Bat Mitzvah Night, and Open Thread: Cubs vs. Diamondbacks, Sunday 8/26, 3:40 CT

by Al on Aug 26, 2007 7:50 AM CDT in Recap/Game Thread Comment 502 comments

Longtime readers of this blog will remember my daughter Rachel's friend Jenna, of whom I have written twice in the last year as she prepared for her Bat Mitzvah, which took place yesterday. She is, as I noted before, as big a Cubs fan as any of us here, and managed, in her speech, to mention Sandy Koufax, Ken Holtzman, Shawn Green (who she actually went up to when the Mets were in town and invited to the Bat Mitzvah. He laughed and politely declined, as the Mets had some important business in New York this weekend), and Jason Marquis. The rabbi, in the spirit of things, said he didn't know whether to say "Shabbat Shalom" ("Sabbath greetings", loosely, in Hebrew) or "Play ball!" Later, after the service was completed, he continued this humorous vein by saying, "I didn't know whether to say 'Mazel tov' (Hebrew, loosely, for 'Congratulations') or 'Holy Cow'!"

It was an enjoyable event; too bad her favorite team (and ours) didn't cooperate in making it a perfect day. Instead, the Cubs lost to the Diamondbacks 3-1, and what more can you say? Sometimes you just get beat. It turned on one bad pitch -- an inside fastball that Conor Jackson turned on and crushed for a two-run HR -- and the Cubs could do little with Doug Davis. Lou called him "a crafty lefthander", but Davis said:

"It's not the first time I've heard it," Davis said. "I'm not thrilled with it. I'd rather be known as a control pitcher."

Yeah, well, whatever, Doug. On this road trip, the Cubs have now allowed one, two, four, two and three runs -- keep doing that, and many wins will follow, especially when the largest run total of those five was allowed by the guy who is supposed to be the ace of the staff.

Other than the HR, I thought Ted Lilly threw a really nice game. The Cubs have allowed the second-fewest runs in the NL (only the Padres have allowed fewer; and among AL teams, only the Red Sox have allowed fewer than the Cubs' total of 538), have a run differential of +51 and a Pythagorean projected record of 69-59. Sooner or later, the actual record ought to catch up to that. Win today and this road trip will be a success.

I was pleased to see Jason Kendall hitting second and Jacque Jones hitting eighth last night. This lineup will score some runs if Lou will just leave it alone for a few days.

Thankfully, the Brewers also lost last night again, 6-2 to the Giants, so the Cubs maintain their 1.5 game lead. The Cardinals moved to within 3 games by defeating the Braves 5-4. From the AP recap, another quote from Doug Davis:

"We've got our eye on the scoreboard watching San Diego," Davis said, "so every game is important for us right now."

If ballplayers tell you they don't watch the scoreboard, they're lying, so it's refreshing to see someone actually say so. The Cubs, I am certain, are watching the Brewer and Cardinal scores, just as we are. Not wanting to get too far ahead of myself, I will point out that IF the Cubs make the playoffs, the Diamondbacks, currently leading the West, are a potential first-round opponent. Beating them today would split the season series and perhaps give the club more confidence that it can defeat a possible playoff team (Cubs vs. other potential playoff teams: 4-5 vs Braves, 3-5 vs. Padres, 2-5 vs. Mets, 3-4 vs. Phillies. Not so good).

Today's Starting Pitchers


J. Marquis Cubs	vs.	Y. Petit D'backs


10-7	W-L	2-4
4.12	ERA	5.14
85	SO	31
64	BB	15
18	HR	10
vs. Ari	--	vs. Cubs

Jason Marquis was the winner in the only game the Cubs won in the series last month vs. Arizona at Wrigley Field, throwing seven innings of two-run ball on July 20. Meanwhile, Yusmeiro Petit, who was at the time making an emergency start replacing the injured Randy Johnson, threw six innings of three-hit shutout ball with five strikeouts in a 3-0 D'backs win two days later. Even worse, the only Cub who actually seemed to know how to hit him, Alfonso Soriano (who has four hits in six lifetime AB vs. Petit), won't play today. It's seemingly a mismatch, but you know how these things sometimes go. Only fifteen pitchers in the NL have won 12 or more games so far this season. Marquis can join them today if he steps up his game and throws the way he did against the Giants (well, except for that first inning), or the way he has vs. Arizona in his career (2-3, 2.77 in eight appearances, seven starts).

This afternoon's contest is cable-only on CSN Chicago; if you are in Arizona (and I know quite a few of you are) it should be available statewide via 3TV Phoenix and its repeater network. Here is today's MLB Mediacenter link.

MLB.com Gameday (2007 version)

MLB.com Gameday (2006 version)

MLB.com Gameday for today's Braves/Cardinals game (1:15 pm CT start time)

MLB.com Gameday for today's Brewers/Giants game (3:05 pm CT start time)

Discuss amongst yourselves.

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Comments

Need to win to keep momentum...

they've won 2 straight series. A win today would make it three series in a row, and give us momentum for the big series against the Brewers. Hopefully we get Good Marquis (or at least decent Marquis and some offense) today.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 8:49 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Why is a guy in CA the first

to comment? Al, I want to say, "Mazel Tov" and and "L' Chaim" to young Jenna.

Now I want to hope the good Jason shows up today and kicks the D'Backs butts. I agree that a series win and no less than a 1.5 game lead going into the Brewer series is critical. Let's come home with mighty Mo on our side!

Go Cubs Go!!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 8:54 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

OK, I was second. :-)

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Same from me

Let's hope Jason can bring Jenna (and all of us) a win today!!!

"I'm a Cubs fan. I'm very, very patient." -- from a Shoe cartoon.

by No Southern Belle on Aug 26, 2007 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

kiss of death

but i'm gonna do it anyway. i dreamed last night the cubs won big today. i also dreamed their were several hr's in today's game by the cubs. i have spent this whole weekend getting the bandwagon ready for cubtober. i know it, i just know were gonna beat the __ oughtta the d'backs and their ugly uniforms today. todays' the start of a statement by the cubbies. we need to pull away from the rest of the division and it will start today. all aboardddddddddddddddddd. choo-choo to cubtober we go.

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

by cubsluver22 on Aug 26, 2007 10:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Good comment on Doug Davis

why are you worrying about what the opposing manager says? Whatever............

