A Little Perspective, Please
Six days ago all of us were reveling in the fact that the Cubs had moved percentage points ahead of the Brewers into first place; they even moved the flag on the scoreboard to the top spot.
So why now is there so much angst? The Cubs lost 5-2 to the Astros last night, and looked bad doing it; but with the Brewers blowing a 3-run lead and losing big in Colorado, 11-4, giving the Rockies two five-run innings in the process, the Cubs remain this morning only one game out of first place, still even in the loss column.
There are fifty games remaining; the Cubs have a 58-54 record. If they can go 30-20 -- and they've played better than this over a previous 50-game period this year -- I believe that, which would result in 88 wins, would be enough to win the Central.
They're not going to do it playing the way they did last night, though. I'm kind of tired of reading articles like this one which blame the last two losses on the loss of Alfonso Soriano. Soriano hasn't hit that much since the All-Star break, and he doesn't appear to have "40-40" in him this year.
Would Soriano have made a difference in the first inning last night? No, because Ryan Theriot led off the game with a walk. When was the last time you saw Soriano do that? The failure was in the middle of the order. You might say that missing Aramis Ramirez last night was at fault, but the bottom line is -- other players have to step up; everyone knows Ramirez has to sit from time to time because of his knee troubles. The Cubs could have had Woody Williams out of the game early; scoring only one run out of a bases-loaded, nobody-out situation is asking for the momentum to shift, and it did.
Sean Marshall threw well enough; Kerry Wood allowed two of his inherited runners to score, so even though Wood's ERA remains at zero, and the boxscore says the bullpen did a good job, it really didn't. Had Wood been able to retire Carlos Lee and Ty Wigginton, the Cubs would have pulled to within 3-2 on Matt Murton's subsequent HR and perhaps, then, would have been able to come back.
I hate the pulled-in infield, incidentally. How many times have you actually seen that work? And how many times have you seen a hitter slap a ball that would have resulted in an out if the infielder had been in his normal position, right through? Are you telling me that a shortstop couldn't throw to the plate from twenty feet further back? I wish Lou would stop doing this.
There isn't much more to say, other than that Eric Patterson got his first major league hit, a bloop over Astros SS Eric Bruntlett's outstretched glove. He also struck out twice. That isn't necessarily an indictment of him, as the rest of the team struck out eleven times. Still, I'm not sure that he's the answer to anything at this point. The Sun-Times recap linked above says:
And Hendry said only that he and his staff are working the waiver wires for possible help.
Well, at least they're thinking about acquiring someone. I'm still on the Jose Cruz bandwagon -- I know some of you have scoffed at that notion, but the guy can play all three OF positions, has a bit of power, and will draw walks. He was released, thus could be acquired for nothing. If he's terrible, just release him again. I also know the Cubs have had some interest in Jonny Gomes; Gomes, too, has some power (13 HR this season so far in 199 AB) and had a big game last night, 3-for-4 with a HR and 4 RBI. I don't have any specific knowledge, but I imagine Gomes has cleared waivers and the Cubs could get him if they really wanted him, though Tampa Bay has been in the past difficult to deal with.
So, tonight Carlos Zambrano has to, once again, play the role of "stopper", this time stopping a three-game losing streak, the team's first in two months.
Notes: Will Ohman claims he's hurt and thus shouldn't have been sent down. Note, though:
So -- this was only an issue AFTER you were sent down, Will? Read between the lines and you'll find the real reason:
Well, waah, waah, waah, Will. You mean with that $2.5 million, two-year deal you signed last year, you couldn't have bought a couple of plane tickets for your kids to see their grandparents?
This team is better off without him, for quite a number of different reasons, it would seem.
After the Cub game ended I flipped on the end of the White Sox/Indians game to hear how Steve Stone fit in with that other guy they have in the booth. Surprisingly, Stone seemed at ease, and did one of the things he does best -- called a couple of pitch sequences perfectly. Stone will be calling Sox games the rest of this week, as Darrin Jackson is in Arizona with his wife, who had their fourth child yesterday. If you don't live in the Chicago area and want to hear Stone, the Sox game vs. the Mariners on Saturday at 6:05 CT will be on WGN.
Finally, I have only this to say about Barry Bonds' breaking of Hank Aaron's HR record last night: Bonds now has hit the most home runs in major league history. But that does not make him the greatest HR hitter. There's a difference. This massively talented individual, who was a first-ballot Hall of Famer before he (allegedly) took a single steroid, has always been a great baseball player. If only he'd accomplished this feat without a cloud of suspicion over his head, I'd be more willing to celebrate this historic event. Instead, I simply note, as I did when he hit HR #752 and #753 at Wrigley Field last month, that we are witnesses to history.
Now let's get back into first place tonight.
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230 comments
Comments
Gomes
by gary varsho on Aug 8, 2007 8:53 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I imagine...
by Al on Aug 8, 2007 8:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
All for it
Also, I would kind of be suprised if he cleared waivers. He's a powerful right handed bat who takes walks and played a serviceable outfield. Of course he strikes out a lot as well. But, and I may be (and probably am) wrong here but I think he still probably makes close to the league min. If he did clear waivers, he is without a doubt the one we should target.
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are not wrong...
If he did make it here, I'd expect he'd see a lot of RF. Floyd is just not getting it done these days, and it may be that the wear and tear of a 162 game season is too much for him at this point.
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gomes is a much better
Cruz's career is toast. He hit, oh, about .600 in April, and about .120 since. Had he been able to hit, at least .260, there's no way the Padres release him, and take a flyer on the troubled Milton Bradley, (who's been injured more than he's been in the line-up) and scrub Scott Hairston (Who promptly hits 3 sucessive HR's, tying a team record. That means the 99-cent store shopping can help for a game or two, but that's about it.)
