Yankees Show Cubs How It's Done, Take Series With 10-4 Win
by Al Yellon on Jun 20, 2011 7:30 AM CDT
in Chicago Cubs Recaps
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For seven innings, at least, last night, we had yet another terrific game at Wrigley Field between the Cubs and Yankees.
Then, the clear differences between the two teams showed up. With the game tied 4-4 in the top of the eighth, Mike Quade chose to leave Sean Marshall in the game to face Alex Rodriguez, Robinson Cano and Nick Swisher.
On the face of it, this isn't that bad a decision. Marshall has been very good this year and can get both righthanded and lefthanded hitters out. The problem is that Marshall (and please stop with the cute nicknames, Mike Quade: "Marsh"? Please.) threw 33 pitches on Thursday and 14 on Friday and may be getting to "overworked". The next problem is that... well, the Cubs didn't really have that many other options. Chris Carpenter was the next guy up in the pen (with Kerry Wood still on the DL). Evidently, Quade didn't want Carpenter to face A-Rod and Cano.
This appears to be one of those "and death is not an option" choices. Marshall gave up sharp singles to A-Rod and Cano -- this after he had a 1-2-3 seventh -- and you could almost predict the three-run blast that Swisher hit deep into the right-field bleachers. (In fact, my friend Dave did call it.)
And that, as they say, was that. The Yankees don't blow leads like that -- not with a bullpen that's got five different pitchers with an ERA under 2.00 -- and they didn't, although David Robertson and ex-White Sox Jeff Marquez gave the Cubs five baserunners in the eighth and ninth innings, all of whom were stranded. That gave the Cubs seven runners from the fourth inning on who were in scoring position with less than two out, none of whom scored. This is, unfortunately, a familiar Cub story the last two years.
When Alfonso Soriano hit a three-run homer off CC Sabathia -- a home run that must have given him a great deal of personal satisfaction, hitting it off his former team -- to give the Cubs a 4-1 lead after three, a Cubs fan could be forgiven if he or she actually thought the team might take the game and series. Then, though, the Cubs made another fielding gaffe that helped the Yankees climb back into it. With one out and a runner on in the fourth, Cano hit a dribbler in front of the plate. Better defense would have ended the inning with a double play; instead, Starlin Castro took his foot off the bag at second, then threw late to first, so both runners were safe.
Good teams take advantage of those situations, and the Yankees did, making it 4-3 on a single, a walk and a high bouncer with the bases loaded where Aramis Ramirez had no chance of getting Cano at the plate. They tied it on a pair of singles and a sac fly in the sixth, setting up Swisher's heroics, and then put it away with three more in the ninth off James Russell and Rodrigo Lopez.
Can we please have one thing in this lost season? When Kerry Wood returns, could we please see the name "Rodrigo Lopez" on the "unconditionally released" list? I've seen no useful redeeming features with Lopez; he isn't going to start any more games and the Cubs don't use guys in true "long relief", so he's pretty well useless. Carpenter has a great arm; he can touch 98 on speed guns and he's going to be a good major league pitcher.
The problem with this team is that they just don't have quite enough of anything. Not enough to put good teams away when they have an early lead. Not enough from Randy Wells on a night when he really needed to give the team seven innings due to an overtaxed bullpen. Not enough hits with runners on base -- 10 men left on again by the Cubs.
Yankee fans overran Wrigley again last night. ESPNw's Amanda Rykoff and a large group of her friends (one celebrating a birthday with a sign reading "All I want for my birthday is a Yankees win", complete with battery-operated lit-up candles) sat with us in the left-field corner. They attempted to do the chant that Yankees bleacher fans do in New York for their starting lineup when they take the field; they chant each player's name until he acknowledges them with a wave of his glove. Brett Gardner in left field did so; I thought I saw Swisher in right do so as well, but when they tried to chant Mark Teixeira's name, he likely never heard it, nearly 400 feet away at first base, so they stopped. One more fight briefly broke out on the third-base side, but it was quickly quelled; the bleachers were a sea of calm during this series. I have nothing but good things to say about Yankee fans -- I only wish we had a team as good to root for. All weekend, the visitors from New York showed the Cubs how things ought to be done. Perhaps someday the Cubs will get the lesson.
126,283 fans paid to watch the three games, which is an all-time record for a three-game series at Wrigley Field, breaking the old mark (124,810 vs. the Brewers in late June 2007) by a considerable margin. They saw great baseball -- some played by the Cubs, but mostly, from the Yankees.
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And to think I thought we might actually win this game after Sori's HR made it 4-1.
Er, you gotta play NINE innings, Cubbies…
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
I didn't stay up for the end.
The postgame alert I got from the Cubs said the score was 10-4. Who’s right?
Fasten those seat belts...
Yup, 10-4 is correct
It just seemed like they kept scoring runs after the game was over…
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
It seemed anti-climatic. I like the 2003 series better.
If it was easy it wouldn't be the Cubs.
by Cubbinstrongsince86 on Jun 20, 2011 7:42 AM CDT reply actions
First of all, Gardner is pretty damn good. Wish the Cubs had him in LF.
Runs good routes to fly balls and is smart on the bases.
Watched the game after it was 4-4 and you could feel that the Cubs were gonna blow it. They had a chance to get back into it, but of course, no hits with runners in scoring position kills you every time. Boys amongst men for sure.
Not looking forward to the Crosstown series, Sux bats are heating up and Cubs are, well, the Cubs.
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
You're right about Gardner.
Really impressive player who gets almost no notice on that team, but does all the little things right.
The Sox are a lot like the Cubs this year. They look good for a few games, then fall on their butt. Let’s hope these three games are “fall on their butt” kinds of games for the Sox.
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I hope the Cubs can put a whoopin' on the South Siders
if just to have bragging rights this year lol The odds are the Sux are going to finish with a better record than the Cubs, any moral victory is better than nothing when it comes to this team :(
"WGN, Channel 9 Cubs Baseball, Excitingly, Importantly, Dramatically Yours." - Jack Brickhouse
There isn't much left to root for
So, I agree. At least beat the Sox. Particularly with the Cubs being so far out of things, taking the Sox down a peg will be even sweeter.
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by Brett Taylor on Jun 20, 2011 8:53 AM CDT up reply actions
Actually, Gardner started the season in a slump and there was some aprehension in NY about that.
But Gardner rebounded nicely thanks to the excellent hitting coach the Yankees have: Kevin Long.
Good coaching: That’s something else the Yankees have that the Cubs don’t.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 20, 2011 3:46 PM CDT up reply actions
I disagree that Ramirez had no chance to get Cano at the plate...
when he caught it, Cano was only halfway home. What he truly had no chance of doing was getting a double play, which is the only reason you don’t throw home there. This team just doesn’t have it defensively.
The ball took a really high hop.
I didn’t think Ramirez would have gotten Cano. You’re right, he didn’t have a chance at a DP either.
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It looked like he had a shot
And if he was going to try for two, he sure had to be quicker than he was. Even after the ball came down, he took his time – and then seemed surprised that the runner was there.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 20, 2011 7:50 AM CDT up reply actions
Sure he did.
In fact, that was the play he should have tried to make instead of backtracking to third base.
But at least he was thinking even if he took the wrong decision. I can’t say the same thing about Soriano in LF late in the game.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 20, 2011 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions
First time I watched it, I thought he made the right play.
But then the replay made it evident that he could have thrown home.
It was a tough decision—at least he made an out. The Castro play was more difficult for me to deal with.
I wondered about that.
But isn’t there an issue with trying to throw around Cano?
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
Throwing to home plate always makes me nervous...
but I think he had a good enough angle that he could have made the throw.
When Ramirez released the ball
Cano was about 1/2 way, maybe 2/3 down the line. Ramirez, if needed, could have slid to his left and thrown home. Remember, it was a force not a tag
"Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world. If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off." ~ Bill Veeck
Let's put it this way...
With this team it probably is an issue (I could see a bad throw and a huge inning resulting), but with most teams it would have been fairly routine.
Not this on
Aramis was four feet from the bag and Soto was already in fair territory giving him a nice target. Would have been routine. I agree it is difficult when throwing over the runner’s shoulder but this was not that play.
by WhistlerWilliams on Jun 20, 2011 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions
Easy out
That was the key inning as I will note below. It would have been an easy out at the plate. For some reason, Aramis seemed to think he could turn two but there was no chance of that.
by WhistlerWilliams on Jun 20, 2011 9:21 AM CDT up reply actions
It was a force out.
He most likely had the out at home with any kind of decent throw.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions
Lost in the series was the fact Aram
went 4-5 and raised his average up to .285. He had a good series. Also lost is his HR stroke. I think we have some players that have risen to the competition over the last 7 games. Let’s hope this continues.
There is hope, look what the Twins have done…16.5 games out in June 1 now 8 out. We need that type if run.
O.T……condolences to the E. Street Band and all their fans….I am one if them too. Clarence Clemons will be missed.
We'll miss you Big Boy. #10 for Hall of Fame.
by mrcubsfan on Jun 20, 2011 7:59 AM CDT via mobile reply actions
I don't want to say Castro's play
cost the Cubs the game, but it for sure gave the Yanks 2 runs. Castro has his days, but the days that he makes just 1 error seems to cost the Cubs a victory. Another thing, it was embarrassing for ESPN to interview Quade in the dugout. He just sounded like a complete moron. Talking about “Cassy” and all this crap. He just sounds ignorant. They interviewed Joe and he sounded like a guy who knew what the hell was going on. Baseball fans watching this game found out last night the Cubs problems, and found out what our manager is like.
I heard the interview, and I didn't get that impression at all
The amount of angst about Quade’s use of nicknames is beyond ridiculous and shows the complainers are more juvenile than the person they’re accusing.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 20, 2011 8:18 AM CDT up reply actions
I agree.
Quade deserves some critique.
But can we get off his f*cking back about the nicknames? I don’t like them, but it’s really not a big deal.
Here's the point about the nicknames.
He sounds like a high school coach when he uses them. It’s all part of him being way over his head as a major league manager.
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by Al Yellon on Jun 20, 2011 8:25 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
It might be emblematic of him being in over his head ...
but it’s also really meaningless. I could care less about him having an endless supply of nicknames if he, you know, was a good manager.
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
Quade can use all the nicknames he wants when the Cubs are 13 games OVER .500
and not challenging for the NL Central cellar…
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
Part of being a good manager...
…is having the respect of the players. Being a rookie ML manager, I don’t think using nick names like a teamate would is the best tactic to use to garner respect.
It may sound trite, but it does give you an insight to how Quade thinks and everything is noticed by the players, especially when a guy is trying to establish himself.
Going back to last year, I recall Dempster and other guys really pushing for the Cubs to hire Quade, and that is always something to be leary about. When players are rallying around a manager to be hired, it usually means that is the guy that will make their life as easy as possible.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
by MPH73 on Jun 20, 2011 10:15 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
The assumption that you all are making is that the players don't respect Quade.
There’s no proof of that. So none of your arguments are valid.
I understand...
…but players watch everything, especially with a guy who is earning his wings as a manager. I have no doubt the players like Quade, but I do question whether the majority of them respect his authority. Zambrano’s comments and the bat breaking incident is a good example of that.
Usually, young managers/coaches start out being tougher on their players and then they mellow as time goes on. To me, Quade seems to be going about it the opposite way.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I Really Want Quade to Succeed
Quade put in so much time in the minors. He had major league coaching experience with the A’s and Cubs. I think his minor league managing experience may be working against Quade. With younger players in the minors, you don’t want to get on them too much and ruin their confidence. At the major league level, a manager has to put his foot down and be more of a disciplinarian. I really want Quade to succeed, but he’s been a failure to this point.
2012 - The 104th time is the charm.
You need...
…two things to succeed; the right players and the right skills as a manager.
Unfortuanately, I don’t think Quade has either.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Agreed.
Never forget Z’s little quip: “What manager?”
"They sell every ticket to every game, win or lose!" - Tom Ricketts
This Cub team js lousy.
And almost everyone who follows the team expected it to be bad. But the fact that the players wanted Quade as manager has nothing to do with the lack of talent on the team. Many of us were willing to accept Quade over Sandberg because we saw the the wins at the end of last season. of course we overlook the teams we player at the end of the year and the wonderful job the starters had in September.
But, at the end of the day, this team isn’t a good squad. And Quade using or not using nicknames isn’t going to make us one game better or worse. instead of whining about his nicknames, what we ought to be challenging is the lack of quality leadership at the top. Everyone in the organization likes Hendry and Quade. Should we really give a damn when they don’t produce a winner? Replace them with people who can produce a quality organization year after year and I won’t give a damn if they use nicknames or they’re the type I want to drink with. Until then, the rest of the criticism is just noise.
If a quality pitching start is 3 runs and 6 innings, then a quality hitting day is 1 for 4.
That's illogical.
You’re trying to find something more to dislike about him. If he was winning, the nicknames would be fine, maybe even accepted as “cute.”
This team’s problems are a lot bigger than Quade using nicknames. They don’t do anything well. They don’t hit well, they don’t play defense well, they don’t pitch well, they don’t run well. If you want to be taking seriously as a blogger, drop the nickname thing. It’s nitpicking in a sea of problems.
This team’s problems are a lot bigger than Quade using nicknames.
That’s right. Which is another reason I don’t need the manager playing rah-rah with cutesy high school nicknames.
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What you need from the manager is irrelevant.
It’s how he chooses to handle his players. It’s a way to pick his players up in these low moments.
How is it for you to say whether or not these nicknames are “cutesy high school” stuff? Nicknames are everywhere (including this site). You could make the argument that nicknames (all of them) are inherently juvenile.
Get over it, Al-ly.
Ding (to Al)
When things are going well, I can tolerate a nickname for every guy. But when the team plays like a high school team, I don’t need to be reminded of that fact every time Quade talks about one of his players like the “kid” just got back from the prom with some girl named “Cassie.”
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by Brett Taylor on Jun 20, 2011 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions
Girardi uses the same type of nicknames.
just read the NY papers and you will see that.
This is the point
The Cubs are a horrible team. It’s not just nicknames. That a a window into other problems It’s the way he is presenting himself.
It reminds of a bull durham scene where Nuke has dirty shower shoes. and Crash points out that if you win 20 in the show you are colorful… until then you are a slob.That is how I feel about these names
I’m pretty show we can all agree that if that was the best thing we cold come up to bitch about @ BCB we’d be enjoying this season more
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 20, 2011 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions
How is it a window into anything?
I’ve had plenty of coaches use nicknames and know of plenty of others who do. Those coaches are good, bad and everything in between.
It seems like this is just another excuse to bitch about something.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 20, 2011 11:54 AM CDT up reply actions
And it is another way for some
to continue to say how everything is just so wonderful in Cubland. The season isn’t over yet, the Cubs have a run in them to get to the playoffs this year. And if they don’t then Jim will make great decisions and the Cubs will contend in 2012. Everything is just so wonderful.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
Somewhere in between
is the reality of the situation.
Don’t let that stop you from making ignorant statements, however.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 20, 2011 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions
Enough nickname discussion but
Glad to see that you realize this year isn’t going well.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
by rlpete on Jun 20, 2011 3:51 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
The amount of time you spend on here bitching about the bitching...
is alot.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 5 recs
And the amount of time you spend bitching about the bitching about the bitching
is substantial.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 20, 2011 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions
But your complaining about my bitching about the bitching about the bitching is more annoying.
So THERE.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions
Ours is a symbiotic relationship...I think we really need each other.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions
sort of a
Yin and Yang thing…
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...
Flip for it...
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...
FULLY AGREE
If a quality pitching start is 3 runs and 6 innings, then a quality hitting day is 1 for 4.
Well that's ridiculous.
I hate his nicknames too, but to suggest that his nicknames have anything to do with whether or not he’s qualified to be a big league manager is absurd.
Except if the players think Quade is a little league manager
because he tries to manage like one.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
If the Cubs players are having a problem with Quade using nicknames
and not with their shitty play,
then our problems are bigger than we thought.
as I've said earlier nicknames are just a bit of showing
what is wrong with big picture
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 20, 2011 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Correct.
Look (to coin a phrase), it’s obviously NOT the reason the team is losing. It IS annoying to me, because it makes me feel like the manager is glossing over problems by using them.
I’ll probably stop talking about it, because clearly it’s going to continue, and making a “deal” (not a BIG deal) about them is, as many have said, pointless.
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Agree completely
It is far from the top 20 problems from the Cubs but is just another example of the minor league organization they have right now.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
Quade has reamed this team out behind closed doors.
I don’t think he needs to do it publicly. And I’m sure he’s not glossing over problems.
As if other players
don’t refer to their peers by their nicknames? The criticism of the use of nicknames is beyond ridiculous. Stop making a mountain out of a molehill.
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by Craig in South Bend on Jun 20, 2011 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't hear other MLB managers doing this.
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Stunning analysis
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by Craig in South Bend on Jun 20, 2011 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions
You must not be listening, then
Most of them do.
Here in Phoenix, Kirk Gibson uses nicknames for his players frequently when talking to the media. In fact, come to think of it, so does Team President and CEO Derrick Hall.
And Gibson himself is almost always referred to as “Gibby”.
Gibson has been "Gibby" forever.
And no, I have not heard managers refer to every single one of their players by cutesy nicknames.
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Oh, so it's not the practice
you object to, it is when it is used too much?
And it’s okay if the nickname has some history behind it?
I trust you can see how ridiculous that sounds.
I think...
…the real issue here is whether Quade is in charge like he needs to be. To me, he doesn’t strike me as someone who commands respect and when you add in the cutsy nicknames, it adds to it.
Other guys can get away with it because they have a more commanding presense, which appears to be abscent with Quade.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
A lot of things seems absent with Quade.
Just listening to the guy in an interview, and he sounds lost.
never forget...
1.7%
anything is possible...
by wrigleyrocker12 on Jun 20, 2011 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions
See and that's my problem...
It’s not the nicknames as much as it is the lame cutesy nicknames…
Cassie… really…
I mean hell, Moreland is, was and always will be ZONK!
Sandberg was Ryno
Hell… I have a nickname with friends…
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...
Eye of the beholder
I heard Gibson in an interview recently refer to Daniel Hudson as “Huddy”. That one scores pretty high on the lame-o-meter for me, but who am I to judge?
On the other hand, Justin Upton is almost always “J-Up” and Chris Young is always “CY”.
I think it is a pretty slippery slope to try to gauge the respect a manager commands by his usage or non-usage of nicknames.
You need to be in the clubhouse and see how he interacts with the players before you can judge that.
Just this:
I enjoy this website because it's so interesting to see folks pole vaulting over mouse turds.
I agree with Al
The nickname silliness is silly. Not a big thing, as Al also says, but silly and not how I picture a big time organization operating.
As some say, it is probably true it would likely not be commented upon with a winning team, although winning would not make the nickname thing un-silly. But, the hysteria of those criticizing Al commenting about nicknames is over the top, even if it is also amusing.
by WhistlerWilliams on Jun 20, 2011 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Yes...
He sounds like a little league coach…
I keep expecting to hear that Quade took them all out to Pizza Hut after a win
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 is not the only manager who uses nicknames
The Yankees, whom you just spent a whole column praising, have used nicknames for years. Girardi constantly refers to his players as Gardy and Grandy and Swish and Jeet and Tex and Robby (Cano) and Georgy (Posada) and Mo (Rivera). I heard Francona call Pedroia “Peddy” the other day and you know they call them Youk and Tek (Varitek) and Becks. Manuel in Philly where I live is always calling guys J-Roll or Doc or Chooch (Ruiz). Those guys have all won world series, so you cant say they are in way over their heads as major league managers, can you?
Quade has enough issues, and if his nicknames are making you lose sleep at night that’s not a good thing. I’m not going to crucify the man for not using the exact names of the players on their birth certificates every time he refers to them in a press conference or interview.
by swiggy04 on Jun 20, 2011 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 6 recs
My God, thank you.
Can Al Yellon please shut up about this topic now?
Amazing
Thank you.
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by Craig in South Bend on Jun 20, 2011 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions
And really
if this goes ignored and doesn’t end the nickname nonsense (alliteration FTW), then really, why bother anymore.
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Jun 20, 2011 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Critique him all you want
but the nickname complaints are beyond petty and don’t bolster the case against him.
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 20, 2011 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions
Yea verily
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by Craig in South Bend on Jun 20, 2011 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions
Quade's use of nicknames
are not as big of a problem as the way the Cubs are playing, but I do think that the use of nicknames are juvenile to an extent. The use of nicknames reflects that he’s not up to the major league level of being a manager. It just goes to show that he’s not ready to be a big time manager.
by alabamacubbie on Jun 20, 2011 8:54 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
OK "alabamacubbie"
They do play a “game” though. I know, I know, I know—it’s a million/billion dollar game, but a game nonetheless. Without getting into the whole business versus game debate, I’ll just say this: it’s how Quade is choosing to handle his team. Maybe he does it to pick them up, to take pressure off, to remind them that it is just a game. I don’t know why he does it, but he’s comfortable doing it.
You saying "alabamacubbie"
I know you’re trying to point out that we all use nicknames on this site. This site and the real game of baseball are two different things. We have more immaturity on this site than maturity. What I’m saying is I’m ok with use of nicknames on this site because this is not the “real deal”, but whenyou’re on the baseball diamond it is. I would just rather have a manager that the guys in the clubhouse respect and not just have him be the “other guy”. I want a freakin coach. A good one too dammit!
by alabamacubbie on Jun 20, 2011 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't think most people here with the issue of not minding nicknames
aren’t getting it’s not nicknames by themselves……….. it’s how the coaching staff is handeling this season. That is just a small example of that.
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 20, 2011 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions
You want him to take the Lou Piniella route,
act uninterested and just call his players “Asshole.”
Ya, there is a middle-ground, one that uses no nicknames at all. But I really think this is Quade trying to remind his players that he’s got their backs. He’s on their side.
Again, on a good team this is a non-issue.
mic did you read what I wrote right above?
It’s NOT the nicknames themselves…. that sillyness on Q’s part is a SMALL piece of problems this current coaching staff is handling things. This staff has lots of problems.
Also someone else in this recap I used the analogy of Nuke from Bull Durham having nasty shower shoes… Crash saying until you win 20 in the show you are a slob… when you win 20 you then can be colorful
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 20, 2011 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions
It's a good analogy.
Fasten those seat belts...
by katie casey on Jun 20, 2011 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Yes, I read it. And I don't agree with you.
You guys are viewing it as a “problem,” but a lot of us don’t look at it as a problem.
And if it’s a “SMALL” problem to you, then drop it. The Cubs play is the bigger problem.
But in no way are Quade’s nicknames “emblematic” or “metaphorical” of any of his other coaching decisions or the way the Cubs are playing.
Irony
People who are ok with nicknames sure are set on spending time telling the rest of to not spend time on it.
Got to love the internets hehehehe
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 20, 2011 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions
Endlessly criticizing Quade for using "juvenile nicknames"
is juvenile in itself.
Or it's simply a "pet peeve"...
…which isn’t juvenile in and of itself.
Nobody cares about your fantasy baseball team
by carmen_fanzone on Jun 20, 2011 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions
Complaining about a "pet peeve" on end
is juvenile in and of itself.
I really don't get how using nicknames
shows he’s not ready to be a big time manager. I don’t see the correlation at all. I can see how you and others might personally find it annoying, but I don’t see that as proof that he’s not ready to be a manager.
Fasten those seat belts...
It is called respect
and I really wonder how much respect Quade has with the players.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
Everyone here uses a nickname for his or her self.
And we respect you just the same.
Sorry if you can't see the difference.
I can’t say whether the nicknames make any difference but it makes Quade look little league. Whether the players think the same thing is the question.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
For all we know, Quade's nicknames have endeared the players to him.
Either way, it shouldn’t affect the way they play.
And for all we know they are laughing at him.
They should don’t seem to be playing hard for their endearing manager.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
The Cubs are NOT GOOD.
You really think this crappy record is a result of their manager using nicknames?
Here's the argument you made:
Quade uses nicknames > players don’t like nicknames > players don’t play hard
Reread
You said that maybe the nicknames have endeared players to Quade. I said they are playing hard regardless of the endearing. I didn’t say because of nicknames.
My bottomline point is how people are perceived is very important in any line of work and garnering respect is important for a leader. Quade looks like a minor league manager both in some of his decisions and the rah-rah nickname stuff. Maybe the Cubs all love him but it sure isn’t showing up in the effort they are expending (note I didn’t say anything about talent). I question how much respect he really has from the players. Are they already playing out the season?
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
some of us work 40 hour a week jobs
He manages a baseball team whose fan base is huge, and these people are wanting a championship. We don’t need some “rah rah” bullshit.
by alabamacubbie on Jun 20, 2011 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions
Exactly that's what I'm saying
Would you respect a boss and perform well for him that gave you a nickname like “Cassy”, “Wellsy”, or some of the other names his gives his guys.
by alabamacubbie on Jun 20, 2011 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions
I did about 6 years ago
and from what I can tell you it’s hard to respect a guy that acts like on of the guys in the locker room. I have played, and also coached a high school team. I’m still young and hope to coach another in the next year or so, but I will probably only use nicknames like that when if I coach my daughters softball team. It’s all about respect. Use those nicknames around the 9-10 year old league, but when it’s 25, 30, or even 40 year olds, save it!
by alabamacubbie on Jun 20, 2011 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions
Quade stikes me as a guy in the shower
with his players snapping them with the end of his towel.
by alabamacubbie on Jun 20, 2011 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions
The respect Quade commands in the Cubs clubhouse
is inexorably tied to the way he handled the Carlos Silva spring training flaps, the way he handled the Zambrano comments, etc.
From what I have observed, he scores pretty highly in the two most important areas:
1) He was decisive in the way he dealt with them
2) He handled it in house, privately, with the players…and did not do it in the media, and did not throw anybody under the bus. Until Silva blasted the organization, of course, and even then, it mostly fell to Hendry to deal with the media.
Trust me, that is what gets the players attention, as they all have egos and want to see how they are being treated.
How is it about respect?
Tell me one example of a player feeling disrespected because his manager gave him a nickname. This subject is so far from dealing with the real issues within this organization that it merits no respect itself.
If a quality pitching start is 3 runs and 6 innings, then a quality hitting day is 1 for 4.
I don't think Scott Eyre really liked being called 'Stevie Ire'...
GM's are in charge of Managers, not the other way around.
Isy don'tsy givesy a damnsy aboutsy the nicksy namesies.
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 20, 2011 10:54 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
If you are a 21-year-old kid in the big leagues, you don't get a nickname!!
Especially if you have 15 errors…
Get 'em on, Get 'em over, Get 'em in!
DFA Castro
"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
A-Ram's play didn't help either
He has to throw that ball home to prevent the run. But I agree, neither play cost them the game. This team’s fundamentals are worse this year than last year. I thought Quade was here to help with that. Apparently not.
by Northside Matt on Jun 20, 2011 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions
To think we could have had Girardi after 06.
Dangit.
never forget...
1.7%
anything is possible...
by wrigleyrocker12 on Jun 20, 2011 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Some things from the series
The Yankees, and their fans, clearly know what they’re doing. It’s always nice to see Cubs fans at Milwaukee, Cincinnati, etc but that was really impressive
The Cubs could have won all three games. It comes down to clutch hitting, which has been over discussed on this site to death so I won’t go into it. But being able to say you were in all three games against the Yankees is pretty cool.
DJ Lemahieu should have a spot on this team. I think it’s time to trade either Baker or DeWitt
ESPN has nothing else to talk about except Wrigley Field and 100+ years when it comes to the Cubs
I miss Larry Rothschild
"Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world. If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off." ~ Bill Veeck
I'm not yet convinced that LeMahieu will have the power he needs to be an everyday player.
Join us for complete MLB coverage at SB Nation's Baseball Nation
Agreed
But we know what Baker and DeWitt are. I’d like to see if LeMahieu can develop into something better. It’s another example of a kid who needs to play every day, whether it’s here or in the minors.
by Northside Matt on Jun 20, 2011 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions
But his lack of power doesn't mean he isn't a good hitter
The kid is 6’5" so yes, he should have much more power. But will his development be different in the minors vs the majors? I think he just needs a winter of Camp Colvin
"Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world. If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off." ~ Bill Veeck
"Another" winter of Camp Colvin
He was one of the guys that attended this past year, and actually did bulk up a fair amount.
Guess what?
I’m not yet convinced that Aramis Ramirez still has the power he needs to be an everyday player.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions
I thought ESPN did a nice job last night.
I usually hate their coverage. I mean, what more do you want them to say about the Cubs? This team means everything to us as Cubs fans. But to everyone else, there really isn’t much to say. They’re bad.
If you're going to have a nationally televised game
I expect that they should provide insight and information that the every day fan, and maybe even Len and Bob don’t know. Bobby Valentine did a good job of predicting what the managers were going to do and the ARod running situation, but I just felt like I was getting a history lesson on the Cubs without naming any important people involved in the organization (they didn’t know how Weeghman became Wrigley?)
"Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world. If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off." ~ Bill Veeck
That was a service to the Yankee fans
The Yankees don’t play at Wrigley often (or as often as they did in the 30s, anyway), so it could be expected that their huge fan base could learn something of the history of the park. We should probably be glad they didn’t delve too deeply into the history of the club.
"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 thought Bobby Valentine was spot on all night.
They actually taught me something about the game a couple of times. Len and Bob do that well, too.
I thought they were fair to the Cubs. I didn’t hear any of the innate bias for the Yankees.
Under the right circumstance...
…I would think Valentine would love the opportunity to manage the Cubs.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I wondered the same thing.
There are 108 beads in a Catholic rosary and there are 108 stitches in a baseball. Who says baseball isn't a religion?
I have no doubt
that Valentine would accept the Cub job if offered to him.
Whether we want him is another issue. We could certainly do worse than Valentine.
by Josh Timmers on Jun 20, 2011 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions
Actually...
…I think he covets the Cub’s job.
Valentine likes the limelight and the Cub’s gig would give him that. I’m not saying you go after him for 2012 or 2013, but I agree you could do worse and there is a decent chance you could do better.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I think you're right
it’s probably at or near the top of his wish list.
by Josh Timmers on Jun 20, 2011 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions
That broadcast was very good last night.
Shulman is the best play by play announcer on national TV right now, IMHO, and Bobby V was dead on in his commentaries. He was respectful whenh he noticed ther Cubs’s coaching shortcomings, too. Everyone has noticed that, except Ricketts and Hendry.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 20, 2011 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Shulman betrays his Canadian-ness
when he says someone was taken “to hospital.”
by Not Bruce Froemming on Jun 20, 2011 5:40 PM CDT up reply actions
Mixed feelings right now...
Now the Cubs need at least one 3 game win streak to reach 90 Games…The White Sox series would be a good time to do this.
OTOH
In about 238 days pitchers and catchers will report for 2012 spring training.
If the Cubs still have a chance, no matter how small, it’s still Go Cubs, damn the math and pass the KoolAid.
The Cubs have won 29 and 91 games still to play
29 + (91 * (2/3)) = c. 89.697 wins.
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 think the Cubs are going to win
2/3 of there last 90 games. But I will very happy if they do
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 20, 2011 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions
Let me put it this way, I dream about it...
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 20, 2011 10:56 AM CDT via mobile up reply actions
"To dream, the impossible dream..."
There are 108 beads in a Catholic rosary and there are 108 stitches in a baseball. Who says baseball isn't a religion?
Don't abandon hope yet!
If they start on a win-win-lose pattern tonight, and keep it up for the rest of the season, they would go through that cycle thirty times – putting themselves at 89-72 with one game remaining. Win that one and a 90-win season is theirs!
So, as you can see, things are nowhere near as bad as you thought and the Cubs are right in the thick of the playoff race!
by Limey Cub Fan Jay on Jun 20, 2011 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions
Castro
Is going to have to get over his fear of contact around 2B or not only isn’t he going to be the SS of the future, he’s not going to be a middle infielder for very long. As talented as he is, I don’t understand his lack of courage around the bag. That fear manifests itself daily as he misses throws, gets happy feet and generally does absolutely everything to avoid even the slightest of contact. That kind of stuff kills a pitching staff that isn’t always good enough to get three outs let alone four or five.
"When the day comes with that last winning run and I'm crying and covered in beer. I'll look to the sky and know I was right to think someday we'll go all the way." - Vedder
DFA Castro
"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
Castro's Lack of HR Power
Castro gets a lot of doubles and triples, but I am surprised that he hasn’t hit more HR’s. I was thinking that Castro was going to have the same kind of HR power Shawon Dunston did. I know Castro is only 21, but I thought he was a guy that could get into double digits in the HR category. At least, those doubles and triples make his slugging percentage quite respectable.
2012 - The 104th time is the charm.
I think his power...
…will come with time, but you also don’t want to see his average suffer a lot because he is trying too hard to hit for power. He is only 21 and he will get stronger physically and will gain experience in how to take advantage of hitter’s counts as time goes on.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Castro's hitting
I’ve got absolutely zero problem with Castro at the plate. He hits the ball hard plenty. He hits a lot of doubles and triples and if he never develops into more than a 10-12 HR hitter, that’s still plenty good to hit second in any lineup. I’m more concerned with his unwillingness to handle himself around the bag than anything else. He’s got to prove that he’s got the courage to play SS before he is anointed the SS of the future.
"When the day comes with that last winning run and I'm crying and covered in beer. I'll look to the sky and know I was right to think someday we'll go all the way." - Vedder
Castro got greedy trying to get a DP with a speedy hitter and running away from contact.
He needs to learn to avoid contact the smart way, not the dumb one he used last night.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 20, 2011 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions
Didn't see the play but from the radio it sounded like the lesson was "take what you can get"
WGN team thought that if he hadn’t been trying to set up the throw, he stays on the bag and gets the force. Castro is doing too much “make it happen” and not enough “let it happen.”
Defense.
The Cubs have been behind the curve on so many of the this-is-what-good-teams-are-doing-now trends. Five, six years ago, it was OBP. Now, it’s defense.
The Yankees defense in the seventh was ridiculous. It got CC through another inning, preserved the bullpen and, IMO, was as important in the win as anything else. Meanwhile, the Cubs’ defense cost them the game, yet again.
I’m beginning to wonder if the Cubs ought to forget about Fielder/Pujols, sign Jose Reyes and move Castro to third.
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
by elgato on Jun 20, 2011 8:31 AM CDT reply actions 1 recs
And unfortunately the Cubs still haven't gotten on the OBP trend of 5 years ago.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
Don't get me started.
The “be-aggressive” approach is so infuriating. Who cares if we don’t make the other teams’ pitchers work?
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
Castro to third?
No. He does not have the bat for a third baseman.
R.I.P. to my grandfather, Andrew Wiley
The reason I am a Cub fan forever
I'm guessing the bat will develop.
Or, that we can move him to second if he doesn’t come up with enough power.
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
Yes.
I agree with that much. I do think you mention something to think about — Jose Reyes.
R.I.P. to my grandfather, Andrew Wiley
The reason I am a Cub fan forever
Except he's too injury prone
I don’t think the Cubs need another injury prone guy for large money
DFA Castro
"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
What's up with this?
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
I can't say for sure
But it seems like he’s making fun of people who criticize Castro? He’s going to be a stud for us someday, but the defense and patience at the plate are definitely areas for concern right now.
Defense and patience at the plate are not areas of concern, they are areas for Castro to improve on.
There are no concerns with Castro, he’s BY FAR the best player on the 2011 Cubs and will likely be the best player on this team for years to come.
This isn’t directed towards you, but some people need to stop bitching about Castro’s errors. Take a look at some of the plays this kid makes. Most MLB shortstops wouldn’t even come close to getting to some of the balls he gets to. He’s 21 years old and the youngest position player in MLB, some people should repeat that to themselves over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over and over again…………
No, they are areas for concern...
Being “by far” the best player on a sub-.500 team isn’t exactly a ringing endorsement. And improved defense and plate discipline are not the easiest things to gain.
Also, I think people tend to overstate the “look at the plays he’s able to make defensively” argument. Castro is able to make more plays that Theriot was, but there are lots of shortstops who make as amazing if not more amazing plays but with fewer really bad mistakes.
There’s reason to believe/hope that he’ll get better at these things with time. But it is reason for concern considering that these problems were present when he was in the minors too.
I’m not intending in any way to bash Castro. To put up a near-.800 OPS as a 21-year-old SS is very impressive. But simply sweeping aside defense and plate discipline as merely a function of being young is shortchanging things.
by SouthernCub on Jun 20, 2011 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Castro...
…is never going to be a guy who is real patient at the plate, because it just isn’t in his makeup. He will improve some, but he will never be a big walk guy.
What Castro has that Pie, Patterson and other Cubs prospects didn’t, is excellent hand eye coordination and the ability to adjust his swing. With that alone, he is going to get his share of hits and he will probably develop a bit of power as he matures. He may end up being a guy who hits .300+, but his OBP is only 20-30 points higher than his batting average.
I also think his defense will improve as he calms down a little in the field and gains more experience.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I hope you're right.
But it’s sad when your best hitter and the center of your infield is a mediocre fielder.
by Fraggin Judge on Jun 20, 2011 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions
Fielder, not player
And right now, that’s true
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 20, 2011 10:58 PM CDT up reply actions
He's got a 346 career MLB OBP
I’d look for him to top out at around 365 by the time he reaches his prime, when OBP typically reaches his peak. He just needs to keep doing exactly what he’s been doing for the last 2 years, namely being the best player on the Cubs and a player this team can build around for the future……
and a 360 OBP is solid
considering his SLG will probably go up even more as his body fills out.
Whatever
some people always try to find flaws, no matter what. Its well known that high OBP is one of the last things that most players add to their offensive arsenal as it doesn’t peak until players typically enter their prime years.
Name me 4 better SS in MLB than Castro. Better than that, name me 4 current starting MLB SSs who were as good as Castro when they were 21 years old. Hanley Ramirez is the only one I can think of.
And again, his errors are not problems, they are areas that he will improve his game. I’ll take Castro over just about any other SS in MLB right now, his upside is tremendous.
And while you say you don’t mean to bash Castro in any way, all I see is a focus on the negatives.
How about that HR he just hit? Who Cares! he made another error. How about that walkoff single against the Brewers last week, Again, who cares! he made another error.
Errors are not the end all be all of defense, in fact, they are a rather poor measure of defensive prowess. Go look up how many errors Jeter made in his age 21 season, go look up how many errors Reyes made in his age 21 season. Young shortstops make a lot of errors, those errors decline as the player matures. Its not exactly rocket science. But to complain about it right now is ridiculous, if he’s still making this many errors in 2-3 years, it will be a cause for concern, but it most certainly isn’t right now. The kid is 21 friggin years old for god sakes!
And
You’re making the blind assumption that many of his errors are on balls that he gets to because he has great range. They’re not. Many of his errors occur on throws to 2B because he isn’t confident in standing in when runners are bearing down on him. Look no further than last night and the Braun pickoff in just the last week alone. Or the ball that hit him in the mouth on the SB attempt earlier this year. There are other instances of similar plays that don’t get recorded as errors but are equally egregious.
"When the day comes with that last winning run and I'm crying and covered in beer. I'll look to the sky and know I was right to think someday we'll go all the way." - Vedder
I'm not making any assumptions
I know that most of his errors are on routine plays, but that doesn’t just mean the great plays disappear. I’ll take the great plays all day long and the errors on routine plays will decline as he gets older. There is just no reason to bitch about it right now, when he is 21 years old. If he’s still making a lot of errors on routine plays in 3 years, then the bitching and moaning about Castro’s defense will be warranted, but at this point in his career it is just silly.
Neither does our current third baseman.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions
The Cubs don't seriously have enough money for both Fielder and Reyes, do they?
And they should probably sign a TOR guy like CJ Wilson, too.
I'm saying Reyes instead of Fielder/Pujols.
I know this isn’t something everyone will agree with — and frankly, it all depends on the cost. But signing Fielder to more than six years is scary. Signing Pujols to more than six years — which he’ll require — is scary, too.
What I’m saying is the Cubs ought to be evaluating the three of them as similar options, and that moving Castro to third (or second) could be considered if the cost of Reyes is more reasonable than the cost of Fielder/Pujols. Note that I’m not saying that the Cubs should only sign Reyes if he’s the cheapest option.
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
I'm thinking Reyes will be expensive (maybe not just as expensive, though)
And he’s a bigger risk with his injury past. I would take Fielder over him.
For injury reasons alone, giving that much money/years to Reyes is scary. And we have enough MI prospects in the system to not need him
"Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world. If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off." ~ Bill Veeck
If Hendry hugs him, they might.
Sorry, couldn’t help myself.
by Shanghai Badger on Jun 20, 2011 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions
What the hell was up with DeWitt
PH for LeMahieu. What was he saving Fukudome for?
Furthermore, why in the hell does Quade keep taking LeMahieu out when it’s not a LHP? Boy this team is pretty horrible on defense, and that has to be priority #1 this offseason. Fixing this teams defense. Mediocre pitching + bad defense = 2011 Cubs.
R.I.P. to my grandfather, Andrew Wiley
The reason I am a Cub fan forever
I would call it bad pitching.
That’s perpetuated by bad defense.
And bad defense perpetuated by bad pitching.
It’s a really frustrating cycle to watch.
And it was obvious watching Gardner in left
that Cubs are poor defensively. The Yankees really have two centerfielders in the outfield. The Cubs have one real outfielder period.
John Grabow: $4.8 million in 2011.
One outfielder?
I’d say Kosuke, Reed and Campana are pretty decent defensively.
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
This decision made sense.
DeWitt would go in for DJ, if he hits Fukudome in that spot and he ends the inning you would still have to put DeWitt in the game essentially using two players in one pinch hitting spot. The one that makes no sense is having Campana bat with two outs, you should put anyone up there but him. His best asset for the team in a one run game is to pinch run.
I fully realize our season has been "through"
for a bit now anyway, but last night really felt like the book was finally closed. It was the clear indication to us that, despite some flashes of brilliance, we clearly aren’t ready for prime time and aren’t close to that level of competition. If you follow MMA like me, the closest comparison I can make is the second Forrest Griffin/Stephan Bonnar fight. In their first fight, they were so evenly matched, but also a bit raw. After their second fight, Griffin started training with some of the best in the game, putting together skills that would eventually lead him to a championship. Bonnar on the other hand looked like he still trained with the same old gym, never really advancing. Watching the two fight, it was so clear who was at a higher level of competition, and who was a gatekeeper at best. There was just such a difference in skill level, and it was clear to anyone watching.
www.facebook.com/craighudak
by Craig in South Bend on Jun 20, 2011 8:45 AM CDT reply actions
Every game I watch.... I scratch my head at the decisions our manager makes.
"You win because of the quarterback. We have to get that position stabilized. We're fixated on that." -- Jerry Angelo (12.30.2008)
Jerry Angelo trades for Jay Cutler! (4.2.2009)
That was a fun weekend.
Great weather, good team, for the most part well payed games. that was a treat to watch. The Cubs could have won the series, maybe possibly “should have”, but I thought going in 1 out of three would be possible so I cant say as I’m disappointed.
I wonder if there’s any possibility to a Nick Swisher to the Cubs trade. Possiby involving Fukudome. Fuk’s defense and on base would fill out that line-up. Swisher as a right fieder/1B type would be a good price for the Cubs, who are streamining their payroll. Fuke’s D and onbase percentage would help the Yankees more than Swisher’s occasional power would. Just spitballin…..
Anyway, looking forwar to the Sox series. I think we can take 2 out of 3. And if we were to get out first three game winning streak at the expense of the Sox, well, that would be hilarious. So it’s worth rooting for…
Onwards and upwards
"I can't be held responsible for what I personally tell my goons to do...."- C. Montgomery Burns
I'd love to put Pena in that deal
But it appears that Posada is their full time DH
"Baseball is almost the only orderly thing in a very unorderly world. If you get three strikes, even the best lawyer in the world can't get you off." ~ Bill Veeck
The parade if pinch hitters was interesting...
Why didn’t Quadr just start them??!
"Don't shed any tears. You think about this: Here I am, the grandson of a slave. And here the whole world was excited about whether I was going into the Hall of Fame or not. We've come a long ways." BUCK O'NEIL
by HotDogDude on Jun 20, 2011 9:00 AM CDT via mobile reply actions
Here's my 'nickname' question...
Was Quade (who I’ll call Q-ball) using these nicknames last year?
The 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)
Dang, like I said, we should probably be pretty happy with a combined 4 of 7
from the Brewers and Yankees, but that one hurt last night with how close it was for so long.
We'll all miss you Ron.
It's the end of June
Cubs are making some mistakes they did in April. People can say all they want there will be improvement as the season goes on we just need patience how dare we judge them this early.
It’s the end of June they are still making similar bad decisions and there stats are near the bottom in most categories.
by Madison Cub Fan on Jun 20, 2011 9:31 AM CDT reply actions
Yanks fans
Seemed like good folk. Knowledgeable and cheered for their team rather than against the Cubs as Sox fans tend to do. This was as enjoyable as meeting Boston fans when they played Wrigley. In the terrace seats, more Cubs fans than Yanks. When the game was close and fans were chanting "let’s go . . . " the Cubs fans were louder.
The key inning was the giving up two unnecessary runs in with the 4-1 lead. I know a decent play by Castro gets the force bit I slightly question Soto’s decision to not take the sure out. No way that was a double play so a bonehead play by Castro leaving early to try for it. Also, Ramirez decision was bonehead as he turned down the easy play at home with no chance for a double play.
Another big inning was the Cubs seventh. They hit three balls hard and the Yanks’ defense made it look easy. Potentially whole different game if the Cubs get back on top there.
by WhistlerWilliams on Jun 20, 2011 9:32 AM CDT reply actions
Agreed on the DP
I think over time he’ll have a better sense for that stuff. However, if we’re still talking about his fielding issues in 2 years, it won’t be okay.
BTW, are you in Whistler, BC?
Scott Bora$ is satan.
by Canadian Cubs Fan on Jun 20, 2011 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions
No
Been to Whistler in the summer and loved it. My nick is in honor of Billy Williams born in Whistler Alabama.
by WhistlerWilliams on Jun 20, 2011 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions
I find
that American League fans tend to love the Cubs whereas most National League fans (Giants and Braves fans notable exceptions) hate the Cubs.
by Josh Timmers on Jun 20, 2011 12:29 PM CDT up reply actions
I think your right...
…and it appears a good deal of the Red Sox and Yankees fans actually feel sorry for Cub’s fans and there suffering.
In the NL, those fans are exposed more to “the Wrigley experience” and how Cub fans are the best in baseball and they probably grow tired of it. Also, they probably don’t like it when Cub’s fans show up in droves at their ballpark like has happened quite a bit in the last 10 years or so.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I think it's the second part which is most relevant
Especially for our rivals in the Central. In past years, it has often been cheaper to drive to Cinci or St. Louis or (especially) Milwaukee and pay for those tickets than it was to enjoy “the Wrigley experience”. The trouble is that when you’re used to doing things a certain way (like getting blitzed before/at the game and having your vocabulary reduced to “Cubs rule!”), you tend to not make friends easily in hostile territory.
The Braves fans I would inevitably find myself surrounded by at Turner during Cubs-Braves games always seemed shocked when I could have a coherent and meaningful conversation about the two clubs. And when I would see Braves-!Cubs, I always liked chatting with the visiting fans, who similarly seemed pleased to find someone who didn’t greet them with “14 straight!”
"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
Braves fans don't really love the Cubs
They used to, but then 2003 happened. Giants fans’ affinity is probably due to the (former) long-suffering nature of their own fan base.
The NL East fans I’ve talked to generally skew neutral/slightly-positive with regard to the Cubbies, with the notable exception of Marlins fans, who are still pretty obnoxious. You probably see more NL West fans in an afternoon than I’ve ever spoken with, so I’ll defer to your judgment on those folks.
"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 can't believe Phillies phans
are positive about anyone. Mets fans have that old hatred, but I guess that’s dulled in recent years.
by Josh Timmers on Jun 20, 2011 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions
Visiting Phillies fans are bluster first
Once you show them that you can rag ‘em right back with no hard feelings, the conversation can usually continue in a fairly civilized manner. I’m not sure that I’d wear my Cubs cap to Citizens Bank Park, though – I hear they are a different species entirely when at home.
Mets fans haven’t had anything to brag about recently, and we haven’t been in the same division for almost 2 decades now. They’re far more positive about the Cubs than we (generally) are about the Mets. Again, though, that’s when they’re not on their home turf.
"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 worn my Cubs stuff to Philly
But that was years ago when they still played at the Vet.
Agreed, tons of fun this weekend,
Yankee fans are loud and obnoxious but talking to them one-on-one was very enlightening. It was unfortunate that Jeter was hurt. Saturday Yankee fans outnumbered Cub fans in our section, Friday and Sunday there were more Cub fans. Saturday was also a drunk fest much like opening day with a near fight in our section.
If he's smart
her nickname is “Yes, dear.”
There are 108 beads in a Catholic rosary and there are 108 stitches in a baseball. Who says baseball isn't a religion?
He's mentioned his wife in interviews.
Baseball is back!!
by cowsarecool220 on Jun 20, 2011 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions
The Quade-DeWitt lovefest is getting out of hand.
"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 20, 2011 9:44 AM CDT reply actions 3 recs
You really love doing those, don't you.
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This one was funny, though.
R.I.P. to my grandfather, Andrew Wiley
The reason I am a Cub fan forever
Gotta find ways to laugh at this season!
"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)
Says the guy who got pissed off when this site
made fun of the 2010 first round draft pick.
I'm confused about when it's OK to make fun of homosexuality on here.
Do you have a flow chart?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 12:47 PM CDT up reply actions 5 recs
What is wrong with you?
It’s a movie poster. Just like all the movie posters. The movie did not make fun of homosexuality. Neither does this parody of it.
I ask again, what is wrong with you?
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I'm just fine. Thanks for answering my question?
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 1:20 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
You could argue that most parodies of Brokeback Mountain is making fun of homosexuality.
That might be because homosexuality is still a sensitive topic, even with social progression. But I could easily see how a homosexual person might find it offensive. I’m not saying I find it offensive (I’m offended by very little).
It’s up for the site-administrator to decide. And if he finds it funny, it must not be offensive. As I said before, I’m not offended by it. But the reason it’s an issue with me is because Al Yellon holds such a double standard with things like this.
It's a parody of a movie poster.
No more, no less. I don’t find that parodies of that make fun of homosexuality. Just my opinion. Double standard? Geez, sensitive much?
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That's just feigning ignorance.
The context is implied that the two are in a homosexual relationship, otherwise SackMan wouldn’t have used Brokeback Mountain. You’re equivocating.
"Many people need desperately to receive this message: 'I feel and think much as you do, care about many of the things you care about, although most people do not care about them. You are not alone.'"
Ya, that response is ridiculous.
Now you’re going to question my sensitivity to this subject? The person who runs this site should be most sensitive to things like this. Sometimes you are. Sometimes you aren’t. And since you have disdain for both Quade and DeWitt, then apparently it’s acceptable.
by mic on Jun 20, 2011 8:10 PM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
i wish i could quit playing you...
flippity floppity floop
by jesus christos on Jun 20, 2011 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions
I wish I could quit watching the Cubs
But gosh darn it, I’m just not strong enough..
There are 108 beads in a Catholic rosary and there are 108 stitches in a baseball. Who says baseball isn't a religion?
Geo
The dude hit some balls hard in big situations – bases loaded 1 out on Saturday, lines out to left. RISP in the 6th last night, lines out to left. His average isn’t there, but to my highly untrained eye it looks like his approach is improving.
Scott Bora$ is satan.
by Canadian Cubs Fan on Jun 20, 2011 10:49 AM CDT reply actions
Agreed
He was laying off the breaking balls low and away, which is huge for him.
I disagree on your assessment of those defensive plays Al...
There was virtually no chance at a double play on Cano’s dribbler. We should have gotten the out at 2B (if Castro had stayed on the bag) or at 1B (if Soto had thrown to 1B). But Cano was hustling down the line and Castro didn’t have time to get the ball to 1B even with cheating off the base. There wasn’t a defense that was going to turn that double play realistically.
As for the Ramirez play, the replay showed that there was plenty of time for him to throw home and get the force out. For some reason, he chose not to even consider making the throw. It was a bad choice, as the runner was not even halfway down the line.
If Castro holds the bag, we probably get out of the inning without allowing a run. As it was, if Soto throws to 1B or Ramirez throws home, we give up only 1 run. Instead, we gave up 2 thanks to poor decisions on both plays.
what makes you think
kerry wood is coming back? he’s got a blister, could be life threatening
by Roman the greek on Jun 20, 2011 11:58 AM CDT reply actions
It's a day of rest.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.
by santoswoodenlegs on Jun 20, 2011 12:42 PM CDT up reply actions
Just wanted to point out
He could’ve gone to Marmol in the 8th to get out of the jam and then gone to Carpenter in the 9th. I know that’s against the rules of how to use your closer, but IMO those rules should be rewritten toward winning more ballgames. There was another option.
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 20, 2011 12:08 PM CDT reply actions
Absolutely
Win the game right there. Or at least don’t lose it there.
But while I felt badly for Carpenter, I kept on reminding myself that it wasn’t Justin Berg or Jeff Stevens in there.
It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??
by Invalid User on Jun 20, 2011 12:34 PM CDT up reply actions
The faster it comes in...
…the faster it goes out!
Carpenter has potential, but any decent major league hitter has no problem squaring up a heater if they are sitting on it, and Swisher was indeed sitting on that one.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
I was watching something a week or so ago
and they were talking about Randy Johnson early in his career, He had a cannon of an arm but he was getting hammered at the plate…
I think it was Nolan Ryan talked to him and had him start throwing with a little less on the ball and his control skyrocketed…
I wonder if that might be Carpenters issue?
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...
Getting hitters out...
…is all about one thing; keeping guys off balance and screwing up their timing.
Speed alone will not accomplish the above and their are scores of examples of guys who throw hard and get lit up, because they don’t have the total package to keep guys off balance.
Young hard throwers have problems for a number of reasons; they may not have the same arm motion for their off speed pitches and the hitters can easily pick that up, they can’t get their breaking ball over or they happen to be a guy who has a fastball that is easy to pick up out of his hand.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Case in point: Samardzija up until this year
He couldn’t throw any secondary pitches for strikes, so batters could just wait to get ahead and sit on the inevitable heater.
"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
Another one...
…was Farnsworth. The guy could throw 100mph and it didn’t help him much.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
Probably...
…a lot faster than that even.
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel
you are correct SW Soul
the mentality of the MLB manager to save their closer for the 9th inning when, as in yesterday’s game, the closer should be in.
Marmol should have been on that mound, not some green rookie with no control and 98 mph heat.
I don’t get the mentality, saving the closer when after the 8th he was no longer going to be needed. DUMB PHILOSOPHY
I'm going to the 2012 Randy Hundley Fantasy Camp!!! Who's with me?
What about Q's decision not to bring the infield in?
Didn’t matter after all, still not a smart move against this bullpen to give up the lead, 6 out left.
....
126,283 fans paid to watch the three games, which is an all-time record for a three-game series at Wrigley Field, breaking the old mark (124,810 vs. the Brewers in late June 2007)
Cubs in a division race, taking 2 of 3 from the team they were racing with, and a walkoff homerun from Rammy. Good times.
never forget...
1.7%
anything is possible...
by wrigleyrocker12 on Jun 20, 2011 1:17 PM CDT reply actions
And oddly enough...
… even after they did all that, they were still 6.5 games out of first place.
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Really?
Dang, I could have sworn they made their run before that, starting with Lou’s ejection. Perhaps it felt a lot closer considering they hadn’t even been that close since, like, 04.
never forget...
1.7%
anything is possible...
by wrigleyrocker12 on Jun 20, 2011 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions
Pat Hughes calls that game the turning point of the season.
Baseball is back!!
by cowsarecool220 on Jun 20, 2011 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions
2007 Cubs did not go into first place until August.
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That was still probably the turning point.
Where have you gone, Kiko Calero. A nation turns its lonely eyes to you.
We may not have taken over first place until August,
but no doubt that was the turning point of the season.
OT: A new snack for Wrigley?
http://tinyurl.com/3eftjc2 [huffingtonpost.com]
"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
Yucky
But I wouldn’t be surprised if they tried to feed us koolaid. Drinking it isn’t enough this year.
Fasten those seat belts...
I heard this joke this morning on Mike & Mike:
Pujols is injured. That means the Cubs will make every effort to sign him this winter. Ouch! That’s our front office’s reputation.
A well earned reputation
Hemdry is always trying to catch lightening in a swinging jug.
If a quality pitching start is 3 runs and 6 innings, then a quality hitting day is 1 for 4.
Funniest moment of the weekend.
A Yankee fan was in the washroom, on the phone with his mother. He says, “Ma, I’m pissing in a fountain. Yea ma,, I’m pissing in a fountain.”
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