Almost Famous, and Open Thread: Cubs vs. Pirates, Thursday 5/10, 1:20 CT

by Al on May 10, 2007 8:48 AM CDT in Recap/Game Thread Comment 465 comments

Three solid hits.

That's all Jason Marquis gave up in last night's briskly and crisply played 1-0 Cub win over the Pirates. When Don Kelly, the Pirates' backup shortstop who got the start last night, slapped a single right in front of us, I said to Mike, "I really thought Marquis had a shot at it," meaning a no-hitter or even a perfect game, since he hadn't walked anyone up to that time (and didn't walk anyone). Figures, doesn't it, that the guy breaking up the perfect game would be hitting in the .160's, right?

It was the first Cub CG of the year and couldn't have come at a better time, given the two roster-depleting games of Sunday and Tuesday; the first CG shutout since Rich Hill shut out the Reds at Wrigley Field last September 16, and the second CG shutout of Marquis' career (he threw a two-hit shutout against the Nationals on August 27, 2005).

I can't say enough good things about the way Marquis threw and approached the game. He threw 72 strikes in 109 pitches and went to a three-ball count only three times, none after the third inning. He's now 5-1, leading the staff in wins (he was also 5-1 in 2005, but with a 3.26 ERA that year, compared to 1.70 now). Yes, it's only May, and in order to be "worth" the very large contract Jim Hendry signed him to, he'll have to keep this up all year. In the seven starts he's made so far, I see every sign he'll be able to do this. He hasn't been bad in any of them; the "worst" was April 10 vs. the Astros, where he allowed four runs (three earned) in five innings, taking his only loss.

Now it can be told -- Matt Burtz (gauchodirk here at BCB), who showed up, late, with three friends, is responsible for the no-hitter being broken up, since he told us afterward that he had mentioned it. He tried to make the excuse that he wasn't in the dugout, but that doesn't matter. Mike and I knew better. Hey, don't worry, Matt -- you can still come back and sit with us. Just don't talk about no-hitters in progress again!!

There isn't much to tell about the rest of the game, either. Alfonso Soriano led off the game with a home run, his second leadoff HR of the season, and thanks to Marquis, that was all the offense that was needed. Of course, we didn't know that at the time, and the Cubs did keep stranding runners, something they shouldn't do too much of if they want to win games where the starting pitcher isn't doing what Marquis did last night. Again, it came at the perfect time, since the bullpen badly needed a day off. Will Ohman and Bob Howry briefly got up in the 8th and 9th innings, but were never needed. The Cubs did leave ten men on base, never a good thing; fortunately, Marquis' masterpiece made that simply a footnote rather than an issue, at least for one day.

Here's what Marquis has to say about why he thinks he's doing so well this year:

"I pride myself on my conditioning. I work hard between starts to make sure when that time comes, I feel just as strongly now. I’m not giving the hitters any advantage.

"This stretch of games to start the season for myself has been as good as I’ve been throughout my career."

Finally, a welcome back to the bleachers to my friend Sue, who couldn't make it until yesterday due to illness and (well, this is what she claims, anyway) too much schoolwork. And she didn't bring the brownies she promised, either. Next time. And since they won, you're forgiven.

Today's Starting Pitchers


C. Zambrano Cubs	vs.	P. Maholm Pirates


3-2	W-L	1-4
5.80	ERA	5.51
29	SO	19
22	BB	11
9	HR	4
vs. Pit	--	vs. Cubs

The Cubs really need to win this series if they are going to make any sort of statement about contention this early in the season. The Pirates aren't a terrible team, but neither do they look as if they are ready for contention themselves. Thus, winning two of three here (as they did in Pittsburgh last week), and therefore having a 5-1 homestand, is really important.

So is getting Carlos Zambrano back to the form we've been used to seeing in past years. The nine HR allowed is worst in the major leagues, and the 22 walks are far too many. Frankly, the game Marquis threw last night is the sort of game I've been hoping to see out of Z all year. It's going to be a gorgeous day. Time for Z to step up.

Paul Maholm (and how do you get the pronunciation "Mah-HALL-uhm" out of that?) is 2-0, 4.86 lifetime against the Cubs, but has not thrown well so far this season.

Today's game is on WGN and also, as always, at the Mediacenter.

MLB.com Gameday

Finally, in a move that surprises me, the Cubs have agreed to the Astros' request to reschedule the April 11 snowout to June 11, an off-day after the Cubs' trip to Atlanta and the Astros' series in Chicago vs. the White Sox. You can buy tickets to this makeup game here.

Discuss amongst yourselves.

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Comments

Marquis

It was weird--it never felt like Marquis was pitching all that well (perfect game well), until I looked at my scorecard and saw that succession of 1-2-3 innings.

That said, it was a beautifully pitched game. Just what the doctor ordered.

Now if only JJ could learn to hit left handers. That was a wee bit frustrating.

"Don't think; it can only hurt the ball club."

by Jesse Guam on May 10, 2007 8:52 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Marquis

Pitched a gem. Lets hope he doesn't turn back into a pumpkin. Marquis is historically a fast starter who ends on a crummy note. But the way he is going right now, anything short of 14-15 wins and 210 IP on the season would be surprising.

You have to give the man his props. Both he and Ted Lilly are looking like outstanding acquisitions.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 9:14 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Amen

...to that.

It's worth remembering that at one time, Marquis was supposed to be the NEXT BIG THING starter for the Braves, after their big run with Smoltz, Glavine, and (shudder) Maddux.

Definitely too early to say this, but maybe Marquis could be partial karmic retribution for all the good years the Braves got out of Maddux (which should have been for the Cubs)?

by Chadnudj on May 10, 2007 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What's key:

2 HR in 47.2 IP
13 BB in 47.2 IP

I think there is no way he'll keep up that HR rate, but if he can even limit his rate to double that, and maintain the fine walk rate, I think he will be good all year.

What he won't maintain all year is this:

- 30 H in 47.2 IP

Ain't. Gonna. Happen.

Of course, no one expects him to maintain a 1.70 ERA all year under any circumstance. He can, and will, at least double that, and still be a very good pitcher.

The fear, perhaps the reasonable expectation, is that we have another DIPShit (i.e., Glendon Rusch) on our hands, who walks a tightrope with respect to BABIP. But you know what? Rusch was pretty good for significant stretches of time.

by dvdmgsr on May 10, 2007 9:18 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

last night

Marquis' performance covered up a lot of imperfections last night, notably that of Jacque Jones, who continues to look absolutely baffled when facing left-handers. Once again, the Cubs blew numerous scoring opportunities. I'd like to see less of this.

"Hello again, everybody. Harry Caray from Wrigley Field on a beautiful day for baseball."

by danimal15 on May 10, 2007 9:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

As would we all.

I know there was a lot of talk in the game thread last night and elsewhere about getting rid of Jones. Keep in mind that in order for other teams to have any interest in him, he has to play in front of their scouts.

Last night's performance by Jones wasn't a game I'd take back and recommend to my GM if I were a scout.

"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on May 10, 2007 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Jones

I have defended Jones for what he is, a decent complementary player. The problem is that the Cubs need another RH batter badly. Assuming Theriot and DeRosa are going to be playing a lot at SS and 2B, that only leaves Murton as a RH pinch hitter. Last night Murton was in the game so there was no one. Either Ward, Floyd or Pie need to be flipped for a RH batter. Considering Floyd and probably Ward are not going anywhere, Pie should probably be sent down to get regular playing time and someone (Pagan?) should be recalled and/or acquired.

by rlpete on May 10, 2007 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed

Pagan is a switch hitter, I believe. I don't know if he can handle a PH role, but it's worth a shot. Jones is so one-dimensional: he can hit fastball-throwing righthanded pitching. He's played good defense in CF, which is a mild surprise, but he's seems to be the worst hitter on the team with RISP.

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 11:00 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pagan sucks

He can't even hit Triple A pitching. Lets not get carried away here. An option worth investigating is to see if the White Sox would deal us Brian Anderson for Matt Murton.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anderson for Murton ??

You must be kidding --right? If Murton went to the South Side, he'd be there everyday leftfielder.
Pagan is not hitting at Iowa. How about Chris Walker? Over .300 last year at Double A and just a couple of points below .300 this year at Iowa. He has speed and can sub defensively. He also is a switch hitter.
If Lou is not going to play Pie at least 3 times a week and not even give him a chance against lefties, he needs the pt at Iowa.
By the way, all 3 outfielders at Double are hitting well over .300 but all of them are lefties.

by ceegeewow on May 10, 2007 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Chris Walker.........

isn't really anything to get excited about.

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not saying Walker is great

But I remember hearing Theriot was nothing to get excited about as well.

Derrek Lee would beat Chuck Norris.

by kerrysotherwife on May 10, 2007 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

and we should all be happy that he's

turned out to be good........that doesn't mean that every prospect will, especially prospects from this system.

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anderson? Are you a White Sox troll?

http://www.baseball-reference.com/a/anderbr03.shtml

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Brian Anderson for Matt Murton

A) Anderson couldn't carry Murton's jock strap with the bat.

B) Anderson is a superior fielder, but why would the Cubs want him with Felix Pie in their system?

Get off of the Matt Murton bashing.

One day, the dream will come true.

by brianp88 on May 10, 2007 11:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe the Cubs could

coax Doug Glanville out of retirement. Hell, I hear that 48 year old Ricky Henderson is looking to get back into the game, maybe the Cubs could give him a shot. Either option would be better than Brian Anderson.

There are myriad options in the minors that could hit the staggering .111 or so that Anderson is posting.

by Scott on May 10, 2007 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Much better...

When I read your commment above that actually complimented Lilly and Marquis, I almost fell out of my chair in shock. It's a good thing I keep a defibrillator in my office. This comment lets me know that all is still right in Cubdom.