No Cruz Jr. Please.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 8, 2007 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
a little perspective my butt.
seriously though. a 3 game losing streak, though frustrating, is far from the end of the world. Obviously it would be nice to have gained ground on the Brew Crew, but it hasn't happened. They will get it together here. We all just need to take deep cleansing breath and relax. Things will be ok.
by mike on Aug 8, 2007 8:58 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
"Perspective" amplification
A few more runs scored here and there would be nice. A little bit of a pitching improvement likewise.
3 games isn't the end of the world, a few more and then it will be time for the nerves...
by MN exile on Aug 8, 2007 10:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree, but...
They need a very good game tonight so they can get back to the business of GOOD baseball, or the last two months of this season could look a lot more like the first two than the past two.
by STLCubFan on Aug 8, 2007 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is not last year.
Take a few deep breaths, dude...
by MN exile on Aug 8, 2007 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm still optimistic...
by STLCubFan on Aug 8, 2007 2:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
On Bonds...
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 9:02 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I was asleep when it happened.
by Al on Aug 8, 2007 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al: did you see the post/article I put up
by LAcarl519 on Aug 8, 2007 11:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I felt the same way
by pageian on Aug 8, 2007 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ohman
by rgonzale on Aug 8, 2007 9:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I dont want to be that guy but...
Dont take this as doom and gloom, as i have stated before i think Lou is a motivating coach as oppose to Dusty's laid back attitude, and hopefully Lou can get these guys focused and back on a hot streak.
PS - i am a supporter of Jones as we all know, but that was absolutel unbelievable last night in the first inning. A pitcher walks 3 in the inning and you go up there hacking at the first pitch. Not good.
by HIGGY on Aug 8, 2007 9:07 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
You are right..
by cubsnlinux on Aug 8, 2007 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jones gets a alot of hits
by MPH73 on Aug 8, 2007 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Patterson/Pie
With the huge OF of Colorado on the horizon, with Patterson not looking to be the answer and with the entire OF struggling, now is the time to recall Pie. Do whatever you want with the waiver-wire guys, but Pie should be brought up NOW.
by krummy12 on Aug 8, 2007 9:07 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Last night, left field...
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 9:13 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Fine
by krummy12 on Aug 8, 2007 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right, because Soriano only...
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well...
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 9:20 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Missed it
You can even take it further and say that he was fortunate that the 1B fumbled his bunt on Tuesday night because he bunted it way too hard. So, I'm not down on him, but...he's not ready to contribute based entirely on that small sample size.
It is also laughable to compare any of those guys to Soriano, a guy that no matter his numbers or production, perceived or otherwise, is respected at the plate by all major league pitchers. Something that can't quite be said for Patterson just yet. Until then, high fastballs all around.
by krummy12 on Aug 8, 2007 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's fine
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What's your point?
Soriano has 42 RBI this year, and at least 18 of those came on his own HR. So it's not like he's been hitting tons of clutch hits, either (especially lately).
Look, the team is clearly better off having Soriano on the team, because he's one of the more dangerous hitters. But based on the results last night, having him and not Murton/Patterson would not likely have made a difference. Over the course of a season, yes, Soriano is the better option. But last night, it didn't hurt us.
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well
My point, missed by a few of you, is that Pie belongs in CF, especially with Colorado on the horizon, and that Patterson belongs as a September callup. He isn't ready for major league duty on a semi-regular basis. It's not even really about offense. If they go into Colorado with Jones and Pagan in CF, the gaps will get a workout.
by krummy12 on Aug 8, 2007 9:27 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think
Should Pie be up instead of Patterson? Perhaps, but at the same time he didn't exactly do much with his opportunity besides with his defense. Last I checked, it's our offense which isn't doing the job.
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You could really use a bit of perspective.
At this point, personally I'd like to see an outfield of Patterson-Pie-Murton, although I'm enough of a realist to understand that it won't happen. But it doesn't really help Patterson develop -- and it wouldn't be great for Pie, either -- for the organization to get the notion that you can write a guy off after four at-bats.
So, seriously, could we give the rookie a chance? Is that SO much to ask? Because if it is, you can start to understand why Felix Pie isn't on the team; what would he do there? What good does it do everyone?
If you start putting the pressure on, they start pressing and they start getting away from what got them to the Show in the first place. It's stupid, stupid, stupid. And it's why Mark Grace will continue to be a punchline to a very sad joke about this organization.
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nothing in your previous post or this thread...
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Come on man
by krummy12 on Aug 8, 2007 11:38 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, you've got your threads confused
by BeerCub on Aug 8, 2007 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ohman
=========
Sure, well only one month and a half isn't going to cut it when the rest of the season was miserable..
by Chanman25 on Aug 8, 2007 9:17 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
The pulled-in infield didn't loose the game
by stelmodad on Aug 8, 2007 9:30 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Bonds and Al
Forgive me okay? Does it help to know I had to watch Barney this morning?
Al one of the reasons you make a great person to run this blog is your level headedness about things.
I'm afraid to walk downtown today because of all the leaping off of buildings people are ready to do.
But you bring a levelheadedness to this site that is needed for the head guy.
On Bonds I found it just sad last night.
How joyous this time should be for baseball.
If it was anyone else but a steroid filled jerk it would be special.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 8, 2007 9:33 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Perspective?
7/1: "This isn't overhype: the Cubs really must win today." - Al
5/13: "Time to change that streak, particularly since today is pretty much a must-win" - Al
Do you see why must-win proclamations are goofy before you get to a point where your elimination number is 0?
by GamePenguin on Aug 8, 2007 9:36 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
"Must win" often followed by ...
But it is true that the recent losses don't hurt that badly since the Cubbies are still only 1 game out of first.
Sure you'd prefer to have taken over first place and made gains but you have to like where you're at, well within reach of winning the division.
The Cubbies are "lucky" to play in the NL Central though where a team with .518 winning percentage and on pace to win a mere 84 games is only one game out of first. Of course as the Cardinals demonstrated that's enough to win it all.
by DrCrawdad on Aug 8, 2007 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Of couse,
by gary varsho on Aug 8, 2007 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And you're point is...
The Sox have a lousy record against the NL (and a lousy record overall) this proves that the NL Central is great?