Didn't want to make a whole diary on this but what a laugh I got last night listening to Santo interview Craig Monroe. Monroe was saying he grew up watching WGN in Texas.....watched Sammy hit all those home runs.....he knew all about he Bricks and IVORY!!!

I heard it replayed so it confirmed it to me. No wonder he went hitless last night. Does someone want to let him know we don't put Ivory soap on our walls?

This is Harry Carray, goodbye from Wrigley Field and So Long Everybody.

by mrcubsfan on Aug 26, 2007 10:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Is this money ball Sunday?

Or Two-For-Sunday?

Win one game get a second absolutley free!!!

Marquis 10-7.

by Big Red on Aug 26, 2007 11:08 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Mazeltov Jenna!

In the spirit that's floating around here today, lets hope the Cubs keep it up and score a lucky Chai (18) runs!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 11:21 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Win today

and take two of three. I don't have a problem with that. If we keep winning every series, we are in the post season. It was a boring game to watch last night though. Other than Murton, virtually no offense. Too bad for Lilly, with the exception of one pitch, he threw a really nice game. He looked sharp last night, wish they could have scored a few more runs for him.

by qccub on Aug 26, 2007 11:33 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

FYI

The Reds, a team the Cubs have 6 remaining games with -- continue to play well.

They have won 5 in a row, and 7 of their last 10.
...they've pulled to 4 and a half games...of the Cardinals! At 59-70, going into today's action -- they've gained 9 games in the standings, as the Pirates and Astros have fallen to 5th and 6th place. They were once 20 games below .500.

Just some notes for the future...

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 12:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And they're leading the Marlins 6-0 today

If the Reds ever found consistent pitching, they'd be dangerous.

Maybe they've found it. Or maybe they've decided their best option is to outslug everybody else.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 26, 2007 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The Reds are freakin' scary

Great hitting, good defense, and their pitching is coming around....Hendry (or whoever is the GM next year) better be aggressive in the off-season to make sure the Cubs keep pace.

by zevkalman on Aug 26, 2007 12:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

I too am not counting the reds out of the race. They have the best record in the NL since july 1st and 3rd best in the MLB. They are killing the ball right now and are starting to get some good starting pitching. I believe 18 of their remaining 32 games are against the cubs, brewers, and cardinals so i guess they can control their own destiny. i know its hard to take a team seriously that is 10 under .500 with a little over a month to play, but they are definately on my radar.

by bennyha on Aug 26, 2007 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mazal Tov Jenna

And let's hope Marquis gets 18 ("chai") strikeouts!

by zevkalman on Aug 26, 2007 12:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hey - I beat you to the Chai reference!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I know :-)

n/t

by zevkalman on Aug 26, 2007 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Technically,

I beat all of you sleepy heads with the L' Chaim reference at 854am.

Besides the references to all the "18s" from that, I hope he puts a lot of bagels "0" up when the D'backs are batting.

Go Cubs...we need this one today! I think Hank White is going to contrbute something important today.

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the Reds

terrify me. They're playing well -- and they seem to always play the Cubs tough.

Question: Any guesses as to the Reds play well against us? The only thing I can think of -- and don't lampoon me if this doesn't check out, because I haven't researched it -- is that the Reds weakness is their bullpen, and the Cubs in the past few years have not been a good comeback team.

Thoughts?

by elgato on Aug 26, 2007 12:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I don't think that's it

They just mash the ball extremely well against the Cubs.

I don't think their bullpen has stymied the Cubs more than usual.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 26, 2007 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Into the lions', er, bears' den

I wanted to come over to this side of the fence and clear the air a bit regarding my opinions on, Cubs fandom - certain comments made on my site seem to have been taken a little bit out of context, and I have too much respect for Al to leave the issue hanging in the air like that. To start off, I admire the passion, loyalty and commitment of Cubs fans, especially in the face of historic circumstance: it's something we in Arizona can only aspire to, for the moment. As I've said before, some day I hope AZ Snakepit grows up to be like BCB, and that the Diamondbacks eventually inspire the same degree of involvement as the Cubs. That's probably some time off though, when the current generation grow up and start taking their kids to the game: you can't rush lifelong loyalty.

But anyway. Whenever I go somewhere else, I always respect my surroundings. That can be another country, another city, or simply somebody else's house. I try to remember like a guest, and behave in the way I'd like visitors to my country/city/house to behave if they came to see me. I respect the locals, their traditions, culture and property. Unfortunately, there are a minority - but not a negligible number - of Cubs fans, who do not seem to share this approach, and believe that "supporting their team" consists as much of turning their back to the park and taunting the opposing fans with every hit, or generally behaving like an invading barbarian horde. It's only a baseball game, - and not even a playoff game at that, just 0.6% of the regular season. Behave like you've won a game before.

To draw a parallel, when Al was over at my house, it was among the best baseball evenings I've had. that didn't involve an actual game. However, Friday night's game was more like having your party invaded by two hundred people, some of whom took it upon themselves to berate the hosts, get obnoxiously drunk and pee on the carpets. Not so much fun. Now, I would not seek to tar all Cubs fans with that brush. And it may simply have been a bad night, because Saturday's game was almost perfect. The atmosphere in and around Chase was the best I've ever seen outside of the playoffs, and the Cubs fans played a very important part in that. [Though I noticed they were much less vocal, and basically fell silent after Jackson's home-run. I find that harder to respect: easy to cheer for a winning team, but doesn't your team needs more support when they're losing?] Maybe all the bad Cubs fans from Friday were still hungover!

By all means, cheer for your team: much as I hate hearing "Let's go, Cubbies," that's probably largely because hearing it is never a good sign for an AZ fan - I can't really justify my dislike beyond that. All I ask is that people remember they are, effectively, a guest in someone else's house, and behave appropriately. Thanks for reading. Got my bullet-proof underwear on, so fire away, though you should check out yesterday's Gameday Thread comments - I think you'll be much happier! Oh, and as for "crappy franchise pizza", should I mention that Pizzeria Blanco - just across Jefferson from the ballpark - has been rated the best pizza in the US? :-)

Thanks again,
Jim, AZ SnakePit

by AZ Snakepit on Aug 26, 2007 1:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Technically...

Cubs fans are no more a "guest" in Arizona's park than D-Backs fans are. Both parties (presumably) paid for their tickets, and have equal rights in the stadium, in my opinion. It's not your house, so the analogy with you and Al is pretty much irrelevant.

It's annoying when opposing fans cheer and are obnoxious at road games. But it's not in the least oncommon, nor is it uncommon for home fans to be obnoxious back to the road fans. That's an unfortunate reality of sports fandom as a whole.

Your comments seemed to imply that Cubs fans are worse than others. I highly doubt that to be the case. I'm pretty sure you can find unsavory fans of nearly any team, especially those with a long history.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 1:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

On the other hand

1) Buying a ticket to an event does not mean the normal rules of civilized behavior cease to apply. I note, indeed, the statement just above the box where I'm typing this, which says, "Please treat everyone with the same respect you would want for yourself." Food for thought there.

2) It may be a reality, but it's not a necessity. I've been to a number of AZ road-games, and have always been treated well. Of course, I always try to behave well too. You get the respect you deserve, basically.

3) Here's my theory on this. No, Cubs fans are no "worse" than any others. However, the large number of them greatly emboldens the jackass element. If you're on your own in a crowd of thirty thousand, you're not going to do anything. But when you feel your homies have got your back, that (and a few beers plus the Arizona heat, I strongly suspect) leads to the issues I've experienced.

by AZ Snakepit on Aug 26, 2007 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don't need to convince me...

I was just commenting on the "not in our house" tone of your post. I don't like obnoxious fans any more than you do. I just think you make some sweeping generalizations about Cubs fans outside Chicago (of which I'm a member) that aren't accurate or fair.

My theory is different. My theory is that what you're experiencing is twofold:

there are more Cubs fans than fans of most other (non D-Back) teams in Arizona, thus you're more likely to be exposed to a bad Cubs fan (i.e., if the ratio of crappy fan to good fan is generally the same for all teams, then a team with more fans is more likely to also have crappy fans), and
since there are more Cubs fans in Arizona, and thus there are likely more crappy Cubs fans in Arizona (see #1), you are probably sensitive to the obnoxious Cubs fans moreso than other teams.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 2:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

A few thoughts on this

I agree with the above poster. Cubs fans paid for the tickets just as well. Chase Field is not YOUR house, but a public building that anyone with money may enter.

If any fan of any team is truly disruptive, then call the attention of security and deal with it that way.

But please, do not confuse not liking what you hear, and being disappointed at the percentage of road fans compared to the home crowd, with actually being disrupted.

As for the comments about needing to cheer the team when they are down, may I say, with all due respect, to look to your own.

I was in Phoenix recently, and attended the Aug 12 game between the Nats and the D'Backs. I'm sure you remember the game.

(By the way, I didn't have to prove loyalty to either team before the D'Backs so graciously took my money. So, I don't know if I was host or guest or maybe just the guy who delivers pizza to the party. I'll leave that for you to decide.)

Stephen Drew hits a sac fly in the bottom of the 8th to go ahead 6-5, but then Valverde gives up a tying homer and a go-ahead sac fly in the top of the ninth.

At least 30 percent of the stadium left before the D'Backs even came up in the bottom of the ninth.

By the way, I wore my Cubs hat to the right field bleachers, and four rows behind me, three of your brethren chose to update me everytime Colorado scored again, and then chose to make fun of Kerry Wood's arm trouble.

Perhaps they go into other people's houses and make fun of previous injuries the owners have suffered. Perhaps that is just the way things are done in Phoenix.

See how much fun extrapolation is?

On the other hand, I loved Alice Cooper's place just down the road...

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not the Colors, the Attitude

Thanks for the post, Jim. I think you've hit the problem on the head. It's not a question of Cub fans v. D-Backs fans, it's a question of obnoxious people - sometimes drunk - and non-obnoxious people.

As an out of towner, even though I have Cubs season tickets I probably see just as many Cub games on the road as I do at Wrigley. There are obviously lots of Cub fans, and by and large I think the overwhelming majority represents itself fairly well, and I don't think you dispute that.

But at the same time, a very small handful of people apparently want to use their teams (Cubs, Phillies, Mets, Yankees, whatever) as an excuse to get completely liquored up and anti-social. At one extreme, this type will come into an opposing park not really to watch the game, but instead looking to instigate fights with people. There's no excuse for that, and anybody who tells you that none of these people wear Cubbie blue is deluding themselves.

It's got nothing to do with being a better "fan" of either of the teams on the field - it's just dumb behavior from stupid people who need either better manners or social skills. But as a fan of the game, I fully agree that these people should take it elsewhere.

¡BLANCO!

by 08Cubs on Aug 26, 2007 2:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

FWIW

I had sort of a similar experience at the game last night. I took my mom to the game (yes, my 77 year old mother is a baseball fan) and I sat 10 rows behind the Cubs dugout.

Given the location, it seemed like an awful high percentage of fans in the vicinity were wearing blue. I have to say that virtually all behaved appropriately and cheered for their team without resorting to profanity and/boorish behavior.

Having said that, there were two notable exceptions to this, and they happened to be sitting next to me (we had the two seats on the aisle).

These were two bozos from Chicago, who made sure everyone knew they had paid exhorbitant scalpers prices for these seats, knew nothing about baseball (they spent an inning and a half loudly debating whether the Cubs has tried a squeeze play or not, when it was obvious they did), and who were roaring drunk by the 3rd inning.

Unlike a good percentage of Cubs fans at the ballpark who are actually Valley residents, these guys yelled, cursed and complained the whole game. They also spilled one of their beers on the woman in front of them (who was wearing a Cubs visor) and then laughed, rather than apologized.

They had a friend who was sitting in the 2nd row behind the Cubs dugout and they kept sneaking down to slip into empty seats next to him, and then got booted out when the occupants of those seats arrived. My mom and I kept praying they were gone for good...to no avail.

They climbed over us at LEAST 20 times during the game (either to get a beer, recycle one in the men's room or go visit their friend), and almost EVERY time it was during a key pitch of an at bat. I doubt they actually SAW more than a half dozen at bats during the entire game.

I emphasize that these were only two bozos out of thousands of good, sincere Cubs fans at Chase Field last night. But, I certainly can understand what Jim is describing based on my own experience.

I think it is hilarious when people try to debate which teams have the more obnoxious, ignorant, or annoying fans. It is a pointless argument, because any team that has a following of any size will have a certain percentage of fans that are that way. I don't care who the team is.

