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Open Thread: Cubs vs. Brewers, Tuesday 8/28, 7:05 CT

Alyellontoppscard_tiny by Al Yellon on in Game Threads

Seems like it's been forever since the Cubs played, doesn't it? If you're antsy to see a game today, imagine how the players must feel. The entire NL Central was off yesterday, and all six teams will play inside the division today, including a Reds/Pirates doubleheader (go Pirates!).

Here are a few morning headlines to whet your appetite, and this will also serve as tonight's game thread:

Bob Howry says Cubs fans are better than Red Sox fans. He should know, too: he played there for parts of the 2002 and 2003 seasons, though not in the postseason for the ill-fated 2003 team.

Is Alfonso Soriano coming back too soon? Yes, says Carol Slezak:

Soriano was able to convince the training staff and Piniella that he's healthy enough to play. But whose idea was it to put him back in the leadoff spot? What is Piniella thinking? Ryan Theriot has done a good job filling in for him at the top of the order. Why mess with one of the few spots in the lineup that worked during his absence?

And why put a tender-legged Soriano at the top of the order when stealing bases or running out an infield hit is the last thing he should be thinking about at this point? Wouldn't it make more sense to bat him lower in the lineup, especially since the Cubs need more production from the middle of the order?

Excuse me for being a worrywort. With any luck, Soriano will make a problem-free return, the offense will start clicking and the Cubs will widen their lead on the Brewers and Cardinals. But given their history with injuries to marquee players in recent years -- from Wood and Prior to Sammy Sosa's big sneeze -- I can't help but be concerned.

The Cubs were 8-11 without Soriano. Yes, Theriot did a good job leading off. But it's time for Soriano to show the power he's lacked most of the year. His SB game is likely done for the year with this injury and the hamstring that he hurt in April that's probably still bothering him. If he hits the ball out of the ballpark, he can run around the bases as slowly as he wants to.

Bruce Miles compares this series to a similar "three nights in August" the Cubs had on nearly the same calendar dates in 2003, and says they'll sweep it. Hope you're right, Bruce.

Who's going to start for Milwaukee on Wednesday and Thursday? Could Ben Sheets return? (The Cubs should hope so: Sheets has a 4.76 ERA vs. them this year.)

And in case you were wondering about the story behind the difference in the spelling of "DEROSA" on Mark's home and road jerseys, our girl Carrie has the scoop:

The clubhouse attendants were not aware of the difference, but DeRosa noticed it right away. He would prefer to have it spelled with the small "E" as it is on his road jersey. But, he said, "I'm just thankful to have a jersey."
 Today's Starting Pitchers
Rich Hill
 R. Hill
Cubs		 vs. Jeff Suppan
 J. Suppan
Brewers
7-7 W-L 8-11
3.67 ERA 4.85
145 SO 85
51 BB 57
24 HR 14
vs. Mil -- vs. Cubs
Rich Hill threw a fine game in his last start at San Francisco against fellow curveballer Barry Zito, but got a no-decision when the game went into extra innings. Hill's got 11 no-decisions in his 25 starts; only Matt Chico of the Nationals has more no-decisions (13) among pitchers with that many or more starts. Oddly, the Nats have a winning record, 13-12, in games Chico has started, even though he is 5-7. The Cubs are 11-14 in games Hill has started, and he has allowed two or fewer runs in five of the seven no-decisions that turned into losses. Conclusion: Hill's put his team in a position to win with his pitching, and the bullpen has failed.

Jeff Suppan shut out the Cubs for 8 innings on April 24 at Wrigley Field, but they cuffed him around pretty good on June 6 in Milwaukee; this doesn't jibe with his overall record, which is better at home (5-3, 3.97) than on the road (3-8, 5.68). He hasn't won since June 22, and will be facing two guys who hit him hard (Derrek Lee, 15-for-33, 5 doubles, 3 HR, .455/.571/.879) and Jacque Jones (12-for-42, .286/.444/.571, 4 HR and twelve (!) walks).

Baseball-reference.com preview for tonight's game with more stats than you can possibly ever use.

Today's cable-only telecast is also available at the MLB Mediacenter.

MLB.com Gameday (2007 version)

MLB.com Gameday (2006 version)

MLB.com Gameday for today's Reds/Pirates doubleheader game 1 (4:05 pm CT start time)

MLB.com Gameday for today's Reds/Pirates doubleheader game 2

MLB.com Gameday for today's Astros/Cardinals game (7:05 pm CT start time)

Discuss amongst yourselves.

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There must be absolutley no pitching
in that league. Because all of our guys seem to hit .350 there. Then, they can't do squat in the Bigs.
1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions  

Defense too
I think a lot of balls that turn into hits in the PCL are really outs in the major leagues because of the superior defensive players at the major league level.  

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

Good point
I know that a lot of balls hit toward Ronny Cedeno and Eric Patterson turn into hits.
1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

lol
Don't forget Jake Fox.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

Cubs fans
That is a most excellent link Al.  So regarding some of the discussion yesterday, it is clear that Cubs fans are better than Red Sox fans, because Howry would be the guru on that.  Now how do we find out if Cubs fans are better than Yanks fans?  That one never was determined.

by adam316 on Aug 28, 2007 9:10 AM CDT reply actions  

All other teams fans
are better than yankee fans.  Period.  :)
"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Aug 28, 2007 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

I WISH THIS GAME WAS AT 10 A.M.!!!!
"The game is always healthier when the Cubs are good, and in a week they have made themselves a whole lot better."

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 9:14 AM CDT reply actions  

Tonight's Game
It will be important to get the W tonight and get this serious off on the right foot. I'm glad that we have a 1.5 game lead as opposed to .5 game lead. Could you imagine how nervous everyone would be if one loss would knock us out of first?
AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Aug 28, 2007 9:16 AM CDT reply actions  

Maybe I woke up cranky today, but...
Is it my imagination or do the qustions on Muskat's "mailbag" article quoted by Al above seem more stupid than ever before?

Oh, well, it's a long time before the game. I better go back to work. In the meantime, laugh a little. (I hope you all find this video useful. lol)

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 28, 2007 9:16 AM CDT reply actions  

some of those were freakin horrible!
"Did the Cubs sign Scott Podsednik from the White Sox?"

or

"Just wanted to say it's great Lou reads the maibag and listens to the experts."

Sorry all, I just made anyone who reads these last two lines instantly less intellegent

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

by DTJchris on Aug 28, 2007 12:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

My favorite...
I liked the second quote you list.  Frankly, the writers words were just dripping with sarcasm, which Muskat obviously missed.
Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 1:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

I dunno what Carol Slezak sees.....
...or when she's been seeing it, but the Alfonso Soriano I saw last week during batting practice in San Francisco hitting bombs into the seats and line drives everywhere, followed up by playfully skipping around the bases, sure seemed ready to me. Ready to the point where I thought he might be playing then.
Santo Forever!

by BeerCub on Aug 28, 2007 9:22 AM CDT reply actions  

I thought the same thing...
... when I saw Soriano running in the outfield with no pain or restriction, during BP in San Francisco.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

I just hope...
Soriano can generate power even with that sore leg.

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 28, 2007 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions  

Amen...
Her reference to Wood, Prior, and Sosa is just lame. That was under the old regime. I'd say Piniella and his staff have done a good job this year of managing the health of the players. If Lou says that Soriano is ready to go, send him out there.  

by Oscarson1 on Aug 28, 2007 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions  

I gotta say...
...Theriot has done a great job in the leadoff spot.  He's been terrific at working counts, taking pitches, taking walks to lead off the game.  Hats off for a job well done.

by John Q Freejazz on Aug 28, 2007 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

It would be great...
to win this game. It's my birthday darnit. So yeah, if for no other reason they have to win this game to usher me into my mid-20s the right way.

Anyhow, with Soriano batting leadoff what happens in that 2 hole? And what happens if that man isn't Theriot? Do you pull that "bat the pitcher 8th" stuff? It's a thought I suppose. Probably a bad one at that ;)

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:30 AM CDT reply actions  

Theriot...
... will bat 2nd.

Although, I wouldn't be unhappy to see Kendall bat second on occasion.

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

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions  

I like that
I think getting the hot hand between Kendall and Theriot in that second spot would be a really great idea. Have the one who isn't hitting 2 in the 8 hole, as both seem to be tough outs and willing to at least work a count or stay alive by fouling off a bunch of balls. Not only would this obviously help at the top of the lineup, but with some of the free swingers we have, it would help lengthen some of those extremely quick innings we seem to have, thus giving our pitcher a bit more time to rest.

I wasn't the biggest fan of sticking Soriano back at the top, but the more I think about it the more I believe it actually will help us if he is as free and mobile as you all said he looked. He certainly can't do anything to hurt us at this point, as the production from our offense as a whole just hasn't been that great as of late.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions  

re: Theriot...
I heard a pretty good case made on sports radio this weekend about leaving Theriot in the leadoff spot and batting DLee in the two-hole and Soriano third. That way, Ramirez could serve as protection for Alfonso and maybe Soriano would see a little less junk.

My guess, however, is Lou feels it's a little too late in the season to be doing anymore major experimentation with the lineup.

"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by daver on Aug 28, 2007 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions  

I agree with Lou...
For whatever reason, Soriano seems to be most comfortable in the leadoff spot, so as far as I'm concerned, keep him there.

What I do love right now is that folks are hitting 1-8 in the lineup.  That shouldn't be overlooked in terms of how much it might help Soriano's RBI #s the rest of the way.  Having Kendall and a revitalized JJ in the 7/8 slots is actually pretty impressived when compared to Hill/oldJJ, which what pretty scary.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 1:34 PM CDT up reply actions  

Happy birthday!
I put a cub sweep on reserve.  Hopefully it will come in today!
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions  

Sounds good to me
Thanks for the present. I think a Cubbie sweep this week would top rank right up there with tickets to the game Sandberg had his number retired in terms of birthday gifts.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions  

Lets just hope it arrives today
tomorrow and thursady!  And heck, maybe, I'm feeling generous and I will get you a little something for this weekend too!
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions  

Two sweeps....
And a Hawkeye win? Hell yes.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'll see what i can do.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

Happy Birthday
and I hope you get a Cubs win today. I hope the Hawks get a win on my birthday on Sat.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

Could care less
about the Hawkeyes (but not much else going on in Iowa, so I do understand). Hope Northwestern beats them.

But a Cubs SWEEP? Now THAT would be terrific.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions  

Uh oh....
That Hawkeye comment probably won't go over well haha. I wish I could take a cheap shot at NW but the Hawks can't seem to beat them. They are like our Capuano.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

No one
asked you to care about the Hawkeyes.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions  

I was at the NW/Iowa game
two years ago when NW came back very very late to win.  Hawkeye fans who had left early and were tailgating in the rain outside refused to believe us when we told them their team had lost.  One drunk threatened to hit me until his friend went in the car and heard the score on the radio.  

by TR on Aug 28, 2007 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

I don't know what you're talking about
That game never happened. I refuse to believe it happened......

That was a sad day to be a Hawkeye.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

It's been
a sad past two seasons to be a Hawkeye. I'm hoping for the best this season, but I'm not overly optimistic.

by qccub on Aug 28, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

awesome game
i was there too... the stadium was almost empty when the 'cats recovered the onside kick and took the lead.  hopefully they'll have some of that magic this year...

by numike on Aug 28, 2007 12:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

Uhh.... too
bad we are not playing Northwestern on Sat. I plan on playing NIU:)

by BigZ 4 Cy on Aug 28, 2007 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

You going?
I really can't wait to get in that stadium and see all the black and gold. It won't be the same as being in the student section at Kinnick, but it should be awesome.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 12:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

From what I've
heard and read there should be anywhere from 46,000 to 60,000 Hawkeye fans there.

GO HAWKS!!!

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

That's what I heard too
Can't wait for the I-O-W-A cheer. That cheer is always my favorite, especially the first time in the first game of the year. Get goosebumps just thinking about it.

WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!! LET'S GO HAWKEYES!!!

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 2:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

I won't be
there in person but will definitly be there in my black and gold spirit.  We need a confidence builder to start the year off on the right foot and get our young qb ready so when we go to Madison we can give them BADgers a game.

by BigZ 4 Cy on Aug 28, 2007 2:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

Isn't there a Hawkeye website where
you guys can get all giddy with people who give a damn about this thrilling showdown with NIU?

by TR on Aug 28, 2007 4:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

My Birthday too, Hawkeyenation
Love the name. Go Hawks! Go Cubs! Go 'stros! Go Buckos!

by jmw676 on Aug 28, 2007 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions  

Happy Birthday.
I agree with everything you said, but only the 'stros for 3 days, then they can remember they are terrible.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

Side Note
Tampa Bay's elimination number is 3... On the other hand, they are only 23 games back in the wild card race!
Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 AM CDT reply actions  

Why does it have to be the bullpen failling?
Doesn't Hill have one of the lowest run supports?

by GoCubbies34 on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 AM CDT reply actions  

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

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

What ironic timing
for that article about Red Sox fans and Cub fans!  That is kind of wierd.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 9:38 AM CDT reply actions  

Timing
That is awfully strange timing considering you and that Yanks fan were talking about the Red Sox, Cubs, and Yankees fans relating to TV time.

by adam316 on Aug 28, 2007 2:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

A note about postseason chances...
... because the Cubs have done poorly against the Diamondbacks, Padres and Mets, teams they might face in the playoffs.

It doesn't matter. When October 1 rolls around, the records revert to 0-0 and what's happened during the season is irrelevant.

A prime example of this is the 1988 Mets, who won 100 games and were 10-1 in the regular season against the Dodgers. Didn't matter, as LA won the NLCS.

The 1998 Cubs were 4-2 in the regular season against a much better Braves team, who proceeded to sweep them out of the playoffs. Same with the 2003 Cubs, who were 4-2 against the Marlins during the season.

Even the 2005 White Sox, who had a "perfect storm" sort of regular season, were 7-10 against the teams they faced in the AL playoffs (3-4 vs. BOS, 4-6 vs. LAA). They were 7-1 against the same two teams in the AL playoffs.

And for perhaps the most relevant example, look at last year's Cardinals, who were a combined 4-11 against the three teams they beat in the postseason (2-4 vs. SD; 2-4 vs. NYM, and 0-3 vs. the Tigers).

They went 11-5 against those same three teams in October. It's all about getting hot at the right time.

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

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 9:39 AM CDT reply actions  

Exactly
Much like March Madness, crazy things happen in the post season. It's part of what makes baseball so great.
Heck, crazy things happen in the regular season. If someone had been talking about playoff matchups on June 1st we would have called them insane. But, being that baseball is crazy, we now get to talk and analyze it. Things like this remind me why I love baseball so much.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 9:50 AM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed
The Cubs have a small sample size versus non-divisional teams such as the Snakes, Mets, Pods, etc.  While poor performance during the regular season may not fill you with confidence, it is not indicative of playoff performance at all.  The seven game series involves more chance than a 162 game season, which is why "Moneyball" school guys just throw up their hands in the playoffs - just not enough games for trends to emerge.  More often then not it's something like Mark Lemke or Billy Hatcher just catching fire and getting on base constantly or a pitcher like Jared Wright stringing together 3 very good starts.  

Just get in, Cubbies, & I'll take the Cubs against any of the NL.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

Last year
the worst hitting every day position player in the league, Yadier Molina, was a 1 man wrecking crew helping the Cards win the pennant and then the world series.  Ya just never know.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions  

Not only that....
Name the 4 starting pitchers for that Cardina....(DeadTurd) team.....

Tell me how they are doing this year...

And how they did previous to being a TURD last year....

The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 2:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

Somewhat disagree...
While I don't believe regular season records vs playoff opponent matters, I do think that the best teams GENERALLY win, which is usually not the team with the worst record in the playoffs. I think the Cardinals were just an abstract anomaly, and I don't think we should be clinging to their run as hope if we limp into the playoffs slightly ahead of the other Central foes. I think our fate, both playoff and regular season, rests on the rotation's shoulders. If Z heats backs up, and the rest of the starters gain consistency, then we can ride a White Sox-like run to the World Series. Teams built for the postseason-with a strong staff-don't need a great regular season record.
MARQUIS! YES, MARQUIS!

by thekansasian on Aug 28, 2007 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

Exactly
Using the Cards as an example of how limping into the postseason isn't cause for alarm is slightly misleading. The '06 Cards were KILLED by injuries most of the year, yet hung around long enough to be in the race when Edmonds, Rolen, et al got healthy. By the time the playoffs rolled around, they were essentially a completely different team than the one who played May-August. The first time they had a completely healthy team (aside from Isringhausen) was when the playoffs started. Basically, that team was much, MUCH better than their regular season record would indicate.

by scotteboy on Aug 28, 2007 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

Disagree
Killed by injuries?  Edmonds missed some time but Rolan played in over 140 games.  They did lose Mulder and Isringhausen but those guys weren't back for the postseason.  No, they were essentially the same team in the postseason as they were in the regular season.  The difference of course was that scrubs like Jeff Weaver, Anthony Reyes, Jeff Suppan, and Yadier Molina played out of their minds, and their rookie closer, Adam Wainwright, was pretty much unhittable in the playoffs.  In other words, they got on a roll at the right time.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yes, killed by injuries
Edmonds missed lots of time, Rolen was never completely healthy, Pujols had health issues, Eckstein had issues, etc. Yes, Wainright, Suppan, Weaver, and Reyes played a HUGE part in their postseason run, but they most certainly had plenty of injury problems that hampered their regular season record.

There is definitely something to be said for continuity, and it wasn't until late September that the Cards had all their parts (minus Izzy and Mulder) in place. Is it the sole reason they won the WS ? Hell no. But it sure as heck was not the same team, health-wise, that played the regular season.

by scotteboy on Aug 28, 2007 1:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

Pujols
played in 143 games.  Eckstein played in 123.  Edmonds in 110.  They had these guys for most of the year and they were were all healthy when the Cards were practically falling apart during the month of September.  They didn't just magically heal for the post-season (as you say, Rolan was never healthy).  Their success in the playoffs had significantly more to do with certain guys unexpectedly getting on a roll than with a return to health.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

Rolan is actually Rolen.
Sorry, let it go the first time, had to correct.  It is my father's fault, he edited all my papers growing up.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 2:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

Cards Surprise
What surprised me about the Cardinals surge through the postseason wasn't so much their final record as how HORRIBLE they ahd been the last 10 days of the season.

Regular season records can be particularly misleading when comparing, for a timely example, the Cubs & Brewers of today.  If a team is lousy in April and May, and sneaks into the postseason anyway, I'd feel pretty good.  On the flip side, a team that starts hot and barely stays alive to make the postseason would be more worrisome.

that said... let's just be playing in Oct.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 1:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

In addition to the Cards
both the White Sox in 2005 and the Tigers last year faded down the stretch before picking things up in the postseason.  Ya never know.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 1:46 PM CDT up reply actions  

Sox
The one thing about the Sox in 2005 was that they did pick it up for the last 5 or so games.  Folks had pretty much given up on them holding off cleveland, so they actually seemed to be in a good place heading into the postseason.

On top of that, the Red Sox were actually a pretty easy first round opponent with no Schilling or Pedro and a remaining hangover from 04.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 2:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

True
In fact, if Houston gets just ONE clutch hit in the Sunday game against Atlanta last year they probably screw St. Louis to high heaven. The Cards then would've had to have won 2 games, and not have had Carpenter available for either game. In fact, I believe it would've been Marquis' turn on that Monday, if it had reached that point. And we all know how bad Marquis was down the stretch last year.

by scotteboy on Aug 28, 2007 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

Pennant races are crazy
I sure would like to see the cubs go on an 8 game tear while the Crew and Cards drop 8 straight.

I'm not counting on it, but my bloodpressure could use it.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 2:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

Agreed
I would like it to be like in 2003 where after that Cardinal series, it was all downhill.  Actually more like a victory lap.  I just don't want a repeat of the 2004 season.  

by shawonfan on Aug 28, 2007 4:34 PM CDT up reply actions  

Also seem to remember...
after the Cubs threw in the towel a couple of tough close 1 run battles with them late in the season AFTER the Cubs proved dominance over the bird.......seem to remember a great performance by Rich Hill ...Cubs lost like 2-1....a little offense that day mighta left the TURDS completely OUT (where they Belonged)....where was/is Jeff Weaver?  None of that McGwire water left???
The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 2:21 AM CDT up reply actions  

What is it about the Meth in Kansas....
That Turd team last year didn't deserve to make the playoffs...let alone the series...

This years edition shouldn't be anywhere close to competing for the division title...

What is it in the water is St. louis....did McGuire "poison" the water?

The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 2:12 AM CDT up reply actions  

Brewers staff
If the Brewers have the chance, they should let Capuano start against the Cubs. He's been awful the last three months (trust me, he's on my fantasy team), but if I recall, he pitched two complete game shutouts against the Cubs last year. Let's hope he stays as bad as he's been all year and doesn't revive if he pitches against us.
"Have Keith Moreland drop a routine fly. Give everybody two bags of peanuts and a frosty malt, And I'll be ready to die." -Steve Goodman

by danimal15 on Aug 28, 2007 10:01 AM CDT reply actions  

Yeah
Capuano pretty much owns our soul.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions  

cappy vs cubs
A look at Baseball Reference pretty much confirms that. 8-2 with a 3.76 era in 11 starts.
AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Aug 28, 2007 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions  

But, only one this year so far...
... a win in April when he was pitching well. He did not face the Cubs in any of the other three series.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

lies, damned lies, and statistics
we can go back and forth all day on this.

Sure he only has one win against us, but he's only faced us once.

Sure he has a great record against us this year, but he doesn't have a win since May 7th. oh, but that means he's due!

fwiw: When I saw Capuano on the 19th the Brewers gave him a 5 run lead and he slowly but surely gave it all back. The 5th run was probably the most frustrating to watch, as he plunked Dunn in the back and then threw two straight wild pitches to put Dunn on 3rd at which point Conine was able to get him in with a sac fly.

not all of his losses are like that, but in that game he definitely did his best to give that game away.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Aug 28, 2007 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions  

re: lies, damned lies, and statistics
Good points one and all, but I'm still glad Capuano won't be pitching. The last thing the Cubs need is for him to come out and have a stupendous "comeback" start that reinvigorates the Brew Crew. Let him sit on the bench and watch his cohorts get pounded.
"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by daver on Aug 28, 2007 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions  

i'm thrilled he's not pitching.
that guy scares me more than any other pitcher in the bigs. he dominates the cubs. when did we get those 2 wins against him anyway.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah
He has stunk up the joint pretty much for the last half of the year. Doesn't mean he doesn't completely humiliate us just about every time he faces us. I'm glad we won't have to find out if that will continue. Kinda nice how the pitching matchups worked out for this series for us, both for our team and for the Brew Crew.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions  

I'm considering doing Yoga...
...or at least some deep-breathing exercises before tonight's game (and tomorrow's and Thursday's). I'm emotionally invested enough in most Cubs games, this "being in contention" stuff is enough to send me to the ER. 2003 seems so long ago...
"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by daver on Aug 28, 2007 10:05 AM CDT reply actions  

Here we go
Come on man, this is what it's all about.  This is the time for the stars to relax and do some damage.  I'm as amped as you are but throttle it back, let it all in and enjoy the ride.  It's our time....NOW.
Eighty-five percent of the f*ckin' world is working. The other fifteen percent come out here. -- Lee Constantine Elia, 1983.

by krummy12 on Aug 28, 2007 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

Rob Dibble on Cubs/Red Sox & Yankee Fans
A few years ago ESPN was doing a long bit on the best fans.
Dibble said it was a tie between the Red Sox and Yankee fans.
He said from his personal experiece the Cubs fans were equally dedicated but they did not intimidate oppossing teams the way
the Red Sox and Yankee fans did. He recalled that once while he
was stiing on the bullpen bench, someone sitting in the row behind him offered him  a brownie ( regular variety as far as I know). He said visiting players would often feel physically threatened in Fenway or Yankee Stadium.

Much as I might want to give the Cubs an edge I am OK finishing
3rd because we don't threaten oppossing players.

"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 28, 2007 10:23 AM CDT reply actions  

Improvement
I think our hatred and dedication is improving.  It all comes to winning.  Once you get that taste you expect more. Since winning the 2003 division we've become restless and I like it.  Puts management on their toes.

by shawonfan on Aug 28, 2007 4:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

oh man
as someone who now lives in boston, i can say that i was absolutely blown away by the amount of red sox mania in boston. i had grown up thinking the cubs had an intense fan base and was awestruck by the fatacism of red sox fans in comparison.   this being said, IMHO, i feel that the majority of Sox fanaticism is rooted in yankee hatred, while cubs fandom is all root root rooot for the cubbies.  sure, we have the cards and the sox rivalries, but our dislike of those teams doesnt overwhelm our love our our team.  so as far as overall city-wide intensity- the red sox win, no doubt about it.  as far at the better fans- gotta go with the cubbies.
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs" - Alvin Dark

by holycow07 on Aug 28, 2007 10:24 AM CDT reply actions  

Another difference
is that a greater percentage of Boston residents are Red Sox fans than Chicago residents are Cubs fans.  Obviously that is the case since Chicago is a two team city.  It just just seemed to me that everyone in Boston was a Red Sox fan.  The NY hatred also has something to do with it.  The only place that I experienced something where it seemed everyone rooted for the team was in Denver and the Broncos.  I spent sometime in Denver in the 90's and it seemed everyone rooted for the Broncos.  

I expect St. Louis and the Cardinals are probably similar but I haven't spent much time there.    

by rlpete on Aug 28, 2007 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

The Sox Surge
The Red Sox really took off a few years ago into the super-popularity they enjoy now. Back in the 80s and 90s they had plenty of support, to be sure, but there wasn't the same level of visible fandom (seems like every other person on the street in Boston is wearing a Sox cap, and every kid seems to have a player t-shirt).

Part of it has been that they really do have a fun team these days, part was the championship, and part is probably just better merchandising.

I haven't been back to Chicago enough in recent years to really make a valid comparison, but my sense is that the level of intensity is pretty even, but that the Sox fans have a little more anger - as someone else noted, opposing players can feel the heat in Fenway. And Sox fans were traditionally much quicker to go negative on both visitors and their own team.

Going forward, I think the Sox image will be very different from what it was in the past - now that they've shaken their jinx, they're just going to be another strong perennial contender.

by CaughtInTheVines on Aug 28, 2007 12:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

re:
i agree.  kids literally grow up learning the sox lineup.  i know a 3 year old that can give you the stats on any player.  you dont really see that in chicago all that much.  
"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs" - Alvin Dark

by holycow07 on Aug 28, 2007 1:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

So hyped!
Wouldn't miss this one for the world. It's been a long time since we had some real baseball to watch in practically September!

For those of you who don't have Direct TV or an mlb.com account, there are currently two sopcast feeds going to be up:

http://www.myp2p.eu/MLB.htm

If that's no cool to post, mods feel free to delete it.

Feel the Brees.

by SouthernBrees on Aug 28, 2007 10:43 AM CDT reply actions  

What is this?
I have no idea what this is.  How does it work?
Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 28, 2007 2:34 PM CDT up reply actions  

Here's to hoping Woody Williams
can show-up Tony LaRussa tonight...
1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 10:43 AM CDT reply actions  

Many thoughts...1st sportswriters....
Practically every sportswriter I have ever known or talked to has never played competitively in a sport beyond high school (if at all), they are writers. Any sportswriter who challenges the practiced decision making of a manager and staff like Piniella & Co. regarding Soriano's play status as some kind of risk is like one of us doing the same....it is irrelevant...their opinion is nothing but uninformed jibberish.

Doesn't mean they can't have an opinion but their opinion is like a 3rd grader speaking about the reading materials of their high school sibling.

Soriano is either ready to play or not, if he is than he is to be put in the lineup where it is best for him to perform. My guess is that Soriano is a comfort ball player so Piniella is putting him in the lead off spot because it makes him feel good and he performs better there.

Kendall down in the order allows the Cubs a stronger offense from the bottom of the order and now that Jones will be moving down the order...

Cubs need to play .560 ball here on out, win 20-13 and they will beat the surging Cardinals. Destiny is in their hands.

As for the playoffs....Look at the Cardinals last year, Houston the year previous, Florida the year previous to that.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 11:00 AM CDT reply actions  

That's nonsense
There are good sportswriters and there are bad ones. But to ceremoniously dismiss all their comments as uninformed gibberish is foolish.

From sports to politics to religion, there are numerous incidents where so called wise leaders were dead wrong. Would you have us become so passive as to agree with everything that Hendry and Piniella are doing because they played the game?

The truth is that we have no idea what will win the Central. And we have no idea what the Brewers and Cards and even the Reds will do from here on out. And it makes no difference what the Cards did last year. The only thing that matters is today's game because it is today. The most important thing tomorrow will be tomorrow's game. We're in 1st place and our destiny will be based only upon our own results. Accept that and the games won't cause a nervous breakdown. Tight players and tight fans don't do so well.

It's not too late to go to Soto

by tharr on Aug 28, 2007 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

correct...and I shouldn't paint all
I will stand corrected...most and let me continue most that I have had personal interaction professionally are ignorant to the real game....now that is why so many people like Stone or Brenly because they know from experience...

Listen to Girardi when he does a Fox game, he gives you so much detail and pieces that it shows up another color man who is only interested in the superficial....

My favorite sports writer/caster is Jay Bilas he is smart and played the game. Sorry if I brought you too much nonsense but it was my reaction to the nonsense of the sportswriter who knows it all.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

While I have my favorites
and you have yours, sometimes my reaction to an article is based upon whether or not I agree with it.

However my most agonizing experiences go towards the writers that are just carrying the water for the teams they cover because they feel the need to be loved and fed more than the obligation to inform the reader. One of the reasons I love Stone is his ability to criticize by suggesting what should be done before it happens. Too many guys see a terrible play or decision and then spend an outrageous amount of effort trying to excuse the error.

Sports and life are full of mistakes. Deal with them and move on instead of trying to rationalize them. That's one of the things I like most about Lou.

It's not too late to go to Soto

by tharr on Aug 28, 2007 2:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

Interesting thoughts
and I have a tendancy to agree with your take on sports writers that cover baseball.

Much of the problem comes from the complexities/variables that baseball has, that most other sports do not.  Speaking from experience, it is difficult to understand the inner workings of the game, if you have not been exposed to it at a fairly high level.  I am not saying that all sports writers no nothing about the game, just that IMO, many prove to me they lack enouph of an understanding, to make them so called "experts" by any means.

In my mind, Chicago is not exactly loaded with knowlegeable baseball writers, in fact, some of the ones that are most prominant, are really a bit of a joke.

"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Aug 28, 2007 2:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

guzman
anyone know what happened to Angel Guzman
i thought he was supposed to be out for a week like 3 months ago?

by drodd on Aug 28, 2007 11:30 AM CDT reply actions  

Yep
Pitched an inning in rehab for Mesa on Sunday.  His line:

1 IP, 1 R, 0 ER, 0 H, 0 K/0 BB, 2 GO-1 FO

I can't figure out how that run was scored.

Here's the box:
http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2007_08_26_mrnr ok_cubrok_1

As far as I know, that's his first rehab appearance since the injury.

by John Q Freejazz on Aug 28, 2007 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions  

The game tonight is huge
The Brewers are on a 4 game losing streak and a win for them will give them hope. Plus they've played well in Wrigley. The Cubs will need to score often I think...

by Mapmaker on Aug 28, 2007 11:35 AM CDT reply actions  

Well boys... I made some T-Shirts
this morning to wear to the park during this final stretch. One of them was a nice big "W" shirt... and the other one, well... it fits this board darn perfectly:

I'll be there Wed night and Saturday...

The boys of summer have come a long, long way since last year, when I made this shirt at the all-star break:

I just accidentally posted this in yesterdays thread... ugh. Oh well.

 

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 12:01 PM CDT reply actions  

Sackman
I have your Crap logo printed out and posted to the wall of my cube in Michigan here. Gave one to a co-worker down the hall and he put his up, too, though he's a Tiger fan. We both share an appreciation of the fantastically poor play of Neifi, so it's all good.

Nice work.

"Mine, mine, says the squirrel to the transformer, unclear on the capacities of electricity." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Aug 28, 2007 12:08 PM CDT reply actions  

That just made my day...
Thanks keg...
1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 33-31 | updated on 8/22

by SackMan on Aug 28, 2007 12:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

Why bat Soriano lead off?
he probably won't be a threat to steal bases. I'd assume have a lineup of

Theriot
Lee
Soriano
Ramirez
Floyd
DeRosa
Jones
Kendall

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 12:24 PM CDT reply actions  

with soriano being activated..
who does everyone thing will be demoted?
Quade!

by mikew on Aug 28, 2007 12:36 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions  

Sounds about right...
 give him a few days off in Chicago, and bring him back over the weekend.

by Damen Jackson on Aug 28, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

Demotion
My guess is Pie.  If Pagan recovers, it will be between him and Murton for the final playoff roster spot.  I don't think that you can carry someone on the playoff roster who does nothing but pinch-run, and Monroe can back up JJ in CF.

JMO.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Aug 28, 2007 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

Monroe and Jones
as CF?  Yetch.   Murton's the logical one to demote because of the two OF with options, he's not the one who can play CF.   Have you looked at Monroe's fielding stats as a CF?   His RF is 1.81, the league RF for centerfielders is 2.37.  No, he won't be as bad as Ward or A Ram in CF, but he's no Jones (who has a RF of 2.48).   You have to keep Pie up as your CF defensive option.  

by frustratedfan on Aug 28, 2007 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

Cubs Fans better than Red Sox Fans?
Not totally true.  Remember the early 60s when the park barely had 5000 people?  Remember last year when park was not even full during September? Let's face it, we hate losing as much as anybody.
"Hey-Hey! Home Run! Attaboy Ronnie!" ~ Jack Brickhouse

by ronsanto10 on Aug 28, 2007 12:47 PM CDT reply actions  

I love losing actually.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 12:52 PM CDT reply actions  

Agreed.
I'm also a fan of parking tickets, traffic jams, having my identity stolen and, above all, having wet socks.

/end sarcasm.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

I love losing...
...my lunch...all over a Cardinals fan.
"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by daver on Aug 28, 2007 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

I enjoy losing:
ground
my mind
self confidence
arguments
foot races
brain cells
it
to girls
control of my faculties

and most of all...

he right to have dry socks.

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 1:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

Seriously
People always laugh at me when they ask "What is the worst feeling in the world?" and I say "Wet socks." I know, obviously, there are worse feelings, but for me that is the nastiest feeling. I feel gross even thinking about it.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

WET SOCKS, WET SOCKS, WET SOCKS!
Kidding.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 1:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ha
I just threw up in my mouth.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

NICE!
I enjoyed that too.  What was for lunch?
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

Let's Get it On Already
I'm here for the series and bouncing off the wall now waiting....
¡BLANCO!

by 08Cubs on Aug 28, 2007 12:53 PM CDT reply actions  

Soriano is still human
and has the same muscle fibers as anyone else, so Carol Slezak's concern is a bit warranted.  It all comes down to the cellular level - the myofibrils and the sarcomeres.  As Al said, he can run the bases as slowly as he wants when he hits it out, the concern lies when he has to suddenly recruit those muscle elements.  Does he have an above average healing ability?  It's easy to be skeptical. Yet, he is an elite athelete and should know his body pretty well.  Using those muscles fibers could be helpful.  Let's hope he tries to make up for lost time by hitting rather than running.   Go Cubs !!!

by coral on Aug 28, 2007 1:09 PM CDT reply actions  

Back in April...
... he came back from the hamstring problem faster than anyone expected. So maybe he DOES have better-than-average healing ability.

We'll find out tonight.

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

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

Perhaps
he takes glucosumate chondroitin regularly?
It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

The "other" BCB is picking Cubs 2 to 1
I am always amused to read comments from the enemy, especially with a critical series like this one.

by JFCubFan on Aug 28, 2007 1:24 PM CDT reply actions  

I love that site
they are brilliant over there!

Good for cubfan calling jacob out.  They all want to ask about why people from here go there to start discussion and challenge them, and yet jacob spends so much time here instigating.

hypocracy is a wonderful thing isn't it?

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 1:42 PM CDT reply actions  

Ah, jacob.
The memories....

I forget sometimes that he's a Brewers fan, he's here so often. He must be a closet Cub fan in Racine or something.

And Sack, your Crap logo may be what turned this season around. I put it up in late May, and within a couple weeks....

"Mine, mine, says the squirrel to the transformer, unclear on the capacities of electricity." -Dean Young

by Kegler on Aug 28, 2007 1:47 PM CDT reply actions  

Jose Ceda...
whom we acquired for Todd Walker, should get a call up due to his 99mph moving heater, and if I remember right - something like a 0.00 in his last 13 innings...

He is kinda like Marmol, apparently. Lotsa gas/short innings.

He is barely 20, but REALLY promising.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:10 PM CDT reply actions  

That would be nice
Especially if he has that ridiculous slider like Marmol.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 2:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ceda...
... isn't on the 40-man roster and is hardly ready for a ML callup.

I'd expect him to be added to the 40-man over the winter and throw in spring training.

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

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 2:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

True, Al, True
Just dreaming for one more super-power arm that we could use on the bullpen staff.
It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, I know.
You're looking for the Cubs' version of Joba Chamberlain.

Maybe Ceda can be that -- a year from now.

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

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

One can dream.
Also, I know Rapada has been mentioned as the PTBNL in the Monroe deal, but he sort of intrigued me when he came up. Is a lefty side armer really that expendable? Just a question, I haven't actually looked at his stats from Iowa or anything and I know he faced only 1 hitter or something when he was up.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

Actually - I'm hoping its
Oh-Man!
It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

As am I
Again, one can dream. ha.

by hawkeyenation on Aug 28, 2007 2:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

Cubs could make a couple of moves
I have heard they are thinking of moving 2 off the 40-man roster to make room for something like this. Cubs could move someone like Cedeno and a pitcher like Cotts for utility IF'er and also move Ceda onto the 40-man roster for a fall call up.

It will be interesting to see what if any adjustments can be made at this time.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

Well - let's put the
word out to our Peoria folks!

Anybody seen him pitch recently out there??

The scouting reports on him are very encouraging, indeed.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

Here's the amazing stat
about Ceda. Since being turned into a reliever, he has thrown 19 innings. He has not allowed any hits in that role. 34K/14BB.

His biggest problem has always been his wildness. Give him time to adjust and learn to have a good set of mechanics. If he doesn't have any hiccups, I'd guess we'd see him in spring training and have him start in Daytona. However, I wouldn't be shocked to see him start next year in AA. As a reliever, he doesn't need the polish that a starter requires.

If Wood continues to progress, imagine a 7-8-9 inning game with Ceda, Wood and then Marmol.

It's not too late to go to Soto

by tharr on Aug 28, 2007 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yes
I saw him pitch about a week ago in Appleton.  He does throw hard but he's by no means close to the majors.  His control left a little to be desired and Single A hitters were getting themselves out a bit more than he was getting them out.  Based on that extremely small sample size, I don't think he's even a long shot for this year.  
Eighty-five percent of the f*ckin' world is working. The other fifteen percent come out here. -- Lee Constantine Elia, 1983.

by krummy12 on Aug 28, 2007 3:46 PM CDT up reply actions  

I say
Soriano does what Utley couldn't do coming back from an injury....hit for the cycle  :)
Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Aug 28, 2007 2:13 PM CDT reply actions  

Vargas
to the 15 day DL for the Brewers.

Don;t know if this will have an effect if Sheets comes back tough but we will take all the setbacks we can get IMO.

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 2:32 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 2:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

Blame me if the Brewers win...
I was just driving by Wrigley, coming south on Sheffield.  Stopped at traffic light at Addison, when cab crosses in front of me and pulls up by Harry Caray statue.  All the autograph hounds start scrambling so I figure it's somebody big.

As I turn right onto Addison, the rear door on the driver's side opens up.  Somebody big, alright....  none other than Prince Fielder!  And he's stepping out right in front of me!  So easy, so tempting....  just give it a little gas, enough for a decent bump.   Nothing serious, maybe just a twisted knee or bruised ribs...

But alas...  I froze like Jeff Bagwell looking at a Kerry Wood slider, circa 1998...  and Prince just ambled across the street to the 7/11 for his pre-game meal no doubt.

So it's my fault, BCBers.  I had the chance to just about ensure a Cubs victory and I blew it.  Maybe if I'd been a Chicago Bear driving a sports car, I could've gotten away with it...  ;-)

Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Aug 28, 2007 2:50 PM CDT reply actions  

Maybe he'll have a bad burrito
n/t
"I don't like them fellas that drive in two runs but let in three" Casey Stengel

by MPH73 on Aug 28, 2007 2:53 PM CDT up reply actions  

Or...
... one of those Simpsons Movie Donuts.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

I wouldn't risk it...
the damage to your car would be tremendous.

by eamuscatuli1881 on Aug 28, 2007 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

Oh man!
All you had to do was start yelling, "Hey there goes Lance Briggs!"  

What up with the lack of committment to this Cub team ballhawk.

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 2:54 PM CDT reply actions  

<silence as he hangs his head in shame>
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Aug 28, 2007 2:55 PM CDT up reply actions  

Its true, ballhawk...
Not many of us will have this kind of opportunity.

Here is hoping you catch ONLY Cubs HR's this whole week.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

It's OK
us BCBers need to stick together.  Even today's modern safety features cannot protect you from running into a tan Jabba the Hut.  Your safety is more important, Ballhawk, at least, until October.

by eamuscatuli1881 on Aug 28, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions  

Reading the Brewers site
They state that the Cubs have the best defense in the NL...interesting and that the Brewers pitching is allowing .334 BA after the All Star Break....and a small item that if Cub is reading this blog that they notice the catcher calling the same pitch consecutively after a called strike or for certain one pitch later.

That is worse than tipping one's pitches. Maybe a team should hire an advanced scout to read all the blogs and find out what intelligent fans are saying about their own team's weaknesses.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 3:01 PM CDT reply actions  

Good point, but...
... I have a feeling the advance scouts have noticed this, too.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al Yellon on Aug 28, 2007 3:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

probably which goes to the point
Why certain catchers have CERA's that are higher than others.

With the Cubs Kendall is 4.32 (in Oakland 3.38) who leads the MLB combined now.
Estrada is 4.63 is 14th out of 18 qualified...

Barrett last year was 4.57 (this year 4.17) in SD 4.41 (go figure)

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 3:49 PM CDT up reply actions  

AL...Bruce Miles...today's article he said Murton
in the OF and not Pie when he made his sweeping comparison's. Was this the tell that indeed Murton is staying instead of Pie?

Small things, even if it is only 3 or 4 games.

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 3:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

CERA...
...is such a difficult stat to actually glean anything from. Put simply, the difference between gamecalling ability in catchers is smaller than the difference between ability in pitchers. And the difference in ability between pitchers can be obscured all too easily by random chance, park effects and defense to begin with. It's possible that Kendall is a better game caller than He Who Will Not Be Named (I hate flame wars), but CERA does little to conclusively establish this.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 4:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ha!
The Yost-haters will have plenty of material to rant on tomorrow!

by JFCubFan on Aug 29, 2007 12:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

Carol Slezak's column...
...is so absurdly difficult for me to grasp that it causes me pain.

Theriot's line during Soriano's absence is fine, sure: .321/.364/.432/.796 out of your shortstop is fine. Dandy. Superlative. I could go on.

But our outfield hasn't been as productive. Our power isn't where we'd like it to be. We're losing games.

And this part takes the cake: "The Cubs shouldn't feel they need Soriano to beat the Brewers, a team that is apt to beat itself on any given night. The Cubs should be looking ahead to September, knowing they'll need Soriano to beat the Cardinals."

Bull. We still need to win the division, and the Brewers are still higher up in the standings than the Cardinals -- and until such a time as it's otherwise, they need to be our first concern, history notwithstanding.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 4:17 PM CDT reply actions  

if soriano bats fifth, won't he still play lf?
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 4:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

Biggest game of the year!
It has been a long time since I have looked forward to game this much. I say the Cubs get two of three and maybe a sweep if the offence picks up.

This is a big series, two out of three is important, a sweep would be huge. It's also important to remember that losing two of three isn't the end of the world, even getting swept wouldn't be the end of the season. Losing would be bad, but not season ending.

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

by Imtrejo on Aug 28, 2007 4:31 PM CDT reply actions  

Official...
soriano lf
theriot ss
lee 1b
ramirez 3b
floyd rf
derosa 2b
jones cf
kendall c
hill p

by seang03 on Aug 28, 2007 4:45 PM CDT reply actions  

arguably
our best lineup for the year right now..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 4:47 PM CDT up reply actions  

Theriot
I like having him in the two-hole (though I still think he should lead off and let Soriano bat 5th - we need RBIs!)
"Have Keith Moreland drop a routine fly. Give everybody two bags of peanuts and a frosty malt, And I'll be ready to die." -Steve Goodman

by danimal15 on Aug 28, 2007 4:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

Good looking lineup
and as someone higher up in the thread mentioned, Soriano's RBI chances should be much better with that lineup compared to what we were getting out of our 6,7,8 hitters a couple months ago.

by cubrandy on Aug 28, 2007 4:58 PM CDT reply actions  

hey, it's lou's 64th birthday.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 4:58 PM CDT reply actions  

Tonight's game
The Brewers are desperate and the Cubs aren't exactly known for stepping on an opponents throat and taking care of business (the end of '04).

by Mapmaker on Aug 28, 2007 5:07 PM CDT reply actions  

Yes.

Our offense normally goes dormant for the big matchups.

I'd love to see us get into the Brew Crew bullpen EARLY tonight!

by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Aug 28, 2007 5:27 PM CDT reply actions  

Grand Slam -- Pirates lead Reds 5-0
Keep it up... ...last thing we need is another team in the race.

Love our line up tonight... ...I can't wait!

If the Cubs were an international soccer team they'd be called Scotland.

by mrtobby on Aug 28, 2007 5:29 PM CDT reply actions  

First Key Game of the Year
It is the pennant drive, not the final stretch but in the metaphor they are approaching the last turn in the proverbial horse race.

First game of the series is important and second only to the rubber game. Hill having come off a great start 6 nights ago against SF where he went 7-IP 2-R should be strong. In the first two innings watch to see if he can throw his curve for strikes....On June 30th he lasted only 3-IP (once of only 2 games he did not make 5-IP) and yet the Cubs still won. Way back on 04/06 Hill bested Mil pitching 7-IP and 1-ER in a 9-3 romp.

Suppan we have seen for years, beat the Cubs in April 8-IP 1-ER, then lost to the Cubs in June 4-ER in 5-IP, Since his last start in June when he was 8-7, Suppan has not recorded a win 11 starts, 4  losses and 7 ND's where the Brewers record is 5-6...During those starts he has only reached the 6-IP mark 4 times and 7-IP once, giving up 23 ER in 62.1 innings, 3.70 ERA.

Want to bet there is some altercation initiated by the Brewers? I do....want to bet Lou finds a way to channel it?

Milw-09-24-98--Brown in for defense--bases loaded--flyball--HE DROPPED THE BALL!!!NO NO NO, cubs lose 8-7

by Ivy Walls on Aug 28, 2007 5:32 PM CDT reply actions  

Pignatiello Optioned
That move actually makes some sense.  They needed to go down to 11 picthers on Aug. 31 anyway, so doing it now leaves both Murton and Pie play-off eligible.

Now, please, please, please....

No short outings from the starters the next three days.

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

by DeRoMyHero on Aug 28, 2007 6:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm off to the pub
Lets get 'em cubbies!
Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Aug 28, 2007 5:41 PM CDT reply actions  

Looks like the Cubs will go
with 11 pitchers for the next 5 days.  Bye, bye Piggy.  And the big Murt gets a reprieve, much to the relief of many around here.

http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20070828&content_id=217534 9&vkey=pr_chc&fext=.jsp&c_id=chc

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 5:41 PM CDT reply actions  

lineup
i wrote down that exact lineup earlier today, i have been doing this day in and day out i think im in lou's head or something, really is a good lineup you have to feel confident about everyone 1-8

by CubbieBeerFan21 on Aug 28, 2007 6:07 PM CDT reply actions  

Wind Howling Out!
Rich please keep the ball DOWN tonight...

by section101 on Aug 28, 2007 6:17 PM CDT reply actions  

It is RIDUNKULOUS
that everyone is so worried about the pirates/reds game.  
"The game is always healthier when the Cubs are good, and in a week they have made themselves a whole lot better."

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 6:21 PM CDT reply actions  

I don't even know...
...where this concern came from.

It baffles me so, so much.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 6:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

I agree
Pirates sweep the reds and climb within 6 and we start worrying about them.  

Where on earth does the worrying stop!!

WE ARE IN FIRST PLACE.  LETS WORRY ABOUT STAYING THERE.

WIN and we are IN

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

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 6:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

GO CUBS GO!!
Just have to say I am so excited and nervous!
Nice to have this feeling in late August and not have it pertain to Grossman!
Let's get 'em tonight boys!

by Tangled Up In Blue on Aug 28, 2007 6:22 PM CDT reply actions  

Wind?
How much wind do we have...

Anyone?

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

by BillHoldenFan on Aug 28, 2007 6:24 PM CDT reply actions  

sheets
The Brewers will send Ben Sheets to the mound Wednesday night against the Cubs and follow him with rookie Manny Parra on Thursday.

by cubs ftw on Aug 28, 2007 6:44 PM CDT reply actions  

so they are starting
  1. A pitcher who hasn't won in two months
  2. A pitcher who hasn't pitched in two months
  3. A pitcher who has started one MLB game
BRING IT!!!

by DC Cubbie on Aug 28, 2007 7:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

MLB.tv
I have no audio and the picture is freaking out.... no!!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:01 PM CDT reply actions  

Yay! It's finally working
I missed the entire Soriano film reel though :(
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

CSN has gone
all out for this game tonight. Nice to see all the coverage.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:05 PM CDT reply actions  

Good start Rich.
Keep it up buddy!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:09 PM CDT reply actions  

K
but not getting high strikes called apparently..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:09 PM CDT reply actions  

SIDDOWN, WEEKS!!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:10 PM CDT reply actions  

wow, my mlb.com is way behind tonite
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:10 PM CDT reply actions  

my mlb.com is way behind tonite
Hawk - don't you have DSS?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:12 PM CDT up reply actions  

K#2
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:11 PM CDT reply actions  

Need to
contain the tator tot.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:11 PM CDT reply actions  

contain the tator tot
Is that the same potato poop?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

lol, no
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

That's filthy.
Three straight Ks for Hill, all of them wicked.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 7:12 PM CDT reply actions  

Now let's
get some runs!!!!!!!!!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions  

i hope that keeps happening
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions  

KKK
got to love that start

by GoCubsGo! on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:13 PM CDT reply actions  

WOW.......
only have MLB Audio.....how wicked did Hill's stuff look?

by cubrandy on Aug 28, 2007 7:14 PM CDT reply actions  

Nice to see Sori back in the line up...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:15 PM CDT reply actions  

I have major brain fartage tonight...
Can anyone tell me where Suppan pitched before MIL?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:17 PM CDT reply actions  

St. Louis
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

Thanks dude. :-)
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

No worries!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

shoot
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:19 PM CDT reply actions  

sure has happened a lot this year
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hawk - do you have DSS broadcast
up there in Lynnwood-ville?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

You know what, I don't even know what that is!!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

You're joking, right?
DSS....satelite....baseball package....?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

The first pitch he got
was the one he should have swung at. Have seen him homer off pitches like that before this year.

by AndHart120 on Aug 28, 2007 7:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

I have never seen
a hitter be overly-patient until this year. What is up with D-Lee? Maybe, and I'm totally serious, he needs glasses, because he's not seeing that strike low and away very well.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:21 PM CDT reply actions  

The D
I love Derrek Lee. He might be my favorite Cub. He is from my hometown, everyone around the league loves him, he had an unreal 2005...but Derrek. At least take a swing. Maybe it's since he got hit, but he looks at so many more strikes than he used to, I think. I don't have any stats, but it certainly feels like he looks at so many strikes. Just take a swing. You might take it out like you used to.

by bloomerang on Aug 28, 2007 7:22 PM CDT reply actions  

If I had to guess (which I am), I would say
I think D Lee is having family issues...perhaps with his little girl, or whatever...

His head just doesn't seem "in it", and there is so much that happens with players that the media and public know nothing about....

IMHO...

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

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

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:23 PM CDT reply actions  

K K K K
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:23 PM CDT reply actions  

Shit, there goes the no-no
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:24 PM CDT reply actions  

That's OK
we need Rich to get a few 1 or 2 pitch outs. All Ks make for a nasty pitch count.

by cubrandy on Aug 28, 2007 7:26 PM CDT reply actions  

Bigger head:
Kevin Mench, Barry Bonds, or Mayor McCheese?
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:27 PM CDT reply actions  

Billy Beane hates K's
and if Billy Beane hates them, then I guess I should also.

by bloomerang on Aug 28, 2007 7:27 PM CDT reply actions  

5XK already for Hill.....whoa....
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:28 PM CDT reply actions  

K K K K K
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:28 PM CDT reply actions  

ther goes the 27 K game
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:29 PM CDT reply actions  

Hill is a stud
the first two innings.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:29 PM CDT reply actions  

I guaranteed this
by benching him in my fanatsy league, which pretty much guarantees a career night for the player I bench.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hope he
continues the rest of the night.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

Mench
go get some shoes that can f---ing fit..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:30 PM CDT reply actions  

Maybe he could use a couple of his
gargantuan ball caps to sew himself some shoes. There's enough fabric in his cap to clothe a small village.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

Base hit BOO-YAH!!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT reply actions  

I'm stuck on MLB.tv
And made the mistake of refreshing this page too quick, so I knew what happened already :)
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hey Blue, What is DSS broadcast?
Satellite?
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yes...as in baseball package...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

ahhh, well i have comcast and there is a baseball
package deal. Not sure how much it is though.
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

I have MLB extra innings on DSS
I watch just about every game too.    :-)
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

lol I know you're a busy guy then!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, I've been fortunate and blessed....
I have a beautiful loving wife that understands being married to a displaced Chicagoan....

I get the NFL, MLB AND NBA every year and watch a TON of games...

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:47 PM CDT up reply actions  

Do you remember how much it costs?
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 7:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

If you're on Comcast. call them up....
you should be able to get a good deal on the remainder of the season....
Prolly around $100...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:53 PM CDT up reply actions  

suck it Suppan!
single
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT reply actions  

Rammy with the hit!
Good to see him make contact...
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:33 PM CDT reply actions  

Yikes.
That pitch was pretty well off the plate to be called a strike.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:34 PM CDT reply actions  

darn it
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:35 PM CDT reply actions  

3-0 Rat Birds
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:36 PM CDT reply actions  

wow Houston sucks
were we seriously swept by them??

3-0 St Louis

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:36 PM CDT reply actions  

After the Astros swept us
All the talk in Houston was how it was the start of another miracle playoff run and how the Astros controlled their own destiny having so many games against the division and brewers/cubs left....

Less than a month later, they've hit rock bottom and no longer have a GM or manager.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

and they are about to get bulldozed
by the cardinals with about 3 thousand people in attendance. lousy astros.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

When did Suppan get good again?
He's painting corners right now...
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:37 PM CDT reply actions  

only two innings
 
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hill vs Hardy in the...
...early goings. Nothing but balls hit to their shortstop.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 7:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Another ground ball to SS
thrid one already. Suppan's got the sinker working.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 7:38 PM CDT reply actions  

I like good pitching as much as the next guy...
....but I REALLY would like to see some RUNS for the Cubs tonight...

This offensive offense HAS to change....Lou even said so!    :-)

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:39 PM CDT reply actions  

probably should have made that play.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:41 PM CDT reply actions  

my god do we need a double play or what.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:44 PM CDT reply actions  

crap
come on guys
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:44 PM CDT reply actions  

this is dangerous.
how about a cardinal special, bail out dp ball.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:46 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:46 PM CDT reply actions  

dammit
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:46 PM CDT reply actions  

There goes the shutout
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 7:47 PM CDT reply actions  

cory hart
likes to go in bathrooms with Sen. Larry Craig
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:47 PM CDT reply actions  

need to answer right here.
anything but a quick inning.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:48 PM CDT reply actions  

leave it to JJ to do that!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

JJ!!!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:51 PM CDT reply actions  

Good start!!
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 7:52 PM CDT reply actions  

Jason!!
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 7:53 PM CDT reply actions  

help yourself hill
good bunt
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:54 PM CDT reply actions  

Hill: lay down a good bunt...
please.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 7:54 PM CDT reply actions  

huge at bat. come on rich. get it done!
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:54 PM CDT reply actions  

maybe not huge, but big.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:54 PM CDT up reply actions  

Funny how the very TWO GUYS
that alot of folks here wanted traded or benched have turned out to be two of the MAIN STUDS where the hitting is concerned...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 7:55 PM CDT reply actions  

meh...
not a good AB

but Soriano can get it done!!

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:55 PM CDT reply actions  

son of a....
have to do the little things rich. pick him up soriano.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:55 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions  

Hill can look in the mirror
before he complains about run support. Come on Rich!! Gotta do better.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions  

hill just cost himself a run
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions  

he probably should have had that ground ball
in the top half as well. he's not doing the so called "little things." that makes it tough, especially against a dangerous offense on a night when the wind is howling out.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

Pathetic
What do the Cubs teach in the minor leagues anyway?  

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 7:56 PM CDT reply actions  

was theriot
seriously thinking of bunting??
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:57 PM CDT reply actions  

wow no runs
god damnit!
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 7:58 PM CDT reply actions  

wow, that was like an inning from the
dusty baker era. pathetic.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 7:58 PM CDT reply actions  

Hill....CMON!
That is just crap!
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 7:59 PM CDT reply actions  

can someone fuckin teach rich hill how to lay
down a bunt, that might have been one of the worst at bats by a pitcher trying to lay down a bunt that I've seen, your not in iowa anymore rich, get the damn bunt down and its a tie game
Bring back the damn cowbell!

by CubsBall2202 on Aug 28, 2007 7:59 PM CDT reply actions  

while at they're teaching rich, have
sean marshall pay attention.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

How
hard is it to bunt?  It's not like Suppan throws 98 or something.  Pathetic.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 8:00 PM CDT reply actions  

Ryan Braun
should go hunting with Dick Cheney..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:01 PM CDT reply actions  

Execution is huge
He gets the bunt down and Sorianos fly is Sacrifice. Tied game.

by Rithor on Aug 28, 2007 8:01 PM CDT reply actions  

K K K K K K
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 8:03 PM CDT reply actions  

The difference in this game
is Suppan was able to get his bunt down and Hill was not.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 8:04 PM CDT reply actions  

Nice DP guys...
...NOW GET SOME RUNS!!!!!!!!!!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:05 PM CDT reply actions  

Theriot turns it!!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 8:05 PM CDT reply actions  

We really
need to score this inning.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 8:06 PM CDT reply actions  

need to score this inning.
Word.
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

OK! Nice DP.
Time to put Soup's-On in his place. Let's get him out of his comfort zone on the mound.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 8:07 PM CDT reply actions  

damn
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 8:09 PM CDT reply actions  

I've seemed to notice
That the team was doing good before a certain word was retired.
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

So you're
saying I should bring it out of retirement?
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 8:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

I dunno Sue...."retired" poop?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:13 PM CDT up reply actions  

lol
I promise the word only
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 8:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

atleast
Lee didn't strike out...
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:09 PM CDT reply actions  

but damn
that was close..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

You know what
all the talk about no run support for Hill, well I think this one, so far, is on him.
MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 28, 2007 8:13 PM CDT reply actions  

there is no question that hill's inability
to bunt has cost him runs this year. i don't think it tells the whole story, but his bat doesn't help much.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

Whatever
Pitchers should be expected to put down bunts, yes. However, this team simply cannot hit, even under the best of circumstances. They are much improved from 2006, in large part because they are no longer managed by a functional idiot.

However, Derrek Lee's regression is killing this team.

Soriano, Lee, and Ramirez all have stats that, in a good year, would be their totals at the all-star break. Lee, in particular, has been awful.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

this is like a bad dream.
it would be so bad if the cardinals weren't playing the astros. maybe oswalt can shut them down tomorrow. meanwhile, suppan is cruising.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:13 PM CDT reply actions  

i just hope the brewers don't start hitting
the ball out of the park.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

Cubs beating the ball into the ground tonight
making Suppan's job too easy.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:15 PM CDT reply actions  

Maybe that's because
Suppan is doing his job. His sinker is working.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 28, 2007 8:17 PM CDT up reply actions  

Lee vs. Pujols
Dusty was being interviewed over the weekend on ESPN and was asked who he would pick for a guy to "Carry a ball club".  The host picked Pujols and Dusty picked Lee.  If we can get Lee and Ramirez hitting together we can start scoring some runs, otherwise we may be in trouble.  We need our money guys to start producing.

by Saratoga on Aug 28, 2007 8:16 PM CDT reply actions  

i'm not sure how you pick lee there,
even though i love lee.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:17 PM CDT up reply actions  

That's because Dusty is an awful baseball mind
We love Lee, but his defense at first base doesn't account for the fact that Pujols is orders of magnitude better than Lee in all offensive categories.

Lee is having a Mark Grace-ian season, but with less contact and more strikeouts.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

Wow! I'm watching the Indians because the Cubs
aren't on here.

Torii Hunter just ran into the wall at Jacob's Field at full speed to rob Casey Blake of a double.  I thought he wasn't going to get up for a second.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 28, 2007 8:17 PM CDT reply actions  

Cubs are behind the eight ball
playing not to lose...so frustrating.

by FortLauderdaleCubs on Aug 28, 2007 8:19 PM CDT reply actions  

gee....THAT was smart...0-2 count and Hill
beans him.....
Ouch...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:19 PM CDT reply actions  

i wonder if the crowd getting up
had anything to do with that hbp?
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:19 PM CDT reply actions  

I hope everyones finger nails are nice and long
because I have a feeling we'll be chewing on them until the last weekend of the season.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 28, 2007 8:21 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:22 PM CDT reply actions  

POOP
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 8:22 PM CDT reply actions  

i'm gonna be sick.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:22 PM CDT reply actions  

Do you all remember a couple days ago
when the AZ snakepit guy was talking about rude Cubs fans?

Well check out this link:

http://www.thesmokinggun.com/archive/years/2007/0828073dbacks1.html

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

by DTJchris on Aug 28, 2007 8:22 PM CDT reply actions  

better be careful here, rich.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:22 PM CDT reply actions  

fuck you corey hart
go driving with Lance Briggs or Ted Kennedy, you asshole..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:22 PM CDT reply actions  

i agree
Bring back the damn cowbell!

by CubsBall2202 on Aug 28, 2007 8:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

Perhaps the Cubs could take notes on how
to hit and work counts with RiSP. The Brewers are putting on quite a show this inning.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:23 PM CDT reply actions  

how the hell arent we winning this game against
jeff suppan, hes 8-11 for a reason, he gives up a lot of runs, this team has ZERO killer instinct or desire
Bring back the damn cowbell!

by CubsBall2202 on Aug 28, 2007 8:23 PM CDT reply actions  

hes 8-11 for a reason
He's even on a huge losing streak - which is where the problem is:
He's DUE for a win, and it just figures he would get it against the Cubs...

Argh....

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

Why oh why oh why...
can this team not hit.  It just doesn't make any sense.

by eamuscatuli1881 on Aug 28, 2007 8:23 PM CDT reply actions  

Ya know....if the Cubs could just get some runs...
...we wouldn't all be frowning right now...

:-(   :-(   :-(   :-(   :-(   :-(   :-(

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:23 PM CDT reply actions  

If our starting pitcher could...
lay down a bunt and not hit a batter he has in the hole 0-2 I would at least be able to deal with being down by 3.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Aug 28, 2007 8:25 PM CDT up reply actions  

yep. it's the fundamentals that kills us.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

I forget which fundamental it is...
...that lets you hit balls out of the park.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 8:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

PRECISELY
This team's problem is NOT Rich Hill whiffing on a bunt 2 or 3 times a season.

It is the unprecedented 40 percent drop in all power categories from a team that should be substantially better. What is their problem?

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

well, one would be plate discipline,
getting ahead in the count more often would in theory allow you to hit more homeruns.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

What are you talking about?
You're seriously worried about offense from the pitcher's spot?! That is the least of this team's problems. Sac bunts are not going to win ballgames in the 4th inning, and nobody's pitchers can hit!

Focus on the 1-8 hitters inability to avoid stepping on their own cranks. These are good ballplayers, and they play horrible baseball far too often.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

Um...
the 7 and 8 hitters got singles....that's THEIR JOB. Getting a basic bunt down in the pitchers.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Aug 28, 2007 8:31 PM CDT up reply actions  

The pitcher's job is to pitch.
Yes, he should also be able to get a bunt down. But it's not automatic, and it should NOT be counted on as a team's primary source of offense.

If we're going to discuss this team's screwups, Rich Hill's half-dozen failures to get a bunt down (if it has even been that much) don't even rate in the top 50.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

marshall is worse than hill at the plate.
the pitcher doesn't have to do the 'little things,' but it helps.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

You must enjoy the DH rule too.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Aug 28, 2007 8:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

Your ire is sadly misdirected.
If you're going to complain about one facet of the Cubs offense, why make it the literally half-dozen times this season that the Cubs have failed to advance a runner on a sacrifice?

Especially when the team is in the midst of a power decline that's generally unprecedented in the modern era?!

No one on this Cubs team has 20 HR, and it's almost September. But no, let's focus on that one time that we didn't advance the runners that would have potentially gotten us one more run.

It's ridiculous to focus on the pitcher's failings at the plate when Lee and Ramirez are performing so far below their career averages.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm not letting anyone off the hook..
the rest of the offense has been underwhelming. I'm pointing out missed opportunities. Our pitchers don't get as many chances as the position players, so in my eyes it's a tad more important for them to take advantage of the chances they get.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Aug 28, 2007 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

That's been the story of this season.
This offense, quite simply, isn't good enough. That isn't Lou's fault, or even Hendry's fault.

These guys should be much, much better than this. How do you account for a 40% drop in all power categories from multiple players?!

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

but, you can't force the ball out of the ballpark.
i just really wish they would become much more selective at the plate.

the cubs are always near the bottom of the league in walks, and it's a killer.

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:29 PM CDT up reply actions  

OK Hill
as of right now I am revoking your stud status.
I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 28, 2007 8:25 PM CDT reply actions  

who the fuck is corey hart??
he just randomly came out of the blue and is hitting?? and he has 18 home runs??
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:25 PM CDT reply actions  

Hey Chanman - could you ease up
on the language please?

Thanks.

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:27 PM CDT up reply actions  

sorry bout it
just got angry there..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:30 PM CDT up reply actions  

Tough to always pitch without a lead
In defense of our pitcher's it's hard to always pitch like allowing a run will cost you the game.  This game's not over, but it sure is discouraging being down by three when it hasn't been easy to score.  

by Saratoga on Aug 28, 2007 8:25 PM CDT reply actions  

what a night.
and the cardinals are going to win by about 10 runs. i'd be shocked if first place doesn't change hands a couple more times this year.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:25 PM CDT reply actions  

should be 3-1 but instead were down 3
because our 27 year old pitcher still has no fucking clue how to lay down a bunt, pathetic
Bring back the damn cowbell!

by CubsBall2202 on Aug 28, 2007 8:26 PM CDT reply actions  

Ease off.
He screwed up one at-bat. He's a PITCHER.

Meanwhile, Soriano, Lee, Ramirez, Floyd and DeRosa are 0-for-the-evening. Lee and Ramirez are having mediocre-to-lousy seasons.

Let's focus on the real problems here. Milwaukee has gotten more production from 335 Braun at-bats than the Cubs have gotten from 450 Lee at-bats, or 400 A-Ram at-bats.

The Cubs' power outage is the overwhelming reason for their underwhelming win-loss record. Period.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:42 PM CDT up reply actions  

Let's see
the scored 1 run in the final 8 innings in AZ and they've been shut out through 4 in this one.  Not good.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 8:26 PM CDT reply actions  

Gotta do better, Rich. Seems like of late
it's been only a few bad mistakes that have killed us.  I guess good hitting would overcome that problem.  So let's get it going!

by FortLauderdaleCubs on Aug 28, 2007 8:28 PM CDT reply actions  

damn, I go get some dinner and its 3-0,
Let's get some damn runs Cubbies!!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 8:29 PM CDT reply actions  

great and now
Suppan is looking like a fucking ace
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:29 PM CDT reply actions  

Chanman - I 'll ask again nicely...
Would you PLEASE ease up on the language?

Thanks.

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:32 PM CDT up reply actions  

suppan isnt pitching well
were making him look good because we've built it into our heads that we must swing at every single pitch no matter where the hell it is, this team couldnt draw a walk off rick ankiel
Bring back the damn cowbell!

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

Here in San Diego...
everyone keeps asking when I'm going to start crowing about the Cubs being in 1st place. I tell them...if you've watched them play for any extended period of time (and unlike Joe Morgan, I have) you'd see that we're not so much 1.5 games IN first place as we are 3 game OUT of third place.
As I've told you before, I never repeat myself.

by santoswoodenlegs on Aug 28, 2007 8:29 PM CDT reply actions  

Suppan is getting
a RIDUCULOUS outsuide corner. That ptich is unhittable and he's getting it called a strike. Piss-poor. Who's the HP ump?
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:30 PM CDT reply actions  

hahahaha. i guess we should have had him
swinging away.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:31 PM CDT reply actions  

Hey Hay!!!
There you go Rich!  Bunt would've been nice earlier, but we'll take that!

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 8:31 PM CDT reply actions  

two out rally?
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 8:31 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:31 PM CDT reply actions  

God I love that guy!!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 8:31 PM CDT reply actions  

He's a former Cardinal
They get a foot off the plate called a strike.

by CubFaninNY on Aug 28, 2007 8:31 PM CDT reply actions  

Atta Boy Rich!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:32 PM CDT reply actions  

Okay
He made up for that bunt.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 8:32 PM CDT reply actions  

hit a homerun soriano
earn your huge salary with something good
Bring back the damn cowbell!

by CubsBall2202 on Aug 28, 2007 8:32 PM CDT reply actions  

i think soriano just spit on that pitch
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:32 PM CDT reply actions  

Or....
...grounds out to Ryan Braun.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 8:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

soriano doesnt homer at home
yet we pay him 136 million over 8 years, ya hes worth it
Bring back the damn cowbell!

by CubsBall2202 on Aug 28, 2007 8:33 PM CDT up reply actions  

At least
Theriot will lead off the next inning.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 8:34 PM CDT reply actions  

good point.
you know, i bet lou has considered batting theriot 9th.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

Can anybody remind me
of the name of that MLB team that can't score any runs after an off day? It's right on the tip of my tongue...

by jcg996 on Aug 28, 2007 8:34 PM CDT reply actions  

Sori's timing's juuuuust a bit off
The Brewers keep trying to get him inside this series and there's going to be some balls on Waveland.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:34 PM CDT reply actions  

Sori looks bad.
It would probably kill him to take a pitch or two. Geez.

by lapetino on Aug 28, 2007 8:35 PM CDT reply actions  

ok we got one..
not over..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:35 PM CDT reply actions  

Lloyd Braun at the dish.
In addition to being a good young hitter, he's also the leading computer salesman for the Costanzas.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:36 PM CDT reply actions  

leading computer salesman for the Costanzas
BWAhahaha!!    LOL!!

I remember that episode....
George had a kinip-fit!

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

HOOCHIE MAMA!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

Serenity Now...
Insanity later.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

LaRussa is an idiot
he is getting lucky by winning ball games now but no one in their right mind should bat a pitcher over a batter. Miles is hitting almost .300! Looper is far below the Mendoza line
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:37 PM CDT reply actions  

i can't wait for larussa to leave st. louis.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Have them hire
Hawk Harrelson as GM; he'll fire Larussa in a hot minute.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

I hope LaRussa is fired
I want Dave Duncan out of there. That guy works miracles!
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

K K K K K K K
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 8:39 PM CDT reply actions  

K K K K K K K K
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 8:40 PM CDT reply actions  

I'd give ya all those K's
If he could retire Corey Hart just once .

by CubFaninNY on Aug 28, 2007 8:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

Bill Hall just got schooled
by Rich Hill. Nice job, Rich.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:41 PM CDT reply actions  

Gotta break Suppan this inning
Heart of the order got to take him down.

by Rithor on Aug 28, 2007 8:42 PM CDT reply actions  

wonder is those pics of Bob and Bill C. have been
sent into Comcast's "Luke-a-like"?   :-)
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:43 PM CDT reply actions  

we really could use a homerun.
you are allowed to hit the ball into the people or on the street rami.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:45 PM CDT reply actions  

how's about a GIDP instead?
have one of those, courtesy of Ramming Rami.

by CubFaninNY on Aug 28, 2007 8:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

Aramis please
 
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:45 PM CDT reply actions  

sigh.......
......
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 8:47 PM CDT reply actions  

It would be nice
if Lee would hustle a little better out of the box.  He could've had a double on that one, which would've changed the whole inning.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 8:48 PM CDT reply actions  

You can count on Lee to fail this season.
Does anyone remember D-Lee coming through in a big spot this year? His 2007 has been a black hole of suck.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:49 PM CDT up reply actions  

Grand slam
against the White Sox? That's just off the top of my head.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 28, 2007 8:50 PM CDT up reply actions  

...and another thing
Even when he manages to get on base, he's been prolific at making outs at 3rd, failing to take extra bases, and so on.

Lee's defenders on this board have pointed to his batting average as proof of his contributions. If the current trend continues, we're looking at a .295, 20 HR, 80 RBI season. Holy lord.

Lee and A-Ram are the problem with the 2007 Cubs, and getting zero production from $35 million worth of middle-of-the-order hitters is a bad, bad, thing.

But seriously, let's focus on the occasional blown sacrifice. Those pitchers should be CARRYING this offense!

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 8:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

Is he hurt?
This season it sometimes looks like he's running with a piano on his back.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 8:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

i'm going to start playing a DP drinking game
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 8:48 PM CDT reply actions  

i'm going to start playing a DP drinking game
Yikes....
Better make sure you don't gotta drive anywhere...

:-)

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:49 PM CDT up reply actions  

lol no doubt...
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 8:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

Man ARam, not good
didn't even swing at good pitch

by DC Cubbie on Aug 28, 2007 8:48 PM CDT reply actions  

ramirez has had a bad couple of weeks.
wonder how the wrist is doing.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:49 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeesh
1 friggin run off this guy?  My goodness

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 8:49 PM CDT reply actions  

I'm just amazed...
...that Braun has fielded so many balls cleanly.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 8:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

That is NOT the problem with this offense.
Look at the difference in production between Fielder/Braun, and Lee/Ramirez. Then you can complain about the effect of Suppan's sacrifices vs. Hill's.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 9:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

suppan has sure made laying a sac bunt down
look incredibly easy, oh wait it is incredibly easy, (cough cough rich)
Bring back the damn cowbell!

by CubsBall2202 on Aug 28, 2007 8:54 PM CDT reply actions  

No, it's not.
And a sacrifice bunt generally -- over the course of a larger sample size -- costs teams a third of a run each time it's employed. It's only because pitchers can't hit that letting them sac bunt is even vaguelly acceptable.

And Hill's batting average is almost twice Suppan's. It's not even relevant.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 8:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

No, it's not.
And a sacrifice bunt generally -- over the course of a larger sample size -- costs teams a third of a run each time it's employed. It's only because pitchers can't hit that letting them sac bunt is even vaguelly acceptable.

And Hill's batting average is almost twice Suppan's. It's not even relevant.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 8:57 PM CDT up reply actions  

True
In "Moneyball," it was stated the A's don't bunt because of that.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 28, 2007 8:58 PM CDT up reply actions  

We need.....
....Peter Cetera!!!!
"I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen." ~Bob Lemon, 1981

by carmenfanzone on Aug 28, 2007 8:54 PM CDT reply actions  

K K K K K K K K K
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 8:55 PM CDT reply actions  

I love the way the Cub fans
are booing Uecker
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 8:55 PM CDT reply actions  

Ueck singing 7th?
This should end this abortion of a 'tradition'

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 8:55 PM CDT reply actions  

The enemy is singing the stretch?
Well, if any enemy could this is a good one.
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 8:55 PM CDT reply actions  

This is bad luck for sure.....
...excuse me...BOB EUKER singin' the 7th??
WADDUP WIT DAT???
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 8:55 PM CDT reply actions  

This should NEVER happend EVER.
I don't dislike him but he roots for the other team.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 28, 2007 8:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

That was not right
just say no to the other teams announcer!

by LT on Aug 28, 2007 8:55 PM CDT reply actions  

That just solidified my belief that the 7th Inning
Stretch should die a painful death in hell.

by Rogue 52 on Aug 28, 2007 8:55 PM CDT reply actions  

WTF?
Why on earth would they let Uecker do that? Peter Cetera every home game the rest of the year, I tell ya!
"I've come to the conclusion that the two most important things in life are good friends and a good bullpen." ~Bob Lemon, 1981

by carmenfanzone on Aug 28, 2007 8:55 PM CDT reply actions  

God Uecker sucks
only someone from Wisc. would like him

by DC Cubbie on Aug 28, 2007 8:56 PM CDT reply actions  

My house just turned extremely cold after that..
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 8:56 PM CDT reply actions  

Uecker's OK
He does it in a classy way. "I'll cheer for the Brewers, you cheer for the Cubs."

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 28, 2007 8:56 PM CDT reply actions  

Not quite true...
Root root root for the Brewers - You do the same for the Cubs
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 8:58 PM CDT up reply actions  

Pleeeeease do something this inning boys
I can't take Milwaukee fans in my office gloating over this crap for the next few days.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 8:56 PM CDT reply actions  

wait..
milwaukee has fans??
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yes...
...and they are annoying with their bad haircuts and their comical accents.  They have the same viewpoint as they do with the Packers.  The Brewers/Packers could start parapalegics and they would believe they were legitimate threats to win.

ATTA BOY JAQ-OOOO!!!!

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:03 PM CDT up reply actions  

Usuallyl the brewers are harmless......
And the fans don't care THAT much for him to sing, but this year is different.

by martyblue on Aug 28, 2007 8:57 PM CDT reply actions  

the cubs are the best in the business at
ensuring that the opposing pitcher will have a quality start.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:57 PM CDT reply actions  

Meanwhile, in Cleveland, Joe Borowski saves
another game.  Though the winning run was at the plate - partially due to Casey Blake letting a potential DP go through his legs for a double.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 28, 2007 8:57 PM CDT reply actions  

What did Uecker say after...
..."root root root for the Brewers"? Something about the Cubs...

Good to hear the crowd giving a proper rendition afterwards!

by CaughtInTheVines on Aug 28, 2007 8:57 PM CDT reply actions  

"and you do the same for the cubs"
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:58 PM CDT up reply actions  

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 8:58 PM CDT reply actions  

The whole guest singer thing has jumped the shark.
Just let Ron do it.  If Ron isn't available let Len and Bob do it.

by MiniAndretti on Aug 28, 2007 8:58 PM CDT reply actions  

The role of Corey Patterson will be played
by Cliff Floyd in the hit production "Swing-o-Matic!"
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 8:58 PM CDT reply actions  

He took one for the team there
he was in no hurry to get out of the way. that had to hurt like hell! Let's get him home!
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 9:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Let's get into that Brewer 'pen
that is a festival of bad, especially on the road.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:00 PM CDT reply actions  

Ha! Orioles just allowed TB to score 11
in the eight inning...just a week after allowing 30.

by DC Cubbie on Aug 28, 2007 9:01 PM CDT reply actions  

and once again
after having a 3-run lead...
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

Good one Ned
You let your pitcher hit in the bottom of the inning and then lift him after one hitter at 83 pitches.  Hopefully the Yost infection screws this one up

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:01 PM CDT reply actions  

Ned Yost is a blithering
idiot. He's got no feel for the manager position, at all.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:02 PM CDT up reply actions  

Here we go.
Scott "Linedrive"brink in from the Brewer 'pen.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:01 PM CDT reply actions  

hopefully we'll see the guy that
SD gave up on. So far, so good.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 9:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

ok..
come on Jones!! show us your long lost power is back!
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:02 PM CDT reply actions  

Way to go
keep the Uuek in there...

by LT on Aug 28, 2007 9:03 PM CDT reply actions  

Yeah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Cheer. JJ rips it. How bout a 5 or 6 spot.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 9:03 PM CDT reply actions  

THE GAP!! IT GOES TO THE IVY!!!
TIE GAME TIE GAME!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:03 PM CDT reply actions  

God Bless
You FRENCHY!!
You're killin me smalls

by TheRamZamDLEE on Aug 28, 2007 9:03 PM CDT reply actions  

I LOVE YOU JACQUE JONES!!
 
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:04 PM CDT reply actions  

Any sort of power...
...is nice. I'll take doubles in the gap all night.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 9:04 PM CDT reply actions  

JJ!!!!
JJ! YOU STUD!!! Let's give it up to our favorite Florida Marlin!!!

by Jsheared on Aug 28, 2007 9:04 PM CDT reply actions  

JJ!!
6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Aug 28, 2007 9:04 PM CDT reply actions  

Yost now attempts to reinsert Suppan
I'm listening - any good Yost reaction shots on that one?

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:04 PM CDT reply actions  

That's offense!
Keep it coming!

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 9:04 PM CDT reply actions  

YEAH JONESEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:05 PM CDT reply actions  

i don't mind
i don't mind at all
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:05 PM CDT up reply actions  

Poor Uecker
he's gotta sit in the Cubs' booth through this....

by CubFaninNY on Aug 28, 2007 9:05 PM CDT reply actions  

Are you sure?
I'm listening to the Brewers radio now, and it sounds like it's Ueker. Though I could be wrong because both announcers sound the same to me, as this is the first game I have heard them.

by stadiumguru on Aug 28, 2007 9:07 PM CDT up reply actions  

Before that big hit,
Uecker was complaining that "this is beginning to look like the San Fransisco series, the Brewers get the lead, and then just give it away" That was really refreshing to hear!!

by stadiumguru on Aug 28, 2007 9:05 PM CDT reply actions  

Okay....I take back what I said earlier....
Bob Euker is GOOD luck I guess...
I mean, since he took the mic, I went to the corner store and came back to find that the Cubs haven't notched an out and we tied it!!

WTG BOB!!!

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:05 PM CDT reply actions  

UPDATE FROM COMMISH OFFICE
Bud Selig has approved Jones trade to Marlins effective immediately

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:05 PM CDT reply actions  

Brewer bullpen=White Sox bullpen
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:06 PM CDT reply actions  

Yost really shat the bed on this one.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:07 PM CDT reply actions  

Why is Shouse not in to face Ward?
Is Yost watching this game?  What the hell is he doing?

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:07 PM CDT reply actions  

Nobody's facing Ward.
They've moved on to giving him the intent ball to get to Soriano.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 9:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

Let's Go Daryle!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:07 PM CDT reply actions  

And now a walk?
Yost seems to have an additional chromosome I'm not aware of

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:07 PM CDT reply actions  

Intentional!!!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:08 PM CDT reply actions  

oh man
Soriano you gotta get back at him for walking Ward..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:08 PM CDT reply actions  

Ha!!!
Walking Daryl Ward to get to the $126 million man!!  That says it all.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 9:08 PM CDT reply actions  

Did they just IBB Ward
to get to Soriano? Yost is as dumb as a sack of hammers.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:08 PM CDT reply actions  

Or not
With a righty on the mound I'd do the same thing.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

....well....
uh, you sure about that???

by Jsheared on Aug 28, 2007 9:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

Soriano
at least take one pitch..ok?
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:09 PM CDT reply actions  

Keep this going
Lets make it The Riot!!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:09 PM CDT reply actions  

I know dude is just off the DL
but I don't think I've seen an intentional pass to get to a guy like Fonzie ever

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:09 PM CDT reply actions  

I've seen Ward walked to...
...get to Soriano before this year. I can't recall the game, but I think the Nationals were pitching.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 9:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

And Sori makes me look the fool by swinging
at the first damn pitch. Idiot.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:09 PM CDT reply actions  

little things...

I like kendall.  But we really needed a grounder to 2B there.

by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Aug 28, 2007 9:09 PM CDT reply actions  

Why not pinch-run for Ward with Pie here?
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:10 PM CDT reply actions  

HOW BOUT THE RIOT??!!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:10 PM CDT reply actions  

Theriot!!
Hill can win it!!
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:11 PM CDT reply actions  

RIOT SQUAD, BABY
RIOT SQUAD!!! Linebrink would've had that baby if it was covered in thousand island Dressing

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:11 PM CDT reply actions  

Line"brick" :-)
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 9:11 PM CDT reply actions  

THEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE RIOTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!!!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:11 PM CDT reply actions  

Better lucky
than good sometimes. 20 footer looks like a linedrive in the scorebook!

by Reddevil on Aug 28, 2007 9:12 PM CDT reply actions  

Uecker is dying a slow death in the Cubs booth
right now...
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:12 PM CDT reply actions  

WGN is hilarious right now
Milwaukee fans should be concerned when Ron Santo is openly questioning your manager and Santo makes a degree of sense

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:12 PM CDT reply actions  

Do it, Derrek.
Make your season NOW.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 9:13 PM CDT reply actions  

C'mon Grace!
I mean Lee!  Hit a double.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 9:13 PM CDT reply actions  

D friggin' LEEEEEEEE!!!
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:13 PM CDT reply actions  

Pardon my language here, but...
...Derrick Lee, you magnificent bastard!

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:13 PM CDT reply actions  

Lee and Rammy
need to come through here. It's their job.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:13 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 9:13 PM CDT reply actions  

BASE HIT!!!!
5-3!!!!
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:13 PM CDT reply actions  

boy oh boy
is the crowd at wrigleys incredible or what!!!!!!! and this is only August, i can NOT Wait until SEPTEMBER!!!!!!!!!

by BigZ 4 Cy on Aug 28, 2007 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

D Money
UECKER!!!!
You're killin me smalls

by TheRamZamDLEE on Aug 28, 2007 9:14 PM CDT reply actions  

Ueck would like to tell you the post game show...
...is brought to you by...Christ, he can't find it.  The hell with it.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:14 PM CDT reply actions  

Good call on the putting in Pie!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 9:14 PM CDT reply actions  

wow..and thirty minutes ago
I thought Suppan would complete the game...what an idiotic move by Yost!
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:14 PM CDT reply actions  

Ned Yost...
...is like our secret weapon.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 9:15 PM CDT up reply actions  

It's nice to root for the team
with the smarter manager.  Welcome change.

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

Lou rocks!
Ward doesn't score on that.

by martyblue on Aug 28, 2007 9:14 PM CDT reply actions  

He will adjust to the MLB level.
He's adjusted to every other level he's seen - he'll be an MLB hitter.

Frankly, having him on this squad is worthwhile for two reasons - his defense and speed are needed, and being around big leaguers in a pennant chase can only be helpful to his development.

He'll learn to hit left-handers eventually, right?!

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

I vote for Uecker in the 7th
again tomorrow!
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 9:14 PM CDT reply actions  

Don't leave Uecker!!!!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions  

DERREK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
That's what I'm talking about. Time for Rammy to nail the coffin SHUT!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions  

It's like a guarntee
The Brewers will take an early lead and cough it up.  It's laughable.

by IllinoisCubs on Aug 28, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions  

is anyone hoping
that the Dbacks get swept by SD...thier announcers are still pissing me off.

by DC Cubbie on Aug 28, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions  

Keep going!!!
Pile on!!
6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Aug 28, 2007 9:15 PM CDT reply actions  

That sound you hear
are the cheddarheads clamoring for Yost's head on a platter.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:16 PM CDT reply actions  

Yost and Linebrink..
..he did the same thing against Cincinnati two weekends ago, stuck with him & Linebrink threw gas on the fire.  Yost's postgame analysis of his move was shaky at best.  The press corps was baffled.  Ned looked like Christopher Darden during the OJ trial - juuussst holding it together.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:16 PM CDT reply actions  

The brewers got something mclung to our mound
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 9:16 PM CDT reply actions  

oh man.
this made me double over.

by rockpantson on Aug 28, 2007 9:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Seth McClung
oh he of the 10.13 ERA on to face Rammy. This could get out of hand, quickly.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:16 PM CDT reply actions  

take that bob
"Things are startin to go our way."

by Bricks and Ivy on Aug 28, 2007 9:17 PM CDT reply actions  

Oh man...
I had a pair of tickets for the game tonight, but my wife made me give them to the woman who did the flowers for our wedding as a thank you.

Man, I wish I had never gotten married. :)

by MattStratton on Aug 28, 2007 9:17 PM CDT reply actions  

How long ago was your wedding?
Please say far before the Cubs crawled back into it.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

Those must have been some flowers...
But I'm getting married next August, so I'm sympathetic to what you have to give up -I'm sure it'll be during a critical series next year.  A month of Europe this summer involved creating relationship strain demanding trips to internet cafe every day to check cub scores

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

oh man...
you should have gone WITH the flower woman!

by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Aug 28, 2007 9:19 PM CDT up reply actions  

OMG
I believe the CASH YOU PAID HER should have been 'thank you' enough. 1-800-DIVORCE
"I don't know what I'm talking about, and I'm pretty sure you don't either." -David Letterman to Bill O'Reilly

by hipster17 on Aug 28, 2007 9:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Actually...
She's a friend of mine and did it for the cost of the flowers, so we felt like giving her something. And her husband is a HUGE Cubs fan as well.

But still...man oh man, what a game to miss.

by MattStratton on Aug 28, 2007 9:22 PM CDT up reply actions  

Phew
That makes more sense.
"I don't know what I'm talking about, and I'm pretty sure you don't either." -David Letterman to Bill O'Reilly

by hipster17 on Aug 28, 2007 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

man earlier in the year
there's no way the cubs come back from 3 runs against this bullpen.  man what a couple of months can do
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 9:17 PM CDT reply actions  

a k. oh well
we scored 4. i'm not going to complain

by cubs ftw on Aug 28, 2007 9:18 PM CDT reply actions  

Get Uecker back in the Cubs booth!
He was a good luck charm tonight!
"Dad gum right this games gonna be played under protest. . . I guarantee this is gonna be one protest that's upheld." --Hawk Harrelson, 6/24/07

by RynoHoF on Aug 28, 2007 9:18 PM CDT reply actions  

ARRRGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!!!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:18 PM CDT reply actions  

It's time fooooorrrrr
some Marmol-ade! Let's get Filthy McNasty out there.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:19 PM CDT reply actions  

Marmol-ade!
Naw....with a 2 run lead, Lou will use Bobby and then (if he holds 'em) prolly Dempster to close.

Remember - it's closer by comittee at last check...

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:24 PM CDT up reply actions  

Read Brew Crew Ball...
Not only is it good to see all of Cubbie Nation just uplifted by the good seventh inning, but seeing the Brew Crew's fan base commit mass suicide on their page is just fantastic. GO CUBS!!!

by Jsheared on Aug 28, 2007 9:19 PM CDT reply actions  

but it will take hours
to fill those Winnebagos with carbon monoxide.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 9:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

big bats to set down
this inning!! take no prisoners Howry!!
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 9:21 PM CDT reply actions  

come on Houston!!
 
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:21 PM CDT reply actions  

Hill: K x9 Howry: K x1
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:22 PM CDT reply actions  

A strong argument
can be made that JJ is the MVP of the second half.  He's filled the center field black hole nicely and his hitting numbers in the second half are outstanding.  GO JACQUE!!!

by cubsbak on Aug 28, 2007 9:22 PM CDT reply actions  

Pie
I agree - keep him around for what just happened - love wheels and a great glove on the bench.

Lloyd Braun with a man on......frightening

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:22 PM CDT reply actions  

Reason 1,024 to eschew a ceremony
How long before you would've gone common law?  THAT's the way to go

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:23 PM CDT reply actions  

Frickin' Fielder.
At least he's not a SB threat...unless SB stands for "Side of Beef"
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:23 PM CDT reply actions  

Phew...
Howry gets the attaboy for that K.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:24 PM CDT reply actions  

take that Braun!
 
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:24 PM CDT reply actions  

Need a DP ball
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:24 PM CDT reply actions  

He was crazy!
His phone was unplugged the whole time!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:26 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hill: K x9 Howry: K x2
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:24 PM CDT reply actions  

Kevin Mench only has 6 HR? All against us, I guess
It seems like this guy has been deadly in big spots against us. Go get him, Bobby.

by ClosingTime on Aug 28, 2007 9:25 PM CDT reply actions  

OOoofff. Howry
is throwing BB's tonight. Wah-wah-whee-wah.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:25 PM CDT reply actions  

Mench
Bobby, take special care not to throw in the vicinity of Mench's giant jack o lantern of a skull......and of course he hit him.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:25 PM CDT reply actions  

take that Mench!!
too good for your old shoes huh?
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:25 PM CDT reply actions  

Here's how it starts...
nt
"I don't know what I'm talking about, and I'm pretty sure you don't either." -David Letterman to Bill O'Reilly

by hipster17 on Aug 28, 2007 9:26 PM CDT reply actions  

Oh God, Gabe Gross....
...terrifying the way he's swinging the bat now.  Come on BOBBY!!!!

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:26 PM CDT reply actions  

Does anyone think that pitch hitting Mench
was a revenge pitch from Howry?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:26 PM CDT reply actions  

mench is huge
i'm suprised he missed him with his first pitch!
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

w.t.f.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:27 PM CDT reply actions  

Gamecast is to slow whats going on?
How many outs/on base?
6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Aug 28, 2007 9:27 PM CDT reply actions  

Do the Cubs want me to quit smoking?
This is NOT the way to do it.  I'm sucking down American Spirits like Coca Cola. My fiancee is not pleased.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:27 PM CDT reply actions  

no way
"Things are startin to go our way."

by Bricks and Ivy on Aug 28, 2007 9:28 PM CDT reply actions  

Howry...
THROW STRIKES, DUDE!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:28 PM CDT reply actions  

Did he lose it?
6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Aug 28, 2007 9:30 PM CDT reply actions  

gabe gross
is going to give fielder a heart attack.

by rockpantson on Aug 28, 2007 9:30 PM CDT reply actions  

Crap
Do you go to Dempster here?

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:31 PM CDT reply actions  

Too many pitches in one AB
not good for Bobby
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:31 PM CDT reply actions  

marathon.
put him away bob.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 9:31 PM CDT reply actions  

10 pitch AB
come on now..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:31 PM CDT reply actions  

Take something off!
This guy is sittin dead red!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:32 PM CDT reply actions  

man...
he's getting his timing down...

11 th pitch...

by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Aug 28, 2007 9:32 PM CDT reply actions  

this is unreal
i think i'd try to get him to expand.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 9:32 PM CDT reply actions  

Fielder is probably sweating like
a fat pig....
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:32 PM CDT reply actions  

good morning, good afternoon and goodnight
for Bobby.

Siddown Gross.

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:32 PM CDT reply actions  

whew. i thought that was headed for the gap
i have the sound off.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 PM CDT reply actions  

YESSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!1
Popout to DeRosa!!

This calls for a celebratory cigarette!  After I finish this current one.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 PM CDT reply actions  

inning over
Bobby had to work hard though
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 PM CDT reply actions  

YEAH!
Phew.  I can breathe again.

by mistersite on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 PM CDT reply actions  

phew...
If Howry didn't get him, we were looking at bases loaded and.....Jenkins vs. Eyre.

phew!!!

by Ghost of Fred Merkle on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 PM CDT reply actions  

Great battle.
Hat tip to both players
6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 PM CDT reply actions  

Whew.
That was more stressful than it should've been. Bobby needed to use the changeup there, methinks.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:33 PM CDT reply actions  

I will not question success...
...in this instance.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 9:35 PM CDT up reply actions  

Prince is filing a grievance with the union
too much running.  hopefully there's a bunch of carbs in the postgame spread tonight.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:34 PM CDT reply actions  

A Heart Attack...
I need to start running again. I can't watch this team without being in shape. And we have Dempster coming in the ninth. I wish I still had my inhaler. Let's get, say, three more runs to make my heart a little lighter.

by Jsheared on Aug 28, 2007 9:34 PM CDT reply actions  

Just got home.
Wow. Looks like I may have missed a good game. How'd Hill do?

phat

by phatass on Aug 28, 2007 9:34 PM CDT reply actions  

7 ip 9K's
RBI too
6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Aug 28, 2007 9:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hill pitched well....
Offense didn't show up until the 7th, but Hill will get the win.

You can thank Bob Euker (read posts above).

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Now insurance
HR anyone?
6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Aug 28, 2007 9:35 PM CDT reply actions  

Go Get 'Em Boys
How about a big ol' crooked number on this one?

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:35 PM CDT reply actions  

wow.
i really thought it'd be monroe in this spot.

by rockpantson on Aug 28, 2007 9:35 PM CDT reply actions  

Monroe
will probably pinch hit against LHP exclusively
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

And now they bring in a LHP.
But I think Fonty was already announced.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

You get your wish!
Monroe to the plate!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Another moment of Yostian genius:
Having yout two biggest, slowest guys "running" on every pitch of a 13 pitch AB. I'll bet they feel very refreshed heading out to play defense.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:35 PM CDT reply actions  

Question for the community...
I haven't moved since the rally in the 7th.  I desperately want a beer, which involves getting up and moving around.  I'm just going to have to suck it up and wait, aren't I?

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:36 PM CDT reply actions  

You need
a portable laptop w/ wireless

by Reddevil on Aug 28, 2007 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah....
...it'd be tough to explain why I had the computer in the kitchen by the fridge though.  I think my fiancee might be the most patient woman on the planet, but she's got her limits.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:40 PM CDT up reply actions  

MLB
promised streaming audio on palms a long time ago and haven't given it up yet.

phat

by phatass on Aug 28, 2007 9:41 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yep.
It'll taste that much better later.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yeah, I know....
...remaining in the computer chair it is.  I'm not going to move, but I am going to think about beers I might like to drink.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

You got it
6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Aug 28, 2007 9:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Remember
Celebration beer tastes much better than drown-your-sorrows beer.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

Changing speeds
After 10+ pitches ranging from 93-95 mph Howry gets him out with an 85 mph one, on a popout. And right there is a prime example of the importance of changing speeds.

by Luis on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 PM CDT reply actions  

Ned Yost just sent McClung out there...
...to warm up, then when Fontenot came up to pinch, put Shouse in.

I think this guy overmanages. I've heard all kinds of bad things about him over at the other BCB, but I think his biggest flaw is just inserting himself into the game too much.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 PM CDT reply actions  

Yes, and I think most of them...
...are stupid for it, especially since swapping Monroe for Fontenot was pretty obvious, and puts the Cubs in a better situation (IMHO) than they were when it was Fontenot vs. McClung, just looking at the platoon splits.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 9:39 PM CDT up reply actions  

This is Yost imitation of TLR
to change pitchers before the inning begins. I didn't know Fonty was a hitter to be so feared. Next Yost will start wearing the tinted glasses, like his hero, TLR. Maybe in his next managing job.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 PM CDT reply actions  

Shouse has been NASTY lately
Glad this isn't in a 2 out situation where the cubs desperately need a run.  he's hell on lefties.  glad Monroe's in hacking now.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:37 PM CDT reply actions  

No standing 'O' for Craig...
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:38 PM CDT reply actions  

Shouse is all over the place.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:41 PM CDT reply actions  

D Rose has been a bit off with his bat tonight
as well...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:41 PM CDT reply actions  

Shouse....
...just filthy.  JJ is gonna have a rough go of this at bat.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:41 PM CDT reply actions  

i'd love a solo shot right here.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 9:42 PM CDT reply actions  

A check of Cubs Cam
shows a bunch of dark blue shirts leaving the stadium.

http://cubworld.com/c=MDZV6aR7nJ5TWpRSAKEELyAfk/category/a_cubworld_cam

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:42 PM CDT reply actions  

The part of Brian Shouse
will be played by Billy Wagner. Sheesh.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:43 PM CDT reply actions  

Okay everyone - Pucker up and cross your fingers
that Dempster is "ON" tonight...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:43 PM CDT reply actions  

come on demp. make it easy.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 9:43 PM CDT reply actions  

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

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 9:44 PM CDT reply actions  

Shouse...
...seemingly is coming in constantly during Brewer games when it's too late to hold a lead.  However, he's throwing a ton recently - hope he can't keep it up with the workload.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:45 PM CDT reply actions  

Horrid AB by all 3 guys
Whiffing away. No intent, just guessing. I guess Shouse 81 MPH stuff was too much.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:45 PM CDT reply actions  

According to Len, Fonz's team leads by 3....
Hmm.
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:46 PM CDT reply actions  

Jesus Demp...
...I'm down to four smokes here - cannot have a full pack earl weaver inning.

2 more Ryan!!!  2 more!!!

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:46 PM CDT reply actions  

Jesus Demp...
...I'm down to four smokes here - cannot have a full pack earl weaver inning.

2 more Ryan!!!  2 more!!!

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:46 PM CDT reply actions  

1 down - 2 to go
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:46 PM CDT reply actions  

Hardy...
...I never thought I'd say this, but he freaks me out.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:47 PM CDT reply actions  

Nice, Demp. Two more like that.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:47 PM CDT reply actions  

brewers falling to 3rd
what a collapse...and as a cubs fan the one thing i know is a collapse
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 9:47 PM CDT reply actions  

JJ!!!!!
YES!!

One more Ryan!!! one more!!!!

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:47 PM CDT reply actions  

ONE OUT TO GO...
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:47 PM CDT reply actions  

JJ
nice glove...
what a turnaround of a season
I demind an asterisk be placed behind Neifi Perez's mark of 64 career homeruns

by jds2 on Aug 28, 2007 9:48 PM CDT reply actions  

One more, Demp. Stay focused.
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:48 PM CDT reply actions  

I'm using my computer desk...
...as a nutcracker. C'mon, Dempster, end this so I can get some real eats.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 9:48 PM CDT reply actions  

What kind of nut?
Pistachio, hands down.
And from the can, pre-shelled.   :-)
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 10:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

Yes!
Yes, one more!

phat

by phatass on Aug 28, 2007 9:48 PM CDT reply actions  

2-0?
Man, don't do that.  You're not making 136 mill...

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:49 PM CDT reply actions  

low and away demp.
don't let him pull.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 9:49 PM CDT reply actions  

In case anyone is keeping track....
Cubs are 2 and a half games in front for the FIRST TIME THIS SEASON!!!

Ohbabyohbabyohbabyohbabyohbaby!!!

GOOOO CUBS!!

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:50 PM CDT reply actions  

well won't it be two?
since Cards win..either way i'll take it..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:51 PM CDT up reply actions  

YESSSSSSSS!
FLY IT!! CUBS WIN!!! CUBS WIN!!!!!!

Gents, I'm out!  It is BEEER - THIRTY!!!!!

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:50 PM CDT reply actions  

Cubs win!!
Dempster is now a better closer than Cordero!
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:51 PM CDT reply actions  

alright. what turn around.
the way this night started, whew.

sweet. not get them tomorrow.

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

by buckmulligan on Aug 28, 2007 9:51 PM CDT reply actions  

FLY IT HIGH, CUBS FANS!!!!!!!

CUBS WIN!  FIRST PLACE FOR ANOTHER DAY!  

The Brewers are UNDER .500 and will be in THIRD place by the end of the night.

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:51 PM CDT reply actions  

Go Cubs Go!
Sing it loud. Sing it proud!! Come out and kick ass tomorrow big Z!!
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 9:51 PM CDT reply actions  

Yes!
That was great!

I wish I'd heard the whole thing!

phat

by phatass on Aug 28, 2007 9:51 PM CDT reply actions  

It's nice to see the Cubbies smiling!!
"Chicago Cubs fans are ninety percent scar tissue."

by thehawk on Aug 28, 2007 9:52 PM CDT reply actions  

CUBS WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2.5 Game lead in the division! CUBS WIN, CUBS WIN! HOOOOOLY COW!
"I've always felt that starting pitching is the most important part of the rotation." - Joe Morgan, Sunday Night Baseball 8-12-07

by gary varsho on Aug 28, 2007 9:52 PM CDT reply actions  

actually two
Cards pull ahead of the Brewers..
Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 28, 2007 9:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

go cubs go
hey chicago, whaddya say? the cubbies just won today :)

by cubs ftw on Aug 28, 2007 9:52 PM CDT reply actions  

I hate that MLB.com
cuts off the postgame interview...c'mon I paying for it

by DC Cubbie on Aug 28, 2007 9:53 PM CDT reply actions  

MLB Jerks
I know. For once I'm actually interested in what Jones has to say and zap, it's off.  It's like MLB is trying to piss us off.

by wrigley on Aug 28, 2007 9:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

c'mon I paying for it
No actually, you aren't....you're paying for the game and that's it.

If you wanna watch the postgame chats and shows, you gotta buy the Comcast Sportsnet channel.

If you have DSS, you can get it for about 2-3 bucks per month...

FYI

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 9:59 PM CDT up reply actions  

Remember...the 2.5 game division lead
Will go away very soon - As the Cardinals will move into 2nd place, 2 games out when their game goes final.
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 9:53 PM CDT reply actions  

Cubs win! Cubs win! Cubs win!
Congrats to Rich Hill and the Cubs!!!

Happy Birthday Sweet Lou!!!

"I've said it before, if we don't win in my lifetime, when I die, I'm going to find that [expletive] billy goat and kill him." ~ Ron Santo, 8/27/07

by daver on Aug 28, 2007 9:53 PM CDT reply actions  

WHAT A GREAT WIN!!!!!!!!
GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO CUBS GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!  I LOVE IT!!!!

by bennyha on Aug 28, 2007 9:54 PM CDT reply actions  

Mmmm....beer
Had to put one more up.  I am sipping on a delicious Sierra Nevada Pale right now.  Ahhhh....

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 9:56 PM CDT reply actions  

Old Style
for me tonight.

phat

by phatass on Aug 28, 2007 10:00 PM CDT up reply actions  

Old Style
Whoa, dudes....
I miss living in Chicago really bad, but I DON'T miss the lack of beer selections back there.

"OLD STYLE"????

:-)

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 10:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'm not in Chicago
I like Old Style. I can't afford to be too picky right now.

Lincoln, NE is actually a big market for Old Style. I'm not sure why.

phat

by phatass on Aug 28, 2007 10:10 PM CDT up reply actions  

I like Old Style
My bruthah, I was just pokin' smack at ya...

Nothin' wrong with Old Style dude.

In the end, it's what fires up the taste buds that matters!   :-)

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 10:18 PM CDT up reply actions  

I know
It's really funny, though. Old Style is a big deal in this town, at least among the "hipsters". I'm really not sure how that started.

phat

by phatass on Aug 28, 2007 10:20 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ever tried Molson Ice?
"Welcome to Lou's BLUE Crew....Cubbies in '07"

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

I've tried Molson Ice but doesn't do anything
for me.  I like Alaskan Ale (I've only seen it in Alaska), but other people tell me it tastes a lot like Molson.

by zevkalman on Aug 28, 2007 10:50 PM CDT up reply actions  

I thought the hipsters
like Goose Island like I do.  Or is that only the pretentious Roscoe Village, Lincoln Park types like me?  Do the authentic people like Old Style while the rest of us fawn after Goose Island?

by zevkalman on Aug 28, 2007 10:52 PM CDT up reply actions  

hmm
I kinda resemble that remark - except for the pretentious part :)

Goose Island is ok, but sometimes it seems that you get a bad batch.

Cubs fan since forever Live Cubs Chat with no refresh required

by roscoevillage on Aug 29, 2007 1:33 AM CDT up reply actions  

It's all about the PBR
Bucktown hipsters are all about the PBR.

If you live in Lincoln Park, you're not a hipster. Please note that this is a GOOD thing.

by MattStratton on Aug 29, 2007 8:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

Anyone know
where to find a recording compilation of Santo exclamations?

by Villeslgr on Aug 28, 2007 9:59 PM CDT reply actions  

Yeah
I'm still looking for the DeRosa 5 for 5 call.

phat

by phatass on Aug 28, 2007 10:08 PM CDT up reply actions  

YEAH!!!!
Great win tonite! Gotta love this game...
You ARE freaking out MAN!

by crw89 on Aug 28, 2007 10:00 PM CDT reply actions  

Hey Lou Piniella
You coach in the windy city
Our fair Cubbies play today and there is no more North Side pity....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2KMuC-JUlEY

There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 10:01 PM CDT reply actions  

thanks for putting this up again.
every time I hear "Hey There Delilah" I think of Hey Lou Piniella. It makes me smile. :-)
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 10:16 PM CDT up reply actions  

Ditto here
And Go Cubs Go followed by Hey Lou Piniella makes for a great soundtrack after flying the W.
There is no place like Nebraska - Go Huskers!

by sanantonecub on Aug 28, 2007 10:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

Sheets
He's gotta be on a 75-80 pitch count tomorrow, so why the hell would you start him?  Your bully is taxed to the breaking point & you put in a guy who's guaranteed to give you 7 tops?  Even with the Cubs hacking away?  I don't get it.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 28, 2007 10:01 PM CDT reply actions  

Because their starting sucks too.
They don't have anyone that can take the ball and be counted on for them at any part of the game, and it doesn't help that their defense is suspect at best. They've faded into third place and below .500, and they need to do something to get back into the race. It's a pure desperation move. They have to do this.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 10:04 PM CDT up reply actions  

The cloudy lining...
...to this silver is that all the Cardinals fans are going to actually brag about their moving into second place at work tomorrow. Yeesh.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 10:02 PM CDT reply actions  

NicE!!!!!!
I will get by / I will get by
I will get by / I will survive
We will get by / We will get by
We will get by / We will survive

GO CUBBIES!!

by GoCubbies34 on Aug 29, 2007 2:03 AM CDT up reply actions  

Unless Suppan got hurt,
I am absolutely dumbfounded as to why Yost pulled him out when he did. Glad, but dumbfounded.

Do not be surprised if Yost is fired after this season. He probably deserves it.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 28, 2007 10:02 PM CDT reply actions  

dumbfounded as to why Yost pulled Suppan
I think it's because Yost didn't want Suppan to get yet ANOTHER consecutive loss...?

I mean - he's lost like 8 in a row already...

'Course, that doesn't mean Yost is smart for doing that - just a possible reason...

IMHO

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 10:06 PM CDT up reply actions  

He was cruising along
Granted, he hit Floyd with a pitch, but that alone shouldn't have warranted a substitution.

His pitch count was relatively low.

Maybe he told Yost he was gassed (it was pretty humid) and if he got into any trouble, that was it. But without knowing any of that, it sure appeared like a dumb move.

And not just in retrospect.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 28, 2007 10:09 PM CDT up reply actions  

As it stands
Suppan only got tagged for 2 ER's....
So he definately didn't get the loss.

And perhaps after he plunked Floyd, Yost figured that was a good time to get him out an hopefully put a fresh arm in and hopefully stop the bleeding.

'Course....it didn't work!   :-)

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

by Bluelou on Aug 28, 2007 10:14 PM CDT up reply actions  

Hill, incidentaly...
...moves to 8-7 on the season, getting a winning record for the first time in a while.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 10:06 PM CDT reply actions  

Our secret weapon!

The 26th man.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 10:27 PM CDT reply actions  

I saw the interview of Yost
on Comcast (post game). It was so classic-Dusty. It was just like Dusty wrote a script for him. Applauding the play of the guys. Saying, "we can still take two of three." He just made me sweat thinking of that mediocre/losing attitude. I am so glad we got rid of that cancer last year. My guess is that the Yost-cancer will be gone from Milwaukee this fall.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 11:01 PM CDT up reply actions  

Oh, and if you were curious...
...the Reds lost both ends of a double header and have snuck right back out of the race.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 10:34 PM CDT reply actions  

Must Win For Crew...
Smacks of desperation when forcing a guy to come back as stopper before he may be fully-ready... reminds me of Prior coming back against the Tigers- got ROCKED... let's knock Ben out of the game in the 2nd... no- 1st tomorrow- and subsequently the Brewers OUT of this race.

by section101 on Aug 28, 2007 10:42 PM CDT reply actions  

Milestone night
Cubs lead by 2 games, best lead so far.

Brewers fall under .500 for the first time and into 3rd place, their low point of the year.

Cardinals reach .500 and into 2nd place.

Cubs just gotta keep winning...

by ChipSet on Aug 28, 2007 10:58 PM CDT reply actions  

Zambrano
He has to step up and stop his skid that he's been on.  He has to be in control of his motions and makes sure he controls the amount of walks.  If he does that, I'm predicting the cubs to win easily tomorrow.  

by AJ on Aug 28, 2007 11:01 PM CDT reply actions  

A few thoughts - back from the game
What a terrific win!

Amazing!

Great things: 1. Cubs rally BUT ONLY AFTER NUMB YOST removes Suppan who was killing us! What a great break!

  1. Uecker (who I like) was roundly booed when Cubs marketing decided to have HIM sing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game"! After he finished - to more boos - fans on their OWN starting in the Upper Deck - sang it AGAIN, without accompiment!
  2. Jacque Jones!!
  3. Lou sends Floyd on a H & R, keeping the DP out of play, and allowing a run to score b/c of it.
  4. Jason Kendall's hitting!
  5. Our relievers!
  6. 9 K's by Hill
Not so nice:
  1. Rich Hill MUST learn how to lay down a sac bunt!!! (yes, he got a run back with a single, but COME ON! It is not getting easier if we make the playoffs!) Two on and 0 outs...Gotta do it!
  2. Plate discipline. Geesh!! Take some walks guys.
  3. Jason Kendall (his arm - 1 for 34 CS?) run any old time...but eventually he will either nail someone like Prince Fielder, or get off a great throw.
  4. Our multi-millionaire stars just HAVE to turn it on NOW - A-Ram, Soriano, D-Lee (although, he had a nice RBI single tonight).
All in all - a wonderful way to start the series...

Re: tomorrow - there is no way Sheets will be able to go deep into the game, I'm assuming...He'd have to be on a strict pitch count limit, right? Let's make him PAY!

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 11:08 PM CDT reply actions  

Great Crowd Tonight
Everyone was into the game from the first pitch to the end of the game.
"Harlem Furniture......You'll like our style!"

by Imtrejo on Aug 28, 2007 11:21 PM CDT up reply actions  

Cubs really have their destiny
Cubs really have their destiny in their own hands this season.

They just have to win, not worry about what everyone else does.

I want to see them hit September with at least a 3 game lead and get the magic number below 30.

I just want the Cubs to top the Bears NFC Title Game as my highlight of the year.

by puckishcubsfan on Aug 28, 2007 11:14 PM CDT reply actions  

According to my friend
My friend is in Ireland and she has put the Cubs staying in first place in my hands.  She says I get the credit if they do and the blame if they don't.  (they return September 12)
I just want the Cubs to top the Bears NFC Title Game as my highlight of the year.

by puckishcubsfan on Aug 28, 2007 11:16 PM CDT reply actions  

BTW - Re the Cards...
Which one of you was it that when I mentioned that the Cardinals were not out of it a couple weeks ago, and there was PLENTY of baseball to play, said:

"I wouldn't worry about them. Talk to me when they're .500"

Who was it?

Stand up and show yourself.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 11:16 PM CDT reply actions  

I was one of them.
And as long as we keep winning, they will keep looking up. They face Oswalt on his home turf tomorrow. They have 35 games in 34 days and LaRussa has pushed his guys hard to get them to this place. A great job, but they are still looking up. If the Cubs keep pitching and (hopefully) hitting, we will keep looking down on them.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 11:23 PM CDT up reply actions  

Well - they are .500 now.
Thanks for coming forward.

It will come down to the head-to-head games b/t them, imo.

Probably the way it should be.

Nothing better than to bury them, if we can prevail.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 11:28 PM CDT up reply actions  

I'd be fine with that, if they
hang in there for two weeks. On the other hand, it wouldn't surprise me if the Cubs put some momentum together during this homestand and put together a bit of a lead now. But either way, they have to beat the Brewers, Astros, Dodgers, and Pirates then the Redbirds to get to the point where they can hopefully have a lead of some size. THAT is what I pray for. I am not looking for excitement in the last two weeks of the season. It sure would make me happy if the Cardinals are below .500 when we leave StL on 9/16.
Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 28, 2007 11:45 PM CDT up reply actions  

Sounds like something I would say.
Eh. They're in second place now. They haven't actually gained any ground in the last 10 games - the Brewers have just given up ground. We'll face them soon enough. Right now, we just need to take care of business against the Brewers.
FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 28, 2007 11:38 PM CDT up reply actions  

Back a while ago...I can't find the post...
My guess it was still late July.....

I said it isn't the Brewers I'm worried about....

and all I heard is Carpenter is out, no pitching and Rolen and Poop hole aren't hitting....yada, yada,yada.......

The LaRuthless and JockityRoid are gonna go all out to defend.......

The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 2:40 AM CDT up reply actions  

I was one...
and my rationale was simple: the Cards hadn't GAINED ground, we'd just given ground back.  If we had not stunk in August, the Cards would still be 5-6 games back.

In other words, my point was we shouldn't have to worry about the Cardinals - if we handle our business, they won't be a problem.  The problem has been that we haven't handled our business.  Hence, the Cardinals are still hanging around.  But it's not the Cardinals we should be worrying about, it's our team.

by SouthernCub on Aug 29, 2007 7:57 AM CDT up reply actions  

My points at the time
were that they are the reigning World Series champs. They have arguably the best manager in baseball (this year is another example why). They still have some talent on the team. AND - the Division is terrible.

These are the reasons I knew NOT to count them out as many had here.

They are at .500, and the Cards are playing their best baseball right now. As I mentioned above, imo, it is going to come down to the head-to-head games betw. the two teams.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions  

Quick Notes
The Cubs pitchers threw the ball inside today pushing the batter off the plate, so a few Brewers got hit. It's definately a result from earlier in the season when the Brewers just leaned out and crushed us early on.

Also, Ueker was Booed pretty good while singing by most everyone. Then after he was done singing the crowd, the whole crowd, started it's own "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" that was probably not heard on TV or the radio.

Great game, get into that Brewer Pen and you'll score some runs.

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

by Imtrejo on Aug 28, 2007 11:18 PM CDT reply actions  

He's frustratin' but he's money....
I think it's a good sign when you pay a guy around 5MM a year, and when he sucks he doesn't disrupt the team, but just eats his crow. And then when he gets better, he wins you four or five key games late in the summer. Jacque Jones is the shit. And he may be known as one of Hendry's best signings before it's all said and done. Meaning after this year. Give him his due.

by conorj on Aug 28, 2007 11:24 PM CDT reply actions  

"Also, Ueker was Booed pretty good ..."
Yes - I posted this earlier, already, above.

Never saw this before at Wrigley.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 11:25 PM CDT reply actions  

I apologize for the repeat
I was reading then posting, as you were posting.
"Harlem Furniture......You'll like our style!"

by Imtrejo on Aug 28, 2007 11:36 PM CDT up reply actions  

No worries...
It was the wierdest, spontaneous thing!

Really funny!

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 28, 2007 11:49 PM CDT up reply actions  

I understand it
But Uecker doesn't deserve to get booed. He gives the Cubs their due when he sings.

Plus, for heaven's sake, he's Mr. Baseball.

by Not Bruce Froemming on Aug 28, 2007 11:56 PM CDT up reply actions  

Well, Not Bruce
Bring Ron Santo up to Miller and see what happens.

Just a bad call by the new Marketing VP.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 12:02 AM CDT up reply actions  

they have had him do it before.
without any problems. I suppose he could have made a last second change, but I don't see any way he could know ahead of time that: a) the Cubs and Brewers would be duking it out for first, b) That the crowd reaction would be that negative. It sucks, but I'm not gonna blame the new VP. I'm gonna blame the idiots at the ballpark for acting like idiots. Show some respect.
AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue on Aug 29, 2007 7:54 AM CDT up reply actions  

Show some respect?
I think it was disrespectful for Ueker to sing "root, root, root, for the Brewers".  I don't think he meant any harm by it, but I really thought that wasn't very cool to do at Wrigley field.  I didn't take it too personally, but I think I could have had more respect if he sang the song the way it was meant to be sung at Wrigley.

by adam316 on Aug 29, 2007 8:14 AM CDT up reply actions  

Was this Booing disrespectful?
I was at the game and it didn't seem so. It wasn't like people were yelling curses and throwing things. Plus the second version of "Take Me Out to the Ballgame" was funny and completely spontaneous, but not disrespectful. I am sure Ueker got a good laugh out of it.
"Harlem Furniture......You'll like our style!"

by Imtrejo on Aug 29, 2007 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions  

Tonights game
Went out to see the game @ one of the bars here in Madison (WI) It was about 50/50 Brewers/Cubs fans. With the amount of cheering and booing done tonight, I would have thought it was a play off game. It was so much fun

by Madison Cub Fan on Aug 28, 2007 11:41 PM CDT reply actions  

Thankfully
it's Oswalt versus Kip Wells tomorrow...  Hopefully Oswalt can cool them off...  

Great win by the Cubs...  

SORIANO! YESSSSSSSS! JIMBO!!!

by CubFaninCA on Aug 28, 2007 11:54 PM CDT reply actions  

On Giving Up
Hysterical moment tonight - I was able to get right out and onto the first bus after the game, and a drunk Cub fan was explaining to some folks how the Cubs were still in the division race.  He had apparently left in the seventh, had been sitting on the bus waiting the whole rest of the game, and had no idea the Cubs had come back and won until the people behind me told him.

I just know it was one of the negative posters here who gives up every time we get down a run or two.  Fess up!

¡BLANCO!

by 08Cubs on Aug 28, 2007 11:58 PM CDT reply actions  

Kip Wells...
Was VERY good in the short start against us in the ESPN Rainout game.

He takes about twenty minutes between pitches. I was almost able to complete a whole column of reading in the sports section betw. pitches, and make my score card corrections...

His strategy is to BORE players to the point of them losing interest in their AB's and just ground out weakly somewhere to get it over with.

It is AUGUST, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 12:00 AM CDT reply actions  

Like your Rich Hill analysis *EXCEPT*

As like most of the BCB'ers....y'all like to blame the bullpen for some losses.  I watched early on in the season....and saw some painful finishes....BUT...(quoting you)

"Rich Hill threw a fine game in his last start at San Francisco against fellow curveballer Barry Zito, but got a no-decision when the game went into extra innings. Hill's got 11 no-decisions in his 25 starts; only Matt Chico of the Nationals has more no-decisions (13) among pitchers with that many or more starts. Oddly, the Nats have a winning record, 13-12, in games Chico has started, even though he is 5-7. The Cubs are 11-14 in games Hill has started, and he has allowed two or fewer runs in five of the seven no-decisions that turned into losses. Conclusion: Hill's put his team in a position to win with his pitching, and the bullpen has failed."

My conclusion is he (Rich Hill) had the misfortune of pitching in several games where the offense was dysfunctional.  I would also add...many of those "blowpen" games (early on)happened when the Cubs were unnecessarily nursing very small leads when the offense SHOULD have scored (MANY) MORE runs

I do watch frequently....and maybe blow off more sream than "positivity" on this forum....and I'm not oblivious to the fact that the whole team can't perform "perfectly" every day....and the piching isn't "perfect"....but....I feel the reason this team isn't leading the division by 4 to 6 games right now is an inconsistent offense...and many times because of that inconsistent offense... having people on the field in positions they aren't accoustomed to...and some less than stellar defense...

The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 1:45 AM CDT reply actions  

Don't know where sle to go...
Is anyone else having issues gettibg back past their last 30 posts for review?

I jjust get a "blank loaded page" when I try to back up to the "next 30 previous posts"....

Also...Is this site ecoming slow?...are there too many of us??

The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 2:52 AM CDT reply actions  

Are you able to click on "next"
on the bottom right hand corner after your 30th message?

by LT on Aug 29, 2007 5:53 AM CDT up reply actions  

yea...
and that brings up a blank page...

The Next 30 link....right?

The best defense is a good offense

by kcjones on Aug 29, 2007 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions  

Mine says "next page"
and I get 30 more comments when the page comes up. Maybe it is taking it a while to load? People have been having trouble with pages on this website taking a while to load.

by LT on Aug 29, 2007 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions  

Meaningful baseball in September
Every year I buy tickets for several Cubs games hoping that we'll still be in it by September.  Here we go!

On Sheets, I don't really think he'll be on a strict pitch count too much.  Remember, it was his finger and not his shoulder or elbow that put him on the DL.  As long as he has "feel" for his pitches his arm should be fine.  I don't think he'll throw 130 pitchers, but I don't think he'll be pulled in the 6th if he's cruising and reaches 100.

On the Cards.  Yeah, I was one of the ones who said "talk to me when they get to .500."  Ok, now talk to me.  I have a similar feeling about the Reds.  It will take better than 81 wins to take the division, so any team below .500 isn't a concern until they get back to even.  But it sure is great to be the team leading.  All the Cubbies have to do from here on out is play even or better than the Cards (or have the Cards outplay them by one game) and we've got meaningful baseball in October!

"Look, what's important is to be in first place on the last day of the season." -Lou 8/1/07

by 26.2cubfan on Aug 29, 2007 8:07 AM CDT reply actions  

CubsFaninNY
How's that conspiracy theory coming?  I think you're really onto something there.

by DaleCoop14 on Sep 3, 2007 4:26 PM CDT reply actions  

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