The Sox record against the NL does not change the fact that the Cubbies are in a weak division, arguably the weakest division - in MLB two years in a row.
by DrCrawdad on Aug 8, 2007 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm sure no one
I really enjoy being able to chat with other fans during the games but the last couple of nights it has not been fun in here. Not just the negativity but the language and insults are just awful. Where were these same posters when the Cubs had their winning streak going? It's baseball played by humans not robots. The way some carried on last night maybe they need to find a different sport or team to watch. Maybe the Debbie Downers could start a diary during the games to do their bitching and bashing in there.
Here's hoping Z gets a win tonight!!
by sue369 on Aug 8, 2007 9:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Where's the angst coming from?
by Jerry Mumphrey on Aug 8, 2007 9:37 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Jason Kendall is actually enjoying a nice...
Jones is starting to pick up, too. I wish he'd keep the ball off the ground a bit more often and maybe try to end up on second every so often, but you go to war with the center fielder you have, not the center fielder you may want. He's not, right this moment, killing the team. Although I'd still have him pass through a suck detector before letting him in the clubhouse, just in case.
Guys currently slumping badly: Mike Fontenot and Cliff Floyd. Those are the guys you want to start looking at.
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed...
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
What is Jones picking up?
by Itchy on Aug 8, 2007 9:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Alleged"?
by Kegler on Aug 8, 2007 9:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Technicalities...
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He admitted
The more disgusting thing is that all of this information came from leaked testimony.
by TC Cubby on Aug 8, 2007 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not quite accurate...
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually...
by 60613 on Aug 8, 2007 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Again, not quite true...
It's a minute distinction I realize. And I'm not saying I don't fully believe he did steroids. I fully believe that he did the cream and the clear. I'm just saying that legally it's not proven. I was just explaining the "alleged" nature of it. In the court of public opinion and common sense, he's certainly done steroids. But in the court of innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt, it's just alleged steroid use.
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 10:39 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
so what?
by anormal on Aug 8, 2007 12:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sadaharu Oh, Josh Gibson and Kelly Leak...
by hokie316 on Aug 8, 2007 9:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
JOSH Gibson...
Oh's case is nearly as tenuous; Nippon Baseball is roughly a AAA league; you inclue Bonds' minor league numbers and Oh doesn't look so far away.
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
More info on Gibson and Oh
Because of his early death (and illness that struck him at 31), it seems very unlikely that Gibson would have even hit 500 home runs in the majors. On top of that, he was a catcher who wouldn't have played a full schedule in the majors. He was a great, great player though and might have broken Ruth's 60 HR in a season record if he'd have played in the majors in his mid-20s.
I wouldn't call NPB a AAA league anymore. It's better than AAA, not quite as good as the majors. But still, in Oh's time, I think it is fair to call it a AAA league, or maybe even AA at the start of Oh's career. And one thing we know about NPB is that they've got a lot of parks where it is easy to hit home runs. If you look at the drop in Hideki Matsui's HR totals, he's gone from being a guy who hit between 40 and 50 homers a year to someone who hits between 25 and 35 in the majors. That's a good approximation of the difference in the leagues (knock off 15-20 HRs a year), and it was even greater in Oh's time.
by Josh77 on Aug 8, 2007 1:29 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not necessarily in that order....
by eamuscatuli1881 on Aug 8, 2007 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A Tough Game to Watch.
I was sitting with my dad. (When we both show up, the Cubs are 0-3, so we may have to put the kabosh on going to games together!) I agreed with his estimation: the boys just looked lethargic. There was no fire. Sean Marshall threw great for five plus innings, but got no support. I thought things would pick up with Matty hit the solo shot into left-center, and then Riot got on base (I think), but that fizzled out too. There was no pop to the bats, and I wonder if the Cubs underestimated the 'Stros this time.
Walking out of the Juicebox with not a small number of other disappointed Cubs fans, I tried to focus on the good: it was the first time I got to see Kerry Wood throw, and I saw Matty knock one out (I'm still a fan of the redhead, I can't deny it).
Al's right. The season's not over, not by a far stretch. As long as the Brewers keep imploding, it buys us time to get over this mini-funk. But we have to find a way to get fired up again. I didn't see it last night. Here's hoping Z wakes us up.
by Teacherdave on Aug 8, 2007 9:48 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Pie vs. Patterson vs. JJ
All 3 are lefties -- one is a potential leadoff man -- one provides defense -- the third is a veteran who provides nothing.
For the first three months of the season we were all on the dump JJ bandwagon. What has changed?
He has once decent week since his return to a semi-regular place in the lineup. He still continues to fail in the clutch, hits ground ball after ground ball, flails at breaking pitches, swings through fastballs, and never works the count.
Unless you can find gold in a right handed bat that some other team puts out there for the waiver taking, it is time once again to offer JJ to the dogs.
And do not give me the "eat the salary" woes of the organization. If the lowly Devil Rays and their nickel and dime ownership can eat the 2-1/2 million dollar salary of the Ohman-like Casey Fossum (which they did yesterday), the pennywise and pound foolish Cubs can launch JJ.
by ceegeewow on Aug 8, 2007 9:50 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Jones hits the best of the 3...
Compare that to the crap that Pie was hitting by the time he was sent down.
When Jones had an OBP around .300 and was playing RF badly, I was in agreement that he was hurting the team. Now, he's playing a solid defensive CF, and he's producing offensively. Hence, I've laid off the he's hurting the team stance.
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks , Al for jumping
He is a LOOGY where a LOOGY is a luxury right now, and I never could stand the guy. If used for ONE batter and ONE batter only, he would be palatable sometimes- but Lou was not willing to do this.
In comparing teams, the Phillies have lost Utley (and Victorino) - not a skip; the Mets lost their "Soriano" (Beltran) and they kicked our ass.
Unfortunately, no one is willing to step up now that is being paid big time star money. Ryan Theriot, a guy making minimum, is the only person that can be counted on.
It is very discouraging and telling.
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 9:56 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure you can make a correlation
I don't think so. They looked poised to scuffle a little to me even before he went down. I think it is less the failure of guys stepping up in the absence of Soriano than the fact that the team is just going through a rough patch (and would be doing so even if Soriano was in the lineup).
by SuperContext on Aug 8, 2007 12:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Final Thoughts About Ohman
What really pisses me off and I'm sure most of the people on this venue are the offerings made by Ohman about his shoulder.
Listen you dung head, the Cubs are trying to take the cake here. We all could care less about what you have and have not done. If you were having a problem with your shoulder -- even a minor one -- "tell the trainer and the manager and get your ass on the DL." Now you are using this problem as an excuse for your crappy performances over the past month? We need someone to get people out -- not some lame shouldered lob slinger who all of a sudden blames his problems on a bad arm. If you are really a team player, you would have stepped up and told management the problems you were experiencing.
After this self-excusing presentation, this poor excuse for a Cub and a contributing teammate should never be allowed to cross the white lines again at Wrigley Field unless he is a member of the opposition.
by ceegeewow on Aug 8, 2007 9:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
WOW!
I hope the Brewers pick him up - next year (although, unfortunately, Hendry signed him until 2008)
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
In case you've
by sue369 on Aug 8, 2007 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry, friend.
by WartburgCub on Aug 8, 2007 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
BOOOOOOOOOO
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
My pal ...
In this land of the SEC all the time, I do miss the Big 10 ...
--t.
by Littlerock Rynofan on Aug 8, 2007 10:50 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Iowa State is
by sue369 on Aug 8, 2007 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The rivalry is fun...
by WartburgCub on Aug 8, 2007 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pigs and Iowa
The comment was not directed at Des Moines but at Iowa as a whole.
For your information, Iowa is the largest pork producing state. Maybe Wil can find a job where he does not have to use his lame arm.
by ceegeewow on Aug 8, 2007 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very true
Sometimes we get a little touchy I suppose about the cornfield/pig field type stuff. It's not all we are, obviously, but it's a big chunk of this state's culture. It's a stereotype we have to deal with. Same as the people from Illinois have to deal with automatically being labeled as bad drivers.
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why bash Iowa...
(Running and hiding)
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 8, 2007 10:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Keep fighting the good fight there.
I've had a negative feeling towards Nebraska because of a girl. 25 years ago. I have trouble forgiving.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 8, 2007 9:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
BAD DRIVER!!!
How can you say we're bad dr...
by N Oakley on Aug 8, 2007 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
They have jobs in Rockford?
by eamuscatuli1881 on Aug 8, 2007 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thank you
In all seriousness though, I think she actually got a few of those responses when she told people she was taking a job in Rockford.
Based on the handfull of times I've been there I still don't get the stereotype. It's no different than any other town with it's "good" and "bad" parts.
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 11:46 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I live in Iowa
GO HAWKS!!!
by sue369 on Aug 8, 2007 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Des Moines has little to do with farming.
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have you ever been to Des Moines?
by scuba4 on Aug 8, 2007 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I meant...
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 10:04 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
What was he thinking?
I like Hendry but sometimes he gets pretty mediocre people (Jones, Jeremy Bernitz).
For example, I never could figure out why he chose Barrett over Pudge, and why he let Nomar and Alou go. Didn't make sense to me.
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 10:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Options?
Who should have have gotten instead? Did you have better options?
by big_lowitzki on Aug 8, 2007 10:43 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The difference between Ohman...
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jones? Burtnitz?
But as for Ohman, he really has not been that bad. He had two bad outings in a row - it happens. But he hasn't been a bad pitcher.
And when he faces lefties, he continues to get the job done for the most part. He will be back with the Cubs.
by big_lowitzki on Aug 8, 2007 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good moves
by californiachicagoan on Aug 8, 2007 2:25 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A few things...
I can't remember the last time I saw Cliff Floyd at the plate and expected him to even make contact.
I think Pie should be recalled. Period. Especially with the large alleys of Coors Field looming.
Wasn't Ohman the team representative to the players' union? I thought I read that earlier this year.
by WartburgCub on Aug 8, 2007 10:05 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Lee
by EliasTirade on Aug 8, 2007 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lee's not a free swinger
by Cajuncub on Aug 8, 2007 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Clogging up the bases?
We need to clog up the bases. Eventually something good will happen. And it's not like Lee runs like Floyd or Ward.
We really need hitters like Lee to take pitches and make pitchers work.
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Runs like
by sue369 on Aug 8, 2007 11:06 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Which part?
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not asking him
Just saying that NO ump is giving him that pitch anymore.
by EliasTirade on Aug 8, 2007 11:16 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
agreed.
by lji001 on Aug 8, 2007 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Wartburg"??
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 10:10 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
yeah
by WartburgCub on Aug 8, 2007 10:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Cubs need Lou and Hendry to step up
The Cubs need a spark and Theroit only can do so much. Fontenot needs to get hot again or Derrick Lee needs to fine his stroke. Something.
Lou, get them back on the track and get them going.
Here's to hoping that Z rights the ship tonight and sets them up and knock them down.
by Scott G F on Aug 8, 2007 10:15 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Pie is that something
by SuperContext on Aug 8, 2007 12:36 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Luckily
by Kegler on Aug 8, 2007 10:21 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
i would love to know
by wheatfield mike on Aug 8, 2007 10:49 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
RISP?
RISP: .267/.356/.360
RISP, 2 outs: .385/.448/.519
And since when does Jock Jones have no defense? No arm? Sure, but he actually has pretty good range.
BTW... Pie shows a better zone rating, but Jock shows a better OOZ (getting to balls outside of zone) than Pie does. And both are better than Pagan in both categories.
by big_lowitzki on Aug 8, 2007 10:58 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have you done the splits
Just curious...
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 11:17 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure...
Jock, RISP: .333/.417/.400
Jock, RISP, 2 outs: .500/.550/.556
by big_lowitzki on Aug 8, 2007 11:34 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
'Common Sense'
Did Bonds probably use steroids? Yeah, probably.
Has a court of law proven this? Maybe -- we don't know all the testimony from that past trial of his 'associates.'
We can use the circumstantial evidence, certainly.
But there he is -- in the line-up and playing, so as of now -- there's no evidence that seems to be enough to suspend/fine him.
If some evidence in the future changes what we now know -- Bonds is innocent until proven guilty.
I hope that is still our justice system.
I'm sure he probably juiced -- many players probably did, I think we could name at least one in a Cubs uniform, and my favorite test case is still Brett Boone. (I've chronicled his stats on these pages in past years, I won't do it now. But, go look him up...and see how his power output rises dramatically after leaving the hitter-friendly Qualcomm Stadium for the pitcher's paradise of Safeco Field)
But I don't know to a 100% certantity that Bonds, Sosa, Boone -- and, of course, let's throw in the possibility that McGwire used 'roids.
It appears we know Clay Hensley did -- he was suspended as a Padres minor leaguer for doing so.
It appears Rafael Palimero was an abuser, too.
The others I've mentioned -- no definitive proof...yet. (Unless I've missed a smoking gun somewhere that would lead a jury to convict....)
Bottom line is -- probably, the aforementioned players used something. In all but a few cases, we don't know for sure. We can read between the lines, we can go all "Bob Costas" on Bonds, if we choose. By the way, the comments from Costas really surprised me, for I think he did that only as a publicity stunt to draw viewers to his show, that most people don't even know is on the air. That behavior is very Jim Rome-ish, and I didn't expect that type of pandering from Costas.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 8, 2007 10:53 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
what's up
by EliasTirade on Aug 8, 2007 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe...
by big_lowitzki on Aug 8, 2007 10:59 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
the 2014 season
Guy can hit, sure, steroids or no. Doesn't take away that from the fact that he's a huge jerk and terrible for the game of baseball.
by EliasTirade on Aug 8, 2007 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
A-Rod?
How do we know that A-Rod doesn't/hasn't used anything? Not saying he has, but why do we assume he hasn't?
You know Bonds has never tested positive for any steroid.
by big_lowitzki on Aug 8, 2007 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wasn't professing 'love'
Perhaps distinct proof outside of "I thought it was flaxseed oil" will be revealed, there will irrefutable evidence of what he took, and then 'adjustments' can be made to the 'record.'
It's always possible, that in the future, more information comes to light. (If we believe Jose Canseco's allegations, half the players in MLB used...something. But -- they are allegations, and not proof.)
I'm not a fan of the guy by any stretch of the imagination. I care little about Barry Bonds. Giants fans are complete hypocrites when it comes to the guy. They feel he's done NOTHING wrong.
I say, probably SOMETHING is wrong, something went on during the 90's with many players, but it hasn't been proven beyond any shadow of doubt.
Physically, Bonds is 3x the man he once was. Was it all lifting? Probably not. I'll use Bret Boone as an example, once again -- please, check his record. Suddenly, with his career in shambles in SD, he goes to Seattle and becomes a power-hitting infielder. His numbers were dimishing a little bit each year. Suddenly, he's in the slugger category with Sosa, Bonds, etc, etc. His great year leads to a tremendous contract. He has a few more great years, then his career -- literally -- returns to what it was in SD. He couldn't hit water if he fell out of a boat. He abruptly retires.
How did this happen? Suddenly, this 'banjo' hitter becomes a HR machine in a pitcher's park???Canseco made an allegation, regarding Boone, in his book. But there's no proof. I think Boone was juiced....but there is no proof. Unless Boone admits it, we'll never know.
If look you at the curve of Boone's statistics, it's astonishing. He becomes a mini-Barry for 3 years or so, at the tail of his career. That's not how the career of an MLB player should pan out. Especially one who's career had only been good-to-average prior to that.
So, please read my post again. "Love for Bonds in San Diego" just proves you didn't actually read it, if that's what you think I said -- or, you didn't understand it.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 8, 2007 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
MLB created a circus
Quite honestly, I think people would be shocked if there was a way, to determine who was using the stuff between 95-03, but that's only my opinion. Hell, Palmeiro was my college teamate, and I thought he was a great guy, but it goes to show how these guys can get hung up in the competition side of this, and go down the wrong road. There is no doubt in my mind, that Sosa, Palmeiro, McGuire and all the rest, hit several of their homeruns against pitchers who were also juicing.
Anyway, ain't nothing they can do about the past, even if they prove several of these guys were juicing. MLB allowed this environment to exist, and they can only fix what happens in the future.
Take a look at Gaylord Perry, do you think he was doing anything to make the ball do funny things? Hell yea he was, and he has admitted it. So were several other pitchers of that era. Does MLB put an asterisk by Perry's records because he juiced the ball up? I don't think so.
by MPH73 on Aug 8, 2007 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
sdsjm
I wholeheartedly disagree with you regarding Costas.
Bob Costas has NO NEED to get viewers to his show. He has enough, PLUS, he has enough money to last the rest of his life.
When Jim Rome was struggling on ESPN 2, and wanting to be on the national scene...he did things to provoke people and create things that didn't exist.
Costas didn't do that. He just gave an opinion. An opinion that is fact.
And sure, we live in America, blah blah blah. Innocent until proven guilty. Yippee.
Barry Bonds is a knave. He was a HOF before he took roids, and risked it all on something so stupid. Now, he probably faces death at an early age for his actions.
That's what will be funny.
I don't need Barry to be punished.
He's just going to die a lonely, painful death at his own hand. That's enough for me.
by jdoolsiu on Aug 8, 2007 1:11 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's cool jdoolsiu
But, I'm in the media, I know how this stuff works. To be honest, it's not that Costas has money -- he still wants people to watch his show. And, since it's on HBO, the numbers (ratings) will be smaller if it was on the big 4 nets, or basic cable nets such as ESPN.
Shows like The Sopranos and Six Feet Under are programs that bring ratings -- but still, for all the hype -- the Big 4 Broadcast nets will beat HBO/Showtime, etc in head-to-head battles everytime.
And, I'll wager that HBO subscribers aren't really there for sports....so, if Bob Costas can bring some awareness to his show, he does it. That's how TV works. Bonds didn't need to answer. He just sounded stupid in his reply, and gave the show more attention.
Rome's another story. He's a master of self-promotion. He was doing his best to get attention even back when he was in Santa Barbara. When he worked at XTRA/San Diego, he was the hype monster. After every show, he'd fax to all the local media..
"....as heard today on the Jim Rome show..''
But, you need an edge, something to stand out, so he created this little universe on radio, which still exists, and appeals to a young demographic. He still belittles another fine sportscaster in the San Diego market, a man I know, and is one of the hardest working individuals I've ever met. But, he has a goofy, kind of outdated style. Rome never lets up on the guy. And, what is worse -- nobody outside of San Diego/LA has any clue what he's talking about. He goes into this character, on the self-indulgent, petulant rant -- just to make fun of the guy. That's just -- wrong.
He's an egotistical punk, he and Matt Vasgergian.
(He, of the "go back to the Ozarks" when referring to Cardinals fans.) I know a lot of people here will find that funny. Anything goes on a blog. But on TV? How unprofessional. There are sportscasters in Bakersfield and Peoria that would love to be in Matty V's shoes, and I have a feeling they would be way more professional than he is.
You meet the same people on the way down the ladder that you do on the way up....and just being a professional, apparently is very hard for these 2 Southern California broadcasters.
And, you may be exactly right -- if these ex-players succumb to an early passing -- that might, unfortunately give us the proof we need.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 8, 2007 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pie's back
http://blogs.chicagosports.chicagotribune.com/sports_hardball/2007/08/here-comes-feli.html
by RynoHoF on Aug 8, 2007 11:00 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Interesting.
by sue369 on Aug 8, 2007 11:04 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It has to be
by MPH73 on Aug 8, 2007 11:18 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Or Fontenot.
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 11:23 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pie
by RynoHoF on Aug 8, 2007 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
As little as Cedeno has done...
I'd guess Patterson, Pagan, or Fontenot, based on recent performance and/or overlap of players.
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 12:28 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's the backup
by cubsbak on Aug 8, 2007 12:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly...
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 1:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If the Cubs don't
by cubsbak on Aug 8, 2007 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We should've dealt Cedeno 2 years ago
by SackMan on Aug 8, 2007 1:16 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cedeno
He's there to remind Ronny to turn instead of running straight into right field.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 8, 2007 1:47 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
impatiently patient more Lou influence
You can bet that the grapevine had it that Ohman had broadcast that he had made plans that were not inline with a player who should have been forcused on one thing, his job and winning ball games instead of family time. Regardless of the seemingly unempathetic connection to a family get together this is discipline.
Now for other marginal players where is the axe going to fall. Pagan has now become unproductive both defensively which is supposed to be his versatile strength and offensively. Are they going to move Jones to RF during Soriano's possible six week absence and move Floyd/Murton to LF and have Jones/DeRosa in RF and then have Pie in CF?
The other is the starting pitching, do they move Dempster to a starter's role now and move Marmol/Howry up to a closer's role with Wood seemingly showing some effectiveness? This would allow the Cubs to move Marquis or Marshall or Hill down or possibly spot them a bit of some rest through August along with Gallagher?
Lou is not going to sit pat and he is going to keep them focused, especially the role players.
by Ivy Walls on Aug 8, 2007 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Friggin' Cool!!!
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Remember, you can't
(I'm not referring to minor league re-hab assignments, to be clear.)
Jones would have to be DFA, (possibly released) and the Cubs would be liable for the remaining year and a half on his contract. Even if they put him on waivers, to possibly be DFA'd -- if some team put in a claim on Jones, he'd be gone (of course, they could revoke the waiver on Jones, and keep him )-- but if they did nothing -- the Cubs would still be liable for his salary, and they'd get nothing in return.
Trades can be made using the waiver wire -- if you work out a deal with another team, he has to clear waivers, ie; no other team puts in a claim for Jones, let's say. Nobody puts in a claim, you can make the deal. Somebody else does -- probably the deal dies. The other team is trying to block the deal....
So complicated...
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 8, 2007 3:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm extremely tired right now
Thanks to trharr for the ticket.
by sanantonecub on Aug 8, 2007 11:11 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Perspective
However, I see this as another DLee-is-disable-so-let's-swoon episode. Whether Sori has actually been providing any function lately, the players THINK they should be tanking without him. Not consciously, but subconsciously. "Geez, I hope I don't strike out because Soriano isn't here to pick me up".
And what's with Kendall dropping every throw from the outfield?
by psennett on Aug 8, 2007 11:15 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Perspective
First, Tuesday night's starter, Sean Marshall, couldn't pitch out of the sixth inning. It was the eighth time in 13 games that Cubs starters have gone 5 1/3 innings or less. Tht's worrisome and taxes the bullpen at the worst possible moment. We my get a tired starting rotation and a tired bullpen, both at the same time, if this trend continues.
Second, Al is completely underestimating the impact Soriano's absence is having on this team. One, there's the mental aspect. Many players are pressing, probably because they erroneously think
that each one has to replace Soriano's offensive production. They get frustrated in return.
Third, it's obvious that without Soriano's bat in the lineup, opposing pitchers approach this team differently. Soriano's bat benefits hitters around him in the lineup even when Soriano does nothing. He protects those hitters. Now, pitchers are letting Theriot get his hits when he can because they can pitch around everybody else and strike them out. There's no fear of a big inning. And the latter part of the lineup is not getting much to hit, either, because Soriano is not on deck or in the hole.
Fourth, everyone in the league now knows that the Cubs can't hit left-handed pitchers. Expect a steady diet of left-handed opponents, especially if the Cubs make the playoffs.
I think we need to take all this into account if we are to put these losses in perspective. It's a fact that we're drifting away in the Wild Card race. That's a door to the playoffs that we don't want closed in our faces. We're still in the division race thanks to the ineptitude of the rest of the teams in the division. After all, this is the "Comedy Central". But one more week of what we are witnessing will have its toll, I'm afraid. So, Mr. Hendry, take notice. Make the best trade for a bat that you can get and make it soon.
by Fraggin Judge on Aug 8, 2007 11:22 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
In my opinion
I don't think you can contend with that kind of outfield, particularly when you have little power in your middle infield and no offensive production from catcher unless you have a pretty dominant pitching staff. Something like what the 05 Sox had. This pitching staff has lots of question marks after the first two starters, and a bullpen that is starting to show its overuse.
I think a lot of people, myself included, were overjoyed to see the Cubs in first place for a brief period, but also took it with a grain of salt in that they made their move against an exceedingly weak part of the schedule, and had to have everything go their way to make it happen.
Maybe everyone will find their stroke again, 3-5 starters will throw 6-7 innings, the bullpen will shore up, and they will get out of the division. But it will take that and more to get into the world series. Anything can happen, but I'd be happier if we were talking about probabilities rather than possibilities this late in the season, and with this much money spent, and with so many backloaded contracts clouding the future.
by jazzypete on Aug 8, 2007 11:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Great news on Pie...
by Jerry Mumphrey on Aug 8, 2007 11:29 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Uhhh
by krummy12 on Aug 8, 2007 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think Patterson
I really want to give Patterson a chance. But, I have a feeling if he keeps whiffing on high, 85 mph cheese, like his big bro, the boo birds aren't going to be very patient.
by STLCubFan on Aug 8, 2007 11:53 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good article about the Bonds HR
by eamuscatuli1881 on Aug 8, 2007 11:41 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
"Let There Be Light!"
by Qixotl on Aug 8, 2007 11:44 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Do NOT count on Hendry
Imo, he will do absolutely nothing - cannot now sign Z to an extension - cannot add meaningful players...
He is a lame duck GM with his hands tied from way up.
Those of you who are frustrated, and say we should pick up this guy or that guy...
unless they play for next to nothing for the team, I would be astounded now if Hendry is able to do much of anything.
It is just so "Cub", that finally when the team is in a Division chase, is the same year the Tribune has sold the Cubs and no extra salary will be taken on....
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 11:49 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That's what I am worried about.
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 11:56 AM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Frankly, IMHO
How someone had not given Theriot a chance at playing SS in their Org., when there hasn't been one for years, is troubling.
This is just ONE example of many, in which I could fill a whole page.
- sigh -
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 1:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Theriot Scouting Report
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 2:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
You hit on one of Hendry's glaring
Hendry has been more than productive with some of his trades and FA signings (this is his strength) he just struggles to recogize the value of mixing the right pieces.
Lou took him to school a bit this year, and showed everybody, the value of identifying the right players, for the right positions.
by MPH73 on Aug 8, 2007 2:30 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
If you remember the "meeting" - when was it - in May?
For all we know Lou said there better be some changes or I'm walkin'!
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 3:26 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Lou was frank
Mangers philosophies are usually entrenched during their playing days. Lou's best years were as a Yankee, when they had those very good teams in the late 70's. He played for Billy Martin, who was known as one of the best field managers the game has ever seen. Sure, the dude was a little nuts, but his feel for the game was undebatable. Those teams had a solid rock for a cather (Munson), and a good mix of scrappy guys - Randolph and Rivers along with one real power guy - Jackson, and a host of clutch hitters that didn't hit a lot of homers - Piniella, Chambliss, Munson and Nettles. Piniella himself, was one of the most feared clutch hitters on that club, and I think he likes a nice mix of skills, like that club had.
by MPH73 on Aug 8, 2007 3:42 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sweet Lou does come from an old school
And Lou has won 3-4 games this year for us.
Great post by the way.
by MarlaSinger on Aug 8, 2007 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe tonight will be
by Basman on Aug 8, 2007 11:57 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Buehler ? Buehler?
by Basman on Aug 8, 2007 12:17 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Geez...I hope
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 1:21 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why would it be bad?
Who cares WHO HITS IT?
Although I wonder if we'd be better off sometimes with Wood and Zambrano playing left and right field than some of the group we trot out there. Remember Wood can hit too.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 8, 2007 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe
by cubsirishkillme on Aug 8, 2007 1:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wonder
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 8, 2007 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I kind of wonder
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 8, 2007 6:37 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll never forget that game
by Jayo525 on Aug 8, 2007 1:31 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who's next?
"the Iowa shuttle probably isn't slowing down any time soon. Left-hander Carmen Pignatiello (2.78 ERA) and catcher Geovany Soto (.348 average) could be next in line to get the call. The Cubs are down to one left-handed reliever now that Will Ohman has been demoted to Iowa, and back-up catcher Koyie Hill is hitting only .153."
Hell, tell Soto to get on the plane with Felix, Hill is expendable.
by Itchy on Aug 8, 2007 1:01 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Vowels
by park on Aug 8, 2007 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes Sir
And maybe even hit and pitch a bit better.
But for sure our vocabulary would be exquisite .
by hawkeyenation on Aug 8, 2007 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
study
by park on Aug 8, 2007 1:15 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
only a one-vowel gain there...
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 1:22 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's A Vowel Movement!
by BJ Simpson on Aug 8, 2007 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Am I way out of the loop
by Jayo525 on Aug 8, 2007 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Sue's idea above
by cubsirishkillme on Aug 8, 2007 1:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
That would be excellent -
POOP!
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 1:39 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have a question
That wouldn't be any dumber than saying we're going to only score 2 a game with him after 2 games.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 8, 2007 1:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Agreed mostly...
The Cubs have averaged 4.6 runs per game this year, despite having Lee, Ramirez, and Soriano all miss time this year. Soriano is unlikely to make a difference of more than 1 run per game over a replacement player, if even that much. So to expect less than 3.5 runs per game on average (over a reasonable sample size, of course) is stretching it, in my opinion.
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 2:01 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
The corrolary to "small sample size..."
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 2:07 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right...
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 2:12 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
if all players played in a vacuum
However baseball is at least very much mental. therefore the players knowing that soriano is out causes them to press and consequently to struggle.
As I said yesterday...mental toughness is what this team really needs now.
by cubsirishkillme on Aug 8, 2007 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
We should all take up a collection
by cubsbak on Aug 8, 2007 1:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Kendall
by Chanman25 on Aug 8, 2007 2:03 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I would be in favor of it
by cubsirishkillme on Aug 8, 2007 2:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not likely...
by SouthernCub on Aug 8, 2007 2:13 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rocks Ahead 2-0
Rocks pushed a run across in the first inning.
Tony Graffanino was taken out in the 2nd inning for some reason....
Those Rockies are tough.
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 2:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Rocks 4, Brewers 0
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 2:45 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rocks 5, Brewers 0
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 2:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rocks 6, Brewers 0
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 2:49 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Al started
by sue369 on Aug 8, 2007 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ha ha!
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 3:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
No problem.
by sue369 on Aug 8, 2007 3:04 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope Kendall comes back
by section229beer on Aug 8, 2007 2:40 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Rockies up 4-0
by cubsfan4life on Aug 8, 2007 2:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I have a feeling
by ksreed on Aug 8, 2007 2:46 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm iffy...
Mets: 2-5
Phillies: 3-3
AZ: 1-2
Padres: 2-4
Braves: 3-3
While I am pretty sure (I Hope) we'll gut it out and make the playoffs I am just not sure how far we'll go once we get there.
But then again... look at the Cards last year. Really were not the best teams in baseball and they won it.
by Willgly on Aug 8, 2007 3:08 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rocks 8, Brewers 0
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 2:50 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
End of 2nd Inning, Rocks ahead 8-0
by zevkalman on Aug 8, 2007 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good news/bad news
by billybuck on Aug 8, 2007 3:20 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Reportedly Pagan to the DL...
by cwyers on Aug 8, 2007 2:51 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
couldn't come at a better time
by CubFaninNY on Aug 8, 2007 2:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who hasn't been?
by ksreed on Aug 8, 2007 2:58 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I bet it was sit-ups
by STLCubFan on Aug 8, 2007 2:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very good!
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 3:27 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
If that's true
by cubsbak on Aug 8, 2007 3:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
At this point...
by HIGGY on Aug 8, 2007 3:03 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
It would have to be TWO of the following
by cubsbak on Aug 8, 2007 3:05 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd go with...
LF - Murton
RF - Floyd (i hesitate with him but - you know i got no explanation)
by HIGGY on Aug 8, 2007 3:06 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd agree with that
by cubsbak on Aug 8, 2007 3:18 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Um, the lineup the other night with all righties
by MiniAndretti on Aug 8, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rockies
by bloomerang on Aug 8, 2007 3:19 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ohman got his idea from
by pageian on Aug 8, 2007 3:21 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Ohman's about a week away from 5 yrs service time
Now if he's at AAA, do they have to put him through waivers to trade him to another team's AAA ballclub?? Maybe he's trumpeting this injury because he doesn't want to end up someplace like Washington or Tampa.
by Invalid User on Aug 8, 2007 3:48 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
"Maybe we'd be better off without him."
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 3:28 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
I am glad when the BREW
But honestly, I feel much more exhilirated when the Cubs win.
Anyone have pitching matchups in Denver?
by TheEman on Aug 8, 2007 3:30 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
Me too
Having said the above, a brewers loss before a Cubs game would somewhat lighten the pressure on our players to play for a MUST Win.
by cubsnlinux on Aug 8, 2007 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well for what it is worth
Who knows this could be the trip we need.
by MarlaSinger on Aug 8, 2007 3:41 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Since today's getaway day
by cubsbak on Aug 8, 2007 3:33 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
WHAT?!?
by MarlaSinger on Aug 8, 2007 3:34 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought the schedule makers
by cubsbak on Aug 8, 2007 3:38 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
And they said they try to avoit rain outs
We all know how well the accomplished that this year.
by MarlaSinger on Aug 8, 2007 3:40 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
how likely/reasonable would it be...
they have other needs, of course, but whaddya think?
by pc45 on Aug 8, 2007 3:48 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
yeah we could use him instead of Marquis
by MarlaSinger on Aug 8, 2007 3:50 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Can you imagine Wells
by MiniAndretti on Aug 8, 2007 3:51 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
or...
by pc45 on Aug 8, 2007 3:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Isn't Gallagher a LHP?
Select
up to 5
players
Picks left Player TEAM W L ERA G GS CG SHO SV SVO IP H R ER HR HBP BB SO
3. D Wells
SD 5 8 5.54 22 22 0 0 0 0 118.2 156 74 73 17 3 33 63
by MiniAndretti on Aug 8, 2007 3:56 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
NM about Gallagher. I know now he is a rightie.
by MiniAndretti on Aug 8, 2007 3:59 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
wells.
I think we need an upgrade for Marquis but is Wells that upgrade.
I happen to think players play their best when they actaully WANT to be where they're playing. Seems to me that for the most part if Wells isn't wearing a Yankees jersey he doesn't really want to pitch well... he was horrible for th white sox back in 01
by Willgly on Aug 8, 2007 3:54 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Remember
Their punishment was having to keep Wells.
by cubstoseriesby100 on Aug 8, 2007 4:00 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
k...
by pc45 on Aug 8, 2007 4:02 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Please believe me.
by San Diego Smooth Jazz Man on Aug 8, 2007 9:53 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Slow pitch softball at Coors today
by billybuck on Aug 8, 2007 3:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs
By this logic our guys should be well rested
by MiniAndretti on Aug 8, 2007 3:52 PM CDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wow
by NightPutting on Aug 8, 2007 3:52 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

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