Around these parts the popular debate is over Arizona State fans versus University of Arizona fans. I personally have witnessed sub-human behavior on the part of Sun Devil fans (such as the chant "Where's your daddy?" aimed at Steve Kerr when he played against ASU the day after his father had been killed in Beirut.)

But, at the same time, as a grad of the UofA, I have on occaision been ashamed at the behavior and antics of some Wildcat fans at games.

It just goes with the territory, I guess, especially at rivalry games. But, I think it is too bad you can't have a good competitive rivalry without being exposed to behavior that makes you wish you were somewhere else.

by jazzman56 on Aug 26, 2007 2:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Clarified.

You have clarified your position, but I'm not feeling any better about it. You remind me a lot of the SF granny I sat behind on Tuesday. Maybe you should have threatened to call the usher over and have them thrown out for their "taunting opposing fans".

I notice you could not help but slip in a few taunts in your "clarification". But I guess you think that is ok. After all this is a forum for discussion about baseball, and a ball park is a ... library, I guess.

by californiachicagoan on Aug 26, 2007 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't see why

...I shouldn't be able to take my mom to a ball game without having to be concerned that she will be exposed to public intoxication, loud profanity and run the risk of someone spilling a beer all over her.

Please explain to me why you think that is okay.
I'm not expecting a library atmosphere, just that I don't have to feel like I am going to a zoo and will have to fend off the baboons.

by jazzman56 on Aug 26, 2007 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Reread original post

The only complaint, once you wade thru the analogies and taunts and name calling, was that some Cubs fans were taunting the home fans when the Cubs did something good.

The actions you mention from another poster (the Cubs fans) were reprehensible, and they should have been kicked out of the park.

by californiachicagoan on Aug 26, 2007 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

NO WAY

Oh the fan stuff may be true enough but I refuse to believe any
Pizza is as good as THE REAL Uno's & Geno's. I know a lot
of people on this blog think both have deteriated but not me. I dream of the stuff and don't touch any pizza here in New York.

"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 Aug 26, 2007 3:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Cubs' minor league team throws no-hitter

http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=txpeorianohitter&prov=st&type=lgns

by cubs2234 on Aug 26, 2007 2:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

"turning their backs on the ballpark"

what does that mean? Could it be your interpretation of Cub fan actions that is the problem ? Our team is in 1st place in our division, we want to win the World Series, these games are pre-cursers to the matchups in the playoffs - a large number of D-back fans would not behave the same at Wrigley? My suggestion is to join the fun !!!

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 2:06 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

JJ

Leave JJ in the 8 hole? A guy with a .960 OPS this month? That's nuts! I can understand wanting Kendall at the 2, but have we gone back to hating JJ? I will be disappointed if the lineup we used on Saturday is the lineup we use today.

by californiachicagoan on Aug 26, 2007 2:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

well

if he keeps getting on base, then the pitcher can bunt him over?

by cubs2234 on Aug 26, 2007 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is it just me....

or is the Big Ten banner at the top of the webpage causing anyone else difficulties signing on or refreshing? I'm having big problems - a number of times all I get is the banner.

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 2:18 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

me too

or something is atleast. i am having a very difficult time refreshing and replying to other peoples messages the last few days

by bennyha on Aug 26, 2007 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Me three...

the site has been extremely slow to refresh at times lately.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree. Lots of trouble.

I am using my Mac this AM (with Safari as the browser). I will log on thru a Satan PC with Fifefox to see if that is any better,

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

just press the stop loading page

and it will pop right up

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Aug 26, 2007 2:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Didn't work for me...

It just stopped loading and didn't pop up.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 3:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

sorry, works for me

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Aug 26, 2007 3:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Same with me too.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, I was having some trouble too.

Seems to have cleared up now.

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

by Al on Aug 26, 2007 3:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Firefox + AdBlock

I never see the top-of-the-page banner ads, or any of the graphical ones on the sides of pages. Makes BCB (and just about every other website) flow much more smoothly.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hey Al, your preview...

shows Marquis' record to be 10-7 but you say he could have his 12th win today.

Just sayin...

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Aug 26, 2007 2:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Duh!

I got it wrong. He's going for his 11th win.

I only WISH he could get two wins in one day!!

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

by Al on Aug 26, 2007 3:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lol, that'd be awesome

or he pitches so well he is deserving of 2 wins

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Aug 26, 2007 3:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lineup

theriot
jones
lee
aram
floyd
monroe
fontenot
blanco
marquis

I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 26, 2007 2:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Interesting...

Piniella going with Monroe, despite the historical struggles against RHP. I'm thinking that perhaps Piniella doesn't realize this guy's weaknesses yet. Hopefully Monroe shocks us all and hits against RHP today.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or

maybe, just maybe, he wants to see what monroe can do with his own two eyes. give the guy a chance!

by cubs2234 on Aug 26, 2007 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll give him a chance..

but I'm not sure what you expect. Career AVG and OBP an Izturis/Neifi-esque .257 and .303. Career OPS of .751. Pretty consistently mediocre/below average at the plate. Outside of hitting HR, he doesn't do much else positive.

Hopefully, he'll perform well for us. But if he does, it will certainly be out of character for him based on his career.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the jason kendall experiment

for example

by cubs2234 on Aug 26, 2007 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not at all the same...

Kendall has a long history of being a productive hitter. He had stunk this year, but as recently as last year was a high OBP guy. Monroe has also stunk this year, but his previous years were better than this year, but still not very impressive.

In other words, what Kendall is doing is not out of line with his career norms. If Monroe does well, it WOULD be out of line with his career norms.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 3:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Um, no.

Monroe was a better ball player the last few years.

by californiachicagoan on Aug 26, 2007 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Better? Yes. Good? No.

I don't think you understood what I was saying. Yes, Monroe was better in previous years to this year. I even agreed as much. But he wasn't good in most of those previous years. He was mediocre/below average aside from his 2004 season. So if he suddenly becomes good in September, that would be out of character.

Kendall, on the other hand, was always a high OBP guy before this year. So him becoming a high OBP guy again with the Cubs is not out of character.

If Monroe hits .255/.300/.450 for the rest of the season, that'd be in line with his career norms. That would be much better than what he's done this year, but it wouldn't be good. For him to be good, that would be surprising. Make sense now?

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or

DeRosa needs a day off and Lou doesn't want to start Ward or Murton in right because of defense or Pie because of his offense.

by elgato on Aug 26, 2007 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pie v Monroe

Pie's OPS versus righties this year is .700

Monroe's is .555

As for giving a guy a chance, how about giving your young top prospect a chance? We know what Monroe's ceiling is, what about Pie's?

So, better hitter vs righties right now. Better D. Better future. Why are we not starting Pie vs the righty?

by californiachicagoan on Aug 26, 2007 3:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Monroe's role?

I thought Monroe's role was to hit lefties. DeRosa should be in there. Especially with a scuffling Fontenot and a just back Blanco in the offense. Maybe Lou is factoring in Marquis's bat? I have to assume that Lou is just trying to get Monroe some work with the club, but I don't like it.

by californiachicagoan on Aug 26, 2007 3:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DeRo Injured?

I know that DeRo has been playing with a very sore hip. I wonder if he is hurting, or just getting a two day break? If anyone has a TV, watch for a shot of DeRo (or any injured player) in the dugout. If he is wearing a sweatshirt or windbreaker, he is probably injured and not available. If he is wearing a jersey, he is available to pinch hit.

"I've never complained about it. I'm thankful to have a jersey." Mark DeRosa, 22 Aug 2007

by DeRoMyHero on Aug 26, 2007 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just do ti Cubs!!!

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 2:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

"it" even

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 2:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

cardinals beating the braves 4-1

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 2:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

been gone for a week

so could anybody tell me what happend with K. Hill...I'm assuming he's either DFA'd or put on waivers...any chance he sticks with the club...he seems capable of handling the staff well if we have a couple catches go down to injury

I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 26, 2007 3:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

HEY AL -

(not sure if he will read this - will someone tell him, I can't)

Since the Big Ten banner showed up at the top of the webpage, I cannont reply to a comment, refresh the page, go into any of the diaries or even email you to tell you the problem.

Refreshing only gets the banner and no content.

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 3:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Coral,

I have been having the same problem. After I post it takes about a minute but the comment does come up. Try it again but give it a minute to load. The Big Ten banner has been up for about 3-4 days so I don't think that is the problem.

I emailed Al to see if anyone else was having the same problem but didn't hear from him.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 3:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm having ...

Problems with the page loading as well. I'll get nothing but the banner, even should I refresh; it's happened a couple of times today and quite a lot over the last week or so ...

--t.

"One of the worst writers on this board: !Neifi! didn't do it, honest."

by Littlerock Rynofan on Aug 26, 2007 3:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was off my computer till just now.

I've had this trouble myself today. It appears to be intermittent. I am emailing the SB Nation web gurus to see if they can fix this problem.

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

by Al on Aug 26, 2007 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just to tell you

what a few others have said: Mozilla/Firefox with their ad-blocker (Adblock Plus) seems to solve the problem.

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Lou just said

on the pregame interview that Soriano will start on Tues. in the leadoff with Theriot batting second.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 3:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well, let's hope Soriano is 100%

I would hate to see him injure himself anymore.

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 3:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

fist four pitches from dave bush

were balls...go giants.

I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 26, 2007 3:17 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

1-0 Giants

I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 26, 2007 3:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And without a hit.

n/t

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

by Al on Aug 26, 2007 3:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

rbi for j.j.

tied at one

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 3:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The Schlitzes

tied it up.

Meanwhile, the Little Red Rats with Wings are still ahead 4-1.

This could be a bad day...

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 3:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Baseball is very closely bunched

As I look over entire NL and most of AL, there are only a handful of really good teams (Bos, NYM caliber) and truly awful (Tampa, KC, Sox)...Most are within 10+ and 10- .500 like Cubs, Cincy, St. Loo, Dodgers...

Hard to get on really good long streaks except with truly outstanding pitching as Cubs have had (at times), St L recently...that's the only way to distinguish yourself.

For next year I see more of same Cubs need to make bold moves to bolster offense to become more a force in the NL.

by writerinwrigley on Aug 26, 2007 3:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Sue369 and Al,

I wish I could reply in the regular way but can only post. Thanks for answering back. I will await further developments.

Let's get some runs !!!!

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 3:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

A walk for The Riot

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 3:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

A leadoff clog

Darn.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Theriot to second - Wild Pickoff!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Come on JJ

bring him home.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 3:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Lets take advantage of this guy

Looks like he's on his wild side today.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

wow -- that was different

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 3:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Same loading problems here, too

Appreciate AZ Snakepit comments -- don't agree with all of it, but I thank him for taking the time. He has the opposite mindset of the teenagers who run gaslampball -- he's trying to communicate, and I appreciate that.

At gaslampball, I was criticized for not 'assimilating' into San Diego -- and for not becoming a Padres fan. Even though I've been alive longer than 99% of the posters there, I gave up.

"How could you live here 20+ years and not care about the Padres?? was the question.

Easy, I said. I grew up in Chicago. I'm a Cubs fan. What if you moved to -- wherever? Wouldn't you be a Padres fan? One person said "I'd root for the team in the city I lived in." I said --
"You'd give up rooting for the Padres??" No answer. Of course, the main blogger no longer lives in SD. He didn't enter the discussion.

After getting sick of the childish behavior -- I withdrew my ability to post. It was a waste of time.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 3:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

We will not be Borg

No way and I am "assilating" either. 17 years living in New York
and I hate the Mets and Yankees more than ever. Not as much pressure here. Lots of Bosox , Cubs. Indian etc fans. My office has one Red Sox fan, one Braves fan, one Indians fan, one
each Met & Yankee fan and another half Cub fan ( her boyfriend
is converting her).

FYI took me 2 minutes of waiting to get into post this. Glad to read this was not just me. Hopefully they have scored some more runs by now.

"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 Aug 26, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Um,... Ok

I'll take it

You're killin me smalls

by TheRamZamDLEE on Aug 26, 2007 3:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

WILD THROW!!!

Theriot scores Jones to second!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

1-0 WOOHOO!!

Pretty sloppy playing so far for DBacks

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 3:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

nicee

jj on third, theriot scores!

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 3:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

"Drew" that single into a

nice run scoring error. A-Ram...get JJ home!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 3:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

AZ D-backs/Colo Rockies

Another day, another uniform.

And, unreadable names on these beauties. Hopefully, the Suns won't change their colors to "Sedona Red." 2 Teams with "Sedona Red" and 1 with "Cardinal Red" are more than enough.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 3:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Why does Lee hit in front of Ramirez?

Shouldn't your best hitter (i.e. Ramirez) hit 3rd?

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 3:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You want high OBP guys...

in front of your best RBI guys. Lee is our best OBP guy and our second-best hitter on the season (though clearly slumping lately). You want Lee in front of Ramirez because you want more runners on for Ramirez.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

"Other" team is PHX Coyotes

n/t

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 3:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

2-0 sweeeeeeet

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 3:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

2-0 on the sac!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Pour it on boys

The Seligs have gone up 4-1 and the Hraboskys are leading late. We need this win.

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 3:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The Cards

already won today.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 3:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

CLIFF !!!

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 3:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

3-0 Cliff!!!!

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 3:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Love it

You're killin me smalls

by TheRamZamDLEE on Aug 26, 2007 3:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

cliffy!

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 3:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

GONE

3-0!!!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Alright Cliffy!!!!!!

That's really good to see!!! First home run of the road trip!!!!!!!!!!

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 3:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hopefully he can build off that...

we could definitely use the bat he was supposed to give us the rest of the way.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Maybe his

father's illness was affecting him. Hopefully he pours it on down the stretch.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Hopefully...

we need somebody to differentiate themselves out of our myriad of OF with .700-.750 OPS, and actually produce.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Floyd

was great with RISP and was getting on base at a pretty good clip. The only thing missing was power. Let's hope his power returns down the stretch.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Shit! So close to B2B!!!

I'll take 3 though

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Wonder if our local contingent of fans...

Are drinking their beer with their little pinkies out, in order to satisfy the delicate sensibilities of the Phoenix blogosphere.

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 3:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

anyone watching

was Monroe's pop out almost a HR?

"Prince Fielder Dies Of Inside-The-Park Homerun" - The Onion

by DTJchris on Aug 26, 2007 3:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

On the warning track

Just feet short.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes... it was extremely close to a home run.

Had it been just to the right a bit, it would have been out. There's a weird notch in left field and that's where Byrnes caught it.

by ElvisCole on Aug 26, 2007 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

With all the Cubs fans in attendence

they should have created enough wind to make Monroe's ball go out !!! Those crappy fans!!! LOL

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 3:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

D-Lee isn't anywhere

near his 2005 form.. so i agree with the previous poster who said that A-Ram needs to hit 3rd. Hell if I was manager my lineup would be:

Theriot
Kendall
Ramirez
Soriano
Lee
DeRosa
Floyd/Monroe
Jones

"Losing is my only fear"

by Unique on Aug 26, 2007 3:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I like Lee batting 3rd

He has the highest OBP on the team, and is second only in runs to Soriano.

He gets on base and runs the bases well, he belongs near the top of the order. You could argue second.

by El Borto on Aug 26, 2007 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Brewers up 4-1

Braun homered. Let's go, Jason!

Marmol, Howry and Dempster all had the night off yesterday, right? Should help late.

by elgato on Aug 26, 2007 3:55 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

3-1

Shit.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Young is a powerhouse

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 3:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Some where in the Chi

Kenny Williams is banging his head of a wall...

You're killin me smalls

by TheRamZamDLEE on Aug 26, 2007 3:56 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

crap

come on Jason

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 3:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

in my ealier post

i tried to tell all of you that this was gonna happen. my cubbies are gonna make a statement today. get on the wagon or stay off but were witnessing something special cub fans. this team is destined for something special. i know it and no one can tell me any different. were going to the promise land. lets finish this onslaught today. for all of my fellow cubbie fans and for a trip deep in to cubtober this bud's for you.

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

by cubsluver22 on Aug 26, 2007 3:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Dammit

come on Jason!

"Losing is my only fear"

by Unique on Aug 26, 2007 3:58 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

OK, today is BAD

Marquis.

Good to know.

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 3:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

don't be negative.

we will send you to your room with no dessert! :-)

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If you really wanted to punish me

You'd sentence me to an etiquette class hosted by the Arizona blogosphere.

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 4:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

we'll make you listen

to the AZ feed (including Grace) of this game.

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Marquis, didn't you get the memo

You're supposed to KEEP early 3-0 leads! Not give a HR then a walk...

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

jason!

come on

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 3:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

DP!!!!

Nice recovery, DEFENSE!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 3:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

dp!

nice

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 3:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

buy did we need those two grounders. :-)

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:00 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

buy = boy

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Let's get

some more runs before their pitcher settles in.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 4:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Total Number of runs today

I'm setting the over/under at 12.

I think I'll take over.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 4:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

HANK!!!!!

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 4:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

HANK WHITE!!!!

Welcome back!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 4:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hank White!

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 4:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yes

nice double!

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 4:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

damn braves

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:04 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yeah, they've killed us this year.

and the know the astros are going to get swept by the cardinals this week. that's how it goes.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

ugh

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 4:11 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think he was out at first

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Brilliance from Rosenbloom

Did anyone see where Rosenbloom said he thinks D Lee is in a horrible road-slump lately because he is injured and is keeping the injury a secret. Apparently, Lee is suffering from one of those ouchies that only hurt in cities not named Chicago.

"Signature must be less than 160 characters" -- Who has a name with 160 characters?

by BlueSox on Aug 26, 2007 4:15 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

3-2

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 4:16 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

who cares about Kenny Williams

lets talk about the Cubs

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

shit

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 4:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well, so much for that lead

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 4:20 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

So who is Rothschild gonna call in?

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's Bad Jason Day

apparently, but the Cubs will be back today.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 4:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I think Young has Marquis' number...

2 HR in 2 AB today. This is gonna be a dogfight if we're going to win.

by SouthernCub on Aug 26, 2007 4:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

dogfight is not a good reference these days...

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And I was

in such a good mood too. :-(

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 4:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

There was a funny story today in the Tribune

Suggesting that Prior would have no place in the rotation if he came back strong.

He's got a place.

We can pay Prior a lot less to do what Marquis is doing.

I'm seeing why he was left off the playoff roster.

When your team gives you a 3-0 lead, you're supposed to win. Ted Lilly and Rich Hill would be fighting over the Cy Young right now if they got the run support this clown gets.

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 4:25 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

You are forgetting one thing

Even though The Employee allegedly has more potential talent than Jason Marquis -- we'll never see it again. For whatever reason, T.E. is as fragile as fine china. At least Marquis answers the bell when it's his turn.

I seemingly have to point this out daily -- this team should never rely on The Employee or his skinny Buddy, currently the last man in the pen - one who should never be in the game when it's on the line.

Thunderthighs vanished, as was evident in 'before' and 'after' pictures Al posted in March, watching T.E. at Fitch Park. Where did the rest of #22 go?

I'll let you speculate on that.

Personally, I hope he never throws another pitch in a Cub uniform. He's a bad memory.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bottom 5: Japan 2 USA 2

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Now that was fun!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Get the man oxygen!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

D LEE!

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

dlee!

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

D-LEE!!!

INSIDE THE PARK!!!!!!!!!!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

OMG!!!!

Inside the park homerun!!!! Guess there is nothing wrong with him huh?

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

WHAT A SMILE !!!

If that doesn't break up the slump what will!!!

Congrads D-lee

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

OH MY GOD

i love this stadium

by cubs2234 on Aug 26, 2007 4:27 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And me with no TV

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 4:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

dbacks announcer ripping aramis again

didn't run out popup

by cubs2234 on Aug 26, 2007 4:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Sparkles:This is YOUR fault

I know you have Chris Young on your BCB fantasy team.You
SHOULD have benched him today.

"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 Aug 26, 2007 4:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

big half inning

1-2-3, Jason. We need it.

by elgato on Aug 26, 2007 4:32 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Don't get too excited

Bad Marquis will extend the DBacks lead to two again very soon.

Rosenbloom is an idiot.

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 4:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

what about rosenbloom?

The Lee thing?

by elgato on Aug 26, 2007 4:34 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Apparently, he said

Lee is hiding an injury. That is why he is bad on the road.

I guess the state-of-the-art facilities in Wrigley and that perfect Chicago healing weather cures Lee at home.

Rosenbloom makes Mariotti look like a Rhodes Scholar. I've hated him ever since he had that smarmy mug shot in the Trib, years ago.

Bayless, Lincicome, Rosenbloom, and now Morrissey. How is it the Tribune gets writers that 90 percent of the fans and 99 percent of the athletes want to punch?

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 4:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

hah pat and ron

are talking about ron's yogurt 'episode'!

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 4:35 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

What is the yogurt incident?

Those two crack up all the time.

by ElvisCole on Aug 26, 2007 4:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

classic marquis game.

short leash lou!

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:39 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

that was incredible !!!

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i can't believe that stayed up.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Holy Shit!!

What a catch by JJ.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 4:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hmmm....I ask myself,

have I ever heard or read someone say "holy poop!!"?

:-)

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 4:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Holy Sh*t Jacque!

NICE!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 4:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

jones!

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 4:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

WOW

helluva catch from Jones, that a boy Frenchy!

You're killin me smalls

by TheRamZamDLEE on Aug 26, 2007 4:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I do hope...

That all the Cubs fans in attendance were respectful and dainty and reserved when cheering Lee's inside-the-parker.

After all, those seats you paid good money for only entitle you to be a GUEST in someone else's house.

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 4:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Good JJ today.

May help to offset, bad day for Marquis. Add in a good D Lee too (hopefully, some gas left in his tank!).

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:41 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Was JJ disrespecting

the D'Backs fans when he jumped up and showed the ball? Should he have just put his head down and slowly trotted back to the dugout? I just want to be sure that the players are not encouraging "bad" behavior by the Cub faithful.

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm not qualified to answer

Perhaps Miss Manners over at the AZ blog can enlighten us.

by lancaster99 on Aug 26, 2007 4:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Was JJ disrespecting D'backs fans?

Aww, who CARES if he was?
I mean, that guy from the AZ snakepot disrespected ALL OF CHICAGO by claiming that, excuse me, friggin' AZ? has the best rated PIZZA in the USA...??

Pizza was INVENTED in Chicago...in fact I heard one time that the word "pizza" was slang for "Chicago".... :-)

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 4:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

...(Thinks of the Aurelios pie I just ordered)...

Smiles

You're killin me smalls

by TheRamZamDLEE on Aug 26, 2007 5:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I remember reading the story

about that "best pizza in America" in Phoenix -- but it's 'gourmet,' think California Pizza Kitchen. I don't remember what magazine made that assessement, but I remember all the pizzas they rated were of that ilk.

A different category of Pizza. Doesn't count.
I don't want goat cheese or portobello mushrooms on my pizza, unless the 28-year-old brunette sitting across from me does......

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't want goat cheese or portobello mushrooms

Word.

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 5:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

we need to put up a crooked number.

this is obviously a really important game, makes the trip, makes the series, keeps us from losing any ground. we need to score about 10 today. when's the last time we scored 10 runs anyway?

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Great to see Jacque

make another big play. He's been terrific over the last month or so. Good for him!

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 4:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

luck they didn't crash !!!

great job JJ

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

yes. monroe.

he has a quick bat anyway.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Bottom 6 Japan 2 USA 2 USA batting.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 4:44 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

come on hank.

we need a basehit right here.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

otherwise, we could quickly be out of the inning.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

damn.

now, we probably won't score. come on, marquis. do something.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i know it's early.

but i think this is a big at bat.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Come on The Riot

tied came coming up...

by andysilv on Aug 26, 2007 4:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

way to jinx it.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 4:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

yuck. that's terrible.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I wish ...

Lou would wear a microphone then let us listen to the tapes at the end of the season.

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 4:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Or not

...

by andysilv on Aug 26, 2007 4:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Marquis was hitting like .250 at one point...

Wasn't he? His average is down to .150, no wonder he bunted the runner over.

by IllinoisCubs on Aug 26, 2007 4:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

He bunted b/c he's the pitcher.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 4:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

If your pitcher is hitting .333

and has a couple of home runs to go along, I imagine that you wouldn't have hit bunt 'just because he's the pitcher'.

by IllinoisCubs on Aug 26, 2007 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

San Fran ties it up

by DC Cubbie on Aug 26, 2007 4:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

GIants 4-Brewers 4

G-Rod catcher hits 2 run homer.

by IllinoisCubs on Aug 26, 2007 4:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

4-4 tie in sanfran

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 4:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

BlueLou

I tried to reply to your post above but the site won't let me. The page just remains white. Seems to be a problem for some of us in here today. :(

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 4:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

No worries girl.... :-)

FWIW - I was having some issues too and I tried closing my browser and resetting my IP...

Everything's working fine on my end now....

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 4:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

should've bunted with blanco

and pinch hit for marquis. i mean anyone we have in the pen is as good as marquis today.

that was a big spot, chance to square the game and wipe the marquis junk away. not good.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

meanwhile, the giants have tied it up in sanfran.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Get him outta there!

He ain't got it today!

by Itchy on Aug 26, 2007 4:54 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

you can't keep sending

marquis out there on games when he doesn't have it. you have to protect him. get him out of there. he should have been removed last inning. big mistake from lou in my opinion. had a chance to tie the game or take the lead and get your crap pitcher out of the game and off the hook. should've jumped at the chance.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 4:57 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

according to Gameday

that should have been strike 3

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 4:59 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

got Young anyway

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

just one more strike jason.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 5:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

alright.

he did a good job escaping the trouble.

let's get some runs and take control of this game.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 5:02 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I've never heard a bigger whiner

then the Dback lead announcer...he is a joke.

by DC Cubbie on Aug 26, 2007 5:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

it must be living in 110 degree

heat. they all seem to be touchy and whiners. Let's really give 'em something to whine about now!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Daron Sutton

hasn't changed from his days as the Brewers lead announcer....still a whiny cheerleader.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 5:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

whew

Thank God. Oh, and Darren Sutton is really bad. Makes Grace look like Vin Scully.

by elgato on Aug 26, 2007 5:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

We need to grab the lead NOW.

Let's go Cubs. Grab the MO back!!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

anyone else have the feeling that the offense

is about to go really quiet.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 5:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

This entire...

broadcast has been tough to handle. They make me miss Len and Bob.

2007 Badger Football - 1-0

by Schwa on Aug 26, 2007 5:07 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The Grace thing is brutal.....

I know it's been commented on, but my God do I miss Len, Bob, and a WGN type broadcast.

by USCKB on Aug 26, 2007 5:09 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

On DirecTV we have Len & Bob today

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

oy

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 5:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why "oy?"

I'm happy. No more of those schmucks from AZ. ;-) In fact, I only had to listen to Grace on Friday as we had the WGN feed last night. Now we just need a big comeback by the Cubs!!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Why "oy?"

Oy...
That's what I say when I agree...I'm WITH ya! :-)

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 5:24 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

i think some guys need a day off

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 5:10 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

SF just took the lead 5-4

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 5:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Top of the 9th now too....

If SF can hold on, the brewers will be swept...

Ohhhh, BABY!

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 5:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Soriano back on Tuesday

May the force be with us

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

by diehardmark on Aug 26, 2007 5:12 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

May the force be with us --- today

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 5:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

So Eric Byrnes

gives up on a ball that results in an inside the park HR for Lee and the DBack announcer makes every excuse in the book for the guy. But Ramirez takes it easy on his legs to avoid an injury and he's all over him for not hustling. What an ass.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 5:14 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

SF won 5-4! Very nice indeed seeing them

get swept out of San Franciso!

BTW - Weeks got the final out with a K... :-)

Go Cubs!!!

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 5:22 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Does Marquis stay in ?

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 5:24 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Maybe we were fortunate in SF

Giants have only lost to the Cubs in their last 11 that I know of. Winners of 9 of their last 11.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 26, 2007 5:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

USAUSAUSAUSAUSA!

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 5:26 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Dang it...I gotta leave and can't watch the rest

of the game... :-(

Here's to the Cubs socring a few and taking this rubber game back to Chicago.

Go Cubs!!

"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 26, 2007 5:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Marmol is

up in the pen.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 26, 2007 5:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Walkoff HR in extra innings to win the LLWS.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 5:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

crap. he hit that on the button!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:29 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

wow - congrads USA LL

by coral on Aug 26, 2007 5:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

damn it. i hate how the offense just dries up

after the pulling within one run. i guess you got to give up to the diamondbacks for holding the lead. lou should have bunted blanco and pinch hit for marquis in the 4th. that was probably our best chance to tie it or take the lead.

i'd love to see a late inning rally, as this is an especially big game.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 5:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

With another pitcher, maybe

but Marquis is a pretty fair hitter.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 26, 2007 5:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

then, he still should have bunted blanco.

"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 26, 2007 5:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

this reminds me of the game in SF.

I have a feeling that the D'Backs will keep shutting us down but we will take it to Valverde in the 9th. Don't get me wrong, I hope we shut them down here and score right away. I don't want to wait until the 9th. These guys have a tough bullpen...especially at home. I do like the fact that we will see Kendall batting in the next inning.

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Valverde

is leagues better than any reliever on the Giants.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 5:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Valverde

Also has blown six or seven saves out of 43-44.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 26, 2007 5:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Check out what

the SF bullpen has done this season.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 5:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

my point

was that Lincecum looked untouchable until the 9th, but we managed to wake up and win the game. I am just hoping we can keep it to a one run game and do the same today. In fact our guys are getting good swings today, we are just not putting them together (yet).

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:55 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And my point is

the game doesn't only depend on the Cubs. The other team's pitcher has something to do with whether the Cubs score runs or not.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 6:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Too bad the Cubs

don't have a decent backup middle infielder. That's probably their biggest weakness at this point.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 5:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

There is this guy, DeRosa that platoons with Fonty

by MiniAndretti on Aug 26, 2007 5:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DeRosa is the starter

and "Fonty" sucks.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 5:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Gotta give Marquis

some credit. It was a bad outing, but he kept the team in the ballgame even though he struggled with his stuff and his command all day. Two bad pitches to Young did him in.

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 5:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Milwaukee has a .500 record after the sweep

They've definitely earned their "worst in the NL" record while destroying that 14 games over they used to have...

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 5:37 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

this is a replay of Brewers 2006...

they folded like a tent last year too. Don't think the players on the Brewers aren't aware of that. Boy, it would be great to have a little bit more margin going into that 3 game series on Tuesday. Come on, Cubs...kick it into gear.

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 26, 2007 5:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

the riot :)

by cubs ftw on Aug 26, 2007 5:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ground Rule into the Wet Deck!!!!

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 5:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Shit. That was a play.

JJ's catch was still better.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 26, 2007 5:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

by cubsbak on Aug 26, 2007 5:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Dlee is just pathetic lately

even JJ crushed the ball off this guy and he can't even hit it 30 feet. teams are playing him as a striclt ypull hitter because he just won't go the other way.

by DC Cubbie on Aug 26, 2007 5:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs