Bleed Cubbie Blue: An SB Nation Community

Navigation: Jump to content areas:


Sports blogs for fans, by fans.
Around SBN: The cost of firing vs. the cost of retaining head coaches

Three The Hard Way

I don't know what to say.

Wait, wait. Yes, I do.

The beginning of the Yahoo recap of the Cubs' 7-4 loss to the Marlins read as follows, before they just changed it:

By STEVEN WINE, AP Sports Writer
September 26, 2007

MIAMI (AP) -- Panic, Cubs fans.

The Cubs' grip on the NL Central lead became shaky Wednesday night, when they were shut out over the final 5 2-3 innings and lost for the second night in a row to the last-place Florida Marlins, 7-4.

I reloaded the page just before I started writing this morning, and now it reads:

By STEVEN WINE, AP Sports Writer
September 26, 2007

MIAMI (AP) -- Alfonso Soriano dressed slowly. Aramis Ramirez hunched over his postgame meal. Mark DeRosa sprawled on a couch. All focused on the TV in the corner of the clubhouse, hoping for help.

I'm glad they changed that (apparently an AP editor got to work this morning and chastised Mr. Wine for editorializing in a game recap!), because panic is one thing that we should NOT do -- I haven't even read the game thread from last night yet; I'm almost afraid to -- and I know one thing about the 2007 Cubs: Lou Piniella won't LET them panic.

Last night's game, really, turned on one play: Mark DeRosa's errant throw on what should have been an inning-ending double play in the second inning. Only one of the three runs that subsequently scored was unearned, because you can't assume a double play on such a throw, but let's say the Cubs turn that DP.

In that case, the Cubs get out of the inning with a 2-1 lead and maybe Jason Marquis settles down. He didn't pitch great, but he wasn't all that bad, either -- when he left the game for pinch-hitter Sam Fuld in the sixth, the Cubs trailed only 5-4.

Then, unfortunately, Carlos Marmol chose a really bad time to have one of his worst outings of the year -- Miguel Cabrera's two-run HR, only the third HR Marmol's allowed all season and the first since July 22, put the game away after it had gone into the seventh inning, still agonizingly close at 5-4. Marmol's been so automatic, so good -- he hadn't allowed any runs at all in his last 18 appearances, that we find ourselves shocked when he looks mortal.

But the bottom line is: do not panic!! I happened to be out last night for a while, and so missed a lot of the carnage on TV -- and when I got home, I found myself yelling, screaming at my TV, rooting for the detested Cardinals when they put their 7-3 win over the Brewers away with a four-run eighth inning -- all four of the runs scoring with two out; in doing so the Cardinals, our bitter arch-rival, helped us reduce the magic number to three.

Now how weird is THAT?? I'm glad I don't have to do THAT any more this year.

The NL playoff race is nothing short of bizarre. If you think the Cubs are having a tough week, imagine being a Mets fan -- they just got swept by the Nationals... at home. The Pirates, who came into Wrigley Field and got swept and got outscored 30-13 by the Cubs, have just won two straight from the Diamondbacks, who entered the series with the best record in the National League. The Colorado Rockies, who were 6.5 games out of first place and fourth in the wild card race eleven days ago after losing two straight to the Marlins AT HOME (!), have now won ten games in a row and stand two games out of first place and one out of the wild card lead. Oh, and what did the Rockies do after losing those two games to Florida, in so doing being outscored 17-8? They beat them 13-0 -- beginning their current ten-game winning streak.

That puts seven teams (Cubs, Brewers, Mets, Phillies, Diamondbacks, Padres, Rockies) within two games of a playoff spot with four games remaining, and not a single spot wrapped up. It's the tightest race there has been since MLB went to the three-division-wild-card setup thirteen years ago.

It is exciting, and I remind you again:

Keep the faith, keep believing, know that this team does know how to win, and we'll move onward. I'll have a game thread up early this afternoon.

0 recs  |  Comment 193 comments

Story-email Email Printer Print

Comments

Display:

Today
The Cubs have not beaten the Marlins since April 25, 2006, and they have dropped nine straight to them after Wednesday's loss at Dolphin Stadium.

Its time to change that TODAY!

by adam316 on Sep 27, 2007 8:19 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Ummm yeah
I mean lets change the losing pattern and win today.  DOH!

by adam316 on Sep 27, 2007 8:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

-"Just take it easy man"
"I'm perfectly calm Dude."
-"YEAH, WAVING THE F*ING GUN AROUND?"
"Calmer than you are."
-"Will you just take it easy?!"
"Calmer than you are."

Anything and everything I need to know came from this fantastic movie

"We are going to light up the SB Nation server farm like a Christmas tree." - cwyers

by NittanyCub on Sep 27, 2007 8:21 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Nothing's f***ed here, dude.
They're a bunch of F'N amateurs.

by mrsmiff on Sep 27, 2007 8:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Easy
"Easy Dude, you're being very un-Dude"

by BrownE34 on Sep 27, 2007 8:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

10 year olds dude
he had to go door to door when he moved here, and tell everyone he was a petter-A**."

The greatest movie of all time!

by Les Lancaster on Sep 27, 2007 10:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

have a refreshing
white russian, and think it over.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 8:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, The Big Lebowski
They have a huge Lebowski festival here (Louisville) every year.  Pretty fun and a great flick.
"Who are you going to believe, me or your own eyes?"

by Jettero2112 on Sep 27, 2007 8:50 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

AWESOME FLICK!
Favorite scene:

The dude is in the bath with a white russian and candles lit and the ferret patrol comes in and starts bashing his furniture/furnishings with a baseball bat...

The dude peeks around the corner and says "Uh, this is a private residence."

Always has me laughing out loud!

MMMMM...Fernandos fajitas and margaraitas

by Kinky Reggae on Sep 27, 2007 10:21 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

My fav scene
is when Daniels picks up Goodman for the drop off and he brings a bag (the ringer) packed full of his dirty undies, the whites, and makes the dude let him drive while he proceeds to jump out of the car and shoot the hell out of it and the dude runs it into an embankment!  LMAO  ROTF

by Les Lancaster on Sep 27, 2007 11:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Dude
Look Maude, I'm sorry that your mothers a nympho...do you have any Kahlua?

by tk5446 on Sep 27, 2007 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

They have been...
playing the Big Lebowski on one of the movie channels for like 3 straight weeks.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 27, 2007 8:48 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re: They have been...
Ah, OK. I actually like that movie a lot, too. Just haven't seen it in a while.
Don't tase me, bro!

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 27, 2007 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Shmoer Shavis!
Shomer Shavis! I don't turn on the lights, i don't drive, i don't use the oven, i don't GET driven, and i certainly don't f**king roll on shomer shavis!
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 27, 2007 9:06 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Her life is in your hands dude...
Man, don't say that....

He asked me to repeat it.  Her life is in your hands.  

GREAT flick

as long as we're on the movie tip, I suggest if Trachsel gets snippy and gets shelled, Piniella beats him with a hotel towel full of oranges like that scene in "the grifters"

by BigJimSlade on Sep 27, 2007 10:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It feels like the Marlins...
peed on my rug, man.  This aggression will not stand.

by Orval Overall on Sep 27, 2007 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

A win today
would really tie the room together.

by SouthsideCub on Sep 27, 2007 11:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That is not the preferred nomenclature.
"I don't need your f**in' sympathy, man.  I need my f**in' johnson!"

"What do you need that for, Dude?"

Before each game, please remember to feed the bats.

by Cool Hand on Sep 27, 2007 11:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

When I'm on another board...
...and a thread has violated Godwin's Law, I always make it a point to drop "say what you like about the tenets of National Socialism, Dude, at least it's an ethos." and it's off to the races.

by michaelb on Sep 27, 2007 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yesterday was a good day
one more game knocked off the schedule, lead stays the same.  as long as we can just split the last four games, the cheeseheads have to win out just to force a playoff.  

time to remove head from arse gentleman and go grab a win this afternoon.

Coming on strong when it matters, Murton's September line: .361/.425/.583/1.008 boo ya.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 8:21 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

It's hard Al,
but I'm doin' my best to hold on.  Just one little win this afternoon would go a long way to calming our nerves.

Go Padres!

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

by mrcubsfan on Sep 27, 2007 8:24 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

The Padres
and Brewers start 4 games tonight - WOW wat a matchup.  Both need to win at least 3 out of 4 to get in the playoffs!
Cubs Win!! Cubs Win!

by Ihatethecards on Sep 27, 2007 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not the type
to panic. I'm hoping they rebound today and get the win. Maybe an afternoon game will give them that boost of energy they need.

If you do read the thread from last nights game you will notice several ledge jumpers in there. I hope they all made it though the night. :)

Here is an article that says Hart and Soto may be considered for the playoff team. It also says Hendry refuses to talk to Lou about the playoff team until they clinch a postseason berth.

http://www.suntimes.com/sports/baseball/cubs/577077,CST-SPT-cubnt27.article

Shawn Johnson, Des Moines, IA, worlds greatest gymnast. 2007 All Around World Champ. GO SHAWN!!!!

by sue369 on Sep 27, 2007 8:25 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

wow, considered?
IF this cubs team makes the playoffs, i dont see how there is ANY question of soto making the team.  it would be great if there was room for hart, but i am surprised that soto would not be a lock.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 8:27 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah, that's crazy
they aren't even playing Blanco at all down the stretch.  How could they play him over Soto in the playoffs?  Seriously, experience is one thing, but imagine yourself down a run needing a pinch hit late in a ball game, who would you rather have coming up:  the experienced Henry Blanco, or Soto?

by Orval Overall on Sep 27, 2007 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Don't Panic
Breathing in, breathing out. Have to admit, watching the Brewers meltdown last night helped.
A baseball game is nothing but a great slow contraption for getting you to pay attention to the cadence of a summer day -Summerland

by Jaxxonfan on Sep 27, 2007 8:29 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

nothing like
watching turnbow have absolutely no clue where the balls going with the bases loaded.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks Al
It isn't time to panic. We all, including the team, need to relax. The team is really playing like they're feeling the pressure: Two half innings at bat on Monday that lasted 3-4 minutes from hacking against one of the wildest pitchers in baseball (admittedly could have been due to Fletcher's ginormous strike zone), Soriano and Rami doing more hacking lastnight, DeRosa's throw... We don't look super composed out there. Deep breath, everybody.

I also think you need to add to that the fact that the Dolphin looks like one of the most depressing places to play baseball; in Bob Howry's words on Boers & Bernstein yesterday, it's "the deadest". That's not making THE difference, but I do think it makes A difference.

Look, say what you will about Trachsel, but if there's anyone I want on the mound right now, it's a seasoned vet who, if not the most consistently impressive, you know is at least capable of a few surprises. Hey, if Estes can do it, Trachs can do it.

I'll be listening to Pat and Ronnie on my way up to Miller to watch that game with my buddy who's probably the biggest Madres fan in Chitown. He assures me this Cassel kid can get the job done against an imploding Brew Crew. Let's hope he's right.

by mrsmiff on Sep 27, 2007 8:30 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Soto
Why the switch away from Soto?  Reportedly, Kendall starts the remainder.  I don't get it; Soto hits better, and appears to throw better. Is it the way the game is called?

by Slakkr on Sep 27, 2007 8:31 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I was surprised to see that, too.
... I'm guessing Soto might still start Saturday, which is a day game after a night game. And in any case, he's a good RH bat off the bench.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 8:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

today is a day game after a night game as well
and against a LH pitcher... i have no idea why Soto wouldn't play today to let Kendall rest up for the flight and then play tomorrow

and I think those in attendance last night would say that you're being very very kind to Jason Marquis

he was awful last night, and you cant assume a DP on that ball with Hanley Ramirez running down the baseline OR that MArquis would've gotten out of that inning. He was pitching away from contact and when he was getting hit he was getting hit HARD

Marquis has been much better than i imagined this year and i would mark year 1 down as a victory for this signing, but his overall numbers are also misleading lost in his 4.43 ERA are also 13 unearned runs which he's allowed which are far more than any member on the staff

and while they dont count against his ERA they still count... the meltdown in Atlanta comes to mind where those runs were unearned, but really his fault with a throwing error

Again, the Marquis signing on a whole has been a positive one this year, but those that have suggested they feel most comfortable with him on the mound in a big game, etc must not be watching the same guy i'm watching... Rich Hill, Ted Lilly, and Big Z are all FAR SUPERIOR pitchers to Jason

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 8:44 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not so sure about Hill...
... he's had his shaky moments this season, too.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 8:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

take a closer look
Rich Hill has 16 QS in 31 Starts

In 16 starts this year he's allowed 2 ER's or less

in only 7 of Hill's 31 starts has he allowed 5 runs or more (not just ER's)

Marquis has 15 QS in 33 starts

in 13 starts this year Marquis has allowed 2 ER's or less

in 11 of Marquis starts he's allowed 5 or more Runs (not just ER's)

your eyes and your gut are deceiving you

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 9:12 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not susrprised.
It's Lou's pattern. He won't "embarrass" a veteran player. He'll play the veteran player until he stops performing well. At least, Lou can recognize who's hot and play him, like he did with Soto (and with Theriot earlier in the season), unlike last year's "Dude".

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 27, 2007 10:06 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

this seems contradicting
you're saying Lou doesnt want to embarass the veteran and will play them till their cold

but then you're saying he's quicker to realize the young talent over the veteran????

it seems like Lou is going back to Kendall by naming him his starter the rest of the way (as others have alleged in this thread)

seems to me to be pretty much the same as Dusty.... took Riot a long time to overtake Izturis...

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 10:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Veterans
I know Lou has said a few times that he likes the experience of veteran players down the stretch, and I tend to agree.  Kendall is a grizzled, tough veteran.  Kendall has hit the ball a lot better with the Cubs than he was with the A's this year.  I personally try to guess how many times Kendall will readjust his batting gloves each at-bat, it seems to be almost compulsive for him.

by BrownE34 on Sep 27, 2007 8:39 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Kendall's
hot start with the Cubs is still ringing in the minds of fans

he's now down to .275-.366-.365 which is still better than anything we've gotten PG (Pre-Geovany) and better than Kendall was with the A's... but he's not even close to Soto offensively or defensively right now and his 4.27 cERA with the Cubs is worse than Michael Barrett

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yeah
kendalls not a bad player, but soto is far above him in all areas, i really hope lou can see through this "veteran experience."  soto could be a secret weapon in the playoffs.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 8:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

it appears Kendall had a sore thumb
and why Soto played for a week, now Lou is saying Kendall is the starting catcher period.

Ironically the Suntimes has some notes of whether the Cubs go with 11 or 10 pitchers and if 10 they are going with 3 catchers....just what I was told a few weeks ago.

Watch for a fast hook today and Hart inserted.

Club stats since June'07; 61-45 BEST in NL, against LHP starters; 14-14, and 21-10 in one run games, IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN!

by Ivy Walls on Sep 27, 2007 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I Think Part of The Decision...
... to play Soto was that Kendall had a sore thumb.

Let's get some early runs, and tack on often!  Seal the deal.

Go Cubbies!

by initram on Sep 27, 2007 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cardiac Cubs
And how many times was there a great hit, only to just fall short on the warning track ?

DeRosa looked so crest-fallen in the post game interview...yet all the while he has been so terrific this season.

