The so-call "Curse of the Billy Goat" has held for a century, making the Chicago Cubs the owner of the longest championship drought in any professional sport. After being swept in the NLDS by the Arizona Diamondbacks last year, the Cubs are hoping to make consecutive postseason appearances for the first time in 100 years as well. The good news for them in 2008 is that theirs is possibly the best team in the pathetically weak NL Central. Only the Brewers pose a real threat to the Cubs repeating as division champs, so there's a good chance for some October baseball on the North Side again this year.
Some questions for 2008:
How will Kosuke Fukudome adjust to the majors?
Fukudome was acquired to be a left-handed complement to Derrek Lee, Alfonso Soriano and Aramis Ramirez. He had good power numbers and, perhaps more importantly, good walk rates in Japan, but he's had a rough spring (though with a spiffy .394 OBP), raising some concerns. There's also the question of where he'll bat in the order, as Lou PinIella loves to tinker with the lineup. It looks like he'll be in the #5 spot to start the year.
Is Felix Pie ready to be the full time CF?
Pie hit .362/.410/.563 in AAA last year, so judging from that, the answer is yes. Unfortunately, he's struggled in limited major league action to this point, and the Cubs don't have a legitimate CF backup (hence their rumored interest in Coco Crisp and the Rangers' Marlon Byrd). Ideally, the team wants a platoon-mate for him. Reed Johnson is a new possibility.
What about Geovany Soto?
This is potentially a bigger issue, as the Cubs' fallback option at catcher is...Henry Blanco? Yikes. Soto was great in AAA last year, but it was also his third year at that level. Then again, given that most of the catching duties were handled by Michael Barrett and Jason Kendall last year, the bar isn't set very high.
Has Carlos Zambrano been Dusty Baker-ed?
Zambrano posted his lowest ERA+ last year since 2002 and his strikeout rate dropped while his walk rate stayed about the same. Supposedly, Zambrano's contract situation was a distraction for part of last year, and since he's not a paragon of mental stability, that's a believable explantion, especially since he was better in the second half of 2007. He has his financial security now and has had a strong spring, so maybe he can continue to defy the Dusty effect.
Will the Cubs trade for Brian Roberts?
His speed and patience would be a great fit on the Cubs, and he would allow them to use Mark DeRosa as a backup/supersub instead of a starter. Who knows if this trade will come to fruition? Any dealings with Baltimore seem to take years.
Rotation/Lineup/Bullpen rundown forthcoming.
Full Version: 2008 Chicago Cubs: Wait Until Next Year
QUOTE(MidnightC @ Mar 24 2008, 06:57 PM) 
Reed Johnson is a new possibility.
Not that I'm a prophet or anything, but Reed Johnson signed with the Cubs today. Guess now I can take him off my lead pipe list.
After a lot of speculation, Lou Pinella finally announced his starting rotation for the beginning of 2008 on Monday. Pitching was a big strength of the Cubs last year, as they finished second in the NL in team ERA (behind the Padres) despite Wrigley's hitter-friendly tendencies. Most of the staff is the same from 2007, but there are a few key changes.
RHP Carlos Zambrano
2007 Stats: 216.1IP 187H 23HR 101BB 177K 1.33WHIP 118ERA+
Last year was a down year by the Big Z's standards. The 101 walks were actually a slight improvement from the 115 he issued in 2006, but the 177 K's was his lowest full season total since 2003. His control has been excellent in spring training (14/3 K/BB in 15 innings), so he could be on the verge of a real breakout.
LHP Ted Lilly
2007 Stats: 207.0IP 181H 28HR 55BB 174K 1.14WHIP 122ERA+
The longtime Red Sox nemesis had a career year in 2007. Now 32, it's doubtful he'll repeat or improve on those numbers, but I'm not going to predict a huge dropoff either.
RHP Ryan Dempster
2007 Stats: 66.2IP 59H 8HR 30BB 55K 28SV 1.33WHIP 99ERA+
For reasons I don't quite understand, the Cubs are shifting Dempster to the rotation. The last time he started was in 2003, and he posted a 63 ERA+, and marks of 77 and 86 before that in 2002 and 2001, respectively. He's not an elite closer by any means (and was particularly bad at the end of last year), but on the whole he's done an acceptable job at the back end of the bullpen for the past three seasons. Thiswon't may not end well. (Trying to be optimistic here.)
LHP Rich Hill
2007 Stats: 195.0IP 170H 27HR 63BB 183K 1.19WHIP 119ERA+
After a few seasons bouncing between the minors and the majors, Hill finally got a full stint in the Cubs' rotation last year and it's safe to say he didn't embarrass himself. He just turned 28, so it's not unrealistic to expect him to repeat or improve upon those numbers. However, he's exhibited very poor control this spring (15 walks in 17.2 innings), so that's something to keep an eye on.
RHP Jason Marquis
2007 Stats: 191.2IP 190H 22HR 76BB 109K 1.38WHIP 101ERA+
Marquis is what he is; a league average pitcher. He's not going to wow anyone, but a team could do a lot worse for a fifth starter. He was quite vocal about wanting to stay a starter, and backed it up with a good spring. The Cubs may still look to trade him and dump his contract (he's owed about $16 million through 2009), but other teams don't seem interested.
In addition to these five, the Cubs signed veteran Jon Lieber this offseason. He'll begin the year in the bullpen as a long reliever, ready to step in if Hill struggles or Dempster implodes. Sean Marshall's likely the next in line if needed, though it's unsure if he'll start the season in Triple A or the bullpen. (More on that later.)
(Stats courtesy of Baseball Reference and Cubs.com)
RHP Carlos Zambrano
2007 Stats: 216.1IP 187H 23HR 101BB 177K 1.33WHIP 118ERA+
Last year was a down year by the Big Z's standards. The 101 walks were actually a slight improvement from the 115 he issued in 2006, but the 177 K's was his lowest full season total since 2003. His control has been excellent in spring training (14/3 K/BB in 15 innings), so he could be on the verge of a real breakout.
LHP Ted Lilly
2007 Stats: 207.0IP 181H 28HR 55BB 174K 1.14WHIP 122ERA+
The longtime Red Sox nemesis had a career year in 2007. Now 32, it's doubtful he'll repeat or improve on those numbers, but I'm not going to predict a huge dropoff either.
RHP Ryan Dempster
2007 Stats: 66.2IP 59H 8HR 30BB 55K 28SV 1.33WHIP 99ERA+
For reasons I don't quite understand, the Cubs are shifting Dempster to the rotation. The last time he started was in 2003, and he posted a 63 ERA+, and marks of 77 and 86 before that in 2002 and 2001, respectively. He's not an elite closer by any means (and was particularly bad at the end of last year), but on the whole he's done an acceptable job at the back end of the bullpen for the past three seasons. This
LHP Rich Hill
2007 Stats: 195.0IP 170H 27HR 63BB 183K 1.19WHIP 119ERA+
After a few seasons bouncing between the minors and the majors, Hill finally got a full stint in the Cubs' rotation last year and it's safe to say he didn't embarrass himself. He just turned 28, so it's not unrealistic to expect him to repeat or improve upon those numbers. However, he's exhibited very poor control this spring (15 walks in 17.2 innings), so that's something to keep an eye on.
RHP Jason Marquis
2007 Stats: 191.2IP 190H 22HR 76BB 109K 1.38WHIP 101ERA+
Marquis is what he is; a league average pitcher. He's not going to wow anyone, but a team could do a lot worse for a fifth starter. He was quite vocal about wanting to stay a starter, and backed it up with a good spring. The Cubs may still look to trade him and dump his contract (he's owed about $16 million through 2009), but other teams don't seem interested.
In addition to these five, the Cubs signed veteran Jon Lieber this offseason. He'll begin the year in the bullpen as a long reliever, ready to step in if Hill struggles or Dempster implodes. Sean Marshall's likely the next in line if needed, though it's unsure if he'll start the season in Triple A or the bullpen. (More on that later.)
(Stats courtesy of Baseball Reference and Cubs.com)
Like the rotation, the Cubs' bullpen figures to be a strength again this year. There are quite a few really good relievers here and a lot of flexibilty.
RHP Kerry Wood
2007 Stats: 24.1IP 18H 0HR 13BB 24K 0SV 1.27WHIP 140ERA+
Wood's been named the closer to start the season, despite the fact that he's never done it before. Pinella was encouraged by Wood's velocity and command during spring training, and as soon as Wood successfully pitched on back-to-back days, he won the job. He's still got the stuff to pitch well, but the question of his durability remains.When If he hits the DL, look for Marmol or Howry to get the save opportunities.
RHP Carlos Marmol
2007 Stats: 69.1IP 41H 3HR 35BB 96K 1SV 1.01WHIP 326ERA+
Think of him as the Cubs' version of Papelbon, just without the phenomenal rookie season. Marmol was awesome last year, and at 25 figures to be a mainstay in the bullpen for several years. He'll serve as the primary setup guy for now alongside Howry.
RHP Bob Howry
2007 Stats: 81.1IP 76H 8HR 19BB 72K 8SV 1.17WHIP 140ERA+
Howry's been a real workhorse since signing with the Cubs after 2005. He was in the closer picture this spring, but he'll remain in his setup role instead.
RHP Michael Wuertz
2007 Stats: 72.1IP 64H 8HR 35BB 79K 0SV 1.33WHIP 134ERA+
Wuertz has done a fine job pitching out of the Cubs' bullpen the past few seasons, and more of the same should be expected in 2008.
RHP Kevin Hart
2007 Stats (AAA): 56.0IP 56H 6HR 23BB 39K 1.41WHIP 3.54ERA
Hart impressed during his brief stay in the majors last year, surrendering just 1ER in 11 innings and sporting a 13/1 K/BB ratio. Judging from his minor league numbers, he's not that good, but he should be a decent middle reliever.
RHP Jon Lieber
2007 Stats: 78.0IP 91H 7HR 22BB 54K 1.44WHIP 98ERA+
Lieber was originally thought the favorite for the fifth starter position, but he'll start the season in the bullpen as a long reliever instead. He's about to turn 38 and was injured for most of last season (he had a ruptured tendon in his foot), yet it's still hard to see him as being worse than Ryan Dempster.
LHP Scott Eyre
2007 Stats: 52.1IP 39H 3HR 35BB 45K 0SV 1.71WHIP 113ERA+
Eyre was set to be the bullpen's designated lefty, but he has a sore elbow and will start the season on the disabled list. He received a cortisone shot on Monday and since there's no ligament or nerve damage, the hope is he won't be out for too long.
*LHP Sean Marshall
2007 Stats: 106.1IP 107H 13HR 35BB 67K 1.37WHIP 119ERA+
Marshall served primarily as a starter last year, but with Eyre's injury, he may start 2008 in the bullpen. (He pitched two innings in relief during today's game against the Brewers, surrendering a run and walking three guys.) If he doesn't win the spot, he'll be optioned to Triple-A.
*LHP Carmen Pignatiello
2007 Stats (AAA): 49.0IP 40H 5HR 16BB 44K 2SV 1.14WHIP 2.76ERA
Pignatiello only pitched two innings in the majors last year. Marshall was originally the favorite to win Eyre's bullpen spot, but Pignatiello's strong spring (1ER and an 8/0 K/BB in 10 innings) has him in the running too. Look for this decision to come down to the last minute.
RHP Kerry Wood
2007 Stats: 24.1IP 18H 0HR 13BB 24K 0SV 1.27WHIP 140ERA+
Wood's been named the closer to start the season, despite the fact that he's never done it before. Pinella was encouraged by Wood's velocity and command during spring training, and as soon as Wood successfully pitched on back-to-back days, he won the job. He's still got the stuff to pitch well, but the question of his durability remains.
RHP Carlos Marmol
2007 Stats: 69.1IP 41H 3HR 35BB 96K 1SV 1.01WHIP 326ERA+
Think of him as the Cubs' version of Papelbon, just without the phenomenal rookie season. Marmol was awesome last year, and at 25 figures to be a mainstay in the bullpen for several years. He'll serve as the primary setup guy for now alongside Howry.
RHP Bob Howry
2007 Stats: 81.1IP 76H 8HR 19BB 72K 8SV 1.17WHIP 140ERA+
Howry's been a real workhorse since signing with the Cubs after 2005. He was in the closer picture this spring, but he'll remain in his setup role instead.
RHP Michael Wuertz
2007 Stats: 72.1IP 64H 8HR 35BB 79K 0SV 1.33WHIP 134ERA+
Wuertz has done a fine job pitching out of the Cubs' bullpen the past few seasons, and more of the same should be expected in 2008.
RHP Kevin Hart
2007 Stats (AAA): 56.0IP 56H 6HR 23BB 39K 1.41WHIP 3.54ERA
Hart impressed during his brief stay in the majors last year, surrendering just 1ER in 11 innings and sporting a 13/1 K/BB ratio. Judging from his minor league numbers, he's not that good, but he should be a decent middle reliever.
RHP Jon Lieber
2007 Stats: 78.0IP 91H 7HR 22BB 54K 1.44WHIP 98ERA+
Lieber was originally thought the favorite for the fifth starter position, but he'll start the season in the bullpen as a long reliever instead. He's about to turn 38 and was injured for most of last season (he had a ruptured tendon in his foot), yet it's still hard to see him as being worse than Ryan Dempster.
LHP Scott Eyre
2007 Stats: 52.1IP 39H 3HR 35BB 45K 0SV 1.71WHIP 113ERA+
Eyre was set to be the bullpen's designated lefty, but he has a sore elbow and will start the season on the disabled list. He received a cortisone shot on Monday and since there's no ligament or nerve damage, the hope is he won't be out for too long.
*LHP Sean Marshall
2007 Stats: 106.1IP 107H 13HR 35BB 67K 1.37WHIP 119ERA+
Marshall served primarily as a starter last year, but with Eyre's injury, he may start 2008 in the bullpen. (He pitched two innings in relief during today's game against the Brewers, surrendering a run and walking three guys.) If he doesn't win the spot, he'll be optioned to Triple-A.
*LHP Carmen Pignatiello
2007 Stats (AAA): 49.0IP 40H 5HR 16BB 44K 2SV 1.14WHIP 2.76ERA
Pignatiello only pitched two innings in the majors last year. Marshall was originally the favorite to win Eyre's bullpen spot, but Pignatiello's strong spring (1ER and an 8/0 K/BB in 10 innings) has him in the running too. Look for this decision to come down to the last minute.
Now for the position players. Here's a look at this year's starting eight and how they performed in 2007:
*Denotes AAA Stats
**Denotes Japan League Stats
For all the talk about Derrek Lee having a down year, he posted the second best OBP and SLG of his career, only behind his otherworldly 2005. He and Aramis Ramirez remain a great duo; the recurring problem is getting guys on base in front of them. Soriano and Theriot (or Jacque Jones) hit 1-2 most of last year, and as you can see above, neither one of them is an OBP machine.
Soriano was also slowed by leg injuries last year, stealing only 19 bases after swiping 41 and 30 the previous two season. In an effort to keep his legs healthy, Pinella's