Open Thread: Cubs vs. Brewers, Sunday 7/1, 1:20 CT

This isn't overhype: the Cubs really must win today.

Despite yesterday's loss, the Cubs finished June with a 17-11 record (17-9 since the "benchmark" of Lou Piniella's tirade on June 2). Win this series and you've accomplished something against a very good team. After today, the Brewers and Cubs will head out on the same road trip, playing the Nationals and Pirates for a week before the All-Star break.

Non-game-related note: this story is a few days old, but says that the Cubs are among four teams (Arizona, Boston, NY Yankees) who are interested in acquiring Eric Gagne. I say, go for it, as long as you don't have to give up too much for him. And see if you can include Jacque Jones and/or Cesar Izturis in the deal.

Today's Starting Pitchers

J. Marquis Cubs vs. D. Bush Brewers 5-4 W-L 6-6 3.46 ERA 5.06 54 SO 68 37 BB 20 9 HR 9 vs. Mil -- vs. Cubs

This is a pitching rematch of a 7-2 Cub win in Milwaukee on June 4; Marquis threw pretty well that day, allowing two runs (one earned) in 5.1 IP. He left the game trailing 2-1, and Carlos Marmol got the win that day when the Cubs exploded for five runs in the 7th. Over their respective careers, neither Bush nor Marquis has done that well against today's opponent: Marquis, 4-6, 4.23 in 12 starts vs. Milwaukee; Bush, 1-4, 4.15 in 7 starts vs. the Cubs.

Today's game is, as was Friday's, on WGN, FSN Wisconsin and at the Mediacenter.

MLB.com Gameday (2007 version)

MLB.com Gameday (2006 version)

Discuss amongst yourselves.