The Baseball Gods smiled on us, so I hope the guys can dig down and pick each other up and get this done!!!

Go Cubs Go !!!

by coral on Sep 27, 2007 8:31 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

That alien...
...scares me almost as much as this tight race.  It doesn't have eyes!  That's scary!

Dan

Evey Hammond: Vi Veri Veniversum Vivus Vici. V: By the power of truth, I, while living, have conquered the universe.

by dtpollitt on Sep 27, 2007 8:45 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I think we all feel a little dirty...
...after rooting for the Cards last night. After suffering through the last out of the Cubs game last night, I immediatley fired up my laptop to monitor the Cards-Brewers game on Gameday. And it was a very odd feeling to be elated at the thought of Pujols coming to the plate or to be ecstatic about So Taguchi getting a clutch hit.

As I mentioned earlier in the game thread yesterday, however, there could be no Cardinals win last night. If they won the game, they'd only be helping the Cubs -- hardly a victory for them. And if they lost, well, they lost.

But they didn't lose. They won. And they made Yost and the Boo Hoo Crew look like a bunch of whiny babies in the process. Thank you, Deadbirds!

Don't tase me, bro!

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 27, 2007 8:49 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I fired up my notebook too...
But i was getting frustrated at the delay (because i new things were happening), so i called my brother who attends St Norberts in Greenbay, and he gave me the play by play.

I felt dirty celebrating for the Cards but hey, it helped the Cubs and it helped me go to bed not angry and frustrated!

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 27, 2007 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re: I fired up my notebook too...
Exactly! After the Cubs loss, I resigned myself to going to bed sad and worried. The Cards win sent me to slumberland elated and hopeful. Weird game this baseball.

I just pray we all have something to happy about later today. This losing streak against the Marlins has gone from annoying to downight ridiculous.

Don't tase me, bro!

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 27, 2007 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

You're brother goes to St. Norbert's?
Nice school.  I used to have to drive through there to work every morning.

by eamuscatuli1881 on Sep 27, 2007 10:17 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes he does...
Very nice school.  My wife attended there as well.  it is small but still big, everyone is very friendly and you always have a good time there.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 27, 2007 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

For one game...
The gutless punk Cards showed me something. Glad to see Pujols try to actually earn his paycheck instead of goldbricking it the rest of the season. Good to see Rolen hasn't completely rubbed off on him.

I couldn't care less how many Cardinals get plunked. LaRussa has made a career out of plunking people, so a little payback is fine with me.

As for Cubs fans, I am sick and tired of seeing screen names for the first time when the Cubs are losing.

Listen, you bunch of daisies, either show up when it's good and bad or don't show up at all. I can't imagine the sick pleasure someone takes in only being critical.

We support OUR  team. We criticize teams like the scumbag Cardinals and the immature Brewers and the snotty Marlins and the satanic Mets.

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 8:56 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Thanks Al,
for keeping the magic number up and not giving in to the crowd mentality.  As I said in last night's game thread, if we take the number down, the anti-numberists will have won.  ;-)

p.s.  Mike, love the socks...

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

by ballhawk on Sep 27, 2007 8:57 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Agreed...
There is no such thing as a curse. There is bad management, bad ownership and stupid play.

Take your superstitions and shove them. You can have my magic number when you pry it from my cold, dead fingers!

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 8:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Keep the number!
1. Chicago Cubs (3--it's a magic number...)

by bison on Sep 27, 2007 11:52 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Al, please talk me off the ledge.
It looks to me like the Cubs are choking their bats into sawdust right now. Could they be feeling the weight of history? Whether they admit it or not, they do hear about it. Christ, the stands at Wrigley are full of signs reminding them of it every game. They are doing things now that they were doing in April. Errors, getting picked off first base (right before a D.Lee homer!), and taking wild swings (A-Ram).

Despite all the positive feelings we are sending them from this site, they look horrible right now. They had to figure that the Brewers would win last night and they still couldn't get it done. We all are very lucky today the leads not down to 1. Now we are counting on Trachsel? If the bats don't get it done today, we are in trouble.

Also, to all the posters who speculated on the cardinals tanking, I hope you watched the game last night. Pujols played when he's hurt and the Cardinals really took it to the Brewers. Remember the unexpected help we got from the Brewers in '03?

by Mapmaker on Sep 27, 2007 9:04 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I give the Cardinals no credit
They probably got a call from the Commissioner's office or something.

Yeah, they won. Gave us a lift.

But I'm not ready to vote them playoff shares because they actually did what they are paid to do.

There is no history that matters. That garbage is for fans and media. Players don't care.

The team is putting pressure on itself. But it's not doing so because of 1969, 1984, 1989 or 2003.

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 9:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Chill dude...
They lost two games.  When they win today, you will feel better.

And we are playing just fine, they only reason it seems that we are not is because the playoffs start next week.

And to address your weight of history?  The players are probably more excited to BE history this year, that worry about history.  They are all imagining what it would be like to win a World Series with the Cubs, thus making them more motivated to win.

"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 27, 2007 9:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not talking anyone off any ledge
You want to jump, fine by me.

More beer for me on the bandwagon.

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fine
But I'm taking the beer with me.

by Mapmaker on Sep 27, 2007 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well said, Higgy.
The players know exactly what they have to do. And there's no manager that could have them better prepared for the final four games than Lou Piniella.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think Pujols played ...
Simply for the numbers last night.  Got his 100th RBI and seems to be trying to go for his 100th run scored.  I'm guessing there are clauses in his contract regarding hefty paydays for the acheivement of those stats ... so I'm not gonna call the guy entirely selfless.  Not yet, at least ... probably because of the uni he dons.

Still, it's a weird day when I cheer for the fellow and I immediately felt like I needed to shower after ...

"Want it spicy? Make it *snappy*! Want it spicier? Make it *snappy, snappy*!

by Littlerock Rynofan on Sep 27, 2007 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No wonder they didn't win

They didn't have their towels!

by salparadise23 on Sep 27, 2007 9:08 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

We're still 2 up w/ 4 to play
If someone woke up from a coma and heard the above sentence there would be optimism rather than worry with the situation we are in. Al put it best, think about how we would all be reacting if we were Mets fans!

Today is not a MUST win either for the club. Certainly for their confidence they need to win, but as far as the standings we could very well lose this game and take 2 in Cincy and be fine.

The Padres will be fighting and HAVE to compete today and tomorrow no matter what happens to the other teams.

Remember we're looking down, not up in the situation. Good pitching will get us through the last four. All the little breaks went Florida's way last night, those breaks should come back our way and hopefully before we get to Cincy.

As Al said, KEEP THE FAITH!

by The Ryno and I Know on Sep 27, 2007 9:09 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm sick of this MUST WIN garbage
It's not MUST WIN for the team with the two-game lead.

You guys just set yourselves up for the suicide hotline when you attach MUST WIN to something.

If on Monday, we're in a playoff, that's MUST WIN!

If we get down to an elimination game in the playoffs, that is MUST WIN.

Everything else is just IT WOULD BE NICE TO WIN AND GET IT OVER WITH

But that doesn't sound as good in a chalk-talk.

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 9:10 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Here here
That's the beauty of having a two game lead.  We can lose and still gain (on the magic number), which is what happened last night.  

We can cheerfully lose every last game, so long as the Brewers do the same.  THEY are the ones with "must win" games.  

Anyways, did anyone REALLY expect the Cubs to win the rest of their games?  

by MikeIowa on Sep 27, 2007 9:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Considering...
I dont remember the last time the Cubs won their last ten games of the season, or 10 games in a row period....no i did not!
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 27, 2007 9:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Don't Panic?
Some of us Cubs fans don't panic, we just go in to shock as we anticipate it slipping away, LOL...but on the serious side Trax is due for a good game.  One W is huge in FLA because I don't see us sweeping Cincy, the ballpark may give our pitchers the jitters although Dunn is out I think...I'll take the Brewers losing out so long as we win the division...

by DudeVf11 on Sep 27, 2007 9:11 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Look at it this way
White Sox and Cards both frittered leads away and barely made the playoffs.

Look what happened after that.

Too many of you are channeling Mariotti.

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 9:12 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

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

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 9:14 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hopefully, the last two nights
were the trough. Now they'll rise up and play some winning ball. I'm still waiting, however, for Soriano to hit a clutch homerun with runners on base.

by teacher tom on Sep 27, 2007 9:12 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

gosh, soriano
watching him the last two nights i thought to myself, how the hell has this guy put up big numbers his whole career?  dont get me wrong, i love soriano and think he is immensely talented, but how do pitchers not have the book on him?  you throw soriano a fastball down the middle at the waist, or just above the waste, and he will swing and miss.  every. single. time.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, not every single time.
Soriano's a streak hitter. He was pretty locked in for the first three weeks after he came back. Now he's cold. It happens. We knew this when we got him.

It would be really nice if he got hot again starting tonight.

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

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 10:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i hope youre right
i just cant conjure up a memory of soriano getting on top of a fastball up in the strike zone, and he was hot as hell coming into this series, then looked like garbage missing 86 mph willis high fastballs.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If you are having a slump...
At least make up for it in other areas, right?

The baserunning gaffe (yeah, he was really safe) cost us a run that was sorely needed as DLEE hit a HR.

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

by TheEman on Sep 27, 2007 11:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Uhhh
Didn't he throw out a couple of runners last night? That would be other areas...
n/t

by LT on Sep 27, 2007 11:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I've been freaking out this week.
The whole being unemployed and having nothing to do but think about the games hasn't helped.
AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on Sep 27, 2007 9:13 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Are you at least
Thinking about how to find a job? :)

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

ive been working on it
One of the possibilities is as a web developer in fantasy sports. I don't wanna talk about it too much though cause I'm afraid I'm gonna jinx it.
AC 00 00 00 - BELIEVE

by mike on Sep 27, 2007 12:59 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hopefully last night
ended the talk that every Brewers opponent is tanking the season and that the Brewers have become so good that they won't lose a game again.  

The Cubs only need to worry about themselves.  Even a 2-2 record from here should get them in the playoffs.  If they can't manage that on the road, they don't deserve the playoffs.    

by rlpete on Sep 27, 2007 9:16 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm with Al here
We all need to hide the panic button. Yeah, the Marlins have beaten us 9 games in a row, but let's think about this for a second. Some of those games date back to 2006, where we didn't exactly field a strong team on the field. Why we can't beat them so far in 2007 is perplexing for me as it is for you. We're due to snap it and I actually feel very confident with Trax on the mound tonight as the man to do it.

Another thing to think about that's to our advantage here... our players are used to playing with the Human Rain Delay by now, so they'll find a way to keep themselves entertained while he lulls the Fish to sleep. He may not have the best stuff, but he's been around the block a few times.

Let's worry about having fun out there and less worrying about trying to clinch the division. The more we enjoy ourselves, the sweeter the division championship will be!

Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 9:18 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Thank God for this website!
Or Al, whatever. It's my only outlet for whining. My wife won't listen to me anymore and I don't know any Cubs fans where I live.

by Mapmaker on Sep 27, 2007 9:19 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Don't be afraid to
...toss in a positive post every now and then.  Should keep your blood pressure down and might help you live longer.   However, if you must whine, I suggest going over to the Blew[it] Crew Ball board and post there.  I'm sure they've got a rope already and are looking for a tree big enough for Yost, Turnbow, and Cecil Jr.
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Sep 27, 2007 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm not sure they found any rope
I think the Mets fans have it all.  

by rlpete on Sep 27, 2007 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hey, Mapmaker, Why are you still here? You said
yesterday that if the Cubs lost last night "It's over for them and I'll give odds and take all bets". Are you here to take bets? What were those odds that you were giving?

by billybuck on Sep 27, 2007 10:10 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Batting practice / Field drills
Apparently due to rain, the Cubs haven't been able to get out on the field in Fla prior to the last 2 games.  This change in routine has affected them.

by coral on Sep 27, 2007 9:28 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

They'll probably hit today...
... with a 4 pm start, and no rain in the Miami area right now, BP should be no problem.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 9:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks Al
Great recap today. Thanks for the perspective. There are four games left, I'll try not to panic until I absolutely have to.

by montanacubby on Sep 27, 2007 9:28 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Perhaps also interesting with the Brews/Madres...
Same crew of umps minus Winters. Some payback against the Pads in order? Could see some rubber band strike zone action...

by mrsmiff on Sep 27, 2007 9:33 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Clarification...
Same crew of umps who were involved in the Milton Bradley meltdown game.

by mrsmiff on Sep 27, 2007 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I know where you're coming from but...
..I seriously doubt it.  Umps may be blind but they're not stupid.

This crew has gotta know they'll be under the magnifying glass big time for this series.  Not sure what's written in the ump's unofficial rule book, but If there is any retribution in order, now is not the time.  My guess is they'll call it straight, they'll call it consistent, and most of all, they'll call it quick so they can get the hell out of there and go home.

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

by ballhawk on Sep 27, 2007 9:40 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Padres
are convinced the umpires have been out to get them for two years now--ever since Sandy Alderson was named team president.

Alderson had been the MLB executive in charge of umpires before taking the Padres job.  He was also responsible for QuesTec.

The artist formerly known as JoshinLA

by Josh77 on Sep 27, 2007 12:04 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Here's A Healthy Way at Looking at it...
Losing last night along with the Brewers loss this late in the season has the same net result as both of us winning.

by initram on Sep 27, 2007 9:36 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Hay, I just had my first kiss
...but it was my sister.

Losing still stinks.

Not shinola it's the other!

6-01-2007 the Cubs begin to rise. They will never look back.

by Scott G F on Sep 27, 2007 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Two things
First, let's get back to talking about the concluded ball game as opposed to all of the what-if and doomsday scenarios.  We've done that all year, why stop now?

The error that was charged to DeRosa was really a bad play be Theriot.  I understand that Hanley Ramirez can run but the way Theriot approached the throw was Dunston-esque.  One of the first things you're taught as a middle infielder is to accept the throw from the 2nd baseman, not fly across the bag and hope to get the throw as you go by.  If Theriot's chops his feet at the bag like he should have, the Cubs get at least one out, possibly two.  Worst case was guys on 1st and third with two out not first and third, one out and a run scored.  That one was on Theriot, not DeRosa.

Relax Cubs Nation. We're fine, and quite frankly, in a better position today than we were yesterday at this time.  

Eighty-five percent of the f*ckin' world is working. The other fifteen percent come out here. -- Lee Constantine Elia, 1983.

by krummy12 on Sep 27, 2007 9:40 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Theriot/DeRosa
When I watched the replay, I thought the same thing.  I wouldn't blame Theriot for the whole play but the throw was basically just inside second base.  If Theriot was on the base, for example as he might have taken the throw if it was the 3rd out, I think he gets it easily.  Unfortunately by that time, Theriot was well past the base.  The error had to be on DeRosa but Theriot wasn't completely faultless.  

by rlpete on Sep 27, 2007 9:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have to agree with you.
It's scored as a throwing error, but Theriot was out of position to receive the throw.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 27, 2007 10:09 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Utter chaos!
Since the AL side is all set in stone for the playoffs, the NL side has YET to be determined, thanks to the wacky, wacky play of everyone involved.

My head is spinning trying to figure out the various possible playoff matchups. I had to grab my head with both hands and breathe. Does anyone know the various matchups that could happen? One thing I know for certain is that there's gotta be at least 5 different scenarios! Can anyone break it down for me?

Thanks!

Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 9:44 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Don't even try to figure them out.
And the AL's not "set in stone" yet, either. The Red Sox have not yet clinched the AL East, though they could do so today.

And the matchups aren't set either, because the Red Sox and Indians are tied for the AL's best record and the Angels still have an outside chance at it, or for the 2nd seed, or...

... damn. This is making my head spin too.

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

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 9:47 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If you want to spin your heads
try figuring out all the NFL playoff matchups with 3-4 games left in the season.

LET'S GO CUBS...!

Leading off and playing short, TheRiot; batting 2nd and catching, Mr.OBP, Jason Kendall.....Do it Lou!

by blackhawk24 on Sep 27, 2007 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Good point, Al
I was trying to say that at least we know who's in the playoffs for the AL. Can't quite say the same yet for the NL! I can't imagine the playoff hunt getting anymore wackier than it has this week!
Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

matchups are pretty much set
because it doesnt matter who finishes 1-2 with cleveland and boston

boston cant play the WC Yankees, so they have to play the Angels

the only way things can change is if the Yankees overtake the Red Sox, which would seem like a longshot

if that happened the Yankees would play the Angels and the Red Sox would play the Indians

almost any other scenario involves Boston playing LAA and CLE playing NYY

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 10:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Home field advantage...
... in those series could change, though.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

If Boston reclaims home-field...
that would mean the Yankees would go to LA, while the Sox play the Tribe. Should that be the case, then I would guess that we'll see LA v. Cle in the ALCS.

Boston is 0-6 this year vs. the Tribe, and the Yankees don't do very well in LA. However, like I've said elsewhere, the postseason is a new season, so who knows what'll happen.

I just wanna know if we're playing the Baby Backs, Friars, Mets, Phillies, or the Rockies! AHH!! My head's spinning again!! Make it stop!!

Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 10:18 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

thats wrong
if Boston claims homefield the seeds would be like this:
  1. Boston
  2. Cleveland
  3. Angels
  4. Yankees
1 cant play 4 because they're in the same division. So the Red Sox would play the Angels with the Sox having homefield

meaning the Indians would play the Yankees with the Indians having homefield

the only way Boston plays Cleveland is if Anaheim somehow gets homefield advantage or if the Yankees somehow overtake Boston

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

there is no way
boston is 0-6 vs. the tribe this year, i dont have it in front of me, but i know cleveland struggles against boston.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 10:53 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Boston is 5-2 versus the Tribe this year..
n/t
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 27, 2007 11:07 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ah....then who is 0-6 against the Tribe this year?
I was 1/2 paying attention to BBTN last night when they mentioned it and I was in the middle of an online conversation. I think they mentioned one of the playoff teams hasn't done well against the Tribe this year. Or maybe I was just tired and out of it and misread the caption!
Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

thats surprising
because my roommate is a huge tribe fan, and ive seen many of their games and know that they have struggled a lot against both boston and ny, did poor against the angels early, but then swept them late in the season.  all playoff series in both leagues should be great.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 11:24 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

you've got it the other way around
the tribe are 0-6 vs. the yankees (their likely opponent)

and CC Sabathia hasnt won a game against the Yankees since 2001 (i think)

he has a career ERA well over 7 against them

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 11:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That's the one!
Once again, thanks Dartmouth!
Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 11:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

maybe
Boston and CLE are up on ANA by 2.5 games and up on the Yankees by 2

its almost certain right now that the 1st rd will be:

LAA @ BOS
NYY @ CLE

the only way this changes is if LAA somehow passes either BOS or CLE, down 2.5 with 4 days left in the season is tough to make up...

otherwise any scenario in which BOS or CLE are 1-2 = Cleveland and Boston getting homefield

If Boston somehow lost their 2 game lead to the Yankees with 4 to play the Yankees would play ANA with homefield advantage...

it looks pretty much set since we know the 4 teams playing and 2 games separate anything from changing

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 10:32 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Interesting...?
Yes, however only one of these teams gets to the World Series and any of them have home field advantage, thanks to Bud Light.

So.....we only have 3 WS games at Wrigley.

Leading off and playing short, TheRiot; batting 2nd and catching, Mr.OBP, Jason Kendall.....Do it Lou!

by blackhawk24 on Sep 27, 2007 10:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks Dartmouth
The last I scenario I had heard was the one that I had posted above. I've been pretty busy and haven't been able to update myself on the AL standings in terms of home field, etc. Appreciate your breakdown.

Although, it would seem possible that the Yankees could overtake Boston as they close out the series vs. Tampa Bay and the season in Baltimore. Boston closes the season out with a 4 gamer at home vs. MN.

Cleveland finishes today in Seattle, then head over to KC. Meanwhile, the Halos close out at Oakland.

Out of all these, Boston is the only one playing at home.

Is it possible that NONE of the playoff matchups (AL or NL) are established until the very last day of the season??

Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

It's a little clearer
One thing that was finalized last night is that the Cubs cannot get the best record in the NL as they are 5 games behind Arizona.  They are also still 4 games behind the Mets so it's unlikely they will catch them.  

So that means the West and East winners will host the first round.  The Wild Card winner will not play the winner of their division.  So the Central winner will play the winner of the division where the Wild Card comes from.      

by rlpete on Sep 27, 2007 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Massive Tie Scenario
There is still the chance of a 5 team tie in the NL, as David Pinto points out on his wonderful site baseball musings .
http://www.baseballmusings.com/

You have to scroll down a little bit to see the Massive Tie Scenario, but once you are there it is well worth it. David is really obsessed about it ;-)

PS: he also linked to Als "tomahawk story"

Yes, there is Baseball in Austria! Well, kind of www.cubs.at

by Frank Chance on Sep 27, 2007 10:11 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Why is NL central different from AL east
Anyone know why a tie between the Yanks and Red Sox is broken by their head-to-head record, while a tie between the Cubbies and Brewers triggers a one game playoff?

Is the difference that in the Yanks/Red Sox example both teams will make the playoff (either as champs or wildcard)?

by WrigleyATL on Sep 27, 2007 12:06 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

exactly
both teams are in, so it only effects seeding...

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 12:11 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Call me dumb here, but
Suppose the Baby Backs and the Friars both make the playoffs, but they both tie for the division...do they still have to play the 1 game playoff OR does the head-to-head tiebreaker apply here? (Likewise for the Mets/Phillies - since the whole NL playoff pic is a major mess!)
Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 12:50 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I think the tiebreaker applies.
Didn't this happen a few years back with the Cards and Astros?
Before each game, please remember to feed the bats.

by Cool Hand on Sep 27, 2007 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Head-To-Head Playoff Game...
... does not apply here.  The key words in your scenario is that both teams make the playoffs.  Since both are in, and both have the same record, they will default to other criteria to get them in.  

I believe it goes:

(1) Head to head record
(2) if tied, it goes to interleague play record
(3) if still tied, it goes to second half of the season interleague play record
(4) if still tied, it ends with the total number of David's sunflower seeds bags consumed during the regular season by the original 25 man roster.  ;-)

by initram on Sep 27, 2007 2:20 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

LOL
I think they oughta move (4) in place of (1) :)
Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 2:57 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cinci Forecast
No, not for Cub's W's, just the weather for the weekend:

Sunny, high mid-80's, lows around 50.  

Sounds like winning baseball weather to me.  This end-of-September global warming baseball weather is pretty nice.  Considering all of the "warm weather" players we have with bad hammies, this is a good forecast for the Cubs.

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

by SpudV on Sep 27, 2007 9:45 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

If the Birds blew it last night,
now would be time to panic. But we're going against a team (in the division race) who's manager insisted on throwing bean balls instead of concentrating on what it takes for a win.

I caught much of that game on satellite simultaneously with the Cubs game. The Bird/Beerboys game had so much tension (violent tension) that it could be cut with a knife. Physical assertiveness can be used in my first sport, hockey (if done properly), but it usually doesn't work in baseball.

LaRussa - you know the guy most of us love to hate - drew in Yost like a bug light does to a skeeter. After the Pujols plunk, Yost and the Brewers got zapped and I knew the Birds would win the game.

The Cubs have to play fundamental ball. No backhand throws De-Ro. Fonzie, can you catch a 7-iron to left? They play solid ball today, they'll win and by the time they get to Cincy they could have clinched a tie.

Leading off and playing short, TheRiot; batting 2nd and catching, Mr.OBP, Jason Kendall.....Do it Lou!

by blackhawk24 on Sep 27, 2007 9:50 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

you can't catch a 7 iron,
it would be deep in the seats.
"If you play more than two chords, you're showing off."--Woody Guthrie

by buckmulligan on Sep 27, 2007 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not literally a golf ball shot,
but the trajectory of a baseball when hit. Of course a golf ball travels much further. I can't play golf worth a crap and even my slices would make the seats.

My bud is a golf pro and he tells me what many of the fly balls' trajectory is in golf terms when we're at the ballpark.

Leading off and playing short, TheRiot; batting 2nd and catching, Mr.OBP, Jason Kendall.....Do it Lou!

by blackhawk24 on Sep 27, 2007 9:58 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not in any state of panic here...
But....if they don't win the division, as far as I am concerned, they lost it back in May.

I know the a hot team/hot pitchers model of playoff success, but it still a stretch for me to to think of this team as playoff caliber.  0-5 against the Marlins??!   Come on.

by thinkingdog on Sep 27, 2007 9:50 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Marmol...
...wasn't that bad. He should have been instructed to pitch around Cabrera and throw him mostly sliders in the dirt since 1st base was open. The pitch Cabrera hit out was a good slider that just caught a little too much of the plate.

It would probably be in Trachsel's best interest to pitch around Cabrera today too. Lifetime numbers vs. Trachsel: 12-21, 5 2B, 3 HR, 8 RBI, .571/.654/1.238

by seang03 on Sep 27, 2007 9:54 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Reports from locker room after the game: Piniella
ESPN 2 reported that Piniella gathered the team together after the disappointing loss and made a simple statment:

"You boys appear to be pressing, just come back tomorrow and have fun and enjoy this." That was all, but DeRosa, the player with two consecutive defensive gaffe's stated it was the perfect thing to say at the perfect moment.

Later it was reported that a few players watched the end of the Brewers-Cardinals game and lifted their heavy shoulders.

Listen, this is why one of the reasons they are playing Piniella the big bucks, he knows how to tactically play the game, he knows how to motivate individuals and create a team environment but he also knows when to take the pressure off a team pressing and give them confidence.

Sports even professional has to be fun. Last night I had three nervous nellie calls, all thinking the sky was falling, heck NYMETS don't have a bullpen and lost again to the Nationals, Arizona has lost to Pittsburgh again....Colorado and Philadelphia are closing in on both the division and WC....

Today Cubs will find a way to win, possibly big....go to Cincinnati with either the magic number dangerously at 2 or 1, either way it is the real magic number for it can be elimination day either way.  

Club stats since June'07; 61-45 BEST in NL, against LHP starters; 14-14, and 21-10 in one run games, IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN!

by Ivy Walls on Sep 27, 2007 9:58 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Sweet Lou
calming down the team; nice, very nice.
Leading off and playing short, TheRiot; batting 2nd and catching, Mr.OBP, Jason Kendall.....Do it Lou!

by blackhawk24 on Sep 27, 2007 10:00 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

oh I was wrong, I thought the Brewers would sweep
But they didn't, I think at best the Brewers will split with the Padres, tonight San Diego has to fly in from SF leaving at Midnight or worse....it is a 6 hour flight to Milwaukee including time changes....I have made that trip too often

they will probably sleep through the morning and into the afternoon. It is the Brewers best chance...

Club stats since June'07; 61-45 BEST in NL, against LHP starters; 14-14, and 21-10 in one run games, IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN!

by Ivy Walls on Sep 27, 2007 10:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Any one hear
if the Padres are ready to throw Peavy on Sunday if needed? My guess would be 'yes' since they are so tight in the division and WC.
Leading off and playing short, TheRiot; batting 2nd and catching, Mr.OBP, Jason Kendall.....Do it Lou!

by blackhawk24 on Sep 27, 2007 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

This page...
... on the Padres website says yes.
"That's my opinion and if you don't like it, well, I have others." ~ Groucho Marx

by Al on Sep 27, 2007 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

But I'm not liking reports
That Traschel is cursing at reporters and cursing to have the TV shut off.

We got this guy because the theory was that his sphincter WOULDN'T tighten in this situation.

Something tells me I'd rather dust Glendon Rusch off and pitch him than watch Trash-Can go today.

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 10:11 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

What?
You mean Thrachsel is not Glendon Rusch on a diet? :-)

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 27, 2007 10:20 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re: But I'm not liking reports
Please tell me you're joking about Glendon Rusch. I'm not exactly thrilled that the Cubs are looking to Trachsel to be their stopper (bwahahaha), but let us maintain perspective.

I'd like to see four innings from Trax, two from Hart and then other bullpen matchups for the remainder of the game.

Don't tase me, bro!

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 27, 2007 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

While Trax, aka Human Rain Delay (HRD), sucks...
he DID go 3-0 with a 2.00 ERA against the Fish last year. I'm liking our odds here.
Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

What kind of offence
did he have behind him in those games? Was he staked to a nice lead in each?
Leading off and playing short, TheRiot; batting 2nd and catching, Mr.OBP, Jason Kendall.....Do it Lou!

by blackhawk24 on Sep 27, 2007 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

That I don't know
I do know he was with the Mets last year...but the stats I pulled from cubs.com. I'll do some digging and see what I can find for ya.
Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rusch
I sure missed him this year. Nobody else can give up 20 homers in 60 innings as well as Glendon.
"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 Sep 27, 2007 11:15 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

There's a certain brilliance ...
To that kind of production!  Glendon, we knew you too well ...
"Want it spicy? Make it *snappy*! Want it spicier? Make it *snappy, snappy*!

by Littlerock Rynofan on Sep 27, 2007 11:36 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Answer to your question
in Game 1 on 4/7/06: he was staked to a 2-0 in the 1st before they made it 2-1 in the 4th. In the bttm of the 4th, the Mets made it 4-1, then went on to score 1 in the 5th, 2 in the 6th and 7th to make it 9-1. He only pitched 6 innings in this game. (Mets won 9-3)

Game 2: 8/2/06: staked him to a 6-0 lead before he gave up 3 runs in 7 innings (all earned and 2 home runs). (Mets won 6-5)

Game 3: 9/18/06: he pitched 6.1 innings, giving up only 3 hits in a 4-0 win.

Hope that answers your question.

Missing Da Cubbies from NYC!

by dacubsfan76 on Sep 27, 2007 10:45 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks...
So it does look like he needs to pitch with a lead, even given this small sample size.

If the Cubs can get to Olsen in the first 3-4 innings or so for say a field goal and can go 5 innings himself, then Lou can mix and match with the 'pen.

Leading off and playing short, TheRiot; batting 2nd and catching, Mr.OBP, Jason Kendall.....Do it Lou!

by blackhawk24 on Sep 27, 2007 10:54 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re: Answer to your question
Thanks for doing this research. The only thing I'd quibble with is putting the word "only" in front of "six innings." Giving up one earned run over six innings is a quality start, as is three runs in seven innings and, obviously, no runs in 6.1 innings.

There is some grounds for hope that Trachsel can give the Cubs at least a good four innings or so today.

Don't tase me, bro!

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 27, 2007 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Al is right. There is no reason to panic.
Granted. The Cubs lost a series to the team with the worst record in the NL. That's undoubtedly bad, especially when wins would clinch a division.

On the other hand, the Brewers need to win more games than the Cubs do and didn't do anything to help themselves last night. The reports this morning look as if the Brewers players feel they are letting the division slip away.

So, the Cubs lost two games and yet they are closer to the goal, as their magic number is smaller than when they left the Windy City. Considering how they played, I see that as a positive development.

As Lou, said, the team used two of their three mulligans in Miami. If the Brewers lose again, the Cubs may have more than three mulligans this weekend to use. I hope they don't have to use them.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 27, 2007 10:18 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Correction to next to last sentence.
It should read: "If the Brewers lose again, the Cubs may have more than ONE mulligan this weekend to use."

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 27, 2007 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Soriano's Defense
I gave up cable a year ago, so didn't see the game last night - enjoyed Pat & Ron instead.  For those of you who did watch it, what say ye about Fonzie's defense?  Were those catchable balls - the ones hit by Treanor and Hermida?  I was certainly glad to hear that Fonzie threw each of them out at second, but I'm wondering if this is a trend.

Is his outfield defense always going to suck but his arm will keep bailing him out?  Or can he learn how to play defense and become an even better player than he is now?  Or [perish the thought] is he getting an Edmonds-like "I'll slow down so I can dive and make a spectacular catch and be on the web gem list" complex by unnecessarily putting himself in position to show off his cannon?

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

by ballhawk on Sep 27, 2007 10:20 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Soriano was pressing.
He wasn't the only one. Players were trying to make the spectacular play to get an extra out. Theriot on the missed throw by DeRosa was another example. They should concentrate on making the sure plays first.

On your specific question, I think whether you make a play deep in the outfield is always debatable.

by Fraggin Judge on Sep 27, 2007 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, shut up
Soriano is our left fielder for the next seven years.

You want to root for So Taguchi, go be a Cards fan.

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 10:30 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

WTF?
Why did you flame the guy?
It is SEPTEMBER, and we're STILL IN IT! YES!

by TheEman on Sep 27, 2007 11:13 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I dunno...
...maybe he thought I came to praise Edmonds, not bury him?
...maybe not enough caffeine yet?
...maybe too much caffeine already?  ;-)

At any rate, just to clarify - I wasn't bashing Soriano nor was I touting the Cards.  Just trying to build on someone's earlier post asking that these recaps be more about recaps and less about ledge-jumping.  So I thought I'd ask a legit question about last night's game seeing as how I didn't see it, just heard it.

Thanks for the support, but I grew up an Indians fan in Ohio - my skin is thick...

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

by ballhawk on Sep 27, 2007 11:28 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Relax
Hermida's was inches off the line and Treanor's was off the wall.  Soriano wasn't loafing on either.  

by rlpete on Sep 27, 2007 10:33 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

i was at the game
sitting behind the cubs pen

the Hermida ball right before the Cabrera HR was definitely catchable, it hit low off the wall

Soriano plays balls near the wall terribly, its been a problem all year as he's not good at taking his eye off the ball and then relocating it

its a poor spot in his defense, but his arm and his range in general are both positives

while its scary to think about how he'll be in say 2011... for now he's fine defensively out there

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 10:42 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh that Hermida hit
He had quite a few of them in this series.  He's going to be a great player for Florida.  My comment was on the earlier hit that drove in the 2 runs and where he was thrown at 2nd.

You are right, the other one may have been catchable.        

by rlpete on Sep 27, 2007 10:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

yep
the one down the line had no chance, just a flare with some eyes toward fair territory

Hermida's fantastic in fact the Marlins might have 3 of the best offensive players in the entire league next year with Miggy, Hanley, and Hermida

i live in South Fla and while i'm getting awfully tired of leaving that stadium with the same feeling of frustration repeatedly (superbowl as well...) i do admire the way the Marlins run their organization

they believe in front office running things and they believe firmly in player development. They have no fan base to depend on so they build towards taking a shot every few years at winning everything. They take that shot by adding a few veterans through FA (Pudge, Delgado, etc) and then deal them off and rebuild

a very sound front office with a distinct philosophy

one of the better ones in the game

its a shame the South Fla fans are made up of mostly transplants from other cities and thus the fan base has had little chance to build, that and how terribly fair weather South Fla sports fans are in general

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

No, one was high off he wall the other down the
line if I recall correctly:

DeRosa's error & Soriano's 17th assist

Soriano's 18th assist

BTW folks there is a good replay showing that Theriot was on the outfield side and DeRosa missed the target, also the Marlins was on top of the play and there would have not been a GIDP.

First assist was a line drive down the line....the second assist was high off the wall.

Also note Piniella second guessed himself in thinking of taking Marquis out....he should have at 4.2-IP.

Club stats since June'07; 61-45 BEST in NL, against LHP starters; 14-14, and 21-10 in one run games, IT'S GOING TO HAPPEN!

by Ivy Walls on Sep 27, 2007 11:01 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

The Button
DO NOT HIT THIS!!

PERRY!!!!

by Goat Whisperer on Sep 27, 2007 10:20 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

But it's so shiny...
The jolly, candy-like button!

But, if you say so, I won't hit the button.

looks at the button, longingly

Before each game, please remember to feed the bats.

by Cool Hand on Sep 27, 2007 12:10 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well
Throw everything out the window that has happened the last coupple nights. We just need to settle in, get TrashBag on a towel drill with Larry, keep the bases unclogged, and we'll get a win. I'm confident. But really, don't you think a win tonight should be more than a possibility?
I would not fight Jason Kendall.

by TCobb1911 on Sep 27, 2007 10:30 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Nice to see DeLee
going to straight away center field on that HR.  He's getting locked in - driving a lot of balls to right and right center.

Aramis needs to relax and take what the pitchers are giving him.

Soriano has single handedly won a lot of games for the Cubs this year, but I think a lot of us would like to see him become more aware of situations.  I cringe when he falls behind 0-2 in the count because he's not the type of player to foul off tough pitches or work the count.  I don't have the stats in front of me, but I don't think he has very many HR's with two strikes in the count.

Here's to Trax throwing a good ballgame today - let's go get 'em and make Milwaukee scrap just to keep pace.

by Def Kenny T on Sep 27, 2007 10:37 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Soriano is 31
I know everyone would like him to take pitches and work counts but he's not the kind of player.  He's a free swinger.  Hendry knew that when he signed him.  I don't expect to see him change.

This year Soriano has 30 walks.  Prior to last season's 67 his totals were 33, 33, 38, 23 (in 696 innings!) and 29.  Considering that he has fewer AB's this year than some of those seasons, he's actually running a little better than his career norm.  Last year could be a career best.    

by rlpete on Sep 27, 2007 10:46 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

0-2 count
after falling 0-2 here are our big boys numbers:

Soriano: .211 .220 .333, 2 HR in 147 AB
DLee: .157 .208 .169, 0 HR in 89 AB
Aramis: .242 .269 .444,  4 HR in 99 AB

so basically Aramis is the badass we all know him to be, Soriano struggles but not as bad as you may think, and DLee is just absolutely terrible, another somewhat surprising stat.

Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 11:22 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Very interesting numbers
Thanks for digging those stats up.  It's not a crime to fall behind in the count 0-2.  It's how you approach the at-bat from that point that is key.

by Def Kenny T on Sep 27, 2007 12:01 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I would assume
the league average for 0-2 is high .100's or low .200.

Moneyballists would agree that the pitcher has you by the... with an 0-2 count, and very few succeed here.

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

by TheEman on Sep 27, 2007 12:14 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

just another example
of how good aramis ramirez is.
Kevin Hart Watch: IP: 10.2 K: 12 ERA: 0.84 WHIP: 0.94 K/BB: 3.00 a productive farm system is a wonderful thing.

by kylejo on Sep 27, 2007 12:27 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

I just figured it out
Keep the faith, keep believing, know that this team does know how to win, and we'll move onward

This statement drives me batty.  It's like the Creation Museum: Don't think, just listen and believe.

http://crazytalk.typepad.com/bluegrassroots/2007/06/fun_at_the_crea.html

by Ivychat on Sep 27, 2007 10:48 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

It could be worse....
...at least we haven't seen any Journey lyrics posted here.  ;-)
Lou Brown: "My kinda team, Charlie, my kinda team..."

by ballhawk on Sep 27, 2007 11:02 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not really like the Creation Museum at all
The Creation Museum denies all empirical evidence of scientific fact and substitutes belief for it.  It blissfully ignores large amounts of available data that points in one direction (evolution) and stubbornly says, "no, that's not true".  

Whether or not the Cubs will end up in the playoffs is certainly not a scientific proposition.  One can legitimately believe (or have faith in) the prospect that the Cubs will pull out enough wins to make it.  Or one can legitimately believe (or have faith in) the prospect that they won't.  In fact, the former is more empirically sound, as the current BP odds of the Cubs making it in sit just under 90%.  

by SuperContext on Sep 27, 2007 11:05 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

re: I just figured it out
Real classy how you drop in to insult Al and then disappear. I've never heard Al urge his readers not to think -- he was just offering us all some moral support. Those of us who do think and can see right through your lame attempt to take a simple, well-intentioned statement and twist it into something it isn't.
Don't tase me, bro!

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 27, 2007 11:08 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Two things
I for one greatly enjoyed that link.

But yes, we must believe. Go Cubs!

by Ryno72 on Sep 27, 2007 11:35 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Lineups - Soriano and Theriot
I don't know if lineups have been posted yet anywhere, but I don't think it would be a bad idea to sit both Soriano and Theriot today.  Theriot looks like he's suffering ill-effects of back pain....his swing looks herky-jerky, he went 0 for 5.  Soriano looks like he could use a day to get his head straight.  He looks lost at the plate the last two days and there's no excuse for getting picked off first on a soft line drive.  I say let Cedeno lead off and bat DeRo or JJ second.  Also, I'd start Murton today, and maybe even -GASP- Monroe, along with JJ.
------ TheRiot Squad ------

by RightFieldSucks on Sep 27, 2007 11:14 AM CDT reply actions   0 recs

re: Lineups - Soriano and Theriot
Uh, you probably won't get much support here for the idea of batting Cedeno lead off. Ronnie did have a good game the other day, but that seems a bit of a stretch.

I do agree, though, that Soriano has looked completely lost the last two games. For better or worse, however, I think all of the Cubs' remaining four games are too important to sit him.

Don't tase me, bro!

by dat cubfan daver on Sep 27, 2007 11:19 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Win today and tomorrow...
hope the Brewers lose one today or tomorrow.  And then rest them Saturday.  too difficult to rest them today.
"I love this world. I hope hell is as much fun!"

by HIGGY on Sep 27, 2007 11:25 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

not exactly
the time for days off

the best players need to be playing

and while yes i'm probably in the very deep minority that thinks Cedeno will eventually be a better player than Riot.... he sure as heck isnt right now

by DartmouthCubsFan on Sep 27, 2007 11:41 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cedeno leadoff?????
You could spend the next 20 years making wise and thoughtful statements and not overcome what you just wrote.

by lancaster99 on Sep 27, 2007 11:49 AM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Dusty?
Is that you?  

by rlpete on Sep 27, 2007 1:40 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Ha!
"We are going to light up the SB Nation server farm like a Christmas tree." - cwyers

by NittanyCub on Sep 27, 2007 1:45 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

Soriano
I agree he's looked just awful fielding, hitting and baserunning the last two days. But you never know when he might break out of it. I think you have to start him every day here, because he's the kind who could all of a sudden hit 3 homers or make a spectacular throw to home to cut down a runner.

Theriot is the heart of the team in some ways. Unless he's really hurting, I say start him.

"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 Sep 27, 2007 1:49 PM CDT up reply actions   0 recs

God bless this website
I lost about an hour's sleep last night, but reading the intelligent posts above calms the nerves.

I've virtually stopped going to the official cubs message board where ever 13 year old on the planet posts "OH MY GAWD!!!!!111!!! PANIC TIME!!!!1@!!!!!!"

Hoping for a win today. It would remove most pressure and would mean the Cubs only really need to win one in Cinci. Go Trachsel!

by SouthsideCub on Sep 27, 2007 12:10 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

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

by buckmulligan on Sep 27, 2007 2:55 PM CDT reply actions   0 recs

Comments For This Post Are Closed


User Tools

Welcome to Bleed Cubbie Blue, the Chicago Cubs blog for the SB Nation, created on February 9, 2005 by Al Yellon
Start posting about the Cubs »

Join SB Nation and dive into communities focused on all your favorite teams.

FanPosts

Community blog posts and discussion.

Recommended FanPosts

Sb_small
Ask BCB - Wacky Trade Proposals
Bucky_small
OT: Annual Thanksgiving  Thread
Small
Reversal of opinion...Bradley will not be moved
Yelloncard_small
Baseball Picture Puzzles Overflow 1

Recent FanPosts

Goodhawkdawson_pic_small
Dawson '88
Self-portrait-4_small
Tell Me About Mr. Cub
Small
What to do with Marshall?
Small
Time to get yelled at...
Cubs_small
Cubs HR Over/Under
Cubs_ying_yang_small
OT Aged Stadiums
Small
Here's a thought
Jake_fox_small
25th Annual Cubs Convention

+ New FanPost All FanPosts >

FanShots

Quick hits of video, photos, quotes, chats, links and lists that you find around the web.

Recommended FanShots

Would you blow up the farm system for Halladay?
FanGraphs calls Grabow a "waste of cash."
Fangraphs hasn't given up on Geo, should you?
Baseball America's Top 10 Cubs Prospects
An animated tribute to the no-hitter that Pirates pitcher Dock Ellis threw on June 12, 1970. Simply...

Recent FanShots

How Kosuke Fukudome Spends His Offseason
Miguel Cabrera Available, which leads me to ask if Granderson really is available
Keith Moreland On How The Cubs Can Win It All
Marlins Considering Moving June Series Vs. Mets To Puerto Rico
Mike Kiley insults Wrigley and Cubs fans
Muskat on Fuld : even DUMBER than usual
Free Agency Blunders
"I Want Mark DeRosa"
White Sox Sign Vizquel To One-Year Deal
Cubs' next major hire: marketing guru

+ New FanShot All FanShots >

It Is Only...

Cubs By The Numbers

Cubs By The Numbers is a history of the ballclub by uniform number, but the biographies help trace the history of our beloved team in a new way. For everyone who's a Cubs fan, anyone who ever wore the uniform is like family. Cubs By The Numbers reintroduces readers to some of their long-lost ancestors, even ones they think they already know.

Click here to order your copy, available now!

SPONSORS

Recent Stories in Minor Leagues

Yelloncard_small
Ticket Exchanges: Cubs Convention 2010
Yelloncard_small
Ticket Exchanges: General 2009 Ticket Exchange
Yelloncard_small
Ticket Exchanges: September 29-October 4 Homestand

Managing Editor

Yelloncard_small Al

Editorial Cartoonist

Toonmike_small toonmike

Contributors

Dsc_0139_small holy mackerel

100px-boisehawkscaplogo_small Josh77

Small shawndgoldman