Open Thread: Cubs vs. Marlins, Tuesday 5/29, 7:05 CT

Willis VS Cubs

I like our chances tonight.

Yes we have handled Willis well in the past. I don't even need stats to tell you this.
2003 in the NLCS in Miami we score a ton of runs off of Willis and that was the game Aramis hit the grand slam.

Now Some Stats:

Last year we beat him 3-1. We went 1-0 against him
In 2005 we went 1-1 against him.
In 2004 it doesn't look like we had a decision against him.
In 2003 we blasted him winning 16-2.
This is the NLCS game that we beat him in:
http://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/2003/B10110FLO2003.htm

So we are 4-1 career against him from what I can see.

As a poster said in the recap of Monday's game, Willis is better at Wrigley than Dolphins Stadium.

by gocubs40 on May 29, 2007 4:15 PM CDT reply actions

Well...

considering he's 2-1 at Wrigley, I'm gonna guess we aren't 4-1 against him lifetime. Maybe 4-2? Regardless, we need to get a win tonight.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 4:25 PM CDT up reply actions

didn't we say that yesterday?

I thought so. SO why is this night different than all other nights?

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 4:28 PM CDT up reply actions

2002

Did Willis play at Wrigley in 2002 because I didn't look at our 2002 stats vs him.

by gocubs40 on May 29, 2007 4:33 PM CDT up reply actions

Nope

I counted it again and he is 1-4 lifetime against the Cubs.
Check it out here:
http://www.baseball-reference.com/teams/CHC/2007_sched.shtml

by gocubs40 on May 29, 2007 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions

The Marlin

announcers have said at least 3 times that Willis is 2-1 with a 1.60 ERA against the Cubs at Wrigley field.....i can't believe that is correct...but they keep pointing at that....(and the patience the Marlins show at the plate)

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions

So Tired

I don't know whether it's my own physical state of exhaustion at the moment or just the tired way the Cubs have been playing, but I can't think of a single meaningful thing to say about this team right now.

I just want a win. No, actually, I want two wins, tonight and tomorrow so the Cubs can take this series and give me some reason to start feeling positive again.

Go Cubs!

"I thought we'd be better than this." ~ Lou Piniella, 5/23/07

by daver on May 29, 2007 4:35 PM CDT reply actions

Glad I missed the last five games

I think I was a lot happier watching obscure old movies in a hotel
in Columbus. The only bright spot for me has been the Yankees
descent into hell. Made coming back to New York not so painful
I am going to skip the last few thousand post on the blogs as I can easily imagine what most of them say.
This is one pathetic division for the moment

"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 29, 2007 4:42 PM CDT reply actions

way to go Jess.....

that's almost as bad as rooting against the Sox as soon as the Cubs fall outta the race. Why must we invoke the names of other teams just to feel good? Why can't it be Cubs victories?!!

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 4:53 PM CDT reply actions

The simple answer is

There just really aren't enough of them (Cubs victories) to invoke!

by SuperContext on May 29, 2007 5:05 PM CDT up reply actions

I ALWAYS root against the Yankees and Mets

and I root FOR Boston, MN, Detroit ( ok and the Padres)
There is nothing wrong with hating teams and yes it is fun when
the Yankees suck worse than the Cubs and when Boston is 11 plus games ahead of them and the evil ANTI- Maddux is about
to come back to a last place team.

Works for me

"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 29, 2007 5:13 PM CDT up reply actions

PS

I root against the White Sox at all times regardless of how the Cubs are doing.

"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 29, 2007 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions

I do the same thing

I went to the game yesterday and the only good news was that we lost by two while the Sox lost by six.

A good day for me is a cubs win and a sox loss.

by diehardmark on May 29, 2007 6:10 PM CDT up reply actions

Correction

Make that 13 plus games that the Red Sox are ahead of the Yankees. I also take great enjoyment out of that. I even watched the Blue Jays and Yankees last night. A very nice game from Dustin McGowan of the Jays. If the Indians and Tigers can keep up their play, the wild card might even be tough for the Yankees.

by rlpete on May 29, 2007 5:18 PM CDT up reply actions

Lou said the following about last night.

"When you're behind like we were, you like to see if you can get the tying run up to home plate," Cubs manager Lou Piniella said. "Well, we did that and a little more. We had the right guy up there, we just didn't get it done today."

A couple of things here. I don't know about eveyone else, but when you're behind you'd like to see the tying run CROSS home plate. Yes we had the right guy up there, for a change. How many ABs in CRUCIAL situations have we seen JJ, Michael, Cesar, (gulp) Cedeno flail at balls and spit on strikes? The manager has me vexed with his expectations. I know he HATES losing, but this team/organization is so good at it, I'm not sure he's going to fix anything. Have you ever tried to push water uphill?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on May 29, 2007 5:37 PM CDT reply actions

Soda came out of my nose when I read...

this - "Kim can be tough when he's in the strike zone like he was today," -- Michael Barrett

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

by santoswoodenlegs on May 29, 2007 5:38 PM CDT reply actions

I guess he can be effective

When he is not falling asleep next to the laundry as he did once
when they went looking for him during a game . He has some kind of narcaleptic related problem. No doubt last night he put the Cubs bats to sleep

"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 29, 2007 5:53 PM CDT up reply actions

That shows you the mental makeup

of some of these guys. Take a worn out, barely in the major leagues pitcher and make him look like Cy Young. What he should have said is, "Damn, we must really suck if we can't hit this guy!"

I have a feeling because we have basically owned the D Train in the past that he'll be tough tonight, eh Mr. Barrett???

BigJohnAZ

by BigJohnAZ on May 29, 2007 5:56 PM CDT up reply actions

I understand your feelings

However for some reason the Cubs always have troubles with pitchers who throw junk. This guy yesterday was throwing in the Mid 70's and low 80's. It seemed that our pitcher had a small strike zone where the Umpire was calling anything close to the plate a strike for this guy. It could of been my Cubbie bias but that is what I saw at the game.

Also It looks like we should send Scott Eyre a one way ticket to hang out with his buddy Dusty. The way he let that guy steal 2nd and 3rd you would of thought Eyre was a rookie but no he is a vet with no heart eating up a roster spot.

A good day for me is a cubs win and a sox loss.

by diehardmark on May 29, 2007 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions

The funny aspect for me was...

that Michael was admitting he has trouble when pitchers throw him strikes. Regardless of who the pitcher is I suppose.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on May 29, 2007 6:13 PM CDT up reply actions

Lineups

Marlins
Amezaga, CF
Uggla, 2B
Ramirez, SS
Cabrera, 3B
Willingham, LF
Hermida, RF
Olivo, C
Boone, 1B
Willis, P

Cubs
Soriano, LF
Izturis, SS
Lee, 1B
Ramirez, 3B
Murton, RF
DeRosa, 2B
Barrett, C
Pagan, CF
Marquis, P

by Bruce Miles on May 29, 2007 6:12 PM CDT reply actions

Yeah...

this ought to work.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on May 29, 2007 6:15 PM CDT up reply actions

Easy call..

..to start Murton in RF over Floyd. Cliff is 3 for 18 lifetime vs Willis with 6 strikeouts.

Chicks dig the long ball

by Will23 on May 29, 2007 6:22 PM CDT reply actions

Why does our lineup have to be a daily carousel?

Sheesh, probably just too many egos to placate. And it can't be doing any good for the players' concentration on the field.

by Jerry Mumphrey on May 29, 2007 6:22 PM CDT reply actions

A team that has played as bad as this one...

shouldn't have egos.

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

by santoswoodenlegs on May 29, 2007 6:24 PM CDT up reply actions

Jones

I hate to say it but Jones should be starting today.

by gocubs40 on May 29, 2007 6:41 PM CDT reply actions

Thanks!

by Mr Snrub on May 29, 2007 7:12 PM CDT up reply actions

WHY?

If the law of averages are to be believed this is our year....or not.

by tharr on May 29, 2007 7:15 PM CDT up reply actions

nice to see the crap..

the crapturis in the lineup is. why in the hell is he batting 2nd? no theriot now thats a fine move there. but at least were not the only ones that do it. that abercrombie kid killed us yesterday, then the amezaga kid comes in misses a fly ball in center and starts today. some moves i just dont understand.

Here comes the nasty leftie to shut it down in the 9th......Clay Rapada!!!!

by cubsluver22 on May 29, 2007 6:41 PM CDT reply actions

GO CUBS!!!!!

Make this game number 10 for games the Cubs should have won but found a way to lose. - MrDurden, 5-24-07

by sue369 on May 29, 2007 6:44 PM CDT reply actions

How much longer before...

the rest of you are convinced this team isn't worth the paper it's printed on? The end of July when we're 12 games under .500?

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

by santoswoodenlegs on May 29, 2007 6:49 PM CDT reply actions

What difference

does it make to you that I chose to support this team? It should make no difference to you. I don't care if you support them or not. If it bothers you that some of us support them then leave.

Make this game number 10 for games the Cubs should have won but found a way to lose. - MrDurden, 5-24-07

by sue369 on May 29, 2007 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions

You are....

truly a fan Sue. LMAO!

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 11:02 PM CDT up reply actions

they are 1/2 way there now...

it will be more like the 4th of July...

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 8:53 PM CDT up reply actions

1st inning

nice 1st by jm

Here comes the nasty leftie to shut it down in the 9th......Clay Rapada!!!!

by cubsluver22 on May 29, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions

There we go...

Bout time big man!

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 7:16 PM CDT reply actions

Way to go DLee

I think that landed close to Al and gang...

by LT on May 29, 2007 7:17 PM CDT reply actions

BLACK OUTS SUCK!!!!

I live in Orlando FL... Which, according to MLB is a Florida Marlins area... However not a single cable provider in the Orlando area carries "the Marlins network"....

So, I have both MLB.tv (watch at work)and the Brighthouse Extra Innings Package... and I'm left in the dark.

MLB really needs to figure this sh*t out! I would understand if local brighthouse in Orlando had the game somewhere... but they don't!!!!!!

I'm not happy!!!!!

by ericrung @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on May 29, 2007 7:17 PM CDT reply actions

I live in Melbourne and its on Sun Sports

by FLCubsFan on May 29, 2007 7:29 PM CDT up reply actions

Sun Sports in Orlando....

Has "NASCAR Classics" - I get the 1983 Daytona 500 :(

by ericrung @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on May 29, 2007 7:36 PM CDT up reply actions

Hmm....thats weird.

by FLCubsFan on May 29, 2007 7:39 PM CDT up reply actions

I know.....

Seriously.... I know people bitch about Blackouts... and i normally don't, but this is BAD!!!

Again, how can i be "blacked out" if local cable isn't covering the game!!!!!

by ericrung @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on May 29, 2007 7:43 PM CDT up reply actions

thnks

Thank you D-LEE!

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 7:17 PM CDT reply actions

hr

belteddddddd high and belted deeeeepppp!!!! goneeeeeeeeeee holy cow

Here comes the nasty leftie to shut it down in the 9th......Clay Rapada!!!!

by cubsluver22 on May 29, 2007 7:17 PM CDT reply actions

Nice way to

start the game.

Make this game number 10 for games the Cubs should have won but found a way to lose. - MrDurden, 5-24-07

by sue369 on May 29, 2007 7:18 PM CDT reply actions

wow

len and bob just announced dontrelle willis donated 10k to project 3000 and 100 for every k and on the very next pitch dlee hits a bomb on him!!!

Here comes the nasty leftie to shut it down in the 9th......Clay Rapada!!!!

by cubsluver22 on May 29, 2007 7:19 PM CDT reply actions

not surprised

Dontrelle is a great guy. Thats awesome what he did. But he is known to just kind of spend money just because it's there.

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 7:21 PM CDT up reply actions

That is very

nice of him.

Make this game number 10 for games the Cubs should have won but found a way to lose. - MrDurden, 5-24-07

by sue369 on May 29, 2007 7:23 PM CDT up reply actions

Marquis

His sinker is looking SHARP.

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 7:22 PM CDT reply actions

sorry

scratch that

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 7:23 PM CDT up reply actions

sorry2

Wow. What a fantastic job to get out of that second and third, 0 out jam. Cubs game > homework.

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 7:30 PM CDT up reply actions

OK

Let's get some baserunners and make Dontrelle work.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 7:31 PM CDT reply actions

Ummm

Not those kind of baserunners.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 7:34 PM CDT up reply actions

DeRosa obliges

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 7:34 PM CDT up reply actions

Barret follows suit

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 7:36 PM CDT up reply actions

3-0 atlanta top of 2

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 7:31 PM CDT reply actions

Why we lose games

Baserunning. Soft ground ball to the left side, runner on second. DeRosa out at third. Just dumb.

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 7:35 PM CDT reply actions

that was nothing

for our next trick....

by LT on May 29, 2007 7:36 PM CDT up reply actions

WTF WAS THAT BARRETT??

The guy's a catcher and he still doesn't know what the hell he's doing, just screwin around in no man's land.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 7:36 PM CDT reply actions

sigh

"it's things like this that drives managers crazy"

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 7:37 PM CDT up reply actions

THAT WAS PATHETIC

a bunch of 4th graders can run the bases better than that, derosa and barret should get fined for those pathetic attempts at baserunning

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 7:37 PM CDT reply actions

Definitely.

Absolutely correct. I've never, ever seen two instances of sub-Little League baserunning in one inning.

Len Kasper rocks.

by Matt Allison on May 29, 2007 7:39 PM CDT up reply actions

I hope

that we haven't paid Dernier yet.

If the law of averages are to be believed this is our year....or not.

by tharr on May 29, 2007 7:37 PM CDT reply actions

Lou really needs to light into some of these

dumbshit veterans and let them know that this kind of play will not be tolerated, either run the bases the correct way or go home because we dont want you

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 7:37 PM CDT reply actions

wtf is going on

w/ the baserunning? Unreal.

Len Kasper rocks.

by Matt Allison on May 29, 2007 7:38 PM CDT reply actions

I've seen that happen to Barrett

too many times. He sucks.

Major league teams shouldn't be making these kinds of mistakes. This team is a joke.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 7:39 PM CDT reply actions

yet nobody pays for it

why not pull Barrett, Lou? show him up!

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 7:41 PM CDT reply actions

I would've pulled him

and DeRosa,a message needs to be sent.

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 7:44 PM CDT up reply actions

I wonder why

he doesn't?

Make this game number 10 for games the Cubs should have won but found a way to lose. - MrDurden, 5-24-07

by sue369 on May 29, 2007 7:45 PM CDT up reply actions

Because

We need position players for the 14th inning loss we're gearing up for. (I'm not that cynical, but I had to say it)

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 7:47 PM CDT up reply actions

How does this keep happening??

You think after DeRosas LITTLE LEAGUE GAFE Barrett might have been a little more mindful at 2nd???

Let me get back to you, will ya, Charlie? I got a guy on the other line asking about some white walls.

by JB 23 on May 29, 2007 7:41 PM CDT reply actions

Now

Marquis gets to make the out that should've ended the last inning at worst.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 7:44 PM CDT reply actions

WTG Derek!!

Make this game number 10 for games the Cubs should have won but found a way to lose. - MrDurden, 5-24-07

by sue369 on May 29, 2007 7:49 PM CDT reply actions

D LEE!!

When Soriano gets on this guy can pull RBIs out of a hat.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 7:49 PM CDT reply actions

2-0

by gocubs40 on May 29, 2007 7:50 PM CDT reply actions

Is it me or does Cabrera seem to be

fatter/heavier/lazier this year? looks like he definetely added on a few pounds

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 7:54 PM CDT reply actions

LOL

could be--I've never really looked at him and thought, "I think he's slimmed down a tad!"

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 7:56 PM CDT up reply actions

yep

I was gonna say that. Maybe it's just the pants. Nonetheless the guy can still hit like none other.

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 7:56 PM CDT up reply actions

Ooooohhhh boy.

DeRosa...just...augh...

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 7:59 PM CDT reply actions

Can Lou bench this clown Derosa

hes costing us this game with his bonehead baserunning and sketchy fielding

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:01 PM CDT reply actions

nice throw Barrett

Mindnumbing defensive regression. He is terrible.

Let me get back to you, will ya, Charlie? I got a guy on the other line asking about some white walls.

by JB 23 on May 29, 2007 8:05 PM CDT reply actions

He was standing up

and he still bounced the throw!

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 8:07 PM CDT up reply actions

I hate Barrett

Practically a pitch out, the runner had a mediocre jump, and Barrett throws it in the dirt. He SUCKS!!!

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 8:06 PM CDT reply actions

I think i would rather start to have blanco

get at least 2/3 starts per week now behind the plate

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:07 PM CDT reply actions

Yep

Barrett has been killing this team for years. Oh for the days of Damien Miller.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions

You can thank derosa for the 2 runs this inning

and that pretty much ended the game because weve already had the offensive explosion tonight

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:09 PM CDT reply actions

The ball

to DeRosa was a tough chance. I don't even think they scored that an error.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 8:10 PM CDT up reply actions

exactly, rarely do they score after the 4th....

Let me get back to you, will ya, Charlie? I got a guy on the other line asking about some white walls.

by JB 23 on May 29, 2007 8:10 PM CDT up reply actions

After a very long

half inning by Marquis the offense has to take pitches in their half. Will they?

If the law of averages are to be believed this is our year....or not.

by tharr on May 29, 2007 8:12 PM CDT reply actions

Not a chance

Murton, DeRosa, Barrett.

If they won't on their own maybe the coaches should tell them to.

by BringBackRyno on May 29, 2007 8:14 PM CDT up reply actions

There you go

2-0 weak ground ball to short. So typical.

by BringBackRyno on May 29, 2007 8:16 PM CDT up reply actions

The Marlins are in a different league than us

when it comes to plate approach, making marquis throw about 30 pitches or so that inning. I dont think weve had an inning like that this year

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:13 PM CDT reply actions

40 pitches

after 42 through the first three.

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 8:14 PM CDT up reply actions

Agreed..

yesterday and today, agressive baserunning and taking pitches, making the Cubs make mistakes. (which doesnt take much)

Let me get back to you, will ya, Charlie? I got a guy on the other line asking about some white walls.

by JB 23 on May 29, 2007 8:19 PM CDT up reply actions

I will be stunned if we win this game, stunned

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:22 PM CDT reply actions

the poor play is contagious....

n/t

Let me get back to you, will ya, Charlie? I got a guy on the other line asking about some white walls.

by JB 23 on May 29, 2007 8:27 PM CDT reply actions

Im calling it now we will see the L fly proudly

atop wrigley tonight

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:27 PM CDT reply actions

The Kane County Cougars play better baseball

than us, this is pathetic i wish i could go puke in our clubhouse right now

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:28 PM CDT reply actions

Izzy Sux

Where is that bleeping poster on this board that loves Izzy? Theriot showed how to catch those yesterday. And if Izzy had just gotten out of the way then DeRosa could have caught it.

I want my Macias!

by wombat on May 29, 2007 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions

He doesn't suck...

but his defense is highly overrated by some people on this board. He's just not the same player he was before the injuries and the weight gain.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 8:38 PM CDT up reply actions

Correction...

he doesn't suck DEFENSIVELY. He's decent defensively, but not nearly as good defensively as some have suggested. But he absolutely does suck offensively.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions

Cubs terrible defense

strikes again. Ramirez throws one away, then a bloop falls that would've been caught by any other team in the major leagues. They suck.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 8:29 PM CDT reply actions

Game Over

by gocubs40 on May 29, 2007 8:32 PM CDT reply actions

Should've been

a solo shot with better defense. Instead it's a back-breaking 3-run job. Time to do something better with my evening.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 8:33 PM CDT up reply actions

weve really only given up 2 runs

derosas misplay on a ball any professional major leaguer would have turned 2 on lead to 2 runs in the inning and then ramirez's beautiful dirt throw to first lead to another run, a good major league team is tied 2-2 right now, but then again were the cubs so we trail 5-2

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:35 PM CDT up reply actions

And that's

all folks!

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 8:32 PM CDT reply actions

Say hello to the real Jason Marquis

You can't waste that much good pitching from Marquis, Lilly, and Hill.
About the time the offense pulls its head out of its ass the starting pitchers will blow up. Watch.

by BringBackRyno on May 29, 2007 8:34 PM CDT reply actions

It's true...

the only thing one can hope is that Lilly and Hill don't fall off too much, and we get more from Zambrano and Marshall than we've gotten from Zambrano and the 5th starter spot thus far.

We've had lots of wasted opportunities this season, and we shouldn't expect a sub-3 ERA from Lilly and Marquis all season.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 8:37 PM CDT up reply actions

I am so sick of this team and its rheteroic

Pinella before the game, DeRosa on CSN saying we've just got to execute, better baserunning, etc.

We gave aay like 4 outs the last 2 innings and its finally cost us.

This team and its manager should shut up and say, "We stink'' until futher notice. quit saying we're gonna do this, we're gonna get better when season is nearly 1/3 over and it's like a broke record of mistakes, failed execution, untimely hitting, poor relief pitching, poor coaching, poor motivation/instruction on part of coaching, etc....

I never wanted to believe in curse before but this team is making me believe something, somebody UP THERE is making them do these terrible things...stop torturing us!!

by writerinwrigley on May 29, 2007 8:35 PM CDT reply actions

its just shitty personnel

i really hope someone who knows baseball is the new owner and cleans house with the likes of pathetic baseball players and the pathetic general manager we have, CUBS SUCK

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:36 PM CDT up reply actions

Len Kasper

after the HR by Hermida what did he have to say? that the Cubs are now tied for HRs at Wrigley!!!! LOL

nothing about the shoddy play, just meaningless stats!!!!

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 8:36 PM CDT up reply actions

i hate kasper and brenly

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:37 PM CDT up reply actions

WHY THE HELL IS IZTURIS BATTING 2ND

bangs head on keyboard

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:37 PM CDT reply actions

The announcers are apologists also

Can you imagine Harry Caray with this team he would be apolectic by now...

Brenley and Kasper just gloss over everything maybe refer to it...always look on the bright side don't hammer the mistakes as they deserve...Steve Stone also would have done more forcefully

they just flashed fans votes on who will win division...fans say the Cubs!! surprise surprise and Len adds in, "Well, I'm with ya!!''

While the pieces haven't all come together the talent is all there, says Len....

Sound familiar anyone?

by writerinwrigley on May 29, 2007 8:38 PM CDT reply actions

Because Under Hendry it has been...

...it has been scientifically proven that Announcers that call the same game that the fans are seeing before their very eyes are a huge distraction to players and can result in losing streaks and bad fundamental play. You want to know why the team continues to make Ass-Hat plays on the bases? Do you really want the truth? It's because Hendry reads BCB and he hasn't been able to shut-down the criticism from this blog!

Batting Izturis 2nd is a good idea because he has that ability to make something happen--he has a lot of Neifi in him you know. And you can't fault aggressiveness on the base paths, at least that's what Hank always told me and he stole something like 800+ Hrs, I think? And you can't fault our batters for being aggressive, nobody every got nowhere by taking a bullshit walk, at least the awesome power of the offense is unleashed when you don't take pitches or walks or so Dusty says. Anyway, I am a bit confused but I can assure you that the plane is not crashing into the mountain and before you know it with all of our aggressiveness we will be on top of Mt. Everest and singing We Are the Champions in our World Series Parade. Or maybe the song that I am hearing is Send in the Clowns? Either way, we are in good shape...

by DudeVf11 on May 29, 2007 11:36 PM CDT up reply actions

I was afraid of this.

Lou Pinella was a bad hire for this team. I got suckered in by his platitudes and by the good ST this team had, but now it feels like Dusty v2.0. This team needs a young feiry manager who is not afraid to trample on some egos.

There is a post earlier that says, and I agree wholeheartedly, when you are losing, there is no such thing as ego.

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 8:38 PM CDT reply actions

Even Busty would throw toothpick sometimes!!!!

Lou just sits there as if he's watching a TV show. The worst we've seen is a raise of the hands! The Karma is going from bad to worse with this team. Time to sell.

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions

Here we go...

The problem with this team is not the manager. It's the GM.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 8:43 PM CDT up reply actions

5 out and time to sell? Sheesh.

Lou is not a bad hire. The team is playing bad ball. That's it - plain and simple.

by scottsdalecubs on May 29, 2007 8:42 PM CDT reply actions

will they play good ball?

What'll make them?

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 8:44 PM CDT up reply actions

Better

players.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 8:45 PM CDT up reply actions

Yeah but,

I thought JH got them better players.

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:02 PM CDT up reply actions

Better than last year, yes..

but last year was a 66-win team. And while we have better players than last year, they don't necessarily fit well together.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:05 PM CDT up reply actions

I can't see them playing any worse for the

remainder of the year. A nice 5 game winning streak would be nice.

Some of the sh** I've seen out of this squad in the last 2-3 weeks has been unreal to watch (Dempster in ny?).

It's gotta break at some point. The team BA is good, but pathetic in clutch situations. What gives me hope is that we play in the NL Central, among other things.

by scottsdalecubs on May 29, 2007 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions

Then wait till next year

Cause it ain't gonna happen with this bunch.

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 8:50 PM CDT reply actions

Nope

We're through Memorial Day and that is pretty obvious. No more "it's early" excuses. Reality should be setting in.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 8:52 PM CDT up reply actions

At least Bears season is right around the corner

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 8:57 PM CDT reply actions

The Bucs take care of the Padres 4-1

the only good thing going tonight is the White Sux are getting POUNDED!!!

BigJohnAZ

by BigJohnAZ on May 29, 2007 8:59 PM CDT reply actions

Man, this team is flat

No discipline, and no intensity. Dead.

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 8:59 PM CDT reply actions

I'll definitely agree ...

At least with the lack of intensity. This team appears to be too quiet and too hands-off. I think Z could rally the troops; others have mentioned Barrett in a similar position, but there's a noticeable lack of loud leadership.

LRRF

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

by Littlerock Rynofan on May 29, 2007 9:21 PM CDT up reply actions

in a more interesting game

Aaron Hill just stole home outright on Andy Pettite....Yanks losing again.

by LuisSalazar on May 29, 2007 9:00 PM CDT reply actions

I guess it could be worse

The W Sox are a sinking ship after winning it all. I know, I know, at least they won it. It still tears out my heart that I was alive for a White Sox Championship instead of a Cubs WS win. I am 48 and at this rate I probably never will. In my lifetime only 4 post season appearances. Meanwhile, the Marlins have won 2 WS.

BigJohnAZ

by BigJohnAZ on May 29, 2007 9:03 PM CDT reply actions

Makes it more tolerable...

...seeing the Sox get whipped by the Twins is painful, glad I was out and missed the game tonight (and fortunately I've missed the last few games too).

Yet that World Series Championship does help. I'll always have that, something my dad never had the good fortune to enjoy.

The Sox may be a sinking ship, but they did win 90 games last season, an accomplishment in winning that the Cubs have managed only 3 times in my lifetime (the Sox have won 90 or more 10 times in my lifetime).

And while sink in one of if not the worst divisions in MLB the Sox at least are in the best division in MLB.

by DrCrawdad on May 29, 2007 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions

Dude suck it up...

...I don't care how awful the Cubs are a Cubs fan never gives a shit about the White Sox no matter what...Their alleged success under Williams and El Kabong is irrelevant to Cubs fans. Bitch all you want about the Cubs but don't show any weakness to the Camaro crowd. Who gives a rat's ass about them?

by DudeVf11 on May 29, 2007 11:43 PM CDT up reply actions

I dont care if anyone agrees with me on this but..

We really need an Aj Pierzynski type player on this team- someone who is into every game and is a game changing type player that is the heart and soul of the team, someone that cant stand to lose, someone that wants to be in that lineup and is going to give it his all every game, i really dont care if the "cubs" are trying, every team in the league tries, this team just sucks, they have no pulse, no heart, no identity, no one on the team is an intimidating out, its really getting pathetic to watch

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:03 PM CDT reply actions

AGREED!!!

n/t

BigJohnAZ

by BigJohnAZ on May 29, 2007 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions

Ditto!

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions

There is no team

just individuals on the Cubs. Lou has not done a good job building a TEAM, as opposed to 25 players.

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:04 PM CDT reply actions

Also, no baserunners since the 3 run hr

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:05 PM CDT up reply actions

Can you spell

Q-U-I-T?

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions

I don't think...

you have the slightest idea what you are talking about. Baseball is an individual sport. There is very little teamwork involved. Aside from getting along with each other (which this team does pretty well it seems) and not actively trying to sabotage someone else, there is little teamwork involved.

The problem isn't teamwork, it's that this is a poorly constructed team. Too many LF, not enough guys who get on base, not enough consistent arms in the bullpen, etc.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions

Really??

Wow, so how to explain the poor fundamentals this team is showing, despite the fact JH has opened the pocketbook to bring in good individuals? Is that because of the great teamwork this team is showing??

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions

Poor fundamentals...

has little to do with teamwork. That's just bad individual play.

And you need to stop being blinded by the money spent. This was a 66-win team last year. A 15-win improvement would still only make us a .500 team. We still have a lot of holes.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:16 PM CDT up reply actions

Actually I thought this team

would be around .500 or so, so I agree with you on the poor fundamentals. It sounds like you think coaching and managers have little impact on fundamentals. I disagree with that.

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions

If players

haven't learned fundamentals by the time they reach the major league level they'll never learn them. That stuff is taught in little league and reinforced in high school and the minor leagues. By the time they reach the majors either a player is fundamentally sound or he never will be.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions

Agreed...

and bad fundamentals certainly aren't likely to be coached out of a major league player in 3 months.

I'm of the belief that a good manager can only make a small positive impact, but they can make a huge negative impact. I don't think Lou has made much of an impact either way, yet.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions

The trick

is selecting and developing fundamentally sound players. Teams like the Braves have been terrific at that. Teams like the Cubs haven't. No manager can change that. I believe this organization needs to be blown up or it will never change.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions

I don't know about that...

but some definite changes need to occur. The first change has been made, I think, with Wilken taking over as scouting director. The next step is removing Hendry.

But there are a lot of good pieces. We have talented young pitchers in Marmol, Marshall, Hill, Guzman, and some more in the minors. We have an awesome 1B. We have a very good 3B. In the right situation, Soriano is an impact player. We have a potentially very good CF in Pie in the minors. It's just a matter of making the right changes rather than blowing it all up.

A lot of the second-tier veterans (Jones, Barrett, DeRosa) and the expensive relievers (Howry and Eyre) need to go, and in their place need to be well-chosen replacements.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:43 PM CDT up reply actions

I forgot

You're the optimistic guy. I'll believe it when I see it. The Cubs haven't developed a decent position player in 20 years. Something drastic has to change. Right now they're just selling false hope (which you appear to be buying).

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:57 PM CDT up reply actions

I don't think I'm optimistic...

I just think you're overly pessimistic and giving a knee-jerk response. I'd say replacing the GM and replacing about 30-40% of the roster is pretty substantial change, so it's not like I'm painting a rosy picture here.

I agree that major changes need to be made. I just don't see the value in getting rid of DLee (who's won a WS before) , Ramirez (who's one of the best 3B in the game), and some of our productive (and cheap) young players/pitchers.

And as for the "haven't developed a decent position prospect in 20 years, well, Wilken wasn't here for those years. He WAS there for Toronto and Tampa Bay, who have had very good success in producing position players.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 10:02 PM CDT up reply actions

Who said anything

about getting rid of DLee or Ramirez? I don't see any productive young players or pitchers, but that's another story. I'm talking about blowing up the entire front office including the scouting and player development people.

Knee-jerk? My opinion comes from almost 30 years of following this train wreck of a team. That's not knee jerk.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 10:07 PM CDT up reply actions

I misread you then...

I took your suggestion to blow up the organization to mean blow up the entire organization. If all you mean is the front office, then I agree. Although I have high hopes for Wilken, based on previous experience.

And if you don't think Marmol, Guzman, Hill, and Marshall are promising pitchers then I think we're at an impasse. I also happen to think that Murton and Pie have excellent potential as young position players (although Murton should be a LF, which is bad in this team).

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 10:11 PM CDT up reply actions

Can't this stuff be reinforced on the major league

level as well? Why should we excuse a major league ball player for having poor fundamentals? Talent in baseball only gets you so far, as the Cubs can surely attest to. Managers and coaching staff have a responsibility to ensure fundamentals are not forgotten.

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions

No

By the time a guy gets to the majors he's been playing organized baseball for at least 10 years and probably more. If he hasn't learned how to do things like run the bases properly or throw to the correct base by then it's unlikely to happen at the major league level no matter what the manager says or does. I'm not saying to excuse this stuff, I'm just saying you should blame the players (and the guy selecting the players) not the managers and coaches.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:31 PM CDT up reply actions

Right...

And it is especially unrealistic to expect a manager to ingrain fundamentals into a player he's coached for only 3 months when that player has failed to grasp fundamentals over many many years prior.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:35 PM CDT up reply actions

However, you can sit players

for making boneheaded mistakes on the basepaths and in the field. Hell - Sosa should have been fined for every missed cutoff, for example.

Running the bases can be something that is worked on at 8:00 am the next day also, if needed.

by scottsdalecubs on May 29, 2007 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions

And the players

Hendry brought in seem to be fundamentally challenged as well as poor defensive players. The fact is this team just isn't very good.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:20 PM CDT up reply actions

Agreed 100%

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions

Hendry deserves most of the blame

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions

Brew Crew ahead

they were down 3-0 in the 1st. They now lead 4-3 with 2 on and Fielder up. Will it still be 5 games after tonight?

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 9:08 PM CDT reply actions

no, i prefer it to be 6

we dont need anymore false hope that we can win the division because when its all said and done we are the chicago cubs, well find a way to lose

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions

Nice work by Marmol

2 innings and 4 K's. Now time for Eyre or Howry in the 8th, so Florida can put this away... :(

SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!

by CubFaninCA on May 29, 2007 9:09 PM CDT reply actions

game isnt

over yet!! never give up

Here comes the nasty leftie to shut it down in the 9th......Clay Rapada!!!!

by cubsluver22 on May 29, 2007 9:11 PM CDT reply actions

hahahahahahaha

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:12 PM CDT up reply actions

5-3 Brewers

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 9:11 PM CDT reply actions

Try to steal 3rd

Barrett..

SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!

by CubFaninCA on May 29, 2007 9:12 PM CDT reply actions

Ha, ha

Let's not try that again.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions

Here we go

The Cubs are about to waste another leadoff double. No team does this better. I can't remember the last time a guy hit to the right side to move a runner over to third. It's ridiculous.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:14 PM CDT reply actions

THERIOT!!!

COULD YOU BE MORE AWESOME!!

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions

hey at least someone on the team has a pulse

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions

Wow

Somebody better make Theriot pee in a cup after this one.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions

Actually its individuals, not team.

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions

Exactly...

Did someone help Theriot hit that HR? Could someone have jumped in and stopped Barrett from getting picked off. A large portion of baseball is played by a team of individuals.

You've been misplacing your angst about individual mistakes on teamwork. Teamwork can't fix the problems this team is having. It's a lot of individual mental mistakes.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions

Ok so maybe teamwork is the wrong word

How about smarts?

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:21 PM CDT up reply actions

Smarts is a fine choice of words...

I'll agree with that completely. It's a bunch of guys who do a lot of dumb things. No argument there.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions

Yep.

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions

now soriano will follow up with a K

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:16 PM CDT reply actions

Now wait just

a minute... The Riot just took D Nice deep.

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 9:16 PM CDT reply actions

BIG T

my favorite cubbie

"The Cubs are due in Sixty-Two" - Ernie Banks

by TimeForChili on May 29, 2007 9:16 PM CDT reply actions

I've seen this movie before

Cubs will lose by 1 run.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:16 PM CDT reply actions

i called it

told you allllll soooooooo!!! eat that cubs haters. go join the cards loserssssss!!! please read my pre-game threads!! why the hell isnt theriot starting everyday.whyyyyyyyyyyyyy!! god i love theriot and the cubbies!!! game isnt over

Here comes the nasty leftie to shut it down in the 9th......Clay Rapada!!!!

by cubsluver22 on May 29, 2007 9:17 PM CDT reply actions

relax...

...dumbass, they still need one and you'll jinx them

"The Cubs are due in Sixty-Two" - Ernie Banks

by TimeForChili on May 29, 2007 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions

i bet you my house and my car the cubs lose

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions

86' nova and 400 sf condo next to comitski(sp)?

"The Cubs are due in Sixty-Two" - Ernie Banks

by TimeForChili on May 29, 2007 9:21 PM CDT up reply actions

haha your post is worthless now

you cant even get the name of their stadium right and on top of that you cant even spell comiskey right, incredible

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions

This from the guy...

who made the empty threat of betting his/her wordly possessions on this game...

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions

LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

n/t

by DudeVf11 on May 29, 2007 11:47 PM CDT up reply actions

its not that i dont like them its just ive seen

this type of game way too many times before, they get your hopes up and theyll shoot them down, vintage cubs

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:20 PM CDT up reply actions

Soriano

SUCKS!!!!!

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:17 PM CDT reply actions

Abso-fricking-lutly

The Riot all the way. Izzy can go away now.

I want my Macias!

by wombat on May 29, 2007 9:18 PM CDT reply actions

izzy blows

big t would have caught that broken bat blooper up the middle and this game would be tied right now.

"The Cubs are due in Sixty-Two" - Ernie Banks

by TimeForChili on May 29, 2007 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions

Cubs back in the game..

Izturis, unfortunately, has no business on a major league field. 0-for-4 taking a combined 11 pitches.

"And heeeere come the pretzels!"

by NightPutting on May 29, 2007 9:20 PM CDT reply actions

Get Eyre in there Lou.

:(

SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!

by CubFaninCA on May 29, 2007 9:20 PM CDT reply actions

Thanks Izzy

Can you f-up a game any more? 0-4. Thank you Lou for taking him out.

I want my Macias!

by wombat on May 29, 2007 9:22 PM CDT reply actions

Michael Worst

I want my Macias!

by wombat on May 29, 2007 9:23 PM CDT reply actions

He has a 1.64 ERA

Give me a break.

"You know what? You want a job? Go out and earn one." Sweet Lou

by Kyle Turney on May 29, 2007 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions

why dont you idiots...

go be cardinal fans or royal fans. you crybaby asses that know absolutely nothing bitch,moan,whine, and groan every night. you pathetic idiots are sickening. cubs fans want the cubs to win you losers you could care less.i hate idiots like you all worse than the cardinals.

Here comes the nasty leftie to shut it down in the 9th......Clay Rapada!!!!

by cubsluver22 on May 29, 2007 9:26 PM CDT reply actions

Take it easy man

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 9:27 PM CDT up reply actions

If ...

Your signature represents what I think it does, I'm loving it!

LRRF

One of the worst writers on this board.

by Littlerock Rynofan on May 29, 2007 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions

we want change, the way this team plays

is pathetic, they deserve to be criticized when they make mistakes a 3rd grade team wouldnt make (2nd inning baserunning), just being overly optimistic and failing to acknowledge this team has a problem is not good either, everyone heres a cubs fan but theres a point when you just keep watching the same shit happen over and over and it gets to u, this is horrible baseball being played, think of it this way, the marlins just got swept at home over the weekend, and now there just able to walk into wrigley and just easily, easily take the first 2 of this series, thats horrible on our part, we should be sick to our stomachs right now from this shit

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:40 PM CDT up reply actions

Barret!!!

Aaron "frickin" Boone is running on you!

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 9:26 PM CDT reply actions

Please don't...

walk the bases loaded then hit the next batter. That would be awful.

by vegascubsfan on May 29, 2007 9:29 PM CDT reply actions

dayum

he ain't a gold glover for nothing

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 9:30 PM CDT reply actions

Dlee with some smarts.

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

by eswan9 on May 29, 2007 9:30 PM CDT reply actions

Yep...

one of the few completely sound players on the team. There is basically nothing negative to say about DLee.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:32 PM CDT up reply actions

At least...

they were strikes.

They played hard. They did their best. Move on. Their whole life isn't out in that field. It's their job. It's not an obsession.

by McHuge on May 29, 2007 9:31 PM CDT reply actions

let it begin

let's post comments about our bullpen

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 9:31 PM CDT reply actions

I will say this...

it's uncanny. Wuertz has been terrific this year, yet late in a close game tonight, he has a clunker of a performance.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:33 PM CDT up reply actions

AHAHAH

AHAHAHA

by baglesshound on May 29, 2007 9:34 PM CDT reply actions

wow

you gotta be fucking kidding me.

by cubs2234 on May 29, 2007 9:34 PM CDT reply actions

9-4

by gocubs40 on May 29, 2007 9:34 PM CDT reply actions

Anyone else just flashback?

"and three runs will score" ... and then watch the Marlins high-fiving on the way back to the dugout?

Tim

by ttagaris on May 29, 2007 9:35 PM CDT reply actions

Mike Mordecai

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions

wow

I went to take out the garbage. How could they have scored so many so quickly?

by mgfabc on May 29, 2007 9:37 PM CDT reply actions

the garbage is at wrigley field in white uniforms

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions

Hendry

is such a joke. Has any GM done so little with so many resources over the last few years? I can't think of one.

by cubsbak on May 29, 2007 9:39 PM CDT reply actions

Come on

Give ole Jimmy a break. Who cares about the win and loss record, he got DLee and Aramis didn't he?

"Just give me 25 guys on the last year of their contracts; I'll win a pennant every year" - Sparky Anderson

by MPH73 on May 29, 2007 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions

i hope to god you are being sarcastic

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions

You can bank on it

n/t

"Just give me 25 guys on the last year of their contracts; I'll win a pennant every year" - Sparky Anderson

by MPH73 on May 29, 2007 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions

F!

The Cubs are the worse 8th inning team in baseball...

SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!

by CubFaninCA on May 29, 2007 9:39 PM CDT reply actions

With that clunker...

Wuertz just doubled his ERA from a very impressive 1.64 (and WHIP of 1.18) to 3.13 (with a WHIP over 1.30). Everyone is getting into the act.

by SouthernCub on May 29, 2007 9:39 PM CDT reply actions

You just can't make this stuff up

This team makes up new ways to suck everyday.

by rlpete on May 29, 2007 9:40 PM CDT reply actions

I wonder ...

what the score of Cubs games in innings 7,8 and 9 are in games this year.

Tim

by ttagaris on May 29, 2007 9:41 PM CDT reply actions

Are fans booing?

I don't have the TV feed but read that they were...

Chicks dig the long ball

by Will23 on May 29, 2007 9:42 PM CDT reply actions

yes, and rightfully so

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:46 PM CDT up reply actions

I'm watching...

the Marlins broadcast...it sounded like they got booed pretty good walking off the field in the 8th....

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 9:46 PM CDT up reply actions

New scouting report on how to beat the Cubs

Show up.

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 9:43 PM CDT reply actions

Yeah

in the 8th inning.

SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!

by CubFaninCA on May 29, 2007 9:45 PM CDT up reply actions

just show up on time, have a pulse, and bring

your bat and glove and you have an excellent chance to win

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:47 PM CDT up reply actions

Well at least we won't lose by one

I would rather have a blow-out.

by mgfabc on May 29, 2007 9:43 PM CDT reply actions

Just back from the game.....

very sad.

I can only hope that the announcers ripped Lou a new one for leaving Wuertz in. The game was not out of reach until the base clearing 2b.

I see the scene at Wrigley getting ugly if this crap continues. You could feel the angst in the bleachers.

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 9:46 PM CDT reply actions

Were the boo birds out in force?

n/t

Chicks dig the long ball

by Will23 on May 29, 2007 9:47 PM CDT up reply actions

You could hear......

a few when the Marlins went up 5-2.

It got loud after the base clearing 2b.

With the expectations coming into this season, it will get ugly if they continue this crap.

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 9:50 PM CDT up reply actions

please elaborate on what the bleacher fans

were saying ... im interested to know

by CubsBall2202 on May 29, 2007 9:49 PM CDT up reply actions

Grumbling.....

same old cubs, not another year of this shit, Fuck Jim Hendry (No Al I am not making this up).

The folks around me seemed resigned to the fact that this team will not play up to their expectations.

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions

wuertz

in defense of wuertz lou marches him out there every single night. if he dont trust the rest make changesssss.

Here comes the nasty leftie to shut it down in the 9th......Clay Rapada!!!!

by cubsluver22 on May 29, 2007 9:47 PM CDT reply actions

Were people booing?

by mgfabc on May 29, 2007 9:47 PM CDT reply actions

Yes....

It was getting louder when I left. (mid 8th)

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 9:48 PM CDT up reply actions

What's really disappointing....

is most of the outs are weak outs....they aren't hitting the ball with any authority...(less the riot's HR ... and I didn't see the 1st two runs...) I'm going to quit watching as the Cubs were up 2-0 when I started watching tonight.

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 9:49 PM CDT reply actions

Did anybody tell Weurtz...

that he didn't hafta catch his ERA up to the rest of the bullpens?

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 9:50 PM CDT reply actions

I'm glad

First comes the booing, then the empty seats.

by mgfabc on May 29, 2007 9:51 PM CDT reply actions

Won't......

happen until late in the season.

People will come for the experience, the party and the sun. I have been guilty of this in the past and will be this season as well.

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 9:54 PM CDT up reply actions

I'd like to see some stats on...

What percentage of a teams offensive walks score...

and a corresponding stat for the pitching staff on what percentage of their walks end up scoring....

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 9:53 PM CDT reply actions

at least the Cubs win the K war

They have 10 Ks to the Fish's 4. Take that!

by CubFaninNY on May 29, 2007 9:57 PM CDT reply actions

...and that just goes to...

show how overrated K's are...from a pitching staff..

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 10:00 PM CDT up reply actions

the staff...

could strike out 27 marlins....(I think I heard their announcers say marlin hitters lead the league in K's)...but if you give up 15 hits and 9 runs in between....your offense better score 10.

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 11:00 PM CDT up reply actions

Mrs. Uggla

is not uggly.

If the law of averages are to be believed this is our year....or not.

by tharr on May 29, 2007 9:57 PM CDT reply actions

True dat

the guy does all right for himself

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 10:03 PM CDT up reply actions

Howry!

He has a good inning in the "who cares anymore" part of the game.

by vegascubsfan on May 29, 2007 9:59 PM CDT reply actions

Once Again

A runner at third with less than two outs and not scoring.

by garyscottrules on May 29, 2007 10:14 PM CDT reply actions

Kevin Gregg

I know this guy looks a little like Dean Cain but damn he really is Super Man.

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 10:14 PM CDT reply actions

At the very least...

..he is ice cold. 2 nights in a row now he has gotten out of trouble.

Chicks dig the long ball

by Will23 on May 29, 2007 10:17 PM CDT up reply actions

Three heaters right down broadway.....

...and that's all she wrote....

"Just give me 25 guys on the last year of their contracts; I'll win a pennant every year" - Sparky Anderson

by MPH73 on May 29, 2007 10:15 PM CDT reply actions

that quote from sparky anderson

below your sig is about as true as it gets. baseball players in the last year of their deal play completely out of their ass. they actually try for an entire because they know once they get that next contract they can flail back down to mediocrity and they are still going to get paid. too bad its not working for us with barrett and zambrano

by bennyha on May 29, 2007 10:19 PM CDT up reply actions

And also..

..the problem stems from the inability of the front office/scouting department to identify and develop position level talent. Guys in arbitration are pretty much the same as "contract year" players.

Chicks dig the long ball

by Will23 on May 29, 2007 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions

Different players, different year

Same results.

My God, make the pain go away.

by SyneRandberg on May 29, 2007 10:16 PM CDT reply actions

CUBSLUVER22 HERE is the Wuertz Reality

"in defense of wuertz lou marches him out there every single night."

No defense for Wuertz.

Since May 19th (win against the Sox), Wuertz has pitched an INNING or less on the following dates:
5/20
5/23
5/25
5/27
and, tonight.

So, other than tonight and yesterday, he has pitched about what a setup guy "should" be pitching.

It is a rare occurance, that a bullpen that sucks this bad, for this long, will even sniff any playoffs.

"PLAYOFFS?!"
j.mora

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 29, 2007 10:17 PM CDT reply actions

June..

..is going to be a crucial month. If they can go 18-10 they'll be right back in it.

Chicks dig the long ball

by Will23 on May 29, 2007 10:21 PM CDT up reply actions

hahahahah

oohohohoh
Oh, that's rich!

by jdoolsiu on May 29, 2007 10:22 PM CDT up reply actions

You laugh, but..

..the Braves and Brewers have been slumping (12 June games) the Rangers (3 games) are 18-33 and the White Sox, Mariners and Rockies (9 games total) are right around .500. The only "above average" team they play is the Padres (3 games) and it's at Wrigley.

It's doable.

Chicks dig the long ball

by Will23 on May 29, 2007 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions

I'd like to be optimistic...

but all the teams you just cited except the rangers and the rockies are all much better teams than the Marlins.

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 10:37 PM CDT up reply actions

18-10 in JUNE?????

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

Yeah, right!

And I'm gonna lose 10 pounds, too!

HA!

And, the basis of this possibility would be...???

Last year? No.

2005? Nope. 2004? 2003 we know already about.

2002?

Hmmmm....

Let's see: shit bullpen, baserunning gaffes, late inning sleepy bats, no killer instinct...

Yep - 18-10 in June, allright.

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 29, 2007 11:00 PM CDT up reply actions

I had my saracastic vent in an...

...earlier post. I am with you, just turn it around for a month and we are in first place.

by DudeVf11 on May 29, 2007 11:55 PM CDT up reply actions

This team has lost

2 wheels and the lug nuts are loose on the other two. The only thing that saves this team is putting it up on the jacks and making some deals. The problem is, by the time the trade market is here, they will be double digits out of it.

Ain't no way.

"Just give me 25 guys on the last year of their contracts; I'll win a pennant every year" - Sparky Anderson

by MPH73 on May 29, 2007 10:36 PM CDT up reply actions

NO BULLPEN = NO HOPE

"I thought we'd be better than this." ~ Lou Piniella, 5/23/07

by daver on May 29, 2007 10:24 PM CDT reply actions

I wonder.....

what the odds are now of the Cubs making the playoffs???????? LMAO!

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 10:25 PM CDT reply actions

They will be

10 games out by the ASB, and all you can hope for is the sale process happens as quickly as possible.

"Just give me 25 guys on the last year of their contracts; I'll win a pennant every year" - Sparky Anderson

by MPH73 on May 29, 2007 10:29 PM CDT up reply actions

I had hoped....

that because this division is so bad that they would have to compete. My hope is fading. This is just a bad team. They are fundementally one of the worst I have seen.

I put this 100% on Hendry. He has assembled this mess. He should be held accountable.

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 10:32 PM CDT up reply actions

LAst year's

team was fundamentally worse, statistically.

But Barrett HAS NOT improved (what a poor defensive catcher) and the new additions did not "add" anything positively in terms of on the field or leadership.

Its a ship without a rudder, on the field.

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 29, 2007 11:03 PM CDT up reply actions

I chose...

to forget about last year.........

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 11:05 PM CDT up reply actions

Even the Marlins anouncers...

were snickering at Hendry's announcement in the trib today that the cubs would spend more IF they were still in it at trade deadline.....the Cubs and Jim Hendry have become (I guess they always were) the laughingstock of baseball

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 10:27 PM CDT reply actions

Hendry's

a moron, he deserves worse than to be laughed at.

RAMIREZ!! PRIOR!!

by PriorandAramisfan23 on May 29, 2007 10:40 PM CDT up reply actions

....Actually.....I think they had the right idea

Draft and develop pitcher after pitcher after pitcher. Pick up good fieders/hitters (position players)thru free agency and some trades......

Soemwhere along the line, the people doing the developing a. left, b. got fired, c. forgot what they were doing. d. forgot where the strike zone was.

Also...if you are going to do that....your scouts evaluations better be dead on. Don't trade away your better pitchers and keep the ones that aren't as good.

And if you do trade them...get soemething great back and keep it....i.e. D. Lee (though did he come via trade or as a FA??)....NOT pierre.

The mistakes are not knowing the right guys to pick up ... and other tems seem to know the Cubs minor league system better than the Cubs do....SCOUTING AND EVALUATION.

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 11:16 PM CDT up reply actions

D-Lee came via trade...

Through another one of those captain obvious no-brainer deals, where team A needs to move a player they can't re-sign, and team B has the upper hand in trade leverage. It's happened twice in Hendry's career: A-Ram and D-Lee.

I'll give Hendry credit for surviving the competition in those deals... but everything else he's done has been complete shit.

1-RUN GAMES = 2-12 | EXTRA INNINGS = 1-5

by SackMan on May 29, 2007 11:27 PM CDT up reply actions

The Cubs under Hendry do not value....

...or put little value on the importance of OBP in players and for consistently scoring runs. This has been a fundamental weakness. Hendry is a former scout and his approach is basically that if a player has talent then he'll develop normally on his own. The guys in the organization scouting pitchers have done a great job but part of that is because Ks are important for good pitchers, i.e., a K rate is a good predictor. Offensively Hendry thinks that raw talent carries the day and by raw talent I mean either big strong ox or super fast guys. Maybe the Patterson fiasco made him think a bit more about the improtance of plate discipline and walks?

by DudeVf11 on May 30, 2007 12:02 AM CDT up reply actions

OBP

comes at the expense of clogging up the bases.

by SyneRandberg on May 30, 2007 7:36 AM CDT up reply actions

They'll be laughing again

tomorrow as Mitre blanks the Cubs through 7.

Then we can again be reminded of when Jim Hendry gave the Marlins 3 young pitchers for Juan Pierre who is essentially a toy baseball player.

The Stone Pony will ride again...

by TheRamZamDLEE on May 29, 2007 10:44 PM CDT up reply actions

I totally forgot about that trade....

...until reading your paost...Thanks for making the empty pit in my stomach a few feet deeper...

by DudeVf11 on May 30, 2007 12:03 AM CDT up reply actions

Another embarassment

Two base running errors in the same god damn inning. Thi team is absolute crap... and it looks like that's never gonna change.

1-RUN GAMES = 2-12 | EXTRA INNINGS = 1-5

by SackMan on May 29, 2007 10:41 PM CDT reply actions

Is the Michael Barrett

experiment almost over?

by Peoria Matt on May 29, 2007 10:44 PM CDT reply actions

No not yet,

the lab hasn't completely blown up just yet. Hendry will wait until he has virtually no trade value, and let him wither away. Just can't believe a so called "good baseball man" does not comprehend the value a catcher brings to the ballclub.

"Just give me 25 guys on the last year of their contracts; I'll win a pennant every year" - Sparky Anderson

by MPH73 on May 29, 2007 10:49 PM CDT up reply actions

That's sad....

how could anyone give the label of "good baseball man" to Hendry.

As I posted before, he was in charge of the minor leagues. Absolutely no great position players came out of the minors under his watch. Pitchers? Wood and Prior, no longer in the equation. Big Z ? Should you break the bank to keep him?

And somehow managers, hitting coaches, trainers, media relations, broadcasters, players are all let go and he keeps his job.

Interesting.

by Peoria Matt on May 29, 2007 10:55 PM CDT up reply actions

Yea, well

considering McPhail kept his job for 12 years and contributed a wonderful win/loss record, it's not shocker Jimmy is still tooling around.

Let's not fool ourselves here, the only reason McDonough and Hendry are in the positions they are, is everyone knew the Trib would eventually sell, and no one worth a damn was going to come onboard with all those question marks. Furthermore, the Trib didn't want to have to pay a legit baseball president and a GM with a clue, when they knew the club would be on the block. So, they just shuffled the deck a bit.

Thanks for your continued support.

"Just give me 25 guys on the last year of their contracts; I'll win a pennant every year" - Sparky Anderson

by MPH73 on May 29, 2007 11:01 PM CDT up reply actions

...actually...

several pitchers did...and they are all pitching for the Marlins....

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 11:06 PM CDT up reply actions

Let me clear my throat...

"What difference does it make to you that I chose to support this team? It should make no difference to you. I don't care if you support them or not. If it bothers you that some of us support them then leave." - sue369

I think you mistook my pessimism for lack of support. I really really really extra super hope the Cubs get better and win. Win the Division, Pennant, World Series. That is my dream. I Like the Chicago Cubs. That doesn't mean I'm going to stand up and applaud senseless, moronic, bad baseball. I would rather watch my son's little league team play right now than this Cubs team, and that's just what I did tonight. I am not surprised they lost this game. They have not shown ANY ability to win consistently, or even play good enough to DESERVE to win.

Just because I'm a realist doesn't make me evil, bad, or a Cardinals Fan.

Go 2008 Cubs!!!

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

by santoswoodenlegs on May 29, 2007 10:53 PM CDT reply actions

Well said....

I wish I could make that my sig.....

by Peoria Matt on May 29, 2007 10:56 PM CDT up reply actions

i feel you on that santo

all the way. couldnt agree with you more on those sentiments.

by bennyha on May 29, 2007 11:00 PM CDT up reply actions

YUP.

Season ticket holder. But NOT a blind baseball fan.

I just can't bring myself to feel this pointless optimism when it is obvious to most objective observers that a. the team has not learned to win TOGETHER, b. they just are dumb-asses fundamentally again and again, c. they are ill-conceived as a team by the GM, d. I cannot believe that the bullpen collectively will be able to "flip the switch" and become good right away, and e., it is not "early" anymore - 2007 truly is slipping away based on what needs to go right AND the fact that the team will need to play .750 ball to finish .500!!

So, sorry if I just can't "root for the team" and applaud this kind of baseball when the expectation year after year is better than this.

Is it too early to be out of it, or too early to be this far behind?

by TheEman on May 29, 2007 11:11 PM CDT up reply actions

Are you sure about.....

.750 or are you talking about after they get done with this homestand? ;)

RIP kerrysotherwife!!!!

by timeforachange on May 29, 2007 11:15 PM CDT up reply actions

I think if they played .750..

theyd win the division running away...that would be 95ish wins......maybe if we all go and sacrifice a goat tonight at 3:30 AM under the nearly full moon.....

by kcjones on May 29, 2007 11:20 PM CDT up reply actions