many trespassers I have to worry about. :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:48 PM CDT up reply actions
LOL
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
State high point count: 3/50
If you are grouchy, irritable, or just plain mean, there will be a $10 charge for putting up with you.
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 1, 2011 9:49 PM CDT up reply actions
What, you have a problem with the bridge going over the river on 474?
You just need new shocks and possibly a new tire after every trip. Is that so bad?
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions
Will there be passports?
My mom lives on one side, my dad and in-laws on the other. Or can we come and go in between both?
I don't foresee any travel restrictions.
Just pick your roads wisely. :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:49 PM CDT up reply actions
You also get the Hofbrau
And you get all of downtown. I think you’re getting the better end of the deal. :)
(Just was at the Fish House last week. Great meal, as usual, for a good price.)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:47 PM CDT up reply actions
I haven't been to the downtown eateries
But I hear there are some really good ones there. Including Jim’s Steakhouse.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:49 PM CDT up reply actions
Jim's is very solid
IMHO, the best steak place in town.
Kelleher’s is very good for bar food. In fact, Brenly and Pete Vonachen were talking about it in the booth during the game in which Pete was honored recently.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Lariat
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Lariat's pretty darned good
I think Jim’s is a little better, but you can’t go wrong at the Lariat, either.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions
Lariat's probably a better bargain.....
……Damn…is Alex’s Steak and Brew still down there by the Hoffbrau house?
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Alexander's Steak House
You cook you own. Still there. I like it, but I’m not crazy about the cook-your-own part.
I agree, Lariat is a better value.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions
There's one of those in Champaign too.
I think you can have them cook your steak, but for an extra charge. I haven’t been there in over 20 years, though.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions
I believe you are correct
There’s one in Springfield, too, IIRC.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions
Glad to see they're still round...
ya..that’s what i meant
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
let me get this straight
you go to a restaurant and you have to cook your own food or pay extra to have them cook it for you?
by sanshokubento on Jun 2, 2011 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions
Right
They have a big grill in the middle of the room. You throw on your steaks, have a drink and stand at the grill and socialize/keep drinking/whatever. I know, it sounds weird, but it’s popular.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 2, 2011 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions
Woah. I've never heard of that.
I’ve been to a Genghis Grill, where you go to a buffet of raw meats and vegetables, spices, sauces, etc. and then give it to the cooks, but nothing like that, where you cook your own. Sounds kinda cool though.
We'll all miss you Ron.
I was at the Fish House in April.
Stepdaughter’s 16th birthday and she picked it. Smart girl.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions
She has excellent taste
For the money, I think it’s the best restaurant in town.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions
Haven't been there in years.
We always went there for birthdays, but with significant others and bar tabs it got too pricey, so we started going to Leonardo’s.
Good call on Leonardo's
It’s changed hands a few times, so it’s not as good as it once was, but it still isn’t bad.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions
LaGondola
serving Leonardo’s pizza. It isn’t the same.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 11:41 PM CDT up reply actions
and Summer Camp!
Grandview Drive and PRsopect
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
You got emo's and PPW.....
And Wisconsin and McClure
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
and never forget the Penguin
Tap…..IMHO better pizza than aggies
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Sounds like I have a lot of eateries to visit.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:03 PM CDT up reply actions
I think the Penguin
…is “no more”…..but I haven’t been there in a few years….
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
The Penguin is gone,
but the tavern that is open there now serves Penguin-style pizza.
Mark Grace always made the Penguin a must-stop when he visited Peoria. Not only did he play for the Chiefs, his first wife was from here.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:21 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
My dad said it was gone...
but the new owner servers up the zas pretty much the same
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
and for that mater....
Avanti’s Pizza is very underrated…it gets like Giordano’s respect :)….and the thin crust is similar….
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Everybody talks about their Gondolas
but their pizza is nice, too. Peoria Pizza Works and Hoops are good, too.
You really can’t go wrong with anything at Avanti’s, though.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions
The Gondola is a weak A##
excuse for a sandwich……the PizzaPrima …..that is the only thing I crave more than a IB w/ GP and gravy…
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Yep
Not coincidentally, Ray also became a Penguin regular when he came to town. I think they’re divorced now, too.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:53 PM CDT up reply actions
what year did ur wife graduate from RHS?
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
I probably remember...
your wife….and you too……
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Oh...and we can quit here
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
OK, I don't remember you.
But then RHS was very big.
by jpeters407 on Jun 1, 2011 11:23 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Bergan Trojans, RIP
Catholic education in Peoria still hasn’t recovered from the ham-handed way the diocese handled the Bergan-Spalding merger.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 11:43 PM CDT up reply actions
Wow.
An entire subthread on life in Peoria.
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Now you can see why
of all the places in the world we could have picked to go for vacation this year we chose Peoria.
Fasten those seat belts...
That's as far as you gas budget would get you?
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
An offseason thread idea
A non-sports board I frequent has a series in their off-topic area called “Ask so-and-so anything about ….” So an airline pilot would answer questions about the airlines, a guy living in Argentina would answer questions about about that, etc.
It might be fun in the winter to have some of the more prolific commenters run an off-topic thread each week.
It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??
Peoria is the center of the universe, you know
I’ve never seen a community this size that has its tentacles in so many ways nationally and even internationally.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 2, 2011 12:12 PM CDT up reply actions
If you don't mind a 15 minute drive,..
I would recommend Gil’s in Hanna City. Best fried chicken I’ve ever eaten…and it’s come as you are and not too bad on the wallet.
I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen. ~Bob Lemon, 1981
I've been to Gil's and I concur
Great food for a great price. We could get into a whole other discussion on great places to eat near Peoria (Mona’s and Capponi’s in Toluca, Midway Duck Inn in Lacon, etc.).
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 2, 2011 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Peoria's the place to be!
Okay, maybe it isn’t.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 2, 2011 12:24 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah...thanks you guys.
I have to write these all down. We will be in Peoria next week. We’ve been to Hofbrau and loved it. We’d like to go there again, but it looks like they are closed on Monday and that is probably the only night we will be there. Rhodell was fun too, but this time we’ve got the kids.
Fasten those seat belts...
NBF would be a much more reliable source
As I’m only a transplant to the area since 2009. But as crazy as it sounds, I’ve always loved Central Illinois (8 years in Champaign-Urbana).
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:15 PM CDT up reply actions
ILL?
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
INI!
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:17 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Who's ready for some Illini football
We might have a shot against OSU this year… Good times.
They have two liter bottles now? To think I spent all that time demanding a liter!
C-U is a nice area
Haven’t eaten there much, although I’m partial to Papa Del’s.
Didn’t realize this was going to turn into a Peoria dining/drinking compendium, but I guess it’s more interesting than talking about the team right now.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:18 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Or at least leads to more cordial conversation. :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Certainly there's
a lot more consensus. :)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions
And I don't do "Homer Mad, Homer Smash" well.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Papa Del's is
Pretty good. Not a big of the restaurant layout but the food is solid.
They have two liter bottles now? To think I spent all that time demanding a liter!
*Not a big fan of the restaurant layout...
They have two liter bottles now? To think I spent all that time demanding a liter!
PD's
is the best pizza in the Midwest. I’m a chicagoan and can confidently say its better than any of the places up here.
try the Quad City Style Pizza
two/three hours drive west can get you some of the finest pizza in the world.
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
Where in the Quad Cities is it
and what makes it so special?
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 2, 2011 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions
I assume he's talking about the general style of pizza and not a specific place called "QCSP"
And I’ll guess he’s maybe referring to Harris/Wise Guys/Uncle Bills/Momma Bossa style. Hard to describe it, it’s a thinner crust (but not thin crust), uses crumble sausage and lots of cheese. Very tasty.
I will have to try it out
next time in the QCA. I guess I’ll have to skip Rudy’s Tacos.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 3, 2011 1:23 AM CDT up reply actions
Harris is the "parent" chain
The details are fuzzy but Harris was the first, then a few of the co-owners had a falling out and created the sibling Wise Guys and Uncle Bills. The recipes are pretty much the same. Momma Bossa is the frozen knock off of Harris and is something you buy in the grocery stores, and is also produced locally.
correction Dan...
Franks was the first started in the late 30’s early forties, then harris, Clints, Sluggers(family friend, i’d recommend that), wiseguys, fields of pizza…havent heard of uncle bills but i’ve been gone for 12 years. Dan’s description is pretty accurate… 
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
Rhodell isn't long on atmosphere
but its beer more than makes up for it.
Hofbrau might have the nicest, most welcoming staff of any restaurant in town. Always have a good time there, but indeed, they’re closed on Monday. (Almost went there tonight, in fact.)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:16 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
They've been there for .....
A LONG TIME …considering I haven’t lived in p-town since 1989….
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
I think the Hofbrau opened in 1984
The guy who opened it retired, and his kids run it now. Sweethearts all.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:19 PM CDT up reply actions
What brings you to P-Town?
Chiefs game?
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:24 PM CDT up reply actions
Nice
O’Brien Field is a real gem. State high school baseball tournament is there this weekend.
If you have only one “decent” meal to eat in Peoria, the Fish House would be my pick. If you don’t like fish, the Lariat is great for steaks. I like Jim’s a little better, as I mentioned above, but it’s a little pricey and a little dressy. The other two places are come as you are.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Thanks.
That helps a lot. All the other times I’ve been to Peoria I was in the art fair and I didn’t have time to see much.
Fasten those seat belts...
Have a good time
I grew up in Chicago, but I’ve lived in Peoria most of the last 30 years and have really grown to love it.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:41 PM CDT up reply actions
A bit similar to my situation.
Grew in in Chicago and landed in Peoria. Spent a lot of time in between bouncing around the Midwest like a fart in a spacesuit, though.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:45 PM CDT up reply actions
My spacesuit explodeded ...
and put me far away….but I’m also like opposite….grew up in Peoria/Morton….went to the screw….lived in Chicago area for a bit…
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Agatucci's?
It’s all right, but it’s not my favorite.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:54 PM CDT up reply actions
We really need a Giordano's down here. Or a Lou Malnati's.
Maybe there’s some good pizza down here and I’ve just missed it, but it’s hard to beat either of those two.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:56 PM CDT up reply actions
Agreed
There used to be a Lou Malnati’s here, in Sheridan Village in the mid-late 80s, but it closed. Malnati’s son Rick played basketball at Bradley.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 11:10 PM CDT up reply actions
Strange they didn't like it.
Maybe some things just don’t work in some places.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 11:18 PM CDT up reply actions
Rick was popular at Bradley.
I hate to say it but he was scrappy and played hard. Always looked out of place, but made good things happen.
We used to divide it east of the river...
and west of the river….
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
I guess east of the river
gives me the new Bass Pro Shop! (golfclap)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:58 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, but you also would
get Pekin. Not sure if that’s good or bad. :)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Ugh, I try not to think of Pekin.
I’m close enough to them as it is (I’m actually in Morton), but I guess I would have to take east to get my house in it. I’ll just blot that part out. :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:30 PM CDT up reply actions
I don't get over to Morton much
Passing through on 74, but that’s about it.
I think Schooners used to have an outlet in Morton; went to it a long time ago, but I’m not sure it’s still there.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:32 PM CDT up reply actions
I think Vince's in Morton....
Closed in the early 90’s….But like I said….I haven’t bee round…but Vince’s had pizza that would compete quite well with any of the above ….. all of which are better than any of the crap I get is So. FLA these days….
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
I remember Vince's
Never ate there, heard good things about it.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:39 PM CDT up reply actions
You're not missing a lot, really.
Schooner’s is still here, and we have a decent Mexican restaurant in La Fiesta. Aside from that, it pretty much thrives on the fact that Caterpillar and Libby’s are here. I guess being the Pumpkin Capital of the World counts for something. :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:39 PM CDT up reply actions
me either.....
and Vinces closed in Morton …form what I heard a while ago…:)
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
All this divvying up and no one has mentioned Big Al's yet?
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."
They don't serve food there...
LOL :) N/T
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
I think the dividing line
cuts right through the middle of Big Al’s, actually. ;-)
(The credit-card receipts at that place say “Big Al’s Restaurant.” From what I hear, at least. :) )
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions
Chips and Granola bar?
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
LOL
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
State high point count: 3/50
If you are grouchy, irritable, or just plain mean, there will be a $10 charge for putting up with you.
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 1, 2011 9:44 PM CDT up reply actions
It's a matter of folksyness...
….and it’s going to wear on fans and the press. It might also begin to wear on players if things don’t improve. I know the clubhouse dynamic is different than your typical office but Quade is still the boss, and I would eventually want to punch my boss in the face if I had to hear the nicknames on a daily basis, especially in a bad work environment.
I have 2 women bosses,
and they both call me babe…they call everyone that. I’ve asked them to stop, but it’s a habit for them. Yes I want to smack them daily. very annoying
"Well-behaved women seldom make History"---Laurel Thatcher Ulrich
The way I see it, though,
It’s just who he is. He’s not doing it (in my opinion) to be “cute”. It’s a nuance of Quade’s. Maybe he’s been doing it all of his life, I don’t know. But if a guy uses nicknames with people, he’s probably always going to do it regardless of good or bad times. I personally don’t care what he calls anybody… I just wish he could get the pitchers to learn how to pitch again.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:36 PM CDT up reply actions 2 recs
Wow,
Great minds from Peoria think alike? :)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:41 PM CDT up reply actions
It was scary.
Just as I was about to hit “POST” yours showed up. It was Twilight-Zone-ish.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:43 PM CDT up reply actions
on the plus side
The nickname thing does make him easier to mock.
Was it Jon Lovitz that had that old SNL skit about calling people cute nicknames until they wanted to throttle him?
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
I do believe you are correct.
“Sory! Makin’ copies. Swingin’ out of the strike zone. Sorianarinooooo.”
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 2, 2011 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions
rusty you're doing rob schnieder...
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
maybe it was Rob Schneider...
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
Oh, yeah. Rob Schnieder.
Right idea, wrong SNL era.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 2, 2011 5:10 PM CDT up reply actions
You just have to wonder what it will take for him to get upset.
I think I speak for everyone here when I say, "Wait, what the hell are you talking about?"
I would image he's plenty frustrated.
I honestly don’t mind that he doesn’t show it much to the public if he is.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:21 PM CDT up reply actions
But they aren't......
and their division record is telling…….
They are a “train wreck”
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
....and their body language tells me....
they are mailing it in already
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Regardless of that
Quade changing what he calls them isn’t going to change the way they play. Unless they’re just that thin-skinned.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 9:56 PM CDT up reply actions
You are correct....
It is really an institutional problem….
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Using those names...
…doesn’t exactly give you the feeling the guy is in command, does it?
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Quade simply can't manage a ML roster...
This is what I was afraid of. The team sucks, the manager sucks. And what did the front office do in the off season? Throw Quade a bone w/ the job for doing good when Lou left, with a team with nothing to play for. At the same time they ran off the obvious choice in Ryno. I’ve about reached my breaking point. Hiring Ryno seemed like a no-brainer & somehow the Cubs frakked it! Aaaarrrggghhh! I’m coming to join ya Elizabeth!
I'm a truth teller, I'm a risk taker, I'm like Johnny Cash - I walk the line...
by Jimmyeatworld on Jun 1, 2011 9:02 PM CDT via mobile reply actions 1 recs
I was waiting for a Ryno reference in scalmie's post.
but Jimmy got it done.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Yeah, I was a little surprised
that post was Ryno-less myself.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions
BRUCE!
Is it still EARLY YET?
:)
Earlier and earlier, every year!
Still is, E
but it’s getting later every day. :)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions
this season is an old crappy beater
quade just decided to make it uglier by giving it a hot pink paint job
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions
Where did you get
a picture of my car?
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions
Now THAT is a patched-up car!
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
State high point count: 3/50
If you are grouchy, irritable, or just plain mean, there will be a $10 charge for putting up with you.
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 1, 2011 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions
its the 2011 cubs, baby!
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions
I can fix it, dude.
My dad’s got a bitchin set of tools.
The sun is up. They sky is blue. It's beautiful, and so are you. Dear Prudence, won't you come out to play? ~Lennon & McCartney
by SouthWabashSoul on Jun 1, 2011 10:49 PM CDT up reply actions
I immediately thought of
Bitchin’ Camaro by the Dead Milkmen.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:51 PM CDT up reply actions
i ran over my neighbors dog....
"There had to be a place where the game could be fun again….that place is called Wrigley Field"---Andre Dawson
One thing you learned as a Cubs fan: when you bought your ticket, you could bank on seeing the bottom of the ninth. Joe Garagiola
Spiccoli lives!
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
It's a hundred and two years since we went all the way, we've got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark, and we're wearing sunglasses.
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
I give up
I think SDSJM’s post above says it all.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm not trying to cause trouble here
but do you honestly feel we’d be contending in this division if we had Ryno???
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
trouble is fine...
I do know that Ryno knows how to manage a ML roster- and wouldn’t this shit laying down as Quade seemingly does.
I’m not saying fire him, DFA this guy or that guy. I’m lamenting the dumbass move of hiring Quade & running Ryno off at he same time.
I'm a truth teller, I'm a risk taker, I'm like Johnny Cash - I walk the line...
by Jimmyeatworld on Jun 1, 2011 9:13 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
I might agree if
we actually ran Ryno off. (and we might’ve ruined our future chances). But to say "you know Ryno can manage a ML Team??? How do you know that? IMHO, we’d still be a 4th-6th plc team right now. It’s the players, the injuries, the pitching, the depth etc.
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
How do you "know" Ryne knows how to manage a MLB roster
he has never coached one!
The only question I have is...if Ryno was managing this team...
…would they look like they could at least play baseball at the major league level. Upon the departure of Rothschild the team pitching has completely regressed and the overall fundamentals have also completely regressed.
The question isn’t whether Ryno would have this team contending but rather would Ryno at least have this team moving forward.
We'll never know. So (Sorry Jim) this is an exercise in futility
I had thought Quade would help in this regards…not. And yes, tho I was happy to say g’bye to Larry R… I’d give my left arm to have him over “Riggsie”.
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
agreed.
I contend they would & might actually be contending in a weak division. Oh well. Might as well forget that.
I'm a truth teller, I'm a risk taker, I'm like Johnny Cash - I walk the line...
by Jimmyeatworld on Jun 1, 2011 9:26 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
how is this division weak?
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions
IMHO
Division is “less weak” now that Cards are doing the “unthinkable” (contending when many thought they were DONE!)
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
...and if it were up to me......
I’d try to dominate the division first…and I’d do that by trying to get a staff of 1/2 starters … Like the Phillies.
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Um....no......
The record would be bout the same…..
The best defense is a good offense.....
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"
Spot on, Jimmy!
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
State high point count: 3/50
If you are grouchy, irritable, or just plain mean, there will be a $10 charge for putting up with you.
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 1, 2011 9:23 PM CDT up reply actions
I thought you were dead
"A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality." John Lennon
"My favorite food is Macaroni and Cheese, from the blue box." Geovany Soto
We have
a Snake Plissken sighting?
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 11:44 PM CDT up reply actions
not snake pliskin
Big Jake McCandles and if one more person tells him that, so help he’ll shoot them himself
I'm going to the 2012 Randy Hundley Fantasy Camp!!! Who's with me?
hiring Ryno would have been a no-brainer
In the worst sense
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
Wow Al!
What a comparison!
And, to know that two years after 1976, the Dave Kingman “era” started at Wrigley field.
I graduated high school in 1975, so we spent quite a few days in the Bleachers when I paid $2 or $3
I am thinking by the end of the upcoming road-trip, the team will be 10.5-12 games under .500.
As I said last night, the season is ending earlier and earlier over the past three years. Injuries – no injuries. No difference.
If Hill gets a few more starts, they could make a run.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Weren't you the guy
who is quoted as saying, “He [Hill] does tries the best that he can…”?
Of course.
You’ve quoted me as saying that at least twice.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
At least...
You will be owning that gem for the rest of the year!
Absolutely.
I hope you continue to bring it up. Make it your sig, even.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
HAHA...
no – its yours, thank you.
I was thinking you were Koyie’s cousin for a while.
You mean he isn't?
That’s news to me! ;-)
I didn't believe it last August, but it turns out that love survives.
State high point count: 3/50
If you are grouchy, irritable, or just plain mean, there will be a $10 charge for putting up with you.
by Vermont Cubs Fan on Jun 1, 2011 9:36 PM CDT up reply actions
Perhaps I am, E-Man.
I’ve seen many on this site criticize a good hard working guy like Koyie, but I can guarantee you, I’ve never once jumped into that fray. It’s despicable, really, that Koyie, who is a good man that I’ve known almost all my life, has received such harsh treatment from some on this blog.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
I had a feeling
I separate all of the “nice guys”, from their achievements in their professional sport that I support with my money, loyalty, and time.
Underline “professional”. It is not his fault that management decided to pay him $750K to be a back-up, bad catcher that does not get it done. It is his fortune. Just get your shit together dude and stop losing games for your team and hitting like a bad rookie.
If I were to perform at an equal level at my place of work, I guarantee you that I would be looking for work.
Again, no doubt he is a terrific, wonderful, big-hearted individual.
I want my team to have better options than your relative/life-long friend.
Look, E-Man, don't take it out on me because you're not tight with a celebrity like I am.
Koyie (or “Beansy,” as we call him (inside joke)), IS a professional. He goes to work every day and works his tail off. He most certainly has his “shit together.” Did you not see the Cubs record when he started and Soto was out? They’d win about 95 games if he had the regular starting job. And if you performed like he does at your place of work, you’d be receiving a raise. Don’t believe me? Jim Hendry, who won BACK TO BACK division titles, avoided arbitration to give him a RAISE this past winter.
Game. Set. Match.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
and boom goes the dynamite
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 1, 2011 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions
Ok..ok
Yes, well it is Jim Hendry, don’t forget.
I really do not want to argue this point with you. His Line of .213 .269 .328 says it all.
Ideally – he would be starting a game a week. It hasn’t happened that way, and the pitchers “like” throwing to him. Except when he can’t throw a runner out, or drops the ball, etc.
Hendry must truly love him, and I would expect him to end up as a coach next year someplace, unless he becomes a professional carpenter. ;)
Is that a dig at his mangled hand, E-Man?
Because if he wanted to, Koyie could build a replica of Noah’s Ark this offseason. HE’S THAT GOOD.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
NO!
I believe that he is a Master Carpenter.
That means, he basically could build his own house, cabinets, deck, as well as supervise others on a job site.
I do not take that lightly. He is probably much more talented in that area than as a baseball player.
He's a great carpenter.
But no one’s paying him 850 grand to build houses like they are to be one of the best baseball players in the world.
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Sorry, but the reality is that he is one of the best
baseball players in the world. All major leaguers are. We like to kid ourselves that it is easy and they should all be stars but that is never going to happen. Do I think he should be on the Cubs? No. Is he a class act? Yes, not giving autos to random people withstanding. Is he a good baseball player? Yes, he just is not a good MAJOR league player.
This is what it sounds like when doves cry.
"The riches of the game are in the thrills, not the money." --Ernie Banks
CooooOOOO! CoooooOOOOO!!!
We were sppeaking of “Prince”…above. :)
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
"I wish I could say the same for you and your crew of flunkies.
You guys want some grapes?… Bitches."
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Jun 1, 2011 11:42 PM CDT up reply actions
I'm done
It is the only way to keep what’s left of my sanity. The problem is that I won’t be able to stay away. The Cubs are like a bad habit that is hard to break. I believe there is a tiny bit in each one of us that wants to watch the train wreck. It’s the reason we rubber neck an accident. We are glad it’s not us in that mangled piece of metal. But the Cubs are our wreck. We can’t watch it because we are a part of it.
I have PMS & a GPS -- which means -- I am a bitch, and I will find you.
by cub in louies nest on Jun 1, 2011 9:25 PM CDT reply actions
Cubs are gonna get swept in the STL
Cards pushed Garcia back to Friday night so they face him, Lohse and Carpenter….I could see a winless roadtrip. I’m dead serious too, I’d put it about 10%
People were saying that before the last trip, too.
And the Cubs did win three games. This team has played better on the road. I’d expect that to continue.
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
And to pour salt in the wounds...
The Cards will be them this weekend..“Q” will still have a job….and I’ll owe my Cardinal fan buddy a case of beer due to a standing bet on Cubs – Cards series.
You mean he wasn't the Cubbies
next Lou Brock? Shocking. :) G’nite all. Bedtime for me. Thanks for your time and opinions. JS2
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
Lou Ferrigno?
Damn it man…answer the phone!!! :)
I didn't understand the "white-collar Cub fans", "blue-collar Sox fans" until much later in life. Harry Smith~ "For Cubs Fans Only".
Call me crazy but I'm suddenly very nostalgic for the '76 team...
For one thing, I was twelve years old that year and had not yet suffered a lifetime of Cubs’ disappointments. For all I knew the Cubs’ travails that year were just a bump in the road to the promised land. Little did I know…
Plus it sure was fun watching Monday and Madlock have career years (I still remember how pissed I was when Lasorda left both of them off the all-star team in favor of Steve “Frickin’” Swisher)
Also, Bruce Sutter showed up sometime in May that year and immediately showed us what a ML closer was.
Anyway, thanks for the trip down memory lane Al. Sometimes I think that’s all I have left as a Cubs fan.
Any day the Cards lose
is a good day.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Exactly what I was going for
And the fact that it was lost on a 9th inning 2 out rally makes it all the better.
We'll all miss you Ron.
Indeed.
I was teased by a Cardinal fan while I was out shopping yesterday about Marmol’s meltdown. I felt kicked when I was down. This is a small consolation.
Fasten those seat belts...
They took Franklin out of the closer spot a while back
Fernando Salas has been pretty good for them. Franklin, himself, has been constantly victimized by defense and bad luck. If you want to laugh about something, laugh about Miguel Batista.
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 2, 2011 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions
Right, I know they took him out
That was precisely what I was getting at, that their closer was so bad (20% in save ops) that they had to move on. Salas has been good, except last night.
We'll all miss you Ron.
They had to take him out...
to appease idiot fans who would actually quote someone’s save . He wasn’t anywhere near as bad as 20 effective. Only in your world is having a former all-star closer not perform up to his previous standards at the start of a year something to mock a team for. Not to mention, they were paying him very little compared to other closers, had three other guys who could help step in (an that’s after moving a key guy from the pen to the rotation)… and they’re still in first place.
Keep reachin’ for them stars. You just might grab one some day.
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Just North of Wrigley Field
by jameslcrockett on Jun 3, 2011 1:08 AM CDT up reply actions
Completely 100% O/T
Pandora Radio makes life wonderful.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:40 PM CDT reply actions
Dont' start with the Zappa
or I’ll be here all night. :)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:42 PM CDT up reply actions
Never followd Frank Zappa.
(Let the ritual flogging commence)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:44 PM CDT up reply actions
Frank Vincent Zappa
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
THANK YOU!
The term Genius is used pretty frequently these days, but in Zappa’s case, it applies.
Interestingly, he did not die of an OD like many of his colleagues – he did no drugs – but was a chain smoker.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/7/7b/Zappa_BobbyBrown.ogg
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
Frank Zappa - guitarist, avant garde composer and all around social satirist
Frank never made it on the radio - not a real top 40 sound
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzPUZwev7V8
Even playing rock and roll, the avant garde side came out. But any decent short list of great guitar players will have Frank’s name on it.
Haven't heard of that one before.
I’ll have to give it a peek.
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 11:23 PM CDT up reply actions
Slacker Radio repeats way too often
At least you don’t have the same issue with Pandora.
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Jun 1, 2011 11:43 PM CDT up reply actions
Depends on how you use Slacker.
You can set it up to run exactly like Pandora – there are just a lot more options for slacker.
Why late in the game was DeWitt and Colvin allowed to bat vs a LHP?
Isnt that why Montenez is here?
This team is really run poorly……and of course DeWitt should have moved to 3B when Rami got hurt….
Just stupid…
We were having a good time here, TJ,
until you brought us back to game stuff. :)
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 1, 2011 10:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Yeah, seriously.
Way to kill the buzz, dude. :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 10:52 PM CDT up reply actions
Of? :)
"Juuuuuuussst a bit outside. He tried for the corner and missed..."
- Harry Doyle
by Rusty in Peoria on Jun 1, 2011 11:50 PM CDT up reply actions
On vacation, just dropped in to say
Fire Quade & Hendry now!
"Go Cubs!"
by Itchy on Jun 1, 2011 11:53 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
c. 258 days...
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
by eths on Jun 2, 2011 3:25 AM CDT via mobile reply actions
Wish I knew what happened to all my cool baseball cards.
I didn’t have much of a collection, but I know I had this one.
I had a huge crush on Swisher when I was a kid. I see your comparison is to Hill. I find that amusing because I am probably Koyie’s biggest (by biggest I mean only) fan here. But no way is Hill an all-star. Please don’t break my heart by telling me Swisher wasn’t deserving of being an all-star either. :)
Fasten those seat belts...
This is Hysterically
Funny!
Why one player has a helmet on, when the rest of the team does not, is really puzzling.
Anyone recognize him? Its not Madlock.
Jose’s hair is shorter than I remember.
Are you talking about the second guy on the top row?
If so, this is my guess.
I bet they cropped off some of Jose’s hair to fit him in the picture.
Fasten those seat belts...
Two high quality afros (Hosley and Cardenal)
on this squad, but no one can compare to the greatest baseball afro of all time, Oscar Gamble. Pic to be provided…….
Not to mention.....
that Stoney was sporting a quality caucasian “fro” back in ’76
...
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
That's it!
I knew I could count on BCBers to have a good library of Oscar pics
GIS is your friend.
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
I believe Helmet Guy is Tim Hosley.
Who had exactly one at-bat for the 1976 Cubs.
Is that a 1976 team card? Or 1975?
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Jim Marshall was even worse with the '79 A's
Oakland went 54-108 that year, before a season home attendance of 300,000. You wanna talk about one of the all-time worst seasons for a team…
- Their games were broadcast on a college radio station whose signal faded in and out
- The team receptionist was an intercom
- MC Hammer was Charlie Finley’s advisor
The lone bright spot was a young kid named Henderson who was kinda good at stealing bases.
That team had two home games that drew fewer than 1,000
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I believe this is the 75.
It’s not nearly as cool. It looks very familiar to me. I bet I had that one too. I’m guessing I threw them both out when I replaced my Steve Swisher newpaper clippings with my Tiger Beat pics of Shaun on my bulletin board. What was I thinking?
Fasten those seat belts...
Must have been the catcher
Jody Davis was wearing a no-ear-flap helmet on essentially every baseball card ever.
MLBMilestone.com - following the numbers to Cooperstown
It's funny, Al, I was thinking of the '65 Cubs at some point during this miserable game.
Series like this get the mind to reel. Love the list. I hope Pena can in anyway remind me of Madlock the rest of the way. He may out-homer him, I’ll give him that.
I was wondering if this is 1947 all over again.
Then I decide to partake in a Bavarian Koolaid and go to bed.
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
the '65 Cubs
Had three guys ( Billy, Ernie, & Ron ) who all drove in 100 runs. Trouble was Don Landrum was 4th best with 34. Bil Faul hypnotized himself before starts. Strange mix of over-the-hill guys with a few decent kids. Beckert & Kessinger were the Barney & Castro of their day. Altman, Kuenn, Landrum, Bailey, were similar to Sori, ARam, Fukudome. The team had an aging rotation Jackson, Buhl, ( Demp & Z ) but DID have a pretty good bullpen (Abernathy & McDaniel ( Marshall & Marmol).
"It's a funny old world. Man's lucky if he gets out of it alive." W.C. Fields
Don't feel sorry for Jim Marshall......
because he went on to a fine career on the big screen, most notably playing Popeye Doyle and of course, Coach Norman Dale in “Hoosiers.” Loved your 1976 analogies, Al-but I was thinking the 64-win 1980 juggernaut might be a more apt comparison. Carlos Pena occupies the “HR or K” tradition of Dave Kingman, Ivan DeJesus can be compared to…err, Ivan Dejesus. And remember in 1980 we had two managers, Preston Gomez and Joey Amalfitano, both of whom fit the Mike Quade amiable-but-befuddled role.
yikes - just took a gander at the next 20 games on schedule
next three weeks could be like watching a train wreck!
by doofus cubs guy on Jun 2, 2011 12:00 PM CDT reply actions
The Cubs could, conceivably, surprise the hell out of us.
I would prefer to think they might, even if the chance is slim.
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
C'mon eths.
Stop looking at us from that window. Get out on the ledge and jump already. Aren’t you getting lonely up there all by yourself?
On second thought…do you have any of that Bavarian Koolaid left? I’ll just brush myself off and join you up there in a minute.
Fasten those seat belts...
I'm scared of heights....
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
I don't buy the idea that it gets worse than this
We are at a low point right now. We just got swept, at home, by one of the few teams with a worse record than ours. Expectations are dirt-low.
I would say that there is nothing more to fear. Any win is a pleasant surprise now.
"Wait, are you saying I'm a sunshine-pumping, koolaid-drinking, Soriano-loving, rainbow-rising, unicorn-riding, double-clutching, Sweet Lou-backing, Hendry-supporting, hey hey whaddya saying, Cubs are going all the waying, glass is overflowing, Rothschild is all-knowing, Cubs fan? - ballhawk
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