Distracted. That's a funny word. I wonder if anyone ever gets tracted.

by CyberCyclist on May 10, 2007 1:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: Much better...

LOL. Exactamundo.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

AMEN

Look at my prior comments on the day earlier thread -- he always chocks when it matters. He is great in 8-1 games though.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Marquis

I would love nothing better than to see Marquis continue on the path he's on now. None of us can rightfully expect a continuation of the Koufax like numbers we're seeing now, but a 3.5 ERA with 17 wins or so would be awesome. (I predicted in March that he'd give us good value)
http://www.allcubs.com/2007/03/index.html

Plus I'd love to hand deliver MANY orders of crow to the Hendry haters at season end, oh and an extra large size order for one Anthony LaRussa would also be nice. Nothing like seeing "the Genius" with feathers sticking out of his big yapper.

BBWAA's name should be changed to "Power in the hands of Fools"

by cubfever7 on May 10, 2007 9:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Marquis

I think there's no need to rub it to those who thought the Marquis signing was a mistake. We're all Cubs fans, and we're all exceedingly happy that Marquis hasn't been the Marquis of 2006.

That said, there is a definite need to rub it in with Cards fans.

"Don't think; it can only hurt the ball club."

by Jesse Guam on May 10, 2007 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Very early yet

Let's see how Marquis looks when it's 85 degrees and the wind is blowing out at Wrigley.

by salparadise23 on May 10, 2007 11:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd love to eat crow on this...

...but we're only seven starts into the season.

by dvdmgsr on May 10, 2007 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Crow's tasty

But Hebrew Nationals are better. We should eat those instead.

"Don't think; it can only hurt the ball club."

by Jesse Guam on May 10, 2007 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Enjoy that tasty crow

I am one of maybe 3 people that does not have to eat it on Marquis. I can't claim I was brilliant and saw that he would have an ERA of 1.70 in May. No I am just A. an eternal optimist on most everything except letting Floyd field too often. B. supportive of nice Jewish Boys and C. and most important, willing to except the recommendation/ referral of Marquis from a certain former Cub who knows a thing or two about pitching.

"It's the Cubbies. There's always a vibe. It's the greatest vibe in baseball." Greg Maddux on Cub fan's optimism even after the 06 debacle.

by jessica on May 10, 2007 10:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Crow

I am definitely eating it now and it's very tasty.

"Hello again, everybody. Harry Caray from Wrigley Field on a beautiful day for baseball."

by danimal15 on May 10, 2007 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kudos

To Marquis! It's especially sweet that the Cardinals let him go.

Kudos to Hendry. Lets hope this isn't a fluke.

Well, sometimes nothin is a real cool hand.

by wicubfan on May 10, 2007 9:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's something half way in between

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Awesome sig

Just noticed it.

"Don't think; it can only hurt the ball club."

by Jesse Guam on May 10, 2007 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Mah-HALL-uhm"

"Maholm (and how do you get the pronunciation "Mah-HALL-uhm" out of that?)"

Looks pretty Irish, where it would be pronounced "Mah-HOLL-uhm", which would rhyme with the first name "Colm".

by JohnM on May 10, 2007 9:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It was nice to see

the bullpen stay on the bench.

WARNING! Erwin Schrodinger will kill you like a cat in a box. Maybe.

by Jettero2112 on May 10, 2007 10:56 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nice long game for Z today

At least 7 from Z today would be good. Need a couple of long outings from the starters.

Was Dempster hurt or just trying to get him some rest last night? I noticed on my tape he didn't even warm up.

Derrek Lee would beat Chuck Norris.

by kerrysotherwife on May 10, 2007 11:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Dempster...

...had pitched all three games of the Nats series, and then again in game 1 vs. the Pirates (4 appearances in 5 days). I think Lou figured he needed a day off (particularly after the 9th inning the game before)

by Chadnudj on May 10, 2007 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If Marquis does turn it around

If Marquis is heading towards a turnaround in his career as this start certainly indicates he is it wasn't necessarily a mistake for the Cards to let him go.

Sometimes a change of scenery is what's needed. He may have been done in St Louis and was doomed to fail there.

For example if Corey Patterson does well for the rest of his career it wasn't a mistake to let him go. He was done here and needed a change of scenery.

Derrek Lee would beat Chuck Norris.

by kerrysotherwife on May 10, 2007 11:02 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Soriano question.

I didn't bother to look at the posts above me, because, well, I'm looking over my shoulder.

Despite Soriano's home run, was anyone else concerned that No. 12 struck out three times? His strikeout frequency is concerning for a leadoff guy. Maybe this has been brought up before, but was the Cubs selling point that he could bat leadoff every day? I'd love him at the No. 2 spot...

by northsidenonsense on May 10, 2007 11:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Why does it matter...

...how often the leadoff hitter strikes out? He sees the fewest men on base of anyone in the lineup.

If you're going to be concerned about something, it would be the lack of walks, but I'll take Soriano anywhere in the top few positions in the lineup as long as he posts OPSs in the mid-800s or better.

by dvdmgsr on May 10, 2007 11:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A CRAZY idea...

...but one that just might work.

Rickey Henderson wants back into baseball at the age of 48.

Now, why not bring him in for a look? The guy can get on base (he always had a good eye), steal bases (arguably the best baserunner of all time), and probably wouldn't want too much playing time (i.e. he'd be happy as a pinch-runner/hitter from the right side and defensive replacement). Send down Pie and sign Rickey?

(Sorry, I couldn't resist....and no, I'm not serious....well, not ENTIRELY serious)

by Chadnudj on May 10, 2007 11:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'd rather

we hire a witch doctor and see if we can't resurrect the corpse of Ty Cobb.

by salparadise23 on May 10, 2007 11:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: I'd rather

Hey, that's my line! :-)

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 12:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Ricky

Says that Ricky thinks this would be a great move the cubs to sign Ricky to play some rickyball.

ricky.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Rickey

You captured his personality perfectly, HerrProf.

Personally, I'd love to see Rickey get another chance. He's a character.

"Hello again, everybody. Harry Caray from Wrigley Field on a beautiful day for baseball."

by danimal15 on May 10, 2007 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Tony Womack

is younger..:)

Well, sometimes nothin is a real cool hand.

by wicubfan on May 10, 2007 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pagan is a good answer

Gives the roster more flexibility which Lou needs...last nite woulda been a perfect opp. to put up a PH for Jones vs. lefty, and switch-hitters are good pinch-hitters usually.

I recall liking Pagan last year when he got brief look before he got hurt...showed some pop and speed...of course his upside is not nearly what Pie's is, but who knows, he could provide a spark off the bench.

Pie will be back.

by writerinwrigley on May 10, 2007 12:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Lineup

Name AVG HR RBI SB

A Soriano, LF .312 3 7 3
R Theriot, SS .319 0 13 6
D Lee, 1B .394 2 21 2
A Ramirez, 3B .270 6 18 0
M Murton, RF .271 0 4 0
M DeRosa, 2B .256 4 17 0
H Blanco, C .353 0 2 0
A Pagan, CF - - - -
C Zambrano, P .200 1 2 0

I survived VWR 2007

by akcubfan on May 10, 2007 12:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

re: Lineup

Wait, is this the official lineup? Pagan is starting?

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

did they send 3.14 down?

Very confused - anybody have any details?

"Now up to bat for the Mets...Mackey Sasser. For all you kids out there, that's RASSASS spelled backwords!" Harry Carry

by ilovepie on May 10, 2007 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: did they send 3.14 down?

Yes, Pie was sent down. There's a diary about it and an article on cubs.com.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

thanks for the knowledge

Here's to big Z looking like the Z we know and love.

"Now up to bat for the Mets...Mackey Sasser. For all you kids out there, that's RASSASS spelled backwords!" Harry Carry

by ilovepie on May 10, 2007 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

3.14..

thats great..first time I've seen that..hilarious.

Well, sometimes nothin is a real cool hand.

by wicubfan on May 10, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Good moves Lou!!

Throw Pagan in there why not JJ can't do it vs. lefties proved that over and over...

by writerinwrigley on May 10, 2007 12:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yep

The Cubs need a right handed compliment to Jones in center. I think Pagan sucks, but he's the only guy they got right now who can play center field and bat right handed.

by cubsbak on May 10, 2007 12:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pagan sucks

You mean to tell me there is nobody around baseball that is available on the cheap that isn't better than Angel Pagan? Jose Macias is better than Pagan.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Blather Blather Blather

Macias is hitting .211 with an OPS of .481 in AAA

Pagan is hitting .248 with an OPS of .707 in AAA.

Again, don't let facts get in the way of your completely baseless opinion, though.

Oh, Pagan has 3HRs and 6SBs. Macias? OHRs and 0SBs.

But Macias is much better, you're right.

by Scott on May 10, 2007 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pie sent down for Pagan?

Makes some sense. Pagan isn't in the long-term plans, so stunting his development as a defensive sub. And he's a switch-hitter, so he can fill in occasionally versus LHP for Jones in CF.

We don't need Pagan's bat so much as we need someone capable of late-inning defense. Pagan can provide that, and he can probably hit LHP better than Jones. And in the meantime, until Jones is moved, Pie can get regular AB again. And, it reduces the number of OF who need to play everyday to 4.

It's win-win, given that Jones will apparently play everyday instead of Pie anyway.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 1:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

re: Pie sent down for Pagan?

I totally agree. I just didn't expect Pagan to be starting. I guess Lou, in his inimitable fashion, just wants Angel to go directly from fire to frying pan. (Or something like that.)

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Vs LHP...

Since Jones clearly cannot hit LHP, Pagan is starting. Even though Pagan is not a good hitter, he's probably still a better hitter vs LHP than Jones.

I don't anticipate Pagan getting many starts for Pagan. He'll play CF pretty much exclusively versus LHP and RF in late-game defensive situations.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It would make

the day wonderful if Z could have a game like Jason had last night. Come on Z and show us what you're made of.

Have a great game Matt!!!

GO CUBS!!!

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 1:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pagan??

I like Pagan however, I cannot take much more of this avoiding Pie in the lineup bullshit!

What does Lou have against giving him an opportunity for cryin out loud?

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

re: Pagan??

Hey, azweber9, I had a foot-long hot dog at last night's game. Does that mean I had a Hebrew National?

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

NO NO NO NO NO NO!

PLEASE, get down the ramp halfway and you can't miss em. They make those footlongs taste like BallPark Franks.

Actually in all honesty, the footlaongs were better than I thought they would be but there is nothing better than the National.

Grilled onions and the works. Prepare for the ever stale bun though.

Godspeed my friend!

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: NO NO NO NO NO NO!

Damnit, I knew I shoulda gone down there for food. (Or stopped on the way up.)

Yeah, the foot-long wasn't bad. Then again, I was so hungry when I ate it that I probably would've enjoyed the box it was served in.

I will make it my mission to try a National the next time I'm at Wrigley. (And I will post an equally long diary about the experience.)

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Look forward to the review..

in other related news...Zmabrano is eating his own tube steak currently!

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

BIG "W"

Lets get it done today Carlos. We need this series...

"The game is always healthier when the Cubs are good, and in a week they have made themselves a whole lot better."

by BillHoldenFan on May 10, 2007 1:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Carlos

is pushing the ball up there again.

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 1:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Not lookin good!

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

injury

If Carlos doesn't figure out how to pitch again soon, he's as good as gone.

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 1:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

well that's not what we needed

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on May 10, 2007 1:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

LOL....

Carlos wants how much money again?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He

sure should have taken that deal, but I am really glad right now that he didn't.

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think

I am going to puke. I usually have nothing against Matt, but that play sucked really badly.

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 1:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

OUCH

I am in physical pain.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

What do you think Larry should tell Z?

Stop sucking.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

your trade value is dropping

like a brick...

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 10, 2007 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hmmmm

Something wrong with Z?

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 10, 2007 1:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

nothing...

that raising his arm slot and using that girth instead of "slinging" the ball won't fix.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Everytime our "ace" takes the bump....

....we have to play from behind. Every time. He needs to get his head out of ass.

by dkateeb on May 10, 2007 1:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ugh!

Not a good start for Z.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 1:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Glad ...

The bullpen got a little rest yesterday. Yikes. Someone sign Z to a contract, puleeeeze!

LRRF

"No ballplayer's here because of the Mariners!" ~ Sam Malone

by Littlerock Rynofan on May 10, 2007 1:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Different from last year

Last year I figured the only time we would win was when Z was pitching. This year I always feel like he is our worst chance for a win.

by mgfabc on May 10, 2007 1:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Finishing your pitches....

on your back foot should tell you something is wrong with your delivery.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Z

is either hurt, or the biggest headcase I've ever seen.

It's the middle of May, and this sh*t isn't funny anymore.

"Ronny Cedeno seems like the type of guy who could run over himself with his own car.." Earth2Sean

by Matt Allison on May 10, 2007 1:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think Carlos is injured

He is pushing the ball, and his arm is not high enough. I am sure Hank told him about it, and maybe it just hurts too badly to raise his arm high enough for an effective delivery.

Just speculating though, of course.

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 1:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

MAKES SENSE.

This is exactly what I was thinking.

by dkateeb on May 10, 2007 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow...

...what is wrong with the Big Z? This is very troubling...

by Chadnudj on May 10, 2007 1:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Let's see...

3 runs per out. Um...game over.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's hard

to watch this.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 1:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

If Z is hurt...

it must be in the groin. He can't stop touching himself between pitches.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah

I noticed that as well.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Haha

He's always done that, though, hasn't he?

by Patch on May 10, 2007 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Free base

On a bad pick off attempt from Z to Lee.

Good god :(.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

How did that happen?

(on Gameday...)

by John Q Freejazz on May 10, 2007 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well

He tried to pick off the baserunner and threw it wide. The ball went off into right field and the baserunner could have walked to second. Error on Z.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Freebase

Exactly what Carlos needs-- some freebase (for all you folks who remember the 1980s)

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is quickly

turning into a disaster.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Z can't even throw a strike to first base.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

GO CUBS!!!!!!!

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 1:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Begin Shun.

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

how long are you keeping shunning me?

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on May 10, 2007 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was shunning

Durden the Troll, but i can include you if you wish.

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Kisses

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Somebody please tell him

kisses are not recveived when one is being shunned...

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was just trying to do the line from the office

I certainly don't want to be shunned.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on May 10, 2007 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My bad...

End shun (of you Mike, not the troll)

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pathetic...

a fan who prefers to celebrate struggles, and not successes.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

SHUN WITH ME PEOPLE!!!

In the words of the great Dwight K. Shrute...

"Begin Shun"

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If the Bucks score again...

Z has no business finishing the inning.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Don't be stupid

He settled down last game after the first. Also what do you want to do about blowing out the pen?

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Stupid?

As in not being smart? I don't care if he "settled down" last time. Lou cannot continue to let Carlos do this start after start. I'm in favor of sending the message that was sent to C-E-sar. Start performing or we'll find someone who can.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're a fool.

He's a great pitcher who is pressing.

Grow-up and stop winning.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How many crappy starts...

do you let him put us behind the 8 ball right out of the gate before you do something? I'm not saying trade him or send him down, but crim-in-nitley let him know he's getting the collar sooner rather than later. Hank White threatened to slap him in San Diego and that got him out of a funk, maybe Z needs the kick in the pants to snap out of it.

By the way, thanks for the insult.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 1:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

whining...

not winning.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

At what point . . .

do we begin to worry that this isn't Carlos' usual slow start? We may have dodged a bullet by not inking him early to a $100M contract.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 1:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'm just concerned

... that this will be a giant "What-If".

If he had been signed and wasn't worrying about trying to make some more money maybe he would be throwing better.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I doubt...

this has anything to do with the contract.

But I do think this is reason for concern. He's never lasted this long into the season pitching this poorly.

His pitches are flat, and thus he's not getting ground balls. That was what made him great in the past.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 1:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah...

what does hendry know that we do not?

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 10, 2007 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Judging

a contract for Zambrano on 6 weeks is ridiculous. The guy's been the best pitcher the Cubs have had the past 4 years and the Cubs should consider themselves lucky because he's gotten off to a bad start?

It's only 6 weeks. Take a deep breath.

by NO100 on May 10, 2007 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe Big Z's strategy...

...is to get to the bottom of the order where he can get some outs. :-/

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Thank goodness

Out of the top of the inning...

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Give Z the chance

He's the type to have a crap start, like this, then turn it all around and put the clamps down leading to a nice string of starts. I say let him battle out of this and earn it. The O will bail him out.

Go 'head and Jump! --- Van Halen

by Scott G F on May 10, 2007 1:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah

The O is due up for some big hits. Its been a quite past couple of games.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

you aren't referring to the O

from last night are you??

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey...

...he gave up one fewer run than he gave up to the Gnats.

Baby steps, people.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well that was

certainly fugly.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 1:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

A 3-0 deficit...

In the bottom of the first to the Pirates is just a challenge.

by northsidenonsense on May 10, 2007 1:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Z will get

his pitches down and the Cubs should score 5-6 this game.

You all just need to calm down.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 1:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Watch Maholm

turn in a Cy Young type performance against the Cubs.

It is the Cubbie way, unfortunately. :(

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 1:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Not today

Look around the league it's a big power day today for some reason. I like the Cubs chances, Z's era might take a hit though.

Go 'head and Jump! --- Van Halen

by Scott G F on May 10, 2007 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oooooo

Soriano took a walk. Anyone else surprised?

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

wow

He's on pace for 16 walks this year

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 1:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the pitcher

looks like he is 8 years old. Lets make him cry.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 1:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

There's something wrong with Gameday

It said that Soriano walked, can someone tell me what really happened?

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 1:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well he certainly didn't run to first

Maybe it would be better called a jog.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Anyone else think

switching player faces on gameday looks like that creepy ass Michael Jackson video from years ago??

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

We know it's not the catcher

First we thought that he wants Blanco to catch him. But now he stinks with HB behind the plate too. so it's either:

1) The Jersey; he wants the alternate home jersey
2)He wants the Zito money
3) he's hurt

survey says?

by CubFaninNY on May 10, 2007 1:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i dont care what it is

He needs to suck it up and live up to his name.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Double Play

Is it too early to say it's gonna be one of those days? I sure hope it won't, but... <sigh>

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 1:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

DP

Quite Riot

Go 'head and Jump! --- Van Halen

by Scott G F on May 10, 2007 1:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

1-2-3

ugh

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 1:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Here we come

stormin back....

We should be some matchup for the Phils with this type of play.

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Stop freeking out

At least wait until the 3rd.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 1:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

We react to what we see buddy..

plain and simple.

MMMMM...Hebrew National

by Kinky Reggae on May 10, 2007 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Want some good news?

The Brewers can't win today. They're off.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ok

Z looked alot better that inning. He also did his standard yelling and enthusiasm while walking off of the mound. Whatever it takes he just needs to chill out.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 1:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

nice inning Z

He's so funny with his spot-the-other-team-some-runs-then-dominate style

by vegascubsfan on May 10, 2007 1:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I used to really like

Plastic Bertrand's Ça Plane Pour Moi and appreciated Pepsi bringing it back, even if I don't think that's Bertrand siging it. Not unless they did a major, major remixing. It always had some appeal as a novelty French Punk song. (Well, I guess by definition any punk song sung in French is a novelty song, but that's besides the point. It would have been a novelty song if it were in English.)

But just stop it guys. I'm sick of it. Or at least include the lyrics about his cat getting drunk on whiskey and some girl passing out drunk on his couch.

by Josh77 on May 10, 2007 1:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

re: I used to really like

My four-year-old daughter loves that Pepsi commercial and that song. I like it, too.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

As I said

It's a great song. I'm just sick of it.

by Josh77 on May 10, 2007 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: As I said

Oh, I didn't read your post carefully enough. Yeah, I guess the advertising world has abused that song a bit. The commercials are just my daughter's favorite part of baseball games.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Z is looking better

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 1:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I've got it!

Big Z needs to throw a 30-pitch simulated inning before each of his starts. That way, he can burn up all of his crappy pitches and throw only the good ones -- like he's doing now.

Note: This may cause bullpen problems.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 1:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

ARam!!!

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 1:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

nice try murton

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 1:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And Z wants how much? (Scratching head).

He's hasn't matured a bit. I hope to resign Zambrano, but don't get carried away with this guy, Hendry. In fact, for each blunder, his contract might drop $10 mil.

by scottsdalecubs on May 10, 2007 1:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nice patience at the plate by Murton and Blanco.

by MiniAndretti on May 10, 2007 1:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well

Its good to see that sarcasm hasn't died.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

while nothing is happpening

here is a list of every nfl player legal issues for the last few years:

http://deadspin.com/assets/resources/Pacman_Appeal.pdf

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Re: While nothing is happening

Whats your commenter name on Deadspin?

by jshipp on May 10, 2007 2:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I just read

those dudes jump on the comments like they're getting paid.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ARam

He's going to get at least two more AB. We can tie it up right there.

I want my Macias!

by wombat on May 10, 2007 2:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Murton is lost.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

DAMMIT

Los Cachorros!

by Laven on May 10, 2007 2:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Oh my god...

...we're never going to hear the end of this from BlueMike.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And someone else

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's not

like Matt is the first Cub to make an error. How many does his love Izturis have?

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You have to

do better than that Matt. Come on!

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 2:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

All this guy

talks about is food

Los Cachorros!

by Laven on May 10, 2007 2:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Flashbacks of Keith Mooreland.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

LOL

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

At least

Moreland was an RBI guy.

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not at a TV...

can someone describe the Murton error?

I'll be a believer once we beat Capuano

by cubbie08 on May 10, 2007 2:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

it was off the webbing of his glove

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He closed his glove too early

Los Cachorros!

by Laven on May 10, 2007 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have a feeling

Murton is going to be the next one sent down to Iowa.

by salparadise23 on May 10, 2007 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I hate to join the chorus,

but the Cubs have no players capable of playing right field. Not even one.

Yikes, Murton. This is not the way to play yourself into the lineup.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He ran back to his right...

and the ball ticked off the tip of his glove as he backed up to the wall. It wasn't a can of corn, but a major league outfielder should have caught it easily.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton

The ball was hit up against the right field wall. He beat the ball to the spot, ball just bounced off of his glove.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If he was hitting at all...

he may be able to survive. But with the way he's swung at balls/first pitches and not drawn walks he seems to be writing his ticket back to Iowa.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hendry-- friggin' Hendry

Murton was obviously not in Hendry's plans for this year-- otherwise, why sign Floyd, Soriano and Ward, with Pie nearly ready.

So... why didn't JimH trade Murton when Murton's value was highest? DUMB.

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What's the going rate.......

for a ground ball hitter who can't play D?

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He did fit in the plans

He was supposed to be the RH complement for Floyd in LF. Unfortunately, Soriano needed to move back to LF and Murton isn't a RF'er. In addition, the Cubs haven't faced many lefthanders until this series.

Note I'm not saying it was a good plan (I never liked the Soriano in CF idea) but Murton did fit into the plan.

by rlpete on May 10, 2007 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Completely agree...

and if Soriano could play RF, this would not be an issue, either.

And if Floyd had not been signed, Jones would eventually be the LF platoon with Murton, and Pie would eventually be the everyday CF.

Signing Floyd and Soriano's inability to move to RF has made the mess.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ugh

x 5

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

fuck

by jshipp on May 10, 2007 2:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Bullpen

Move Zambrano to the pen.

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 2:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

As I recall

Z came up as a reliever, and I thought he would be the closer of the future.

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 10, 2007 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: Bullpen

Well, his chosen nickname is "El Toro."

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He is pitching

like the product of El Toro.

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 2:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: He is pitching

He's pitching like his arm got caught in a Toro lawnmower.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

thank god for the catcher

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pagan is...

quite a bit more speedier than I thought.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Speedier crap is still crap.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's always been speedy...

look at his minor league stats.

The guy has been known for being an all-wheels-no-bat guy throughout his career.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Z, help yourself out

Hit a homer

by vegascubsfan on May 10, 2007 2:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

single is good too

reply to your own post, oh yeah!

by vegascubsfan on May 10, 2007 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

Nice

"You can say what you want about [Prior], but when he got on the mound, he was a bulldog. A bulldog." - Paul Bako

by NittanyCub on May 10, 2007 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Derrek Lee.

Batting close to .400, riding a 16 game hit streak, during which he has looked powerless and lost. It's the weirdest thing.

I don't want to turn into the Yankees fans, booing A-Rod, but D. Lee hasn't had one meaningful hit in a Cubs win this season. He has 50 hits. Can you remember 1 of them?

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 2:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well...

he leads the team in RBIs. I'd say that's pretty damn meaningful. You can't win if you don't knock in runs.

Go Cubbies!

by NC Cubs Fan on May 10, 2007 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh, absolutely.

He has 21 RBI - but he has only 1 game with as many as 3 RBI (a 3-Run HR in a 7-0 win), and based on my semi-cursory review, none of his hits have ever tied a game up or given the Cubs the lead. He has a smattering of run-scoring singles, and a whole heck of a lot of insignificant slap hits.

It's a statistical fluke. I hate to say that he's not "clutch", because that's ridiculous for two reasons: He's hit game-winners in the past with regularity, and more importantly, "clutch" hitting is largely a figment of the casual fan's imagination.

But if I see him strike out on another fastball down broadway with Theriot on second in a close game, I'm going to start getting worried. As it stands right now, no one in the park (not the opponent, not the fans) is confident or concerned that D. Lee will change a game with his bat. And that's just.... weird.

People are pitching to D. Lee in big spots with first base open. They never did that in the past. And more often than not, Lee is going down weakly close-and-late.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes they did...

pitch to Lee with 1B open, because Aramis was hitting right behind him. The only time they didn't pitch to Lee was when Ramirez was injured.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In a tie game in extra innings

The trailing baserunner is irrelevant. In fact, the defense is better off if there is a trailing baserunner, because it sets up the double play.

And still, teams pitch to Lee. He simply hasn't been a power threat.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Leads the team...

in runs, RBI, and 2B. That would indicate that he's had plenty of meaningful hits. Just because you can't remember them, doesn't mean they weren't meaningful. Sheesh.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Look at his game log.

His close-and-late statistics are uncharacteristically bad. (22 AB, 1 RBI, 5 K, .364 SLG, .771 OPS) At the moment, no one is scared of him.

Would anyone pitch to Albert Pujols, or Alex Rodriguez, or Lance Berkman, in an extra inning tie game with first base open?

I'll ask you the same question - what is D. Lee's biggest hit of this season? Probably his 1st HR. This team has been in far too many close games - Has Lee come through in any late-inning or extra-inning RISP situation? No, he hasn't. And that's really odd, and somewhat disconcerting.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

before this year...

Arod would have been at the top of the list

"Not true at all. Vaseline is manufactured right here in the United States." - Don Sutton, about the rumors that he uses a foreign substance on the ball

by Orangeman94 on May 10, 2007 4:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yep, Murton is a right fielder all right.

The man doesn't fit on this ballclub. He's a left fielder, and Soriano is the left fielder. Trade him for something useful. And for the love of God, please play Mark DeRosa in right field versus left-handers Sweet Lou !

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 2:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

re: Yep, Murton is a right fielder all right.

I gotta agree with this. DeRosa has more experience in right field and probably would've made that catch.

I still like Murton, though. It's unfortunate his learning curve has cost the Cubs some runs today.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Two Double Plays in 3 innings

Go Cubs!

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

2 double plays in 3 innings....

a dropped ball in right leading to 2 runs......not our day. Stinks.

I'll be a believer once we beat Capuano

by cubbie08 on May 10, 2007 2:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pagan and Murton in the outfield on the same day

Not exactly what you expect for a team that says it's a playoff contender and has a $100 million payroll. Augh.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 2:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Its exactly what you'd expect..........

with Jim Hendry in charge.

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have to admit.

As much I enjoy seeing Murton play, sending him into right field is an experiment in terror. He seems a totally different creature than last year. Perhaps it's because of the lack of playing time, but when Theriot was given the chance to start earlier this season, he took full advantage of it. Murton seems lost.

"No ballplayer's here because of the Mariners!" ~ Sam Malone

by Littlerock Rynofan on May 10, 2007 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

3 GIDPs

Devastating.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

its a bold move

designed to wear out the middle infielders.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

BRILLIANT!!!!!!!!

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL!

"Chicago baseball fans, who are composites of scar tissue and mortifying memories..." - George F. Will

by eswan9 on May 10, 2007 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

3 DPs in 4 innings?

This is BS!

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Another DP on a first pitch!

These shmucks never learn!

by CubFaninNY on May 10, 2007 2:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

we're back to this

a pitcher with a 5.00 ERA looking like Maddux. Just when you thought they'd turned it around....

by CubFaninNY on May 10, 2007 2:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

That is near the top . . .

of a long list of annoying things this team does. We have an ever-present ability to make f'ing nobodies look like Cy Young. It just kills me.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Know the score

Why aren't they more patient at the plate down by 4-5 runs? No reason to swing at the first pitch. Or the second. And if you do you better do a hell of a lot more than hit into a double play. Between that and Zambrano, I can't watch this anymore.

by BringBackRyno on May 10, 2007 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dammit, Z ...

n/t

"No ballplayer's here because of the Mariners!" ~ Sam Malone

by Littlerock Rynofan on May 10, 2007 2:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He wants how much?

hahahahahahaha!

by CubFaninNY on May 10, 2007 2:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Contingency Fee Contract

They ought to pay him by the strike.

Today, it looks like he is not thinking, just throwing (not worrying about what part of hte plate the balls is crossing). He looks defeated. Did he even get mad after Bay took him deep?

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

bring back wade miller!

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

screw that

bring back les walrond.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

jerome williams?

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Latroy Hawkins?

"Not true at all. Vaseline is manufactured right here in the United States." - Don Sutton, about the rumors that he uses a foreign substance on the ball

by Orangeman94 on May 10, 2007 4:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is getting Painfull to watch

by Walker71421 on May 10, 2007 2:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Almost as painful

as the dumbass comments that start circulating here once the Cubs lose a game.

My god

"You can say what you want about [Prior], but when he got on the mound, he was a bulldog. A bulldog." - Paul Bako

by NittanyCub on May 10, 2007 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

MrDurden...

your boy isn't exactly bouncing back today.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

shhhhhhhh

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think they should leave Z out there

for the next 2 innings.

This game is already over.

Don't let him off the hook.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I would agree

no point in taxing an overtaxed pen in a game that's progressively getting more and more out of hand.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Your a fool.

He's going to suffer the Patterson-hurt-feeling syndrome if we hang him out to dry.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Who Cares?

New ownership isn't going to re-sign him.

Trade him or burn his arm out. Maybe do both.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Burning his arm out.........

is just going to keep him in games.......right now, that hurts more than it helps. Trading him should definitley be an option though.

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes, yes, yes.

Let fatboy's ERA get up to 8 or 9. Then let's seem him demand Zito money. I can't believe we're going to lose 2 of 3 to the motherf'ing Pirates! Oh, and this will drop us to 7 - 7!!!! - back of the Brewers.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Z wouldn't mind

as long as he got one or two more at bats.

by BringBackRyno on May 10, 2007 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Cubs

Lose another series to a weak ass team in their division.

Watch out Brew Crew!

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Look on the bright side

We don't have to watch J Jones strand 8 runners and still smile throughout the game. Watching Z throw balls is almost as painful, but not quite.

I hear the contract talks stalled because Lou wants Z to be paid per strike thrown.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

JJ was not smiling last night.

Yeah, I agree, words cannot be used to describe the level of pure, unadulterated, crappiness he was oozing on the field last night. But he looked pissed to me, not smiling. The whole throwing the bat down and stomping around kinda sold me on that.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why didn't Lou...

bring Ohman in? Big Willy could have given up those runs for us just as easy, and we could keep Z fresh for his next ineffective 2 1/3 inning start.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Who would have thought

that Z would end up our 4th best pitcher. Imagine if he was anything like his usual self. Our 4 of Hill, Lilly, Marquis and Z would be the best in baseball - at least for now. Such a shame.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

4th best?

I'm not sure he's better than Guzman right now.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fair point.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or Marshall

Make that 6.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I prefer to not think about

the "what ifs". The Markie Mark/Kerri Would-a-could-a-should-a show ended my daydreaming ways.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No way do we catch the Brewers...

they keep TURNIN' UP THE HEAT!!!

"Brewers, Brewers, keep turnin' up the heat! Brewers, Brewers, keep turnin' up the heat!"

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

re: No way do we catch the Brewers...

Dude, I love that song.

Hmm, maybe that's why the Brewers have done so well this season...a cheesy theme song...

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Could be.

The song's from '82 when they made the Series, I could see that working some wicked mojo.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Murton swings at the first pitch...

...line drive foul." -- Corey Provus

Could someone bring our old Orange Guy back, please?

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Mah-HALL-uhm 2007 Cy Young

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 2:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Nice thought, but no way.

Kyle Lohse has that in the bag.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's our fault

We make mediocre pitchers look great because we hack so much. It was especially true in Dusty's tenure, but you could really see it last night and today. To me, it is an odds thing. If the guy has struggled all year, make him pitch and quit bailing him out with early hacks and grounders. Now, when you are playing a stud, you may alter that if necessary. But, it seems to me, against No. 5s, you should be particularly selective.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not COMPLETELY arguing.

But Gorzelanny last night... he's a good young prospect. He could be really good. This piece of excrement, however, is a completely different story.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And it could be

that we new the guy last night throws 80% strikes so we went in with an agenda to be aggressive (he seldom walks anyone). But, generally speaking, over time, we do a poor job of grinding out at bats and I think it is evidenced in our OB% from last year. Lou is trying to get the players to be more selective (general consensus is the longer you go into a count, the better pitch you will see to hit). Theriot is a good example (as is D Lee).

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So obvious

I can't for the life of me understand why Lou doesn't make these guys take that approach.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I never thought I would say this . . .

but I miss Corey Patterson. At least I was used to hating him.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Replaced by JJ

for me. I have no hate-issues -- full up with it.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I might take a beating here

but I think mine is Matt Murton. I don't really know why, I just don't like him. Whenever I'm watching I never see him doing anything good. Maybe that's bad luck on my part, but I just don't see it. He drives me crazy.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't mind him so much

I have seen him come through with too many clutch hits. Also, I like how, if he doesn't swing at the first pitch, he works the count.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: I might take a beating here

eamuscatuli1881, meet BlueMike

BlueMike, this is eamuscatuli1881

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Touche

consider me insulted.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

There he is

1 pitch, soft grounder to second. When is the last time he had a hit? We only have him BECAUSE HENDRY can't trade him. No one wants him.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Our vaunted $100M offense

is on its way to scoring a total of 5 runs against the Pirates over 3 games.

Seriously, can anyone tell me why this team's offense always seems to suck, no matter who the players are and who the manager and hitting coach are??? Is it something about the uniform or the ballpark? I'd love to understand it.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The simple answer...

is that it's not a $100 million offense. A lot of our money is invested in pitching. Furthermore, Jones and Floyd ($8 million total) aren't in, and DeRosa ($4 million) and Soriano are overpaid.

Also, we have had a pretty good offense this year. We're in the upper half of MLB in AVG, R, and other major stats. We've just been scoring in bunches. Droughts happen too.

But the historical problem has been poor plate discipline. This team is better about that, but still not great at it.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've seen the stats

but they seem to reflect a couple of double-digit run games, where we pile on runs when they don't matter. This team is always bad at clutch hitting and stringing hits together to make rallies. You would imagine that plate discipline would be something determined at the player level, but it seems to be an organization issue for us. So annoying.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The stats...

for "clutch" hitting this year also disagree with your argument.

We're an up-and-down offensive team. Nobody seems to celebrate when we do hit well in the clutch. Everyone just focuses on the times when we don't hit well.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cubs April was historically bad close/late

What stats are you looking at?

As a team, the Cubs are miserable in close-and-late situations. As in, .248 batting average, .329 OBP, .320 SLG, for a whopping .649 OPS!

In 222 at-bats over 20 close/late games, they have driven in 16 runs. They have hit ONE home run.

I would categorize that as not only "lousy in the clutch", but "lousy in the clutch on a potentially record-breaking level."

Eventually, they should turn it around, as these sorts of stats tend to even out. No one is THAT bad in close/late situations... the Cubs are over .100 points lower in OPS with the game on the line.

Unless, of course, it's a mental problem and they're psyching themselves out.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Big Z is at 118 pitches...

...and no one is up in the bullpen.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Good

screw up his elbow and then quick trade him.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Shouldn't wish injury on anyone

though I admit it's tempting.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Of course I wouldn't WISH injury

unless of course, we were trading him to someone like the Yankees and then I might consider it.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: Of course I wouldn't WISH injury

Injured starting pitcher + New York Yankees = PERFECT MATCH!!!

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It was the inning to give up no runs.

by MiniAndretti on May 10, 2007 2:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wait, what? If he can't start against lefties why

use him to PH?

by MiniAndretti on May 10, 2007 2:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Angel Pagan homered

sweet

"You can say what you want about [Prior], but when he got on the mound, he was a bulldog. A bulldog." - Paul Bako

by NittanyCub on May 10, 2007 2:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Why does Lou

put Jones in to pinch hit AGAINST A LEFTY??? Hello? I have a better chance of hitting a left-hander than he does.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hey now, no odds are impossible.

If Seal can snag Heidi Klum, then JJ is bound to hit a left hander sometime this century.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No Chance

JJ only gets hits in blow out games. Where is Higgy anyway? We had a little exchange PRIOR to last night where I said as much.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 3:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Didn't someone just post

about Theriot's patience...

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's like a contagious disease.

Do these guys have a plane to catch?

by MiniAndretti on May 10, 2007 2:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That was me...

It's gettaway day. We need a speech from Leylan (not that crap about everyone will still love you if you suck -- kids, dog, etc.).

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If this team

can get within 1 or 2 and Lou brings in Ohman or Eyre I will have a stoke.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

No chance.

He didn't even warm Dempster up last night. I think he will bring in Lilly to close -- maybe Marquis. You can see the lack of trust.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Cubs....

The team that every pitcher with a 5.00 + ERA looks forward to facing......

by kcjones on May 10, 2007 2:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think we're going to come back and win.

Let's do a little experiment with some positive thinking! C'mon and join me.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Someone, quick.

pass the Kool-aid.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

OK...

I'm POSITIVE we will leave at least 6 men on base the next 3 innings.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lee.

For crying out loud. He may have the quietest 200-hit season since Kevin Seitzer.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 2:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Its not like

anyone managed to get on base in front of him? Best case was another solo homer. Our specialty.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He just struck out with a man on first.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sorry

Misread the Gameday.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nice.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yep

And this is why I shall continue to insist that Aramis Ramirez has been the best, and most clutch, hitter on the Cub roster the past several seasons. Lee is hitting a very quiet .400.

P.S. Matt Murton still sucks.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Past several seasons"

Lee was unequivocally the best Cub hitter in all situations in 2005.

In 2006, Lee was hurt, and Aramis was (this is just a theory) replaced by a weak-hitting impostor while the real Aramis was working as a covert spy for the government.

This year, the best hitter has been Theriot. But you're right in that Aramis has been far better than Lee in high-leverage situations. In 2007, Lee has been presented with 20-odd chances to win games, and has absolutely folded in every instance over 6 weeks.

Even worse, he's not even a threat to hit for power. Case in point - Tuesday night, with Theriot on second and first base open, the Pirates actually pitched to Lee. That's just flabbergasting. He's not scaring anyone, and he's not a credible threat.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How long until NL pitchers

no longer respect Derrek Lee's power and start pitching him differently? Something clearly isn't right with that wrist and hand.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Incorrect...

under no circumstances has DLee not been the best hitter on the team this year. He leads the team in every major stat other than HR. He has 17 2B, so he IS a threat for power (saying that HR are the only evidence of power is very myopic).

And again, the reason they pitched to DLee is because there were 2 outs and Ramirez was on deck. You don't walk a good hitter to get to another good hitter when there are two outs.

Contrary to what you seem to be implying HR aren't the only meaningful type of hit.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't think you've been watching.

Case in point - Monday night, 10th inning. Theriot was on second base after stealing. No outs. Extra innings, game tied.

The Pirates pitched to Lee, and he popped out. Then they walked Aramis.

Teams are pitching to Lee with 1B open and less than 2 outs.

Moreover, of Lee's 17 doubles, how many have been seeing-eye foul-line bloopers? At least 5.

He's not hitting the ball with any authority, and he has been an absolute non-factor in the first 6 weeks of the season. Look at Lee's game-log, and try to point to one hit that had an impact on the Cubs winning a game. The best that I can do was his second HR, which was early in a game, but which cut a 3-run lead to 1-run, in a game we eventually won.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you actually watch his at bats...

... you will realize that pretty much all season nobody has given him anything to work with. They are all pitching him away. They know he is a threat on the inside and they aren't giving him anything remotely hitable. Considering what he's been seeing the fact that he was recently .400 is amazing.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's a silly argument.

Lee has seen hittable pitches in every one of his at-bats. He's just missing them. Pitchers aren't robots - they can make and have made mistakes to Lee.

You can't tell me that you aren't a little disillusioned seeing Lee flail away at some of the fastballs he's missing.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The name, the man, the legend

Rocky Cherry, ladies and gentleman.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 3:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Blue Mike

This whole team is mediocre.

As a Cubs fan I'm pissed they distroyed the future of this team to build this crap team.

Go Cubs!!!!!!!!

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The future?

Please elaborate.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

In the Cubs case

the future is the same as the past. More intense sucking.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What future?

The Cubs haven't won the World Series since 1908. They haven't been in it since 1945. And their farm system has remained a colossal joke ever since Dallas Green quit in disgust on that fateful day in 1988.

Hendry didn't mortgage a thing. Hendry is dull-witted high school baseball coach masquerading as a big league, but he still didn't mortgage the future. You have to have a future to mortgate, in order to mortgage it. Or so Yogi Berra tells me.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Amen...

for that BlueMike. We haven't developed an everyday player since....um...Mark Grace.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

So where

did Theriot come from?

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Theriot....

needs to play more than one season as a starter in my book to be an everyday player. Two words...Kevin Orie

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: So where

Lilliput.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 3:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

B.S. he didn't Mortgage the future

Sure the Farm systems sucks, but the Cubs do have Money do spend, or rather they used to have money to spend.

Look at all the back loaded contracts we have.

17 Mill a year for 35-38 year old left fielder.

15 Mill for a 36 year old AmRam?

10 Mill in three years for a pitcher with who was so bad he couldn't pitch for the Cards last year.

The long term money future of the Cubs is over.

I will dance in the street when they finally fire Hendry.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Mortgage"

I 'mortgaged' my house (meaning: I made a downpayment, the bank paid the majority of the sales price, and the bank has a security interest in my house). I get to live in the house for as long as I continue to pay my monthly loan payments to the bank. So, therefore, each party is receiving value.

When I have made all of the required loan payments, the bank will destroy the note, and I will therefore own the house.

Thus, I received value during the term of the loan and value at the end of the term.

The Cubs, however, have never actually 'mortgaged the future' because they've never received value in the present or the future.

Huh?

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 3:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You just made sense...

that will not be tolerated here.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Go Call

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Can Aramis ever...

try to hit the ball hard UP THE MIDDLE? It always seems like he grounds sharply to third every other AB.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Murton's bat = wet noodle.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ah, but the wondrous glove in right field !!!

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

BM

You said in a post recently that you don't cheer against Matt but here you are. Where were you last night when he had a decent game? I've never seen anyone who gets more pleasure in seeing someone struggle than you do. I really feel sorry for you.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 3:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sue-

You forgot Durden

"Avoid the clap- Jimmy Duggan(That's good advice)"

by tommy veryzer on May 10, 2007 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

zambrano will never be more than a 3 starter

by CubsBall2202 on May 10, 2007 3:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Rocky

is looking pretty good at the moment.

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 3:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Too bad

Hendrey will send him down to make room for another outfielder or second baseman.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well...

...at least Cherry has gotten in some quality work.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 3:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ewww,

The thought of having to listen to Hawk and DJ next weekend makes me ill.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 3:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hi Sue !

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Barrett!!!

It might be! It could be! It is!!! A Home Run!!

"I lof to hit de home ron."

by Tekboy on May 10, 2007 3:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hey...our bad defensive catcher...

just got us closer to a painful one run loss!

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Thanks, Michael

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 3:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You know

from time to time Michael can be clutch.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Based on his Gameday photo

Matt Capps has no neck. We ought to be able to hit a guy with no neck. That has to affect his motion, right?

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

only sarcastic claps for the hr?

sheesh.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Theriot gets on

and Lee homers. Easy as that. C'mon guys.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

re: Theriot gets on

Well, you were half right.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Riot

singles up the middle

Los Cachorros!

by Laven on May 10, 2007 3:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Yikes...

did you all just see the eat-beasts in the stands waving to the camera?

Nice AB for The Riot!

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

"eat-beasts"

WTF???

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 3:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No Fat Chicks...

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LET'S GO!!!!!!!!!!

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Come on, Derrek. Do it now.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

No matter what happens from here

I loved the way The Riot had a 3-1 count and even though it was a strike, he let it go

Los Cachorros!

by Laven on May 10, 2007 3:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yep..

gotta love him hitting in front of the power. Now if Lou doesn't have him steal much...

Well, sometimes nothin is a real cool hand.

by wicubfan on May 10, 2007 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lee has missed 2 mistakes...

over the plate already....

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He's 0-for-2007 in high-pressure situations.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yep

Something is not the same about his wrist and hand. It's got to be.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or

2003-4 dlee is back.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Didn't...

seem to bother him on his 17 2B, 2HR, and 52 base hits. The man is hitting near .400. Suggesting he's still hurt is ridiculous.

Just bad fortune to this point in "clutch" situations. There's no reason why an injury would affect him more at some times than others.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You know there is another

very possible reason that no one here is willing to talk about.

If Sammy was doing it why wouldn't the Cubs look past another superstar's indiscretions?

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's just stupid.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

im just saying..

I know he is a good guy and all.. but yknow.. whats not to say.. that yknow.. dlee killed kurt cobain.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: im just saying..

He's also known to eat babies with a side order of puppy.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Durden

You're an idiot. It was kind of nice when you were gone. Humor us, OK?

"Avoid the clap- Jimmy Duggan(That's good advice)"

by tommy veryzer on May 10, 2007 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh common

Los Cachorros!

by Laven on May 10, 2007 3:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

gotta give the lee haters some ammno with that

at bat

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He is just not producing

I would agree...he has no big hits this year.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No one hates Lee - we're WORRIED

The man has been absolutely Neifi-bad in high-leverage situations this season. He has zero power, and he has managed to look lost and impotent during a 17-game hit streak.

Right now, he sucks. He hasn't come through in one important at-bat in 2007. And it's been 6 weeks. That's worrying.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

HE DOES NOT SUCK!

He has a near-.400 average. He leads the team in R, RBI, 2B, AVG, OBP, and OPS. That, by definition, is NOT SUCKING!

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Sure it doesn't.

What place are you in in your fantasy league?

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is that sarcasm?

otherwise, what in the hell are you talking about?

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Clearly

if "He has a near-.400 average. He leads the team in R, RBI, 2B, AVG, OBP, and OPS." is your argument as to why he isn't sucking and you blatantly ignore any comments regarding the fact that he has done nothing when the pressure was on this season, leads me to believe that you are on those fantasy junkies who could give a crap less about what's actually going on. My guess you don't even watch the games, you just watch the box score.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You'd guess wrong...

there's a big difference between being below average in 24 "close and late" situations and "sucking." That was my point. You clearly do not seem to grasp that.

Lee has struggled some in close and late situations (~.700 OPS, 1 RBI, 6-24). But he's not sucked this year overall. Contrary to what you seem to be suggesting, "close and late" situations aren't the only part of the game. And in the other parts of the game, he's been fantastic.

My point was that you all are stretching 24 AB into much more than that. He hasn't hit well in 24 chances close and late. But he's been terrific otherwise.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Fantastic"? Really?

Do you think that D. Lee thinks that?

Derrek Lee knows that he is not being paid to hit bloop singles.

He's not on his game. His power has evaporated, he's striking out and popping out in every big spot, and frankly, if he hadn't gotten a dozen or so texas-league singles, he'd be a sub-.300 hitter with no power.

I'm sure that Lee wouldn't call his season "bad" to this point - probably more like "just missing", or "about to turn the corner". But if he stood up and said he was having a "fantastic" year, he'd be derided.

So far, he's been adequate - but powerless - in low-pressure situations (basically, he's been Mark Grace), and absolutely miserable in high-pressure situations.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 4:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let me reiterate from above

If you actually watch his at bats you will realize that pretty much all season nobody has given him anything to work with. They are all pitching him away. They know he is a threat on the inside and they aren't giving him anything remotely hitable. Considering what he's been seeing the fact that he was recently .400 is amazing.

"Are you gonna bark all day little doggie, or are you gonna bite?"

by VicVega on May 10, 2007 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Baloney.

D. Lee is missing nut-high fastballs over the plate with alarming regularity.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: Baloney.

I saw the Nut-High Fastballs at the Fireside Bowl last year. Frickin' rocked.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll bet that D. Lee disagrees with you.

The man has failed in literally every late-inning high-leverage situation he has seen in the first 6 weeks of 2007.

He's not sometimes failing to come through in the clutch.... He has literally never come through in the clutch yet this year.

He can't be enjoying this. Moreover, I'll bet you that D. Lee doesn't slap himself on the back in the locker room for his 35 meaningless bloop singles.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

exaggerate much?

The guy hasn't hit well, in the clutch, but "He has literally never come through in the clutch yet this year" is just patently not true. Check the close and late stats for him. They aren't great (about a .700 OPS, 6-24, 3 R, 1 RBI), but they aren't "never" either.

Saying he's not done well in the clutch so far is accurate. Saying he sucks right now is not accurate. If he sucked, he wouldn't lead the team in nearly every category.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

When was his 1 close/late RBI?

Seriously, I don't remember it.

His close-and-late stats are below league average, which is lousy in and of itself. It's doubly lousy when your #3 hitter/superstar is that bad in the clutch, and it's downright mystifying when your #3 hitter/superstar is that bad in the clutch while hitting close to .400 for the season.

Really, I'm grasping at straws here. I have no idea why he's sucked so badly in high-leverage situations. I'm sure that he has no idea why this is happening, either. But to pretend that it's not a problem is just willful ignorance.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Again...

just because you don't remember it, doesn't mean it didn't happen. I'm going by the ESPN "close and late" stats. They seem to be a more accurate measure than your memory, in my opinion.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 4:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've been citing those stats all day.

Look elsewhere in this thread - I've been citing D.Lee's close/late stats all day, and throughout the year. That's the basis for the entire assertion that Lee is struggling mightily.

The fact is, he's over 300 OPS points lower than his season average in close/late situations, and he's barely slugging .300.

He has exactly 1 RBI in close/late situations, and none of us can recall exactly when it was - obviously, it happened, but I'm betting that it wasn't a game-winner.

This is a guy who used to hit late-inning HR like it was his job. And now scrubs like Matt Capps are pitching to him with RISP and 1st base open in extra innings - and then intentionally walking the next hitter. He's getting zero respect. He's not a threat at this point.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 4:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fuck, Fuck, Fuck, Fuck

Someone look up how many times Lee has struck out this year.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I believe it's 25

About normal for him, I think.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Familiar refrain..

Outhitting 'em, not out scoring 'em..:(

Well, sometimes nothin is a real cool hand.

by wicubfan on May 10, 2007 3:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Clogging the bases

Taken to an art form.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

D Lee

has struck out 24 times before today.

by jshipp on May 10, 2007 3:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Needs that hand and wrist reexamined

Seriously. Something ain't right.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He hit...

4 HR in 44 AB AFTER returning from the injury last September. This has nothing to do with the wrist.

The guy has 17 2B and 2 HR. If 3 of his 2B went 20 feet further, no one would be mentioning his power "problems."

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm sorry Mrs. Lee

we won't talk about your son like that anymore.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don't get personal.

He/She's entitled to that view.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Nobody has attacked Derrek Lee

At least I haven't. But his power and run production value has vaporized. Something is amiss and I'd like to find out what.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I wasn't talking about the attacks on Lee

I was referring to the comment ridiculing the poster who's defending him.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm ridiculing Mrs. Lee?

How am I ridculing Mrs. Lee? I was merely telling Mrs. Lee that I felt better that I hurt her and her son's feelings. If I was ridiculing you, Mrs. Lee, I'm sorry.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I mean I felt bad, not better...

my apologies, Mrs. Lee.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Very clever...

no, I'm not Mrs Lee. But if name-calling is your best approach to a discussion, so be it.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I know you are but what am I...

no seriously, I'm just trying to get under your skin a little bit. You seemed to be taking the anti-DLee opinions a little personal, so I "figured" you had some sort of close relationship with him. Relax.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not taking anything personal...

just pointing out that those arguments didn't hold water.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 4:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not saying you...

are attacking him. I'm just saying that if his wrist was sapping his power, wouldn't he have not had the power late last year either?

He had good power in September of last year. That seems to disagree with the idea that his wrist is a problem.

Also, his .400 average and 17 2B also suggest no wrist problems.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Vaporized?

He's got the 11th highest slugging percentage in the National League. Yeesh.

by cwyers on May 10, 2007 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey, if you are dumb enough to not realize...

he's a good hitter, and that the facts don't seem to support an injury, there's not much I can do for you.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The facts do NOT suggest injury.

He hit for power last year after the injury, and he hit for power in Mesa.

But you are being willfully blind here.

Lee hasn't just been bad in high-pressure situations - he's been literally non-existent. So far in 2007, he has never come through in the clutch... and it's not for lack of opportunities. It's the second week of May, and we're still waiting for D. Lee's first notable RBI!

He's come up to the plate with a chance to tie or win a game more than 20 times, and he has never succeeded. I'm sure it's killing him.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Per ESPN...

in close and late, DLee is 6-24, 2 2B, 1 RBI, 3 R. So he has succeeded occasionally, not "never."

And with the bases loaded: 1-3, with a double and 3 RBI. And with runners on 2nd: 8-16, 2 2B, 1 HR, 9 RBI, 1.369 OPS. And with runners on 1st and 2nd: 4-9, 3 RBI, 1.167 OPS. And with runners on 1st and 3rd: 1-2, 2B, 2 RBI 1.667 OPS

He's not been great in "close and late," but he HAS hit well in important situations. You just don't seem to remember them.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 4:46 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're making a different argument.

No one is disputing that Derrek Lee is hitting .385, which is nice. Or that he has 21 RBI. That is a fact. Not a particularly interesting one, considering that it puts him on pace for a mediocre 96 or so in a 600 AB season.

It's also a fact that he has 2 HR in 131 AB, putting him on pace for a ridiculous 9 on the season.

There's also the unsettling fact that exactly 1 of D-Lee's 21 RBI has come in a close/late situation, (the insurance run in the delayed PIT game) and that 21 of the Cubs first 31 games fell into that category.

On the bright side, he's also gotten at least 1 base hit in 29 of the Cubs 31 games. That is a great fact. It's also fun that he's got a 17-game hit streak.

However, it's also a fact that over the last 5 games, he has 1 single in each, and is hitting .222 with 0 RBI.

He's struggling in all facets over the last week - not just close/late.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 5:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not really different...

you said he has sucked this year. I pointed out facts that disagree with that. I completely agree that he's struggled so far in close and late situations (the only "pressure" situations in which he's struggled). I agree that he's struggled the last week or so. Had you said that, I'd agree. But you didn't. You made a blanket statement that he has sucked this year. That's what I took argument with.

As for the power, I point to the 17 doubles as evidence that the 2 HR is an anomaly. HR aren't the only power metric. He's had several balls hit that just didn't quite carry enough. If 3 of those 17 doubles go another 20 feet, he has 5 HR, and no one would be questioning his power. That will even out over the course of the season.

by SouthernCub on May 10, 2007 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You and I both know about those doubles.

Lee isn't hitting many shots off the ivy for doubles. He had a week in which he hit a couple off the wall, along with 7-8 gappers and 2-3 bloopers down the line. That was a serious fluke, and it has completely dried up.

Lee isn't doing what he's supposed to do. And his batting average, which is inflated with a dozen or so meaningless singles in blowout games, is masking the fact that he's been remarkably ineffective through the first 1/5 of the season.

He's become an easy out in high-pressure situations. He's striking out and popping out, and he's looking absolutely awful as he's doing it. And the Cubs are losing close games at a ridiculous clip, in large part, because of Lee's failures when the chips are down.

by ClosingTime on May 10, 2007 11:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lee...

he's a good hitter and such but he cannot hit in the clutch now or hit homeruns right now. He's really starting to worry me...

by Chanman25 on May 10, 2007 3:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

angel guzman vs cole hamels?

i think ill skip that game.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I thought it was Hill v. Hamels

n/t.

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If I was the pitching coach . .

I'd instruct my pitchers to drill any batter who fouled off more than 5 pitches.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

and on a side note

nice to see that Pagan is hitting well. I'd rather have him start over Jones, IMO.

by Chanman25 on May 10, 2007 3:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'd rather have a chimp out there throwing poo

then having JJ start, lately.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

Higgy needs to read this post.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh good grief

Somebody with general enthusiasm for the pile of suckitude that is Angel Pagan. I suppose you have a Lenny Harris or Jose Macias Cub jersey, huh?

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I love the idea

of someone wearing a Macias jersey. That just cracks me up.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's not doing that bad today

2-3 with an RBI and two runs with a dinger. That's pretty damn good actually

"You can say what you want about [Prior], but when he got on the mound, he was a bulldog. A bulldog." - Paul Bako

by NittanyCub on May 10, 2007 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll trade you..

your Nefi jersey for my Hundley jersey!

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

rally caps

Go Cubs!

by vegascubsfan on May 10, 2007 3:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Maybe MURT can...

...redeem himself for that two run error earlier.

LET'S GET SOME RUNS!

"Now up to bat for the Mets...Mackey Sasser. For all you kids out there, that's RASSASS spelled backwords!" Harry Carry

by ilovepie on May 10, 2007 3:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Maybe not.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Aramis...

let's poke one back up the middle here...

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Spectacular....

simply awsome...

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Murton....

you need to get on base. That's the white thing 90 feet to your right.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Theriot

Theriot is the only guy on this team who knows how to hit.

RICK SCHWAB!

by ExNorthsider on May 10, 2007 3:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Why is Uncle Cliff not batter here?

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I hope Murton...

...likes corn on the cob.

"Now up to bat for the Mets...Mackey Sasser. For all you kids out there, that's RASSASS spelled backwords!" Harry Carry

by ilovepie on May 10, 2007 3:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I like corn on the cob.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton

Maybe he isn't as good as some of us thought. He doesn't seem to hit the ball very hard. How do you get this guy enough at bats to determine if he is part of the Cubs future?

by Saratoga on May 10, 2007 3:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He doesn't

get to play enough to find out. That's the problem.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 3:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's had quite a few AB's

the past week. And he's sucked in most of them.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bullshit........

he plays enough.........how much more do you expect to play someone who just flat out isn't very good?

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I guess Nefi...

just didn't get enough playing time too huh? That's why he never was very good I guess.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How old is

Nefi and how many years does he have in the majors.

Matt had a crappy game today. So did Z. It happens.

You guys are entitled to your opinions. I don't have to agree with them.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hi Sue. Goober says hey.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How old are you? 12?

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton simply isn't ...

taking advantage of the situations Piniella is giving him. He needs to earn more playing time by playing better than he currently is. Liken him to Theriot--another bench warmer at the start of the season; who has made the bigger impact when given the time to play?

I think BM is a dolt when he offers Murton's physical appearence as the reason so many want to see him play, but this far into the season, I'm not sure MM is earning a place in the lineup or the field.

"No ballplayer's here because of the Mariners!" ~ Sam Malone

by Littlerock Rynofan on May 10, 2007 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Look

It would be nice if Murton was good. But he isn't. And he sure in the heck doesn't belong in right. First the lousy throw the other night, then the miscue today. The Cubs aren't the 1927 Yankees on offense to the point where they can afford defensive trainwrecks all over the field. Murton needs to be traded to an organization who can use his services as a right handed hitting, modest run producing, crappy fielding left fielder. Or DH. He doesn't fit on the Cubs given the current construct of the roster.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 4:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Precisely

A slap hitter who can play one friggin position on the field (left). And not well I might add. Matt Craptacular Murton is a favorite of some because he's got red hair, freckles and calls home to say good night to Mom every night. If he were Latino or African American his name would be dragged through the mud more than Neifi Perez, Jose Macias and Lenny Harris combined.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Reverend Sharpton has spoken

but nice points. If we did find out he was mormon, now, those homespun looks won't help!

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mike

I don't think this is a race thing.

Nefi, Lenny Harris, Jose were all much older with no upside.

Matt is only in his second year and many people think he could blossom into a great player.

Trust me dude, if Matt doesn't get it done this year he will be run out on a rail just like Corey Patterson.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 4:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I have always

tried to never say disparaging comments about any player. It doesn't matter what race they are.

"Come Monday of next week Murton will be able to compare restaurant menus in the greater Des Moines metropolitan area"...BlueMike..5/1/07

by sue369 on May 10, 2007 4:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton sucks

If it weren't for his red hair and freckles, every single Cub fan on the planet would think the same. After that lovely throw from right field the other night and his wretched miscue today, I hope his days in right field are officially pronounced OVER.

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's right Run the Irish out of the city

wait...

Chicago was supposed to do that back in the 1860's, god you guys are slackers.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

don't forget...

...the popout w/ the bases loaded on Tuesday and nobody out.

"here's me kicking a dead horse!"

"Now up to bat for the Mets...Mackey Sasser. For all you kids out there, that's RASSASS spelled backwords!" Harry Carry

by ilovepie on May 10, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why no Cornelius Clifford Floyd in that situation?

Ah, come on guys... It's so simple. Maybe you need a refresher course. Hey! It's all ball bearings nowadays. ...

by BlueMike on May 10, 2007 3:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Game over

Dang

"You can say what you want about [Prior], but when he got on the mound, he was a bulldog. A bulldog." - Paul Bako

by NittanyCub on May 10, 2007 3:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And the Cubs Lose

again to a very bad team.

Well at least they are back to .500

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

At HOME AGAIN

Don't forget it's another lost series at HOME. Good thing we are going on the road.

by utcubby on May 10, 2007 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And so it goes...

the bullpen gave up how many runs today?....and Big Z gave up how many? Yeah...good thing we gave him the chance to "bounce back".

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You have Zero Class

and brain cells.

Go back to your hippie lettuce, you moron.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

sweet! a bannable offense.

I consider it a moral victory that this is a loss thread that didnt go above 500 posts.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Um...

you sound bitter and mis-guided.

Oh..and I'm not a hippie. I think paycheck are for workers, unions are useless, and guns are for killing bad guys!

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

and you also think

smoking tree is "Awesome Man!"

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't follow...

you'll have to explain that comment.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What exactly is "hippie lettuce"

n/t.

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 10, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I sure I don't know.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Im not sure

I am not sure what I am more surprised at, the insult or the fact that it merited a semi serious response.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

End of Story

Well, I had meekly hoped for a 4-2 homestand at minimum, and the Cubs have given me that. It's never good to lose on getaway day -- and it's especially never good to see your team's "ace" look like a Triple A pitcher getting his first start.

I feel .500 about this team right now. Neither good nor bad. If they can win 4 of 7 on this upcoming roadtrip, I'll be ecstatic. After listening to this game, however, that seems like a tall order.

We shall see what we see.

Brew Crew: We are coming for you.

by dat cubfan daver on May 10, 2007 3:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well...

With Z pitching today, that means he'll only pitch once over the next seven games. Sadly, this helps.

"Not true at all. Vaseline is manufactured right here in the United States." - Don Sutton, about the rumors that he uses a foreign substance on the ball

by Orangeman94 on May 10, 2007 4:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You know what I find funny

The only reason the Cubs won any games this series was because one of our pitchers threw a CG shutout.

And that was against the Pirates.

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'd tell you what I find funny...

but you'd probably find it offensive and attack me.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Did I hurt your feelings?

Do you want lollipop to make it all better?

by MrDurden on May 10, 2007 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've been a cub fan since age 7...

I don't have feelings.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

+1million points

perfect!

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Funny in a not-funny kind of way

I sometimes find myself wondering what it must be like to root for a team like the Mets or Braves that puts together a rally every once in a while, a team where the fans don't just know that bases loaded with 1 out is probably going to result in no runs. Must be nice.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the mets and braves have had there crap spells

although I dont relish cheering for this team at shea on tuesday.

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Of course they have

Every team has "crap spells," but they are a way of life for the Cubs.

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 3:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's more of a "crap epoch"

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

dems the brakes

One of Us!One Of Us!

by HerrProf on May 10, 2007 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

On a mildly humorous note.

The Royals are getting beat by the A's 17-3. Todd Wellmeyer, 2.2 IP, 7 H, 5 R, 4 ER, 1 BB, 3 K to extend his ERA to 10.34

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 4:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

But remember...

the A's, as an organization, impress upon their players the importance of plate discipline, taking walks, situational hitting, etc.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 4:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Did you makeup those words???

What does that mean?

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 4:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think all the words

I used can be found in the popular lexicon of the day. The A's hitters are taught/instructed to not hack away regardless of the count/number of outs/and men on base.

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Murton killed us today--OF stinks

Just as Jones had a crap day yesterday..our OF is killing us!!

How about Pagan in RF bet he'd be a solid glove and decent bat...look for him to be the defensive replacement almost every day for Floyd, Murton or JJones...we may need two defensive replacements what the hell kind of OF is that?

by writerinwrigley on May 10, 2007 4:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This is the lineup we should use:

Soriano - 2B
Theriot - SS
Lee - 1B
Ramirez - 3B
Floyd - LF
Barrett - C
Pie - CF
Pagan - RF

by ksreed on May 10, 2007 4:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Interesting stat

Not including Saturdays (where the Cubs are 5-0), they are 4-11 in day games this season. 2 of those came against the Nats on Friday and Sunday. I still adamantly insist that the number of day games is a reason why this team does not win on a consistent basis.

Just because I have a short attention span doesn't mean...

by eamuscatuli1881 on May 10, 2007 4:08 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I contend that the reason is...

we aren't very good, have been badly managed, and have had ownership that needs no reason to improve the product (spending more money only cuts into the profits, and they make $ even while the product is terrible)

As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on May 10, 2007 4:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks, Dusty.

"Not true at all. Vaseline is manufactured right here in the United States." - Don Sutton, about the rumors that he uses a foreign substance on the ball

by Orangeman94 on May 10, 2007 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs