Happy Birthday, Lou Piniella!

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 8:36 AM CDT in Recaps Comment 172 comments

When I get older losing my hair,
Many years from now.
Will you still be sending me a Valentine
Birthday greetings bottle of wine.
If I'd been out till quarter to three
Would you lock the door.
Will you still need me, will you still feed me,
When I'm sixty-four. -- The Beatles

In the seventh inning last night, when the up-till-then quiescent Cubs began what was to be their game-winning rally, the chant "Let's Go Cubbies" sprung up, and last night sounded different than any time I think I've ever heard that chant before. It was more urgent, more plaintive, as if everyone, standing in a near-playoff atmosphere, felt that they themselves could push the Cubs to victory simply by shouting those words.

Whether that's true or not, a few moments later Jacque Jones lasered a double to right-center field, tying the game, and there couldn't have been a happier man in Chicago last night; Jones enthusiastically clapped his hands upon reaching second base, and is, at last, getting recognition from fans, every day. The non-deal of Jones to the Marlins could turn out to be one of the best deals the Cubs didn't make -- Jones is now hitting .331/.373/.483 since the All-Star break with 3 HR, 14 doubles and 29 RBI in 39 games. After an intentional walk to Daryle Ward, Jones took third on a sharp line drive to right by Alfonso Soriano, and then Ryan Theriot bounced a ball that Scott Linebrink had to leap to knock down.

Linebrink bobbled the ball long enough for Jones to score; he was given an error (a tough error, I thought, as he made extraordinary effort just to get to the ball), and then Derrek Lee's single scored Felix Pie, who had gone in to run for Ward.

And that, happening nearly as quickly as you just read about it, was how, on Lou Piniella's sixty-fourth birthday, with a first orange-looking, then very bright white, picture-postcard just-past-eclipsed nearly-full moon rising in the eastern sky above Wrigley Field, was how the Cubs beat the Brewers 5-3, clinching the season series, and knocking Milwaukee into third place (with the Cardinals' 7-0 win over the Astros, St. Louis moved ahead of the Brewers into 2nd place, two games behind the Cubs).

So, it appears the best way to beat the Brewers is to spot them a lead -- and not just a small lead, but a three-run-plus lead. Over at Baseball Prospectus on Monday evening, Nate Silver, perhaps presciently, noted that Milwaukee had, through Sunday, blown 13 leads of three runs or more (and nine of those from July 28 through August 26). This number isn't a record -- the article says that twenty such blown leads (by the 1998 Mariners and 2000 Astros) is the most since 1959 -- but the Brewers moved up a notch on that list with last night's blown 3-0 lead.

The crowd was very quiet as the Brewers built that 3-0 lead; Rich Hill had a strange game. He struck out five of the first six batters he faced, but gave up three two-out runs by the fifth inning, and got booed when he failed to lay down a sacrifice bunt after Jones and Jason Kendall had singled leading off the third. He made up for it by driving in the Cubs' first run with a single of his own after a two-out Kendall double in the fifth.

But after that Hill settled down and wound up with nine strikeouts (now ranking sixth in the NL), with no walks, and after the Cubs took the lead Bob Howry faced pinch-hitter Gabe Gross after Kevin Mench had been hit by a pitch (the third HBP of the game, and fortunately, no warnings were issued, because I don't think anyone was deliberately throwing at anyone else). Gross fouled off six pitches after two strikes, and the at-bat went into its twelfth pitch with Mike saying to me, "At-bats like this rarely have good endings." But this one did -- Gross popped up to Mark DeRosa in short center field to end the inning, to a roaring, rousing cheer from the 40,884 in attendance (I saw a ton of people pouring out of the ballpark after Ryan Dempster had recorded the first two outs of the ninth -- must have been Brewers fans taking off early).

Bob Uecker, the fine Brewers' radio broadcaster, was asked, as he has been several times before, to sing "Take Me Out to the Ball Game". And as he has done several times before, he sang, "Root, root, root for the Brewers", to loud boos (No, that wasn't people saying "UUUUECK", either!). After he was done a spontaneous rendition of "TMOTTBG" was sung by much of the crowd, with "root, root, root for the Cubbies" sung properly. As noted in the comments in the game thread, since the Cubs proceeded to have a four-run seventh, maybe Uecker should be asked back tonight and tomorrow, too.

Finally, a note to anyone in the Cubs' publications department who sees this: the scorecards, printed on the off-day Monday, still do not (for the third consecutive series) have Felix Pie or Kerry Wood listed on the active roster, this despite the fact that Pie has been back from Iowa since August 8 and Wood was activated from the DL on August 3.

And so onward; the Cardinals, apparently, now become the Cubs' primary competition, as they have reached .500 for the first time since April 16. The Cubs will have five more shots at them in September -- coincidentally, the same number of games in which they faced them in that memorable September 2003 series. In the meantime, let's go Astros (at least through tomorrow), and Ben Sheets returns from the DL tonight to face Carlos Zambrano.

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Comments

Lets just hope

Sheets gets another blister

but the thing that sucks is that even if we sweep this series, it doesn't effect our standings in the division unless the Cardinals lose..

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 29, 2007 8:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

The Brewers

Sure, the Brewers seem dead in the water, but didn't the Cardinals about a month ago?

Sweeping this series would be fantastic. If the Cubs can put away (as much as a 4.5 game deficit would be) the brewers, I'll be thrilled to have one less team knocking on the door.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 29, 2007 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Save the Cards...

for the 5 games we have left against them. We need to distance ourselves from the Brewers, and then distance ourselves from the Cards when we play them later.

Ultimately, as long as we keep winning games, it doesn't matter much what the Cards do.

by SouthernCub on Aug 29, 2007 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

haha

as long as we don't lose a single game for the rest of the season, the division is ours!

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 29, 2007 8:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

But seriously, if the Cubs go out and win their game, they don't need to worry about what anyone else does.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It was a great game and the best part

was the way Hill was pitching. (Confession: I still like Uecker). In the interview in the booth, Uecker admitted he just can't say cubbies, but encourages all cub fans to root for them. He then commented on the re-sing, laughing.

by N Oakley on Aug 29, 2007 8:39 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

what's up with booing uecker?

this isn't the first time he's gone up there and sang it that way. I was dissapointed when I heard the booing at home. No need to boo him, just shout out CUBS even louder.

other than that, it was a good night. Good to see the Cubs push the Brew Crew a bit further back. Now if someone could just beat the redbirds for us I'd appreciate it.

AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on Aug 29, 2007 8:39 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

i'm torn

on this one. most people admire ueker but you just do NOT send in the rival's announcer to sing TMOTTBG in the midst of the hottest series of the year in the tightest race in MLB. cubs marketing were setting him up for that.

"Every player should be accorded the privilege of at least one season with the Chicago Cubs" - Alvin Dark

by holycow07 on Aug 29, 2007 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I told...

The guy sitting in front of me, look i hate this guy Ueker right now and i will until the end of thursday's game. Sorry but i have to! (hate is such a strong word in this case, but i cannot cheer for him while we are playing the Brewers, not morally correct for me!)

by HIGGY on Aug 29, 2007 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've got no problem

with Eucker or what he did. What was he supposed to do? He's an employee of the Brewers and of course he's supposed to be on thier side.

I do think it was a bad idea on the Cubs side to invite him. It did work out well though.

by NO100 on Aug 29, 2007 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Booing Uecker

The boos were obvious residual resentment from the demise of Mr. Belvedere... the booing IS appropriate if invited announcer goes away from "Cubbies" or "home team"- at that point- Uecker, Scully or ANYONE invited to the booth are fair game... respect the team AND the 40,000 plus in front of you- or suffer the consequences.

by section101 on Aug 29, 2007 11:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

To the best of my memory

Vin Scully said "Cubbies" the last time he was offered the 'stretch' gig. Always the perfect gentleman.

Unfortunately, he doesn't make these road trips anymore, so I'd pass on asking Charlie Steiner or Steve Lyons to sing. Lyons would probably drop his drawers...

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 29, 2007 12:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mr. Belvedere? you meen Brocktoon?

I should want to write him a fan letter. I shouldn't type it on a death certificate.

by BigJimSlade on Aug 29, 2007 2:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I don't understand the surprise

hasn't Ueker inserted the Brewers in the song for several years now?

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

by MPH73 on Aug 29, 2007 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah. He always does it.

I don't get what everyone is so worked up about.

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: I don't understand the surprise

Me neither. It seems like Uecker has sung at least once a year for at least several years now. Maybe longer.

My feelings fall somewhere in between what others have said. I don't hate Uecker, per se. I respect his history in the game and I agree that he's a pretty funny guy. I also give him kudos for trying to be neutral when singing.

BUT I stick to my own personal party line when it comes to the seventh inning stretch: It should be sung by ONLY current or former members of the Cubs organization (players, managers, coaches, etc.) or devout fans. That's it. You just don't give representatives of opposing teams a voice in your own house.

My Wife: Who's that guy?

Me: Jacque Jones

My Wife: He's cute. He has a nice smile.

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 29, 2007 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

It seems the Cubs PR machine are desperate to get celebrities - whether they root for the Cubs or not - Uecker, Lasorda, Ozzie Osborne, Jeff Gordon - the list is endless.

Personally, I am getting a little tired of it myself but it still annoys the piss out me when I hear those fools.

If the Cubs organization can't get singers or would-be singers who show proper respect for this tradition that was started by Harry Caray, don't do it at all and let the fans sing acappella like they did last night.

by JFCubFan on Aug 29, 2007 12:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I highly doubt he was offended

There are times when booing is appropriate, and that was definitely one of them.

If anything it probably put a smile on Bob's face, and likely most of the Cubs fans' after the re-sing.

It's part of the fun in spectator sports. I don't understand why booing must be always cast as bad sportsmanship.

by slink on Aug 29, 2007 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree. Cub fans

boo Poo-holes and Fielder, so it make Uecker feel like an athlete again and not just an announcer. It made him feel like he has an impact on the game. There was nothing politically incorrect about it. This is a big series and Cub fans were showing fierce loyalty to THEIR team at a critical point in the game and the players heard it and noticed it and it motivated them. They spoke about it after the game. Good for the fans and good for the Cubs!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 29, 2007 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Absolutely!

Booing the Ueck in that situation was perfect, and of course he was expecting it.

There are different "kinds" of boos. The cold-hearted, hate filled booing of Jacque Jones or LaTroy Hawkins, is mean.

Booing the Ueck here was TOTALLY different, he seemed to get a real kick out of it.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 29, 2007 12:32 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Because.....

The Brewers are normally harmless, but this year they are not.

Couple that with the fact that more and more people are well aware that Eucker is going to change the song even before he sings.

The other BCB trashed Cub fans for disrespecting "Mr. Baseball." I would ask them how their fans would react to Ron Santo coming into their ballpark, getting on the PA and announcing his love for the Cubs and shoving it in their face.

by martyblue on Aug 29, 2007 11:09 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Those boos

I was a little stunned at first with the booing and I thought to myself, instead of Uecker it should be Yucker. He's bringing it on himself and he knows it. I did like the second rendetion of TMOTTBG. It seemed to ignite the Cubs. I hope it continues tonight. I'll be there again.

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

by No Southern Belle on Aug 29, 2007 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Z

What a huge game. Sure, a big part of it is beating the Brewers, but as far as I care, we ABSOLUTELY need Zambrano to get back on track.

The bottom part of the rotation is pitching well, but I am nervous about the possibility of Hill Marshall and marquis carrying us through Sept.

c'mon z

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 29, 2007 8:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Great to see

Jacque Jones have another big game. He's the MVP of this team in the second half in my book. After the Soriano experiment failed miserably, center field was a huge problem. JJ has solidified it, playing excellent defense and getting a ton of big hits in the second half. He's been terrific.

by cubsbak on Aug 29, 2007 8:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well said

I agree completely. Who'd have thought that this year, arguably our two most important players would be Jacque Jones and Ryan Theriot?

Of course, they wouldn't have to be so important if ARam picks it up again and Derrick Lee starts hitting those outside pitches into the basket.

by montanacubby on Aug 29, 2007 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Great win

I was literally wailing and gnashing my teeth when we couldn't get three runs off Jeff F***ing Suppan. Luckily, Yost made a terrible decision in taking him out.

Soriano- i think he saw literally 6 pitches last night. Can we end his leadoff stint already?

by SouthsideCub on Aug 29, 2007 8:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hear! Hear!

"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 29, 2007 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He saw 8

you would think that not seeing live pitching for a few weeks that you try and take some pitches to get to a better hitter's count. I guess once a hacker, always a hacker!

Need Big Z to perform tonight BIG TIME.

"When you're eight games behind, it's like eight miles; when you're eight games in front, it's like eight inches."- Ron Santo

by BigJohnAZ on Aug 29, 2007 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Uecker

I was watching at home....during the 7th inning stretch, here is what Uecker sang (the second half may have been drowned out by boos):

I'll root, root, root for the Brewers,
And you do the same for the Cubs,
Cause it's one, two....etc.

Now, for a man who is a BREWERS BROADCASTER, I think that's overall pretty respectful of the Wrigley tradition. It's not like he could say "Root, root, root for the Cubbies" and leave it at that....and letting the crowd sing it would have been a cop-out.

So I, for one, thought his modified lyrics were apropos for a rivalry that we all hope (a la Cubs-Cardinals) remains both highly competitive and highly friendly between the I-94 cities. Of course, that's just my opinion. I could be wrong.

by Chadnudj on Aug 29, 2007 9:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I'll admit...

... it was very hard to hear Uecker at the ballpark over the crowd noise. If that's what he sang, that does sound respectful.

I've always had respect for Uecker and like his broadcasting style. Glad he did it that way, then.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's what he sang...

And I only wish you could have caught this one on TV Al. Listening to him in the booth with Len and Bob while the Brewers were melting down was priceless.

by Damen Jackson on Aug 29, 2007 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The best storyteller, bar none

Uecker speaking of attending a Milwaukee Braves reunion:

Those things are a lot of fun, you get to hear a lot of the old stories you've heard before and they're just as funny. I do get a little aggravated, though, when they ask who I am.

Nobody does self-deprecating humor better than Ueck.

by scotteboy on Aug 29, 2007 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He's Great.

I don't know if you caught this last night, but I mentioned I am old enough to have seen him on the Tonight Show with Johnny Carson.

He was always very, very funny.

Still, I cannot say I blame the Cubs fans for booing the neck-and-neck rival of them in a Division race. Sorry, I do not agree.

Drive Ron Santo up to Miller under the same circumstances next year and see what happens!

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Wow that's old.

Just kidding. Some of us grew up on Carson, others on Parr.

by N Oakley on Aug 29, 2007 9:26 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

GEEZ - JACK PAAR?!

Before COLOR T.V.!

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Having 5 channels

and rabbit ears was much simpler. And I don't remember people complaining (but I was just a kid) "There's nothing on!" We just watched whatever happened to be on, and enjoyed it.

And the Pony Express delivered the mail.

by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 29, 2007 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I love the story

of being pinch hit for before he even had an AB in the game once.

He is funny and I say big deal to both...the rendition of the song and the booing. it is ALL a part of baseball so people just need to deal with it. He said what he said (which isn;t that bad) and he got booed (which also isn't that big of a deal).

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 29, 2007 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Couldn't stop laughing

at the pitch hit story last night.

"Runner's on the corner...Manager calls me over...thinking he's going to put a hit and run on or something...pitch hits for me...next pitch is a wild pitch...runner from third scores...Skip looks over at me and winks...Like I couldn't have stood there for the wild pitch!"

Listening to Bobby, Lenny,(as Uecker called them) and Uecker was rather enjoyable...

by Tangled Up In Blue on Aug 29, 2007 3:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pinch hit. Sorry, long day at work...

by Tangled Up In Blue on Aug 29, 2007 3:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well... he always sings it that way

And I applaud him for it.

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

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Has Sheets pitched any rehab

assignments for them? Wonder if he'll have a pitch count limit of some kind. Can't wait to get back into that bullpen. Suppan made Floyd look sick on the first two pitches then hits him in the elbow and Yost yanks him. Best decision of the night for the Cubs. The

Cubs should play Bowie singing, "Putting out fire with gasoline" next time Yost goes to the pen. Stevie Ray Vaughn's guitar would be nice to hear from that song as well.

by TR on Aug 29, 2007 9:06 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

They should

cheer Ned Yost every time he makes a move..

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 29, 2007 9:10 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Or cheer when certain relievers come out.

A couple years ago the Red Sox fans gave Mariano Rivera a big ovation at Fenway. I think he had blown a couple games previously.

by WartburgCub on Aug 29, 2007 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Al, was the ball carrying last night?

The flags were shown on TV indicating that the wind was blowing out but there were no HR last night. Is there a difference at field level and up were the banners are?

Also, Brenly said that Floyd is using a lighter bat. If that's so, I expect more big hits from him.

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 29, 2007 9:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Soriano

he's the one who needs a lighter bat!

Now that he is back, play Matt Murton!!

by Chanman25 on Aug 29, 2007 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

And a bigger brain.

He swung at an inside pitch on 0-1 and grounded to SS. That's more than free swinging. That's anxious, bad swinging.

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 29, 2007 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I think Soriano...

needs to promise himself that he'll take the first pitch each at-bat for the rest of the season.

by Damen Jackson on Aug 29, 2007 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'd be happy if he promised...

not to swing at bad pitches. That's all I ask.

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 29, 2007 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Get Jones get in on this deal too?

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

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He has.

Actually, I think Jones has been more selective and that's been key to his success in the second half. In games wehere he's hacking he's not successful.

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 29, 2007 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oddly....

... although there was a pretty good breeze during BP, and balls were flying onto the street then, the wind died down during the game (at one point to total calm) and nothing carried.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What's going on this year?

There haven't many HR at Wrigley this year, by any team. I remember asking you whether you thought the remodeled bleachers have anything to do with those dying fly balls and you said you don't think so. Now, has there been some new construction across the street that is altering the wind patterns? Or should we expect Al Gore to add the lack of HR at Wrigley as another consequence of global warming?

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 29, 2007 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

But the opposing teams

still have nearly a 2-1 margin anyway.

Its not the wind.

Its the players.

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:29 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree. This team has little power.

I may be wrong, but it seems that even opposing teams are hitting fewer HR. And there's no doubt that most days the wind hasn't been blowing out.

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 29, 2007 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well - if you REALLY want to research

Mr. Fraggin', check out Baseball-Reference.com, or MLB Stats section in ESPN.

Let us know! (if you are so inclined, that is)

I vaguely recall that in 2006, and of course this year, we have been homered against much more than our team doing the same to the other teams. Unlike 2003 and 2004, perhaps.

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

We have some pitchers who give up the long ball

Thankfully, Marquis (20 HRs) is far off his pace from last year, when he gave up a whopping 35.

Hill's givin up 24 this year... and this could become the norm for him over his career.

Lilly's givin up 23, which is right around his average.

Zambrano's tied his career high with 21... and has 5 or so starts left.

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

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Well - check THIS out Sacker:

Glendon Rusch, 2006, 21 HR's in 66 Innings!!

Our own in-game BP Pitcher!

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Holy crap!

Slapping my knee with laughter.

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just did some diggin around

http://www.baseball-almanac.com/recbooks/home_runs_allowed_records.shtml

Fergie Jenkins lead the NL in homers Allowed in 5 seasons: '67, '68, '71, '72, '73

Bert Blylevin has the all-time record of 50 HRs in 1986 for the Twins. He won 17 games that year... and if he had just pitched 1 more year in his career, he may have won 300 games (287).

Jose Lima set the NL record with 48 HRs in 2000.

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 1:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Jenkins gave up tons of homers

but since he didn't walk anyone there was often no one on base. Obviously no one likes to see their pitcher give up homers but one could argue that if a pitcher is going to give up a run the solo homer is the best option. It sure beats 10 or 15 pitches to two or three batters to give up a run.

But then, comparing the current staff to a HOFer isn't really fair on my part. No one on the staff is even close to Jenkins at this point.

by TR on Aug 29, 2007 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

IMO - the ball

was DYING last night.

The BREW had two hard hit balls that would have gone out on many nights, and the Cubs haqd two as well. One by Floyd, one by DLEE.

Apparently, it has been proven that baseballs/golfballs travel farther in humidity - but that certainly was not the case last night.

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It wasn't that humid last night, just hot.

I'd expect higher humidity today.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 9:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pitching inside

I metioned this in the game thread last night, the Cubs pitchers threw the ball inside today pushing the batter off the plate and 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, the Booing of Uecker was all in good fun and I am sure he got a good laugh out of it.

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

by Imtrejo on Aug 29, 2007 9:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Zambrano...

IS the key to the Cubs winning the Division.

He could have five more starts - 4-1 would mean an awful lot.

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:24 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Put up or shut up

time for Carlos. He's being paid more than any pitcher in the history of the game not named Clemens to win games like this. Hopefully he gets it done.

by cubsbak on Aug 29, 2007 9:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

As we all know...

I am a JJ fan, but i have to apologize to him. I was looking for him to bunt last night. i really thought that it was the right move.

But this is a testiment to Lou, he accomplished two things by letting Jones swing away;

Lou put confidence out there for Jones to grab up and he did. And adding to this, he was sending a message to the players on his club, look i have confidence in all of you and when the time is right i will trust that you will get the job done. And that is exactly what Jones did.
Lou was also making a statement to the Brewers, i am not playing for a tie here, i want to win this thing right here right now. And he did.

by HIGGY on Aug 29, 2007 9:32 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And

3. Lou was also making another statement: I'm not gonna take the bat out of the hands of the hottest hitter on the team.

by cubsbak on Aug 29, 2007 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

HIGGY, we were discussing

in the stands the range of salary a BP pitcher can make.

Can someone "make a living" as a BP pitcher?

Would a "bullpen catcher" be in the same range?

Just curious...

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL!

Not with what the Cubs pay! Actually according to the Cubs i was the first person hired outside of the organization to throw BP ever, so really they paid me nothing. I knew that going into it and i was cool with it for the obvious reasons. Usually the Cubs have coaching staff members do the BP thing.

Now when i was at the Cell, the Sox guy was full time, that was his job, just to throw BP, and i am guessing it was a decent living for him because he continued to do it.

I am not a 100% on the bullpen catchers, but i think they get paid league minimum if i am not mistaken. but i am not really sure about that.

by HIGGY on Aug 29, 2007 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL! Agreed...

Well - a decent 2nd job, then!

So you must have been the "guy" that got the gig in the "cattle-call" tryouts when Dusty was bitching that we needed a LH BP pitcher.

Good for you!

You're going to have some golden memories the rest of your days.

Just not a pension from the Cubs!

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Definitely...

a decent second job! It worked out well because i work for my father, and obviously he was not going to say no to an offer like that!!

Technically i was not a part of the "cattle-call". I was the guy who 'knew somebody' that assisted in getting the job for me. He knew Dusty was looking for someone, and said i know the perfect guy. I did witness a few tryout guys, but they let them throw about 5 pitches and called it wraps.

I will have golden memories for the rest of my days, i just wish they brought me back this year...those memories, wow...

Definitely no pension.

by HIGGY on Aug 29, 2007 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

How much did Glendon Rusch make?

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

HA! See my reply post to yours,

above.

LOL!

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Speaking of bunts

Rich Hill better be working on this right now, as I type.

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

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Some Long Faces

on the Brewers, like a team that's been whupped. It reminds me of the faces on the 2003 Cards in September after that fateful series mentioned in the post. I wouldn't mind seeing that look again on the Cards when they come to visit Wrigley in September.

Thanks to whoever posted the link for the SOPcast on a previous post. While the feed gets broken sometimes, it beats the Gameday boxscore and diamond.

Pie, Fontenot, Theriot and Soto up the middle ... yippie oh, oh, oh!

by SpudV on Aug 29, 2007 9:43 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

different situation

That 2003 Cards team was supposed to win. This one has no business even sniffing contention. Which is just to say I don't think they'll have long faces if they lose. This Cards team has nothing to lose.

But if the Cubs can't beat this Cardinals team, it doesn't speak well of the Cubs. Braden Looper? Kip Wells? Yeesh.

by raisin on Aug 29, 2007 9:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

SackMan vs Girlfriend

Last night's line...

After a week-long road trip (which left the SackMan mighty antsy), the girlfriend opened the series at home last night.

Almost zero patience at the plate... but another MVP-type performance. 3 for 3 with a grandslam, and a HR in early BP this morning.

Plus, the GF watched the game with me last night!

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:46 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Wow...

Great to hear.

Zero patience at the plate is always a good thing, look at JJ last night!

By far the best thing of the night is that she watched the game with you!

by HIGGY on Aug 29, 2007 9:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

She's goin with me to the game on Saturday

It will be her first game ever!

Was gonna take her during the last homestand, but I decided against it due to the crappy rainy weather.

She got a cute little Cubs tank-top and everything... can't wait!

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Rich Hill

Pitched a great game last night. ( His bunting notwithstanding) I think 8 of the 9 strikeouts came on fast balls. At least five of those people were sitting on a curve ball and flailing miserably at a ball past them in the zone. It was good to see. He totally deserved the win and I'm glad he got it.

"I can't be held responsible for what I personally tell my goons to do...."- C. Montgomery Burns

by yahoodi on Aug 29, 2007 9:49 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Also of note...

... Howry was consistently throwing 94, 95 MPH last night. All six of Gross' foul balls were on fastballs; he finally got him out on a slider.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That at-bat scared the heck out of me

Anytime a guy keeps fouling the ball of like that... it almost always seems to end with a hit.

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 9:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Howry seems

to have gotten stronger as the year has gone on. that's a pleasant surprise for a reliever who has tossed a lot of innings the last few years.

The pitch he got him out on was a splitter, and it was not the greatest location, but it got the job done. If Howry could ever develop a good change, or command that splitter, he would be more effective then he already is.

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

by MPH73 on Aug 29, 2007 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Howry

It seems like Howry has been much better since Dempster was injured. He did a decent job closing and it seems to have helped his confidence.

by montanacubby on Aug 29, 2007 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Splitter

According to the trib article, it was a splitter, not a slider.

Howry threw 11 straight fastballs before retiring Gross on a splitter that he had hung.

"He got himself out on that one," Howry said, "because it wasn't a good enough pitch to say I got him out."

Not that it really matters. The change in speeds finally got Gross. I thought it was a changeup myself.

Cubs fan since forever Live Cubs Chat with no refresh required

by roscoevillage on Aug 29, 2007 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Mike Maddux comments on Sheets

are that his last simulated game had good velocity but only "decent location." I hope the Cubs are real patient at the plate tonight and work counts. Hopefully we can get him over 90 pitches in 5 innings and get into that Brewer bullpen early. Go Z!!

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 29, 2007 9:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

And the 2007 Cubs MVP is...

...the nameless, faceless Trib exec who quashed the Jacque Jones trade to the Florida Marlins. And who says the guys in suits don't care about winning?

My Wife: Who's that guy?

Me: Jacque Jones

My Wife: He's cute. He has a nice smile.

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 29, 2007 9:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Man, that girl

has gotta be sore, Sacky. Might want to take it easy before you or her both pull somethin'. Then again, maybe pulling things is the whole point, eh?

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

by Kegler on Aug 29, 2007 10:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Lest us not forget

that the key to the win last night was the removal of Suppan, who had really bottled us up with his 87mph heater through 7.1.

They had managed three singles up until this point.

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

by TheEman on Aug 29, 2007 10:03 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Zambrano

I'm still concerned that Z is not scheduled to pitch against the Birds. They need to juggle the rotation somehow & get him at least one start. He has always thrown well against them. We HAVE to take that series in St.L. Anybody see a way to get him in it?

by KedzieKid on Aug 29, 2007 10:07 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Simply put the Cubs need to win 18 more games

18 out of 32...(18-14 right now) puts them at 85 wins, which is the outer limit of the Cardinals capability. To reach 85 games Cards need to win 21 out 34 (21-13).

Forget matching up with the Cards...Cubs play 24 days in a row, (25 games) counting yesterday. Cardinals are worse....they have no off day here on out....plus must still travel to AZ and make up two away games during long road trips, Chi & NY.

All the Cubs need to do is win baby win, either take away games or put pressure and pull away. Let me ask, what do you propose to do without an off day to change the rotation? Start Gallagher against whom and when?

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 29, 2007 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fans

Anyone else sit near right/center in the bleachers? Some pretty obnoxious fans there...both brewers and cubs. One of them (a brewers fan) took up about three to four seats due to his size. He was beligerantly drunk, swearing, fighting, throwing food at other fans, and continually bothering the 13 year-old girl next to him (I felt very bad for her). I believe they actually tried to throw him out, but security seemed a bit nervous of him due to his massive size and therefore did very little to stop him from ruining the game for everyone within 15 rows.

Ok, just had to vent about that guy; he was miserable, not to mention gross to look at. I've been going to the bleachers for a long time and I can say he was one of the worst drunks/"fans" I've ever seen.

Let's go Z!

by 10 14 23 26 on Aug 29, 2007 10:12 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

It's been a while

since I've seen one of those obnoxious MLB "October" advertisements with Dane Cook that featured the Milwaukee Brewers. I wonder if they retired it.

by cubsbak on Aug 29, 2007 10:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

But

The Cubs one is cool. "Start to chatter"...."But these Cubs don't care about any of that, they want a ring".

At the end of that commercial I'm pumping the fist. Good stuff.

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 29, 2007 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: But

I've never seen the Cubs one. Naturally, I find the Brewers one really annoying, too. And to be honest Dane Cook's charm has worn off on me. I think he's gotten a bit overexposed.

My Wife: Who's that guy?

Me: Jacque Jones

My Wife: He's cute. He has a nice smile.

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 29, 2007 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The guy

is a talentless hack.

by cubsbak on Aug 29, 2007 12:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I've been searching

youtube, but have not been able to find the cubs commercial. Would love to see it.

Bulls 402 ta zip... but Micheal Jordan will be held to under 200 points. - Todd O'Connor

by Lou In Blue on Aug 29, 2007 1:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I haven't seen it

I would just watch the Brewers one and get pissed off. Nice to know they did one for the Cubs, even though I can't stand Dane Cook.

by cubsbak on Aug 29, 2007 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Many thoughts....

Cubs showed that their defense is one of the difference makers with a pair of plays by Theriot and a slick DP initiated by DeRosa for inning ender. The OF was vanilla since Hill KO'd 9 out 21 outs. The Brewers on the other hand did not make the plays as Kendall legged out a double when Mench clutched and shuffled his feet on the throw to 2nd base, Hardy who was unable to make the play at SS on DeRosa's infield hit, and Linebrink's error in the 7th allowing the Cubs to score the eventual winning run.

Hill seemed mentally ready last night using his fast ball far more effectively going inside and out and especially working up the ladder that seems to be effective for him since he has the big whooping crane delivery. The curve served well...another quality start 16 out of 25 for the #3 starter. I especially liked Hill picking up Kendall for the first run for the Cubs.

Offensively the Cubs are becoming a big inning team bunching hits together. The crowd definitely has that playoff fever feel to it as it comes across the MLB rebroadcast very well. This feel will continue to build with each pitch and each AB.

As for Soriano I think he needs a week before he gets all the cob webs out. Good to see him in there for he pushes the bench deeper. Although I think Piniella might consider substituting Monroe in for Soriano late in a ball game defensively like he does Floyd, a healthier OF'er might have caught Fielder's duck snort in the 8th inning.

Finally Dempster sure quietly has become consistent again, 3 up 3 down.

Tonight look for Zambrano to be more focused work on being workmanlike as the Venz. press has returned after following him around in SF and AZ. As for Sheets I cannot see him going beyond the 6th inning so the Cubs should be in the Brewers weak bullpen early. As for the Cubs their bullpen lines up with a fresh Marmol, Wuertz, Wood and possibly Eyre who now has the Piniella seal of approval. I don't see a change in the lineup unless Soriano tightened up tonight.

A win tonight and you can almost order the Brewers done medium well for September where I could see the new ownership even firing Yost and Maddux. Too bad, they have a real good farm program but the young team is so weak defensively and short of effective pitching they remind me of the Cincinnati Reds, big offense worse defense.

A win tonight and Thursday day game could see the Cubs rest Ramirez, Floyd and Kendall. Yost says he is going to pitch a LH'er out of the pen. He is grasping for straws with these two starters (Sheets and a no-name).

As for the Cardinals and Cubs. Cubs simply have to play solid baseball this homestand, going a minimum of 6-4, 7-3 would be better of course 8-2 is not to be expected so let us stop there. Tonight the Cardinals face Oswalt with their Kip Wells. If Houston is going to win a game in that series it will tonight for their new manager. Look for an Astros win. BTW that means that Cubs will not face Oswalt in Chicago.

Good time to be a Cub fan.

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 29, 2007 10:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Thurs night

the Brewers are throwing Manny Parra a 93 MPH lefty. Just as I predicted a month ago, teams will find lefties to throw at us given our awful record against lefties. Yost mentioned our record against lefties in picking Parra for Thursday. The best way to solve this problem is to start beating guys like Parra. Starting Thursday. First things, first, let's pound Sheets...Ben Sheets that is. :-)

Prince Fielder...he is neither.

by LAcarl519 on Aug 29, 2007 10:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

SackMan is the one pounding the sheets now.

That's what he wrote above. ;-)

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 29, 2007 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

LOL

Gotta find a pitcher named couch too.

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Uecker may be funny

and a good sport. I like him enough. But the undisputed crown of self-deprecating humor must go to Mr. Rodney Dangerfield. Yeah, he's dead, but I bet he's got some one-liners about that, too. And no matter what my wife says, Back To School is frickin' classic piece of film making. Any movie with Vonnegut in it, along with a lengthy snippet being read from Joyce's Ulysses, is golden.

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

by Kegler on Aug 29, 2007 10:19 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Woody Allen wasn't bad

at that particular brand of comedy himself. His standup is still some of the best, smartest stuff ever. Not funny anymore but then, neither is Dangerfield.

by TR on Aug 29, 2007 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: Uecker may be funny

100% agree. Rodney was a comedy god, and "Back To School" is a classic. Quoth Rodney, "What's a bath without bubbles? Hey, Bubbles, get over here!"

My Wife: Who's that guy?

Me: Jacque Jones

My Wife: He's cute. He has a nice smile.

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 29, 2007 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

september

Oh Lord, he we go. This season is just amazing to this old Cub fan. One day I am convinced that they will fold (old habits) then life again. I am convinced as of this day, that this team has the ingrediant necessary to win the division. The brew Crew has no confidence and the Cards are short of that magic quality the Cubs seem to have. How far can we go? Only luck will tell. The reason for that last statement is, any fan knows that is a big part. The talent is there to WIN. God I love this team. SWEEP

our 99th year of rebuilding..and the last

by benjack on Aug 29, 2007 10:25 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I've got it

They have to use a 6th starter (Gallagher?, committee?) on Sept. 13th @ Houston. This would move Z to the next day to open the Birds series, with Lilly Marshall & Marquis to follow. They will HAVE to use a 6th guy once anyway since they play the day/night DH in St.L. on Sat. so, use him against the Astros & hope for the best.

by KedzieKid on Aug 29, 2007 10:28 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Great game but

The CONSISTANT inability of the Cubs to execute bunts is a HUGE problem. Regular BCB readers may note that I have been
ranting on this as well as the inability to get sacrifice flies in crucial situatioons ALL YEAR. Ok so I worship one of the best bunting pitchers of all time but guess what he STILL practices his bunts virtually every day he is not pitching and that after 20 years of doing it well. I don't watch batting practice but how often does anyone see the pitchers practicing bunts , or god forbid the postition players. Bunting is a skill that can be improved on with practice. It does not require you to be a great or even good hitter but you MUST practice. My guess is that the lack of ability of Cubs to bunt starts in the minors and continues on up. I am feeling good about the team overall but very disappointed that Lou has not practiced the fundementals that he supposedly preaches.

"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 29, 2007 10:33 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Preaching is one thing...

... and we don't know how often they work on bunting in BP.

Executing it in game situations is still another story.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

but you can't execute what you don't know

Al
You sit out there for nearly every home batting practice.
How often do you see the pitchers or positon players practicing their bunts? How often to the pitchers even take BP at all? Overall the Cubs pitchers seem to bat better than most but there is simply no excuse for their bad bunting. Also I disagree with your inference that in effect more practice would not make them better in game situations, I believe it would. I believe there is a strong connection between Maddux being a great bunter and the fact that he still practices it and takes a LOT of BP ( pretty much all the coaches will allow him). You do not have to be a great hitter to be a great bunter but you do need to practice as much as possible. Keep an eye out and tell us next time you see bunting practice.

"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 29, 2007 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Practice is important

with bunting skills, no doubt. What we don't know, is if they are working on this before anyone is in the ballpark, and you just don't see it.

One final note, bunting is also made much more difficult if you are facing a certain type of pitcher, or if they execute their pitches well. Suppan, did a good job of starting out high with Hill (toughest pitch to bunt) and then moving low to make him adjust. On Sunday the Dbacks reliever, was exceptionally difficult to bunt against with his exploding fastball that was typically at the letters. Sometimes, the pitchers don't get enouph credit, for making it difficult for the hitter to put down a good bunt.

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

by MPH73 on Aug 29, 2007 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

DeRosa was on ESPN

a few days ago and he admitted they never practice bunting. I hope that changes after the last few games. The Cardinals get that bunt down every time, so should we.

by mgfabc on Aug 29, 2007 11:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just to amplify

Last year (2006) in Spring Training, the D'Backs brought in Brett Butler, widely considered the best bunter in baseball when he played, specifically as a bunting "guru" to work with the team on technique.

The overall team improvement was very noticeable. So, bunting proficiency CAN be taught and improved through instruction and practice.

Back in the day (when I played and coached) you were always required to lay down a bunt at the end of your time in the batting cage. And if someone had difficulty doing it, they were taken aside and worked with until they could do it in their sleep.

BTW, Butler was managing in AA (Mobile) this year, until he had a mild stroke. The last I heard he was recovering nicely.

by jazzman56 on Aug 29, 2007 12:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pitchers and bunting

They practice it every day during BP. The position players, not so much. Pretty much just the guys who have the ability to bunt for a base hit are practicing in BP.

"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 29, 2007 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: Great game but

I share your frustration but agree with Al. None of us really know how much or how little Lou has had the team working on fundamentals such as bunting.

I'd also point out that the Cubs have had at least two successful squeeze bunts this season.

My Wife: Who's that guy?

Me: Jacque Jones

My Wife: He's cute. He has a nice smile.

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 29, 2007 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Bunting is evil!

Hill has shown that he can hit, if not exactly above the Mendoza Line. Let him swing away.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 29, 2007 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

It's not only the Cubs.

Bunting is a lost habit in the Majors nowadays. I think the reason is the use of the DH and the aluminum bat in a lot of minor categories. It's a sure bet if the manager sits back and waits for the HR. By the time you get to the NL it's too late to learn.

by Fraggin Judge on Aug 29, 2007 10:38 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Not to contradict your point,

Jessica, but I've thought the Cubs have done a much better job at sacrificing this season that many recent years. There's been marked improvement. Can we still get better? Of course, and I think Lou is working on it. That said, some players may need more BP time, as you suggest, Hill definitely one of them.

My biggest gripe along these lines is still patience at the plate and being more selective. I see that as a big problem yet. How many walks did we draw last night? One? Ugh. Base-clogging = wins.

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

by Kegler on Aug 29, 2007 10:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

In fairness...

... I thought the strike zone last night was awfully odd. Cub pitchers didn't walk anyone, either.

Two more walks and the Cubs will have walked more than they did all last year.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 10:44 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

My problem with bunting

It seems that some of the pitchers (notably Lilly, Marquis, and Hill in recent starts) have failed to get bunts down in situations that could've led to big innings, i.e. 1st and 2nd nobody out. In my opinion, the one thing a starting pitcher should have mastered is the art of laying down a sacrifice. That's a big reason why I have little empathy for Hill and Lilly when the old run support argument comes up. They've had chances to help themselves in several starts this year, and failed miserably because they didn't get a sac down.

On another note, how big is the inability of Kendall to get down the sac on Sunday ? Right now, it is quite possibly the difference between a 2 game lead over STL and a 3 game lead.

by scotteboy on Aug 29, 2007 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Woody Allen

is great in many ways, and the self-deprecating style is one of them. But I always consider Woody more of a neurotic, bumbling, intellectual-type of humor. There's a dark side to that humor as well, as seen in much of his non-comedic work like Crimes and Misdemeanors, Hannah and Her Sisters, and his latest, Matchpoint (if I recall).

Dangerfield was the best of the last 20-30 years at the type of humor we're talking about. Henny Youngman was probably just as good, but he was a little (ok, a lot) before my time. He was the heavyweight champ of one-liners though. Not a lot of comics doing that style these days, at least not doing it effectively.

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

by Kegler on Aug 29, 2007 10:45 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Hannah and Her Sisters is non-comedic?

You might want to go watch it again. And I was referring to Allen's standup, not his films. His standup is an intellectual cousin to Dangerfield and Youngman's. And more impressively, he wrote all of his own material. Not so of the other two. They just did one liners. Some are hilarious, yes. But in the end their acts were simply an endless recitation of one-liners that would have been just as at home in the vaudeville of the 1930s as it was in the Catskills of the 1960s.

by TR on Aug 29, 2007 12:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Not saying

that Hannah is non-comedic per se, because it has it's comedic moments. But compared to Allen's more-or-less straight comedies, it's a drama. All of his work, even Crimes, has comedic moments here and there. That's what's great about Allen, or one of the things at least.

I totally agree in regards to your standup comments, although I don't remember how much assistance Dangerfield or Youngman had with their material, especially Youngman. Being a writer/teacher of composition myself, I'm partial to Woody as well because he's such a great writer, whether it's essay, fiction, or film. He's the most talented, by far, of the three we're talking about. My initial point stands, however, that Dangerfield was "the best" at self-deprecation.

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

by Kegler on Aug 29, 2007 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

For non-comedic Woody see Interiors,

his homage to Bergman. So devoid of even a hint of something funny, it makes an actual Bergman film seem like Animal House.

by TR on Aug 29, 2007 2:19 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Match Point is a very good movie.

n/t

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

by Imtrejo on Aug 29, 2007 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

From Back to School:

When Rodney's trying to get a date with his lit professor and she's got to teach:

"Well, why don't you call me some time when you have no class?"

Also gotta love the idea that Vonnegut would get an F on a report written about himself! I laugh just thinking about it.

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

by Kegler on Aug 29, 2007 10:49 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

re: From Back to School:

Yup.

"Hey, Kurt, do you read lips? F*** you!"

My Wife: Who's that guy?

Me: Jacque Jones

My Wife: He's cute. He has a nice smile.

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 29, 2007 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

in reference to your sig

I notice that he is always has a smile on his face. Weather he hits a homer or gets a walk, or gets out. Kinda of reminds me of Pedro Sorano in major league 2. lol

by Kchance on Aug 29, 2007 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

or was it

cerano? idk but u guys no who im talkin bout

by Kchance on Aug 29, 2007 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

He either smiles...

or pouts like a biyatch

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 12:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Couldn't find the post above

but how funny to see jacob and TheJay whining about the booing of Ueker. What a joke! I suppose I would be moaning too though about anything I could if I were them.

A "real class act we are" people! I'm sure Ueker could care less...oh well, kinda funny really.

MMMMM...Mannys corned beef and a latke

by Kinky Reggae on Aug 29, 2007 11:42 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Catching another rotation break

Oswalt who is a a VERY good pitcher for a BAD team goes against the Cards tonight which means he won't pitch against the Cubs this weekend. Oswalt is 13-6 for a team that is 16 games under and has been unhittable for his last few starts.
I am sure Roy will be sorry to miss all his old friends on the Cubs

I meant to post this a few days back but seemed not to go through so apologies if it is a duplicate.

"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 29, 2007 11:56 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs

not that it matters, but...

with regard to this:

Linebrink bobbled the ball long enough for Jones to score; he was given an error (a tough error, I thought, as he made extraordinary effort just to get to the ball)

at the pinnacle of linebrink's jump, the ball made contact with the heel of his glove...more a poorly timed leap rather than an extraordinary effort.

"If you'da been thinkin you wouldn't 'a thought that." ~~ "Squints" Palledorous

by rm463 on Aug 29, 2007 12:13 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Still...

... had he not leaped, the ball would have gone over his head for an infield hit. It should have been a hit.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 12:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Disagree

That's a ball that a major leaguer should be able to field. I don't even think he needed to jump. It looked like he was hurrying more than he needed to, probably because of Theriot's speed. The ball bounced off the heel of his glove.

by cubsbak on Aug 29, 2007 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

That's what I thought

I was watching the game with the sound off and I assumed it would be rule an infield single.

by John Q Freejazz on Aug 29, 2007 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

compare apples to apples

Was Hill given an error on his come backer that hit his glove and bounded to DeRosa?

The pitcher is on uneven ground is less than 60 feet away and must time himself in an instant....it was a hit....it would have been a hit if a high bounder bounced off the 3B....

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 29, 2007 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

True, but...

You don't see an error called on a pitcher often on a play that he has to do anything but simply field the ball.

Sure he mistimed his jump, but to properly time a leap when you only 50+ feet infront of the plate and coming out of your follow through is pretty tough.

I'd have given Theriot the RBI.

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 29, 2007 12:44 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

One more thing

One statistical thing that has always bugged me.

Why is it that when a player reaches on an error he is penalized with an 0-1, no different than if he had been out. In my opinion, those plays should go down as a non-at bat, similar to a walk. Sure, there are the straight up botched plays (easy grounder through the 1B legs). But there are also an awful lot of errors on hard/weirdly hit balls, and/or a hustling runner who makes a fielder rush a throw, etc. I say give the hitter some credit

Eamus Ursuli!

by WGNstatic on Aug 29, 2007 12:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

What bugs me....

...is how much time baseball fans spend worrying about the error.

"Hitters should get credit for forcing the error!"

"That shouldn't have been an error!"

"That should have been an error!"

So many times, fans from both sides will complain about the scoring of errors. And yet just try to convince people that errors are a bad fielding metric. That they don't matter.

It's so frustrating.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 29, 2007 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

No error

I would not have given the pitcher an error, for this reason:

That ball was slow enough, and Theriot is fast enough, that if Linebrink doesn't get a glove on it, then Theriot is safe and the Cubs score. The second baseman doesn't have time to get to it.

If he catches it and throws Theriot out, it's a great play. If he whiffs altogether, Theriot is safe, the run scores, but no error.

I don't think you should give guys errors for NOT making great plays.

by lancaster99 on Aug 29, 2007 12:57 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

The official scorer disagreed.

And what you're bringing up is essentially the biggest arguement against the error (or at least the simplest): you can't make an error if you're nowhere near the ball. It in some ways penalizes guys who hustle extra to make plays or guys with better range.

Which is why arguing about whether or not the error was deserved is missing the forest for the trees, in my opinion. The error doesn't tell us anything! Over the course of the season, so many errors that could be called are called hits, and vice versa. It's up to the whimsy of dozens of different official scorers and what mood they're in that day. It's meaningless.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 29, 2007 1:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

And in the scheme of things, whether or not Theriot gets another RBI to wave around at contract time, or whether Linebrink gets a few hundredths added to his ERA, is meaningless.

(Which reminds me, errors by the pitcher should COUNT toward ERA, but that's another rant...)

But, either it's right or it isn't.

I don't believe Linebrink should get an error. And conversely, I think Theriot should be remembered as getting a timely, well-placed hit and beating out a ground ball, rather than saying he reached because of failure by the other team.

At the end of the day, it doesn't matter. Stockton gets all his assists, regardless of how many times he dumped the ball in to Malone and watched him make 17 moves to score.

Warner gets 41 TD passes in a year, even though some of them came from Faulk going 80 yards after a dump-off pass.

You're right. Forest, trees. I'm just in a tree-mood today.

by lancaster99 on Aug 29, 2007 1:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Once upon a time...

...the walk was considered a battery error. You could walk 14 straight batters without recording an earned run.

Ah, Henry Chadwick... your greatness is only exceeded by your mistakes.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 29, 2007 1:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You're right in what you said...

... that the error doesn't really tell us that much.

However, THAT error made the final two runs against Linebrink unearned -- thus having a fairly significant effect on his ERA.

That's the real impact of such a play; it affects pitching records as well as fielding records. ISTR a play a number of years ago where a hit was changed to an error after the game had ended, thus making NINE runs charged to Curt Schilling unearned rather than earned.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 1:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

This is why...

...RA is better than ERA, IMHO. And I'd rather invest my effort into finding the better alternative to the ERA, not into arguing individual errors. The earned run and the error are wildly flawed. We're seeing right here that official scorers are not, exactly, the best judges of such things. So why keep relying upon them?

It's like if you're driving around a '77 AMC Gremlin, and it starts making bad noises. You can sit there figuring out if the transmission belt is at fault, or you can wonder why the hell you're still driving a Gremlin. The problem isn't the fact that Scott Linebrink was able to keep two earned runs off his ERA, it's the fact that the voters for awards need to find the cluetrain and stop looking at errors.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 29, 2007 1:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Exactly!

n/t

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

You can watch...

...the whole inning here (if I have my linking mojo right). The Linebrink play happens around 13:30.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 29, 2007 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I watched it again.

I still think if Linebrink doesn't leap, it goes over his head for an infield hit.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'll admit that when it happened...

...my heart just about stopped, as I thought Linebrink was going to come up with it. It would've been a stellar play if he'd come up with it, in my mind.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 29, 2007 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Exactly why it should have been an error.

It could not have been made with ordinary effort.

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

by Al on Aug 29, 2007 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

White man can't jump

but he was off balanced and ill-timed, tough play....should have been a hit.

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 29, 2007 2:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Fielding a high hopper

off of the pitchers mound is much tougher than it looks. I have to agree, it should have been a hit.

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

by MPH73 on Aug 29, 2007 2:23 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

re: Fielding a high hopper

This is precisely the point that (IIRC) Don Plesac brought up during the post-game. Because the pitcher's mound is sloped, if you leave your feet, you come back down on uneven ground. It's very distracting.

If Linebrink had made that play, it would have been a Web Gem for sure.

My Wife: Who's that guy?

Me: Jacque Jones

My Wife: He's cute. He has a nice smile.

by dat cubfan daver on Aug 29, 2007 3:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes Dan

did say that.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 29, 2007 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

lineup

Any word on a lineup for tonight's game?

by TheRiot4Life on Aug 29, 2007 12:36 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Some love for Al

And I'm not just sucking up so he doesn't ban me when I go on a rant during the Cards-Cubs series...

I just went to the Brew Crew Ball blog. It is lousy. Just win-expectancy nonsense and minor league goofiness.

They should be talking all things Yost and pulling Suppan, not giving me binary code for what a computer thinks after Jacque Jones knocked in the tying run.

Sheesh, we've got it good here, compared to some of the sister sites.

by lancaster99 on Aug 29, 2007 12:53 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

amen

I second that...some of these other blogs are nonsense...I stumbled upon this site about two months ago and now I am a regular visitor...Thanks Al!!!!

by TheRiot4Life on Aug 29, 2007 1:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I enjoy win expectancy graphs...

...personally.

No, what annoys me about Brew Crew Ball currently is that they have proportionately about twice as many amateur sabermetricians there as we do, and yet not one of them can bother to cough out the words "pythagorean win expectation" in the past few days.

Geez, I wonder why.

FREE CARMEN PIGNATIELLO!

by cwyers on Aug 29, 2007 1:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

cards

The Cards scare me, as much as I cant find any reason other the #5 of why they are competitive, the are right in the mix and dont appear to be going anywhere. I try not to give credit to the Redbirds, but they get alot out of seemingly nothing.

by bigzaccountant on Aug 29, 2007 1:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Cards

Their bullpen has been strong all season. They are getting good starts from Looper,Wainwright, & Pineiro, Molina is having a career year. Isringhausen is one of the top 5 closers in the league. Their stats are misleading, because when they lose, they usually get clobbered, but then they win three or four close low-run games.

by KedzieKid on Aug 29, 2007 2:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

7th Inning Memories

"In the seventh inning last night, when the up-till-then quiescent Cubs began what was to be their game-winning rally, the chant "Let's Go Cubbies" sprung up, and last night sounded different than any time I think I've ever heard that chant before. It was more urgent, more plaintive, as if everyone, standing in a near-playoff atmosphere, felt that they themselves could push the Cubs to victory simply by shouting those words." -- These opening comments of Al's immediately took me on a trip down memory lane to Monday, Sept. 10, 1984.

The Cubs had just lost 2 of 3 to the 2nd place Mets in NY narrowing our lead to 6 games and raising again the ugly ghosts of '69. This Monday afternoon the Cubs were playing the Phils and were down 2-0 going to the bottom of the 7th when that magic "something" happened.

In unison, everyone in the ballpark, all 26.083 of us, rose to our feet simultaneously and began cheering and screaming as the leadoff hitter, Ron Cey, stepped to the plate against ex-Met Jerry Koosman. The noise was deafening and my Dad and I literally had chills going up and down our necks. We'd never, ever, heard the ballpark as wild before or since -- the energy and urgency were just incredible.

The Cubs proceeded to score 3 runs in the inning while everyone kept yelling at the tops of our lungs -- with the Cubs winning by a final of 3-2. I am convinced to this day the fans simply willed the Cubs to victory that day ... In my mind that game got the Cubs over that final hump for winning the division and maybe, just maybe, Al, that's something like what you felt last night at the old ballpark, too.

by wrigley1 on Aug 29, 2007 2:05 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Attendance

Can you believe only 26,083 showing up for a game in mid-September at Wrigley with the Cubs leading the division by six games? Times sure have changed since '84 ....

by wrigley1 on Aug 29, 2007 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Awesome story. Just awesome.

My closest feeling to that came in the bottom of the 9th vs Colorado. Although... not a full ballpark at the time, because many fans had left before the ninth as we were ahead by 5 runs. Then, another bunch left after the top of the ninth as we were suddenly losing.

But those of us remaining were on our feet with the same will... as we miraculously came back to win. Incredible. I hope to experience the same with a full crowd befoe the season is over.

1-RUN GAMES = 16-19 | EXTRA INNINGS = 2-7 | HOME = 34-31 | updated on 8/29

by SackMan on Aug 29, 2007 2:14 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm stoked

for the game tonight. I hope Z brings his A game too.

I love this team!!!!!

by sue369 on Aug 29, 2007 2:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

I have seen

Interiors. Good call. It's been awhile and that one skipped my mind. I would love to have seen Bergman do Animal House. That's hilarious.

Woody seems to be a very divisive person; either you love him or you hate him. Several people I know just don't like him at all, but my wife and I have always loved his work. One of our faves, whether it's comedy or drama, or just one of his essays.

Speaking of film, TR, are you a fan of Lynch, Gilliam, Wes Anderson, or Solondz? Some of my other "working" faves.

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

by Kegler on Aug 29, 2007 2:31 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Sorry, had to chime in

Did you see 'Ottoman Empire'? It stopped off at the Music Box, with Lynch introducing it.

One of the more painful experiences I ever had. It could be that it was shot on a PD-150 and blown up. It could've been the painfully uncomfortable seats at the Music Box. Or it could've just been the very hard to watch crap on the screen, I don't know.

'Mullholand Drive' was great, I like 'Wild at Heart'. But I nearly broke my head against a wall as I sat through 'Easerhead'.

Gilliam is great, but 'Brothers Grimm' is none too good. Seen 'Lost in Lamancha'? That thing made me weep for him. 'Brazil', 'Time Bandits' and 'Munchausen' are brilliant though.

I love Wes Anderson.

When was the last Solondz movie? I still haven't seen 'Storytelling'. But 'Happiness' and 'Welcome to the Dollhouse' are great.

I'm partial to Gondry, as 'Eternal Sunshine' I thought was amazing. And 'Be Kind, Rewind' looks to be absolutely fantastic.

by WittyUserName on Aug 29, 2007 3:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Isn't it "Inland Empire"

Not "Ottoman Empire"?

I haven't seen it yet, but I'm glad you're bringing down my expectations a bit. I love me some David Lynch, usually even the ones others don't like.

I still argue that "Lost Highway" is better than "Mulholland Drive", but almost everyone I else I know thinks the opposite.

by SuperContext on Aug 29, 2007 4:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah, I like all the usual suspects.

Always look forward to the Coen Bros. films, too. Anderson and them are among the only people allowed to make comedies for adults.

Lynch is the only one I'm not wild about but I did love Blue Velvet when it came out. Also liked Citizen Ruth and Election from Alexander Payne.

I used to love Woody Allen but he's just not very funny anymore. Bullets Over Broadway is the last one of his I saw that I laughed consistently at. It wasn't inspired like Annie Hall, Manhattan or Hannah And Her Sisters but then, he shouldn't have to make a masterpiece every time out. Just wish his comedies weren't painful now. Plus, some people don't like him because of the whole marrying his daughter thing.

by TR on Aug 29, 2007 10:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs