Open Thread: Cubs vs. Cardinals, Sunday 4/9, 7:05 CT

Finally

Hopefully this year is a sign of things to come, they need to let the minor leaguers get some opportunities. I don't want to see any more dontre willis' making major league debuts for other teams. Next up, Rich Hill and Angel Guzman since Williams hasn't shown any sign of getting it lately.

by nathan on Apr 9, 2006 2:32 PM CDT reply actions

Go Marshall!!!

Hopefully the Cubs can make Ponson's Cardinal debut a bad one.

You can do it kid!

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 2:40 PM CDT reply actions

Marshall and the staff

I feel good about it and, frankly, I like my new feelings about the staff. In the past few years I've dreaded the exit of our lights-out starters (Zombie, Prior, Wood, Maddog), but I like our pen now. I like it a lot. So, I fully expect to see a solid, tough outing from Marshall, sort of like the first 4 innings or so that Rich Hill showed us last year in his debut, followed up by a nice preserved win.
Go Cubs.

by Mr Snrub on Apr 9, 2006 2:52 PM CDT reply actions

Use the Force Sean Skywalker

to defeat the Evil Cardinal Empire and return balance to the universe!

by teacher tom on Apr 9, 2006 3:29 PM CDT reply actions

Numbers game...

... I have just learned that when Sean Marshall takes the field tonight, he will become the 1800th player to wear a Cub uniform.

And, if the Cubs win, it'll be Dusty Baker's 1100th managerial win. He'll become the 44th manager with that many wins when he gets it.

by Al Yellon on Apr 9, 2006 4:27 PM CDT reply actions

Rookie Pitching

Tonight is big. If Marshall does well this will really help plug one hole in our rotation and perhaps once again raise the percieved trade value of the pitching in our farm system.

A package of one of our second basemen and a minor league pitcher may be whats needed to fill a critical position as things unfold.

by MOE on Apr 9, 2006 4:57 PM CDT reply actions

My first game...

This season and I'm expecting an exciting one. I guess I got lucky and got the good weather day this weekend. We'll see if Ponson has gotten over his troubles or if Marshall is ready for the Big Show. Hopefully it will be a great game with a Cubs victory.

Does anybody know the lineup?

"Harlem Furniture......You'll like our style!"

by Imtrejo on Apr 9, 2006 5:12 PM CDT reply actions

What a great sports day...

We get to follow the Masters up with a Cubs/Cards Sunday Night game on ESPN. And despite (what I perceive to be as popular opinion) I like Jon Miller. Here's hoping we here "Safe!" at the plate many times tonight.

by PostmanE on Apr 9, 2006 5:23 PM CDT reply actions

He's OK

I don't mind Jon Miller. It's his usual broadcast partner on ESPN that makes me stab pencils in my ears.

by gravedigger on Apr 9, 2006 5:27 PM CDT up reply actions

RE: He's OK

Morgan gets on my nerves b/c he makes it a point to let everyone know just how great he was. His veiled shots at Sandberg through the years have also gotten old.

Here's my thing with Miller though, MUST he prove to us he knows Spanish every broadcast? WE GET IT! You bilingual John. Felicitaciones!

There are three things that the average man thinks he can do better than anybody else. Build a fire, run a hotel and manage a baseball team. -Rocky Bridges

by Jobu on Apr 9, 2006 5:52 PM CDT up reply actions

Completeley agreed

That's why he's merely OK in my book :) And I hate Joe Morgan for the same reasons. My second favorite blog next to BCB is Fire Joe Morgan.

by gravedigger on Apr 9, 2006 6:29 PM CDT up reply actions

Question

Is this the earliest in the season the Cubs have ever played a night game?

DmL

by dmlichte on Apr 9, 2006 5:24 PM CDT reply actions

Let's go 'Rook!

Here's hoping that Marshall gets through the first relatively unscathed. Not that I know the first thing about making a major league debut, but I've got to think that he'll be the most nervous/anxious early in the game.

There are three things that the average man thinks he can do better than anybody else. Build a fire, run a hotel and manage a baseball team. -Rocky Bridges

by Jobu on Apr 9, 2006 5:47 PM CDT reply actions

Hmm...

Barrett is batting 5th, not Barrett...

maybe dusty does know how to manage a ballclub...

Git 'er done!

by KChiCubs on Apr 9, 2006 6:21 PM CDT reply actions

Let's Go Cubbies!

My Law in America teacher is the biggest Cardinal fan I know. In the classroom he has the American flag and right next to it the Cardinal's banner. Its my first period class and when the annoncements come on and we say the Pledge of Aligence he always has to add "under Pujols." If the Cubs sweep, I'm bringin in a broom with my Cubs jersey and letting him eat his words. Lets Go Cubs!

by Superman on Apr 9, 2006 6:22 PM CDT reply actions

The Starting Lineups are in...

St. Louis

Eckstein SS
Encarnacion RF
Pujols 1B
Rolen 3B
Edmonds CF
Molina C
Taguchi LF
Luna 2B
Ponson P

Chicago

Pierre CF
Walker 2B
Lee 1B
Ramirez 3B
Barrett C
Jones RF
Murton LF
Cedeno SS
Marshall P

Glad to see Dusty batting Jones lower than Barrett. Let's hope they can put up some runs early and give Marshall a nice comfort zone. Let's see a sweep!

by Perkins on Apr 9, 2006 6:23 PM CDT reply actions

I'm not...

... now, late in games, the opposing manager can bring in a RH reliever and face the entire middle of the Cubs line-up without making any changes.

DmL

by dmlichte on Apr 9, 2006 6:32 PM CDT up reply actions

dumb

that is bogus, it isn't like they have never seen a rigty or lefty before. Righty lefty is the most overrated crap ever, you are basically telling your players I don't care who is doing better and you are granted a spot in the lineup because which hand you throw with. Dumb

by nathan on Apr 9, 2006 7:10 PM CDT up reply actions

excuse me...

... for taking the word of major league pitchers over yours. Rob Dibble, speaking to this very issue, said that he absolutely loved it, as a career reliever, when he was able to go in and face three straight righties.

Managers use lefty specialists. This is a fact. Having a lefty mixed in with the righties means that managers, late in games, will bring in more relievers.

DmL

by dmlichte on Apr 9, 2006 8:13 PM CDT up reply actions

this is true

Which is exactly why you see 3 pitchers in one inning on that mound.

2006 -- AC036097 -- Eamus Catuli!

by priorpwnz on Apr 9, 2006 11:22 PM CDT up reply actions

Prediction

First off. I can't agree with you more mfarrell, Morgan is just awful as an analyst and by many accounts a human being. The guy has a hard time controlling his bias against the Cubs.

Now to the predictions. JJ will get his first couple of hits tonight off of a guy he should be familiar with. Murton will have a good game tonight with a couple of rbi's and Marshall will go at least 6 with the bullpen preserving his first major league victory.

cubsfan4life

by cubfan4life on Apr 9, 2006 6:35 PM CDT reply actions

The Marshall Train

CHOO CHOOO we're taking off ..

Here we go Seany here we go!

by cubsfan2883 on Apr 9, 2006 7:12 PM CDT reply actions

whoops

by mike bornemann @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 7:18 PM CDT reply actions

That's alright...

...bad pitch to Rolen--a mistake, but we'll get some runs against Fat Boy--he didn't get shaken, and he got Edmonds The Terrible out.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:19 PM CDT reply actions

HOLY S(*&

well this doesnt appear ,at first blush,to be working out too well.

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 7:19 PM CDT reply actions

2-0 and you all are worrying?

gah you guys are lightweights... winds blowing down the right field line...

by cubsfan2883 on Apr 9, 2006 7:20 PM CDT reply actions

It's not about the homer...

....it's about how he bounces back.

We'll definitely get some runs against the Fat Man.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:21 PM CDT reply actions

Now Ponson is getting the lowball...

....what a load of shite.....

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:22 PM CDT reply actions

total bull

by mike bornemann @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 7:26 PM CDT up reply actions

I guess when you're that fat...

....you get to live on the corners.......

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:23 PM CDT reply actions

Walker!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:24 PM CDT reply actions

Bah

nice pitch by Ponson... Got Lee jammed nicely

alright Marshall don't let me down...

by cubsfan2883 on Apr 9, 2006 7:27 PM CDT reply actions

it just sucks

that they are both sinker-ballers, but ponson is the only one getting the calls on the low pitches.
tough for a rookie to overcome that.

by tomas21 on Apr 9, 2006 7:30 PM CDT reply actions

yeah

it's often going to be hard this year for marshall. you have to prove to the league that you can throw strikes first.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 7:39 PM CDT up reply actions

Nice second inning

Sean's hanging in there. . .good boy

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:33 PM CDT reply actions

Good God

Ponson is getting into Jessie Oroscoe territory with this weight.

I'm writing a memo for work and this is the firt time I've looked up while he was on the mound!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:34 PM CDT reply actions

Aramis is kiilling

my fantasy numbers.
:(

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:35 PM CDT reply actions

my god

ponson has a chin bigger than Jay Leno..thats one huge chin

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 7:40 PM CDT reply actions

Is it just me

or does it seem that the Cardinals are more patient hitters than the Cubs who are swinging at the first or second pitch?

Thru 2:

Marshall 31 pitches
Ponson 19

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 7:40 PM CDT reply actions

Encarnacion...

.....automatic!

I love that he's not a Cub.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:43 PM CDT reply actions

But, I remember

him killing us in the 2003 playoffs.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:43 PM CDT up reply actions

So glad Hendry didn't stick us with him

I seem to remember a lot of people on here clamoring for him right around December.

;)

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:44 PM CDT up reply actions

doesn't shock me....

...having familiarized myself with some of the double-speak/hypocrisy of some of the lunatics out here......lol

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:45 PM CDT up reply actions

Keep it up Marshall!

Come on Orange Guy and Ronny! Help him out!

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 7:44 PM CDT reply actions

C'mon Orange Guy

Not too crazy about him wearing #17, tho.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:45 PM CDT reply actions

Oops

I guess that was #19. Nevermind.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:47 PM CDT up reply actions

17?

Why is he wearing 17?

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 7:47 PM CDT up reply actions

Nevermind too! :)

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 7:48 PM CDT up reply actions

Marshall is showing some good ...

....composure. Let's see how he handles the big-boys the next time through the lineup

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:45 PM CDT reply actions

damn.

nice play by eckstein--he's such a pest.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:46 PM CDT reply actions

Ronny!!!

--boy, has he forgotten spring training......

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:48 PM CDT reply actions

Shhh!

Don't remind him! :)

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 7:48 PM CDT up reply actions

he looks a LOT better

at the plate, anyway. it's still very frustrating to see him swinging so early in the count -- it'll be hard for him that way -- but it's nice to see him hit and hustle.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 7:50 PM CDT up reply actions

Anybody want to question..

....this teams improved speed?????

You gotta love it baby!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:48 PM CDT reply actions

classic moment...

Joe Morgan was complimenting Jim Hendry, so they put the camera on him. What was Hendry doing? Turning the volume down on that blabbering idiot...

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 7:48 PM CDT reply actions

Saw that!!!!

n/t

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:50 PM CDT up reply actions

hilarious......

.....Morgan is such a buffoon.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:51 PM CDT up reply actions

i swear

you could talk about a cheez-it box and he'll analyze it for you.

2006 -- AC036097 -- Eamus Catuli!

by priorpwnz on Apr 9, 2006 11:25 PM CDT up reply actions

Marshall is too tall to bat.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:49 PM CDT reply actions

Come on Juan!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:50 PM CDT reply actions

Marshall

looks just like Shawn Boskie to me. Same elfin face.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:50 PM CDT reply actions

He does have a bit.

....of imp in him.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:52 PM CDT up reply actions

Juan's hanging in there....

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:54 PM CDT reply actions

Good eye

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:54 PM CDT up reply actions

Full Count....

...great AB....no matter what happens here.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:55 PM CDT up reply actions

Bah!

Waste of a good at bat!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:56 PM CDT up reply actions

I guess....

....it's just nice to see a guy in a Cubs' uniform battle like that--it kind of gives me hope where there was none last year.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:57 PM CDT up reply actions

True

and it's great to see someone like that in the leadoff spot. I remember in Moneyball when the author said that Boggs was so valuable to his team because, even if he struck out, by the time his at bat was over, his team had seen every pitch the opposing pitcher had.

Pierre strikes me as that kind of hitter.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:59 PM CDT up reply actions

Is it just me, or.....

....does Ponson come across as a total head-case?

He seems like the kind of guy that would punch his mother...

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:55 PM CDT reply actions

Umm . . .

Yeah, duh. :-)

It's not just you.

The Netherlands sure picks some good ones to bestow knighthood upon.

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 9, 2006 8:03 PM CDT up reply actions

Marshall either keeps us in it here,

....or the game's over.

Pujols
Rolen
Edmonds

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:56 PM CDT reply actions

Agreed

this will be a telling inning.

I wouldn't be upset if he hit Edmonds right in his smug little face.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:57 PM CDT up reply actions

Edmonds.....

..is the one guy, who I'd be happy to see hit--and hit hard

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:58 PM CDT up reply actions

Grrrrrrrr.

Hate that guy's ugly mug. I hear the women in St.Louis think he's great looking. YUCK.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:03 PM CDT up reply actions

One down!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 7:59 PM CDT up reply actions

very good pitch

yessssssssssssssssssssss

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 7:59 PM CDT reply actions

Nice f-ing work there...

....shows alot of maturity by the kid--he went after Pujols.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 7:59 PM CDT reply actions

Two down!

We really should be in a chat room for these games, you know. . .

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:00 PM CDT reply actions

Shut up, Joe

I don't need to hear his commentary on Wood and Prior.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:04 PM CDT reply actions

I really like what I see....

....from Marshall--including his mistake to Rolen--because he's bounced back really well, and he's pitching smart--hitting spots, and he shows a courage and mental maturity that can't be reflected by that 2-0 on the scoreboard....

If he can consistently get that curveball over, he's going to be dangerous.......

Remember--1st Major League start--First game at Wrigley--Facing Pujols and the Cards--that's a strong 4 innings right there--one big mistake--but a great 4 innings. I'm proud of the Kid.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:05 PM CDT reply actions

agree 100%

only way there is more pressue would be if it was a playoff game, etc. need the bats to wake up.

by mike bornemann @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions

i disagree

fwiw, the thing that really bothers me about marshall is how often he misses his spots. it's quite a lot -- too much for a good big leaguer. it's something he'll have to work on.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions

Save for one bad pitch to Rolen

and Marshall has been fabulous.

LET'S GET SOME RUNS!

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 9, 2006 8:05 PM CDT reply actions

man

the kid has a great rhythm..very nice pacing

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 8:05 PM CDT reply actions

He is really impressing me --

I have to say--he seems like he's been in the majors for a few years.

Where's Gaius?

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions

Well...

I'm sure wherever he is, he's not bashing Marshall.

He said he hoped the kid looked good and so far Marshall has.

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 8:12 PM CDT up reply actions

it's weird

how i get mentioned in conversations here.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions

yep

you're a cult hero already, I'm going to have to make some "gaius" shirts.

by mike bornemann @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions

sign of the apocalypse

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions

Oh, Arg.

Lee grounds into DP

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:10 PM CDT reply actions

Crap call--

Lee was safe at first--tie always goes to the runner--also delayed call by the 1 B ump!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:10 PM CDT reply actions

Looked safe to me

even in the replay

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:11 PM CDT up reply actions

Come on Barrett--

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:11 PM CDT reply actions

morganed

edmonds is now playing 3rd

by nathan on Apr 9, 2006 8:12 PM CDT reply actions

Heh...

Ramirez really hustled down the line that time. Good to see.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:12 PM CDT reply actions

And now he goes to third on a single!

Is that really Ramirez?

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:13 PM CDT up reply actions

Break out year for Barrett

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:13 PM CDT reply actions

You can do it Jacque!

Get your first hit!

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 8:13 PM CDT reply actions

that's the spirit--

good to hear someone encouraging the guy!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:14 PM CDT up reply actions

Come on JJ--

Let's all root for him to break this bad spell!!!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:13 PM CDT reply actions

it

don't you wish jones was still batting 5th, i mean 8th. Move up cedeno

by nathan on Apr 9, 2006 8:13 PM CDT reply actions

Jones!

Let's hear it for the law of averages!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:16 PM CDT reply actions

BREAK IT UP...

....what do you say now, NATHAN!!!!!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:16 PM CDT reply actions

all is forgiven

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 8:16 PM CDT reply actions

OMG!

Good job Jacque! I'm proud of you! Yeah!

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 8:16 PM CDT reply actions

P-O-S-I-T-I-V-I-T-Y

is a good thing!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:17 PM CDT reply actions

Double J comes through!!

WOOOO!!! 3-run homer!
1-14 HR

The poster formerly known as CherryPoppinCubbies

by jrm78 on Apr 9, 2006 8:17 PM CDT reply actions

wow

it might be one of those years where you wonder which team you are watching. We have already drove in more runs with 2 outs than the last two years combined

by nathan on Apr 9, 2006 8:17 PM CDT reply actions

That's because it's a different team...

...with better personnel, more balance, more speed, more defense, better discipline....

Accept it: This is a well-put together team. SOLID--all the way around.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:20 PM CDT up reply actions

Jones SUCKS!

That was one lousy HR!

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 9, 2006 8:17 PM CDT reply actions

the lousy city of LA sucks

you'll see 25 more HRs from JJ this year. a lot of them clutch like that one.

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 8:59 PM CDT up reply actions

Le Whoot!

Take your first curtain call at Wrigley!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:17 PM CDT reply actions

Way to go Jones!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:18 PM CDT reply actions

He is a professional!

As I've been saying, over and over again.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:18 PM CDT reply actions

Korey

was also a professional. Still is. Barely.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:19 PM CDT up reply actions

Nope....

.....Corey was an amateur who was posing as a professional.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:20 PM CDT up reply actions

No No No!

He was safe!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:19 PM CDT reply actions

That ump has missed two calls now.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:21 PM CDT up reply actions

glasses

that is 2 in one inning from the 1B ump what a douchebag

by nathan on Apr 9, 2006 8:19 PM CDT reply actions

One thing for sure

that first base ump sure likes Pujols.

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 8:19 PM CDT reply actions

Wow, that was worth waiting for

Lets keep it going

by LT on Apr 9, 2006 8:21 PM CDT reply actions

Agreed

How in the world did Murton not beat that out?

Man, Jones must feel like the whole word has been lifted off his shoulders right now.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:21 PM CDT reply actions

True...

....especially what with all the a-holes giving him such a hard time on this site.........

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:22 PM CDT up reply actions

a

I forgot that major leaguers were not subject to performance based evaluations

by nathan on Apr 9, 2006 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions

lol

one thing is certain: murton is slow. so be it -- if he hits like it seems he can, it'll be a small thing.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions

way to go...

...JJ. Fisrt base ump sucks.

cubsfan4life

by cubfan4life on Apr 9, 2006 8:22 PM CDT reply actions

the HUSTLING(?!) cubbies...

Cedeno with the sprint into 2nd for the double, Lee beating out the throw on a DP (just not getting the call), ARam (really?!) legging out an IF single and going from 1st to 3rd on another single, and Jones mashing a HR, flipping his bat... and sprinting until the ball cleared the wall!

I love the way this team has hustled thus far today and thus far on the season...

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 8:22 PM CDT reply actions

Pierre's presence.....

.....and influence on this team, cannot be measured by numbers alone.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:23 PM CDT up reply actions

Oh, and i almost forgot...

Murton legging out another IF single (where again he just didn't get the call).

1st base ump screwed us out of two outs that inning, and at least one run...

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 8:25 PM CDT up reply actions

Again......

Two Words for you:

Juan Pierre

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions

i think at least some credit...

needs to go to the young guns, too. Murton and Cedeno have played all-out since they got their callup last summer.

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions

Come on Kid--Settle Down!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:24 PM CDT reply actions

1 out, runner to third

Come on Sean, you're in line for your first win!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:25 PM CDT reply actions

oopsie.......

...I guess the dp is in play now--

I'm getting nerrrrvous.......Pujols is now on deck.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:26 PM CDT reply actions

uh oh...

Cedeno's about to get beaned... Eck got it with 1st open, 2 out, and Encarcion on deck.

Time to order that double-play ball...

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 8:26 PM CDT reply actions

Heh heh

They've been hanging over the plate all night. . .

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:26 PM CDT reply actions

ouch

way to go kid.......now dp ball an its over

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 8:26 PM CDT reply actions

Marshall did a good job....

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:27 PM CDT reply actions

WHA?

I guess they aren't going to give him the chance to get shelled. I felt a lot more comfortable with Marshall out there, rather than Wuertz.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:27 PM CDT reply actions

Me too...

Let's hope he comes through.

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions

this team has got to find a way

to protect its bullpen. we can't have these five-inning starts.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:10 PM CDT up reply actions

sould of left him in..

hell he just pelted that guy..he is a gamer

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 8:28 PM CDT reply actions

Good thinking Dusty...

Leave Wuertz to rot in on the pen for 8 days and then bring him into the game in a crucial spot.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:28 PM CDT reply actions

boooooooo

to you for not supporting your team--

Please........

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions

let it go already

For chrissakes, is no one ever allowed to criticize anyone or anything when it comes to the Cubs? Do you want to win games or just have a feel-good, happy love-fest where we all hug Dusty and sing campfire songs? If he makes he a bone-headed move that warrants criticism then people will call him out for it.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 8:34 PM CDT up reply actions

I thought you were joking

why is it that some people here think that you don't support the team if you criticize anything they do? None of us would be suffering through the thankless heartbreak of cheering for this team year after year if we didn't support them.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:36 PM CDT up reply actions

not anything...

...actually it's everything that Baker does, people criticize and second-guess before the results even take place.

That's what I find upsetting.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions

Well

a lot of us find the things he does infuriating. With good reason, I think.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:42 PM CDT up reply actions

Alot of you...

....find everything he does infuriating?

What's wrong with that picture?

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions

Everything...

is a bit extreme.

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions

I didn't say everything

I'd love to feel about Dusty the way I did in 2003. Sadly, a whole bunch of dumb moves over the course of the last two seasons have made it impossible for me to do so. And we aren't the only ones who feel this way about him---ask Giants fans how popular he was with them before he came to the Cubs, for pretty much the same reasons.

What I can't tolerate is the idea that dissent=disloyalty. I've spent way too many Septembers freezing my butt off in the upper deck when this team was 20 games out of playoff contention to have someone question my devotion to the team just because I'm not crazy about the manager.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:57 PM CDT up reply actions

the dictatorship of optimism

that'll make this place a lively joint, hey? :) welcome to stepford!

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:11 PM CDT up reply actions

we definitely want a groundball....

.....I don't want a K here--

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:31 PM CDT reply actions

I'll take it

n/t

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:34 PM CDT reply actions

nice f-ing pitch....but,...

....now you've got Pujols---I might mess my pants.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:34 PM CDT reply actions

Encarnacion Ks!

filthy slider by Wuertz

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:34 PM CDT reply actions

timewarner/espn

seems to be on a huge delay, because i'm seeing comments here about things that haven't happened on my tv yet!

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 8:37 PM CDT reply actions

Boo Pujols!

But no worries, we just need to get out of this inning and get our bats goin' again.

by deansanta on Apr 9, 2006 8:37 PM CDT reply actions

agreed.......

....let's get out of this.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions

Awwwww crap!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:37 PM CDT reply actions

Darn...

Pujols singles, two runners score. 4-3 Cards.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:37 PM CDT reply actions

Pujols lucky

just made it through

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 8:38 PM CDT reply actions

Nice stop by Cedeno

prevents Eckstein from scoring.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:40 PM CDT reply actions

Agreed

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions

Cedeno

has some range

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions

big time

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:42 PM CDT up reply actions

c'mon cubbiess

by deansanta on Apr 9, 2006 8:40 PM CDT reply actions

Excellent work, Ronny!

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:40 PM CDT reply actions

That inning could have been a lot worse

I. . .I think.

(had to imagine that last part in Carl the greenskeeper voice)

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:41 PM CDT reply actions

Marshall's line

4.3 IP, 65 pitches (42 strikes) 4 Hits, 4 ER, 1 BB, 2 K.

Not bad.the 2 runs he gave up in the first are excusable, especially given the strike zone he was dealing with... The 2 runs in the 5th resulted from two guys getting slap hits off him, which led to 2nd and 3rd with no one out and the meat of the linup on deck...

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 8:41 PM CDT reply actions

could've been a lot worse than this

competent work by marshall.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:13 PM CDT up reply actions

Agreed

He had good stuff and for the most part looked pretty comfortable on the mound. His lone mistake was the pitch to Rolen in the first.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:17 PM CDT up reply actions

his inaccuracy

still makes me very nervous. it's clear he has pitches he can throw to mlb hitters, but he just doesn't locate real well. not wild, just not fine. it's something to work on.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:21 PM CDT up reply actions

I'd say...

...that the Cubs get away good there, considering the rookie loads-em up with 1 out--Wuertz did a good job with Encarnacion, and then was working Pujols very well, until he let that fastball slip--

We'll get some runs, for sure.

In context.....not a bad inning, there.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:42 PM CDT reply actions

Inning over

Bad move by Dusty to use Wuertz in a close game situation, especially after not using him for 8 days. Oh well, Ponson is still pitching, so there's still hope!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:42 PM CDT reply actions

I disagree...

....Weurtz pitched very well, and got beat by a tough single from Pujols just out of reach of Cedeno, and he got us out of a bases loaded jam with 1 out facing the best player in baseball, and we're only down 1 run.

I think Dusty made the right move--Wuertz was the only one fresh--

What? Should Wuertz never be used in tough situations? Is that because of last year?

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:44 PM CDT up reply actions

Well...

What? Should Wuertz never be used in tough situations? Is that because of last year?

That's part of it. Wuertz was very unreliable in high pressure situations last year. But most importantly, he had yet to pitch all season! After being inactive for so long, Wuertz wasn't "fresh", he was rusty.

Dusty could've brought him into the game in the season opener when the Cubs were pounding the Reds, he could've brought him into the game Friday with the Cubs up 5-1. Instead, he brings him into the game in a crucial, high pressure situation.

Ugh.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions

I thought Wuertz got the job done--

--took a horrible situation and kept us in the game. I thought he threw the ball well, and I respect the fact that Dusty thinks a pitcher gets a clean slate with the new season --

As far as his days off, and whether he's "rusty" or not, I think that only Wuertz, Rothschild, and Baker know the answer to that question. How do you know he was so "rusty" -- How do you know everything that's going on inside this guy's body and inside the minds of the coaches? There are a million different scenarios that could be responsible for Baker making the decision to bring Wuertz into that situation--

LaRussa brought Rincon in the game at a crucial moment--Rincon had only thrown 4 pitches all season--he brings him in--does that make Rincon rusty, too, and LaRussa foolish, too.

Cubs win. Wuertz gets us out of a jam, while keeping us in the game.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 10:52 PM CDT up reply actions

Re Wuertz

and I respect the fact that Dusty thinks a pitcher gets a clean slate with the new season

I wonder though, if this really was the case, why didn't Dusty bring him in until now? He had a whole bunch of opportunities to bring Wuertz into a game, but he waited 8 days.

As far as his days off, and whether he's "rusty" or not, I think that only Wuertz, Rothschild, and Baker know the answer to that question. How do you know he was so "rusty" -- How do you know everything that's going on inside this guy's body and inside the minds of the coaches?

He hasn't pitched in a game all season, how in the world is he not going to be rusty? It's only natural.

Wuertz gets us out of a jam, while keeping us in the game.
He strikes out Encarnacion on a wicked slider, then gives up a 2-run single to Pujols which gives the Cards the lead.

Wuertz struck out Encarnacion and got Albert Pujols (maybe the best hitter in the majors) to hit a weak seeing-eye single.

Yes. Wuertz did do a good job my minimizing the damage with Pujols at the plate, but he was brought in to get out of a jam. He didn't.

If that ball is two feet to the right it's an out. No pitcher can force a batter to hit the ball right at his fielders.

If the ball is two feet to the right it's an out...maybe...but so what? If Lee hits a wind aided homerun that barely reaches the basket, and Ramirez hits one with no wind out unto Waveland, the result is still the same isn't it?

My main criticism though, is that it just wasn't the right time to bring in Wuertz.

by VS on Apr 10, 2006 8:01 AM CDT up reply actions

I agree and disagree......

...so maybe we should just agree to kind of disagree....lol.

My one point is this. You say--

I wonder though, if this really was the case, why didn't Dusty bring him in until now? He had a whole bunch of opportunities to bring Wuertz into a game, but he waited 8 days.

We cannot answer this question, unless we know what the status of Wuertz was, and what the thinking of Rothschild and Baker was. There are so many factors that go into this decision, that it's difficult for me to acccept the belief that Dusty doesn't know what he's doing, and he made an irrational decision--that is one possible reason why it happened--however, there are countless other reasons why--

I respect that some people disagree with moves by Baker--I do--I just don't accept what seems to be a prevelant prejudice against his abilities as a manager--Note: I am not grouping you with all of these people, and if I have suggested otherwise, then I apologize.

I believe that the manager's performance in 2003 was very strong, exceeding expectations. I believe that his performance iin 2004 and 2005 is clouded by a series of injuries and post-Sosa, personnel moves that had the GM hands tied. Did he make bad decisions, yes. Do I feel confident objectively assessing his decision making based on the 2004 and 2005 team-record. Absolutely not.

I am one of the few, who would prefer to give Dusty the benefit
of the doubt, and I trust his decision-making in a crucial situation in a crucial game. Why did he bring in Wuertz ? I just don't know the answer, except to believe that he felt it was his situation.

And, I feel that Wuertz did his job, and did a damn fine job considering.

Respectfully.

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 10, 2006 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions

I Don't understand

You seem to think that Wuertz is to blame for the hit to Pujols, implying that the result is no different from a line drive hit. Sure, the results aren't any different, but what you don't seem to understand is that Wuertz had absolutely no control over that. Wuertz got the weak ground ball. That it found a hole wasn't a result of his pitching.

Let me give you a better analogy. Let's say Pujols hit that ball right to Cedeno and Cedeno booted it. Two runs score. The results are the same as if Pujols hit a line drive single. Is it still Wuertz's fault that the runs scored? Because it's no different.

Wuertz pitched great. Maybe one could argue that Dusty couldn't have known that he would pitch great and that he should have brought someone else in, but I don't see how any of us could know what Dusty knew at the time.

I'm sorry, but you really seem to be arguing the facts to fit your conclusion rather than the other way around.

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 10, 2006 8:06 PM CDT up reply actions

What was wrong?

Wuertz struck out Encarnacion and got Albert Pujols (maybe the best hitter in the majors) to hit a weak seeing-eye single. If that ball is two feet to the right it's an out. No pitcher can force a batter to hit the ball right at his fielders.

Wuertz did great. Your criticism is unsupported by the events on the field.

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 9, 2006 11:29 PM CDT up reply actions

How dare you?!?!

Clearly you hate the Cubs and you want Dusty to contract a horrible disease. We should never second-guess Dusty.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 8:46 PM CDT up reply actions

all hail the infallible dusty! :)

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions

Ah yes. . .

The wonderfully delightful ignorant rude sarcasm that makes this site so wonderful.

There's a difference between criticizing Dusty when he screws up and criticizing him when he does nothing wrong. Wuertz threw great. Or at least explain to me how Bobby Howry would have gotten Pujols to hit that weak grounder two feet to the right.

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 9, 2006 11:32 PM CDT up reply actions

the result and the risk

are not the same. using wuertz there was a risk that worked out. it didn't have to.

but i do think that wuertz has to have an important role in this pen with starters going only five innings. everyone needs to pitch in. glad wuertz did his part.

by gaius marius on Apr 10, 2006 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions

Re

As is well-known, I'm no Dusty fan, but this was a smart move by Baker.

Marshall, overall, did a good job tonight, especially considering the circumstances. Not only is there a lot of pressure on whoever fills that spot in the rotation to get the team thru until Prior and/or Wood return, but it's Sunday night on espn with a chance to sweep the Cards.

If Dusty leaves in him and he gets shelled, his confidence, which he'll need for his future starts, is destroyed. Marshall had already shown the Cards lineup what he had, and this time they were pretty much ready for it. To expect him to get the dp grounder from JE or face both him and AP and get outs is really asking too much from a kid who really shouldn't even be in the bigs yet.

No - you turn to your bullpen to extract Marshall and the team from this situation, and you call in the arm you think can best do the job. That's what it's there for, especially with the starters the Cubs are having to use to start the season.

What Baker did was right not only for the specific situation, but for Marshall's future starts. Baker can tell Marshall in all honesty that he did a good job, that he'll get some of those calls in the future, and that he's a got a team behind him to help him out of whatever happens. Imagine trying to convince Marshall of that had he been left in and the Cubs wound up down three or four runs instead of just one?

This first week of the 2006 version of Dusty Baker has been quite a surprise. Other than starting Neifi on OD, I'm hard-pressed to think of something to really bitch about. His lineups have been good, his PH decisions have been sharp, his defensive replacement have been spot on. Who is that guy chewing on a toothpick in the dugout?

A season of this Dusty Baker, and the Cubs are going places.

by Jed Taylor on Apr 10, 2006 3:48 AM CDT up reply actions

down 1 with 5 innings...

and a horrible bullpen and Ponson to hit against AND the wind blowing out? This will be a battle of the bullpens, and i still like our chances...

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 8:44 PM CDT reply actions

I wish

Ponson would quit licking his hand like that. I know all pitchers do it, but it looks especially digusting coming from him. Like he's sampling a pork chop.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:44 PM CDT reply actions

Can someone take Ponson a drink......

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:45 PM CDT reply actions

thank you

make up call

by nathan on Apr 9, 2006 8:45 PM CDT reply actions

yep

Replay clearly shows Cedeno was out.

THANKS!

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 8:47 PM CDT up reply actions

umpire gave us one back...

and LaRussa's about to get tossed!

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 8:45 PM CDT reply actions

That's what happens when...

...you make two terrible calls....

You have to make up for it.

The Cubs deserve that

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:46 PM CDT reply actions

good call

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 8:46 PM CDT reply actions

Cedeno was out...

Not that I'm not pleased with it, but the ump was wrong.

by michigancubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:47 PM CDT up reply actions

Pujols foot came off the bag

just as the throw got there

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 8:49 PM CDT up reply actions

did it?

from the angles I saw, looked like it was a clean out.

Once again, happy to get the break, just habitually playing devil's advocate.

by michigancubbie on Apr 9, 2006 8:51 PM CDT up reply actions

in the other replay

the one from the 3rd base side you can see him lift his heel to stretch for the ball, and it comes all the way off the bag. he did look out from the camera behind 1st base.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 8:54 PM CDT up reply actions

alright

never mind then

:)

by michigancubbie on Apr 9, 2006 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions

pulled his foot

by shadoobe2 on Apr 9, 2006 8:47 PM CDT reply actions

Again,

shut up, Joe. Go back to making up stories that never happened.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:47 PM CDT reply actions

isn't he annoying

just like that woo woo guy

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions

next time

The next time ESPN calls a Cubs home game, they should interview Ronnie Woo. I'm sure Joe Morgan would be able to have a deep conversation with him.

The poster formerly known as CherryPoppinCubbies

by jrm78 on Apr 9, 2006 11:36 PM CDT up reply actions

Darn

that was a nice play. Eckstein sure is a nimble litle minx.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 8:50 PM CDT reply actions

Three plays in a row...

where the Cubs ran hard and put pressure on the D. Eventually, that can lead to errors...

The Cubs will thrive in twenty-oh-five... or sometime thereafter!

by Shawn Domagal-Goldman on Apr 9, 2006 8:51 PM CDT reply actions

I like Cedeno

The more I see the more there is to like. It will be interesting to see how his Cubs career progresses.

Nomar who?

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 9:00 PM CDT reply actions

Holy Smokes!

Did everyone see how quick he turned that DP?

I heart Cedeno!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:01 PM CDT reply actions

Brewers finally go down

7-0 to the D'backs.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:04 PM CDT reply actions

who says

Walker can't turn the DP? :)

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:10 PM CDT reply actions

Peter Gammons

looks so uncomfortable down there with the "regular folk". Heh heh.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:14 PM CDT reply actions

No kidding!

They're not going to mug you, Peter.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions

He looked

Like he had one hand on his wallet the whole time.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions

But he sounds

very comfortable kissing Albert's a@@.

by giddyup on Apr 9, 2006 9:17 PM CDT up reply actions

Regular folks

You mean the idiots who act like idiots every time the camera tuns on? Those aren't regular folks those are escapees from a mental ward.

by bubbamike the one and only on Apr 9, 2006 10:17 PM CDT up reply actions

cedeno 3-3

the kid makes a lot of contact, doesn't he? he may never walk, but he won't k much either.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:18 PM CDT reply actions

and he's on my fantasy team

whoot!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions

phew

i hope that's a deep league, julie. ;)

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:19 PM CDT reply actions

so far

I'm hanging in there. I blew too much of my salary on Joe Nathan, but since we only have two trades a week, I can't get rid of him!

Cedeno is doing all right for me, so far.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:20 PM CDT up reply actions

i hope he keeps it up

just for you. ;)

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions

Awww gaius!

you gave me a warm fuzzy!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:23 PM CDT up reply actions

lol

i don't get that much around here -- thank you, julie.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions

that's because

everyone usually feels sad and or enraged after speaking with you. No offense.

2006 -- AC036097 -- Eamus Catuli!

by priorpwnz on Apr 9, 2006 11:43 PM CDT up reply actions

Pujols

Why don't any baseball announcers ever talk about Pujols questionable age? They go on and on about how much he's accomplished compared to other players his age, never mentioning that no one really believes he's 26. I can remember them talking about it all the time with Soriano, El Duque, and quite a few other players.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:19 PM CDT reply actions

He doesn't look

like any 26-year old I've ever seen, that's for sure.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:21 PM CDT up reply actions

How old does he look to you guys?

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions

Closer to 30

think of other guys who are 25ish and stick Pujols next to them. ...he just seems more. . . I don't know. . . manly, I guess.

Maybe he's just that much of a stud tho, I don't know. But he seems a lot older than mid-20s to me. In fact, he looks EXACTLY like my friend, Al, who is 32. Come to think of it, I never see Al and Pujols in the same place at the same time. . .

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions

i'm probably

just the strange one but he looks more his age to me.

2006 -- AC036097 -- Eamus Catuli!

by priorpwnz on Apr 9, 2006 11:44 PM CDT up reply actions

the thing of it is

that he may very well be just that young. there's been a lot more work done in recent years in the way of age verification of foreign nationals, thanks to terrorism mania.

i obviously wasn't there in the delivery room :) -- but he really might be his advertised age.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions

anyway

he's a really great hitter regardless of how old he is.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions

without a doubt

he's great. But I would put my money on 30-31, no way he's 26.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions

How much?

Because I'll take that bet.

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 9, 2006 11:42 PM CDT up reply actions

If they are lying about Pujols's age

They were lying about it when he moved to this country at 16 and enrolled in high school. Pujols moved to Independence, MO then and graduated from an American High School where, presumably, his age was checked many times (and where it would have taken some foresight to lie about his age to make him seem younger, just so he could play high school baseball.)

Some people are so cynical to the point of paranoia. No one talks about Pujols' age because it's well-documented.

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 9, 2006 11:42 PM CDT up reply actions

God I hate Joe Morgan

The pitch is a good 3 inches out of the K Zone, and he says "good pitch....in the acceptable range"

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:24 PM CDT reply actions

pierre got screwed!

I thought the replay showed he checked his swing

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 9:27 PM CDT reply actions

clearly he checked his swing

it wasn't even that close. the boys in blue are killing us tonight.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions

Bah, rare strikeout for Pierre

bad timing, too.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:27 PM CDT reply actions

da**it!

2nd time this series the home plate ump blew a call on a check swing without bothering to get help.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:27 PM CDT reply actions

williams

looked a lot better today.

by gaius marius on Apr 9, 2006 9:28 PM CDT reply actions

Yes

n/t

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions

indeed

his control is still a problem though. hope he gets it worked out.

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions

Just saw the replay

BS call. Ask for help!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:30 PM CDT reply actions

Just when you think he's hit bottom

Joe Morgan gets even worse. So now apparently if you check your swing but you look bad you stil get called out.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:31 PM CDT reply actions

Yea...

I cringed when he said that. Sweet Jesus, I don't know who is more incompetent, Morgan or these umps.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:34 PM CDT up reply actions

although..

morgan did clarify that in "our terms" it was a check swing.

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 9:36 PM CDT up reply actions

That is the funniest thing I ever heard

I bet he even had to talk himself into saying that.

"Hello again, everybody. It's a bee-yooo-tiful day for baseball."- Harry Caray

by TkGoUWGB on Apr 9, 2006 9:39 PM CDT up reply actions

you almost have to feel bad for him

then you realize it's Joe Morgan and no, you don't.

2006 -- AC036097 -- Eamus Catuli!

by priorpwnz on Apr 9, 2006 11:46 PM CDT up reply actions

HA!

Take that, Rolen! Idiot.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:32 PM CDT reply actions

good example

of a lack of desire by the cards so far this year. they seem lazy.

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 10:39 PM CDT up reply actions

Nice play by Williamson

But that says a lot about what teams think of Barrett's arm, that's not a situation when you send Rolen.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:34 PM CDT reply actions

I see that Yadier

has the patented Molina body-type.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:34 PM CDT reply actions

C'mon team

let's get it started.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:37 PM CDT reply actions

hariston for walker

wow that works out well defensively, no need for more shifting. nice when the little things line up.

by mike bornemann @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:40 PM CDT reply actions

God, I would LOVE to see

that Isringhausen dude get shelled if only because of his weird friggin name.

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 9:40 PM CDT reply actions

Aramis is DUE

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 9:43 PM CDT reply actions

Whoa

what's wrong with Isringhausen?

Oh please, float one up in there. . .oh please, oh please, oh please. . .

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:44 PM CDT reply actions

Now we got game

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 9:46 PM CDT up reply actions

Wow!!!!!

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:48 PM CDT up reply actions

He walked the bases loaded!

Izzy with a Rick Ankiel moment.

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:46 PM CDT reply actions

Grand Slam!

Barrett!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:48 PM CDT reply actions

whoooooo!!!

Break out year for Barrett. He was all over that weak fastball.

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:49 PM CDT reply actions

Drive safely on your way home!!!!

by Smooth Jazz Man San Diego on Apr 9, 2006 9:50 PM CDT reply actions

What an Adrenalin Rush!

Two days in the row Barrett comes through!

GO CUBS ! ! ! !

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 9:50 PM CDT reply actions

wooooooohooooooooo

wooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooohhooooooooooooooooooo

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Apr 9, 2006 9:50 PM CDT reply actions

thought we were

manufacturing runs these days? oh well, as long as we manufacture wins.

by mike bornemann @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:50 PM CDT reply actions

3 walks + HR = Grand Slam

sure beats the old days of solo shots!!!!!

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Apr 9, 2006 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions

Tony is ready

to spay Izzie...

by Smooth Jazz Man San Diego on Apr 9, 2006 9:50 PM CDT reply actions

What's his problem this year?

That doesn't look like the Isringhausen of old.b . .

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions

No it doesn't

He looked hurt. The whole of the Cardinals bullpen looks like it's ready to implode. Good news for us.

My wife's rule of baseball? "If you don't have a good bullpen, you've got nuthin'." Of course, she's an Angels fan and they always have a good bullpen.

Baseball can be summed up in one word--you never know--Joaquin Andujar

by Josh Timmers on Apr 9, 2006 11:46 PM CDT up reply actions

Better

start cooling down the hot water in the Redbirds clubhouse

by Smooth Jazz Man San Diego on Apr 9, 2006 9:51 PM CDT reply actions

Ball hawks are in business tonight

Take a little harder poke these days to get to waveland! What a game...

by LT on Apr 9, 2006 9:52 PM CDT reply actions

wow

nice catch by the guy on sheffield too!

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:52 PM CDT reply actions

whoops

i mean waveland

by Aaron @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions

First...

...Cub homer over the new bleachers?

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Apr 9, 2006 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions

rolen's

was out i think

by mike bornemann @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 9:55 PM CDT up reply actions

Grand Slam

THANK YOU

by hitmesammy on Apr 10, 2006 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions

Grand Slam

Thank you

by hitmesammy on Apr 10, 2006 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions

HOLY COW BARRETT!!!

GRAND SALAMI!

Izzy is Dizzy

this is sweet

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 9:53 PM CDT reply actions

Brooms???

by Smooth Jazz Man San Diego on Apr 9, 2006 9:53 PM CDT reply actions

Opening New Busch

I can't think of a better way to send them to their new home than with this taste in their mouth.

I can't believe I chose not to come out this weekend! $%$$!!

by 08Cubs on Apr 9, 2006 9:53 PM CDT reply actions

I love you Michael!

OMG! This is so fun!!

Orange Guy needs a hit!

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 9:54 PM CDT reply actions

I know its April 9th

But this feels too damn good. GO CUBS!!!

by Slaky311 on Apr 9, 2006 9:57 PM CDT reply actions

Ronny 4-4!

After a bad outing by Halladay earlier today, Ronny is really saving my fantasy team!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 9:58 PM CDT reply actions

Different feeling all the way

from last year... Cedeno over .500! Last year, a broken down SS..oh yeah, he's still broken down

by Smooth Jazz Man San Diego on Apr 9, 2006 9:59 PM CDT reply actions

Wild!

Run Jacques, Run!!

by michigancubbie on Apr 9, 2006 10:02 PM CDT reply actions

Nice play by Murton!

Defensive liability my rear!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 10:06 PM CDT reply actions

Awkward sliding catch

but got the job done!

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 10:07 PM CDT up reply actions

There you go Sparkles...

Good catch by orange guy!

by LT on Apr 9, 2006 10:06 PM CDT reply actions

give some love..

to the glove
of orange guy

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions

I love Orange Guy too!

He's not hitting as much as he would like, but he's making good plays!

Come on Ryan!

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 10:07 PM CDT reply actions

Break out the brooms!

by VS on Apr 9, 2006 10:08 PM CDT reply actions

Cubs SWEEP Cardinals!

How sweep is this! !! !

by JFCubFan on Apr 9, 2006 10:08 PM CDT reply actions

Cubs Win!!!

Good night, everybody.

"Aw, how could he lose the ball in the sun, he's from Mexico!"--Harry Caray

by cubbiejulie on Apr 9, 2006 10:09 PM CDT reply actions

SWEEEEEEEP

alrighty alright NO LET DOWNS AGAINST THE REDS!!!!

by cubsfan2883 on Apr 9, 2006 10:09 PM CDT reply actions

And I love winning!!!!!!

Cubs sweep!

Cubbie Blue always sPaRkLes in my eyes.

by sparkles721 on Apr 9, 2006 10:09 PM CDT reply actions

Beats Losing

Every time

by cubsfan2883 on Apr 9, 2006 10:13 PM CDT up reply actions

YES

Definitely a good way to start the week.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 10:12 PM CDT reply actions

Jacques Jones And Michael Barrett

Goats one day, Heros the next!

Don't forget to fire Dusty for not playing small ball today.

by bubbamike the one and only on Apr 9, 2006 10:12 PM CDT reply actions

Great start...

...to the season. I can't remember a more intense atmosphere at Wrigley this early in the season.

cubsfan4life

by cubfan4life on Apr 9, 2006 10:18 PM CDT reply actions

lots of positives

to tonight's win. so what if the cards walked so many. we took advantage. something we didn't do last year, or most of the last century for that matter :-/

we have depth. we scored 8 runs when pierre went 0 for 5, not to mention other cold bats. this is a TEAM.

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 10:33 PM CDT up reply actions

Amen to that.....

.....I agree one hundred percent.

TEAM ball--

85% of the world's working and the other 15% come out here (to Wrigley). --Lee Elia

by southerncubbie on Apr 9, 2006 10:34 PM CDT up reply actions

Marshall..

he pitched very well for his first MLB start- on ESPN sunday night no less- regardless of what the box score sez. kudos for Sean and it bodes well for the few-cha when he can do well against the cards.

by cashcowsquirtingsourmilk on Apr 9, 2006 10:51 PM CDT reply actions

Weurtz

I was impressed by weurtz too. Bases loaded, strike out, and a seeing eye grounder for two Pujols RBIs, we could have been buried in that inning. I am very impressed by the depth of the bullpen

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Apr 9, 2006 11:11 PM CDT up reply actions

Wow...

What a great ending to a great series. Marshall located very well tonight for the most part, and you've gotta be impressed by his composure. He started to get a little frayed in the 5th, but did anyone else notice that he sought out Maddux as soon as he got back to the dugout? One thing's for sure, he pitched a lot better than his stat line is going to show. Williams had pretty good stuff tonight as well, and the same could be said about Wuertz for the most part. I am glad, however, that this series is coming to an end, as those prolonged periods of banging in my chest can't be a good thing...lol.
The more I watch this team, the more there is to like about it. Cubbie fans, it looks like we have a team...

"The game will never be over, because we're keepin' the dream alive."

by Mark H @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Apr 9, 2006 10:56 PM CDT reply actions

CUBBIES WHOOOO CUBBIES WHOO - wha? ahem ..

Sorry, it was just the fecklessly stupid giddy side of me coming out .. I won't continue to torment you with La Voz of He-Who-Shall-Not-Be Named. Forgive me, but I can't believe we just saw what we did tonight .. A SWEEP, dear Lord, a SWEEP of them blasted Redbirds. I could die and go to heaven. I finally got a chance to follow one and with a retooled Cubs team almost too speedy to behold.

Boyoboy, did I NEED to watch this, after screaming myself hoarse last night in Nashville with my brother who lives there, having to endure watching another Chicago pro sports team, the Hawks, let another rival team (the Predators) feast on them on to the playoffs. I was so mad I wanted to throw their Scott Sullivan wobbly they were giving out back on the ice.

Even though DLee wasn't at his best, it's ok. Folks, this team shows some real potential. It's about time that the team started opening up and carrying itself. From Marshall's exceedingly promising start against the Enemy (despite his slips) to the end of Jones' drought and the blazing speed on the bases ... from Murton's excellent catch to Wuertz's gutsy damage control, what a rush! From the lair of this Chicago exile trapped in East Tennessee, register a big sigh of satisfaction.

(and say what you will, I think Walker is the man for the job there, gang .. I'm glad for Neifi and Hairston, but Walk's the boy) ..

Of course, I need to come down to earth and realize that if Rincon and Isringhausen hadn't so completely melted down, the game would be different. But that still was cause for real celebration. What is exciting is that for the first time in a LOOONNG time the Cubs actually looked like they were hungry and ready enough to capitalize on the mistakes those dang Birds gave them .. and actually executed.

Could we be seeing the start of something BEAUTIFUL here? Folks, I'm ready to put that wristback back on and keep it on again all season.

"BELIEVE"!

rafa

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Apr 9, 2006 11:18 PM CDT reply actions

CUBBIES WHOOOO CUBBIES WHOO - wha? ahem ..

Sorry, it was just the fecklessly stupid giddy side of me coming out .. I won't continue to torment you with La Voz of He-Who-Shall-Not-Be Named. Forgive me, but I can't believe we just saw what we did tonight .. A SWEEP, dear Lord, a SWEEP of them blasted Redbirds. I could die and go to heaven. I finally got a chance to follow one and with a retooled Cubs team almost too speedy to behold.

Boyoboy, did I NEED to watch this, after screaming myself hoarse last night in Nashville with my brother who lives there, having to endure watching another Chicago pro sports team, the Hawks, let another rival team (the Predators) feast on them on their way to their playoffs. ARRGH! I was so mad I wanted to throw their Scott Sullivan wobbly they were giving out back on the ice.

Even though DLee wasn't at his best, it's ok. Folks, this team shows some real potential. It's about time that the team started opening up and carrying itself. From Marshall's exceedingly promising start against the Enemy (despite his slips) to the end of Jones' drought and the blazing speed on the bases ... from Murton's excellent catch to Wuertz's gutsy damage control, what a rush! From the lair of this Chicago exile trapped in East Tennessee, register a big sigh of satisfaction.

(and say what you will, I think Walker is the man for the job there, gang .. I'm glad for Neifi and Hairston, but Walk's the boy) ..

Of course, I need to come down to earth and realize that if Rincon and Isringhausen hadn't so completely melted down, the game would be different. But that still was cause for real celebration. What is exciting is that for the first time in a LOOONNG time the Cubs actually looked like they were hungry and ready enough to capitalize on the mistakes those dang Birds gave them .. and actually executed.

This is a videotape I will watch again and again this year (too poor for Tivo)! Could we be seeing the start of something BEAUTIFUL here? Folks, I'm ready to put that wristback back on and keep it on again all season.

"BELIEVE"!

rafa

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Apr 9, 2006 11:23 PM CDT reply actions

Tivo

You better believe I hit the record button after the grand slam. (It keeps a 30 minute buffer.)

by 08Cubs on Apr 9, 2006 11:39 PM CDT up reply actions

Jacque Jones

I hope you folks in Chicagoland will grow to appreciate what my Twins have done for you by letting Jacque Jones get away. I'm not saying he's going to do for the Cubs what David Ortiz did for the Red Sox after the Twins released him (!!!) but he has potential to do a lot more for the Cubs than Ron Coomer and LaTroy Hawkins did (when the Cubs acquired Hawk, I felt like sending a telegram to Andy MacPhail, saying, "You'll be SOR-RY!" ... and he was). JJ can get the clutch hit from time to time... and unlike Sammy, he doesn't showboat when he smacks it, he puts his head down and runs. Hopefully he'll get his average up soon. Meanwhile, one thing seems evident... any potential glare off the glass in centerfield wasn't too much of a problem for at least a couple of the Cubs batters tonight. Hey-Hey!

It's a beautiful day for a ball game!

by Wahkeenah on Apr 10, 2006 1:27 AM CDT reply actions

RE:Jacque Jones

I have nothing but love for Jacque Jones. Especially, b/c we were playing the "Cup Game" last night at Wrigley and Jacque decided to hit his HR while I was holding it! Jacque, you've officially earned $23 of your $16 mil contract.

Let's go Cubs!

There are three things that the average man thinks he can do better than anybody else. Build a fire, run a hotel and manage a baseball team. -Rocky Bridges

by Jobu on Apr 10, 2006 7:49 AM CDT up reply actions

Hey Cubnational..

You're a better man than I. When I was in PHX for Spring Training, the Blackhawks were in town. I had intentions to go, since I haven't seen a Hawks game in person for about 5 years. However...with the miserable state of that team, and a 2-hour rush hour drive across the valley....I decided against it.
I just suffer with that awful team, and their overrated Stanley Cup goalie, by watching the NHL Center Ice Package. (And, of course, we never hear Pat Foley, since no home games are televised, as if its' 1970.) 75% of the time, the opposition broadcast is the feed of choice, rather than the Comcast road game feed.
Unlike other posters who keep pleading for Tribco to sell the Cubs, my hope is that someday that (Dollar) Bill Wirtz will get the hell out of the business, because they are killing the NHL in Chicago.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Apr 10, 2006 1:32 PM CDT reply actions

Killing?

The NHL's been dead in Chicago for a decade.

by Al Yellon on Apr 10, 2006 5:43 PM CDT up reply actions

I know but, hey, I'm a Chicago boy ..

.. I'm gonna root for my home town teams when ever and where ever. That's my upbringing and First Amendment choice working for ya. I long for the day I get out of the South and come back home to the North.

So, when I saw those noble looking old Hawks jerseys, and that idiot Pred fan standing behind the goal waving the "number 1" gesture at the Hawks as they did warmups, I couldn't help it but decide I was going to scream good and loud for Chicago from where I sat, only five rows up from the goal.

And I was the only one who went WHOOOO when the Hawks scored early in the first period. And I do mean ONLY one. Everyone looked at me, decked out in my Cub jersey (with my lettering reading "Fan Since 69"), retro Cub 69 hat and long sleeve "Go Cubbies" shirt jumping up and down.

I enjoy being contrary and letting these Music City people know what real fans are about.

Well, Next Year is here .. and Jack's century's gotta end some time .. GO CUBBIES!

by cubnational on Apr 10, 2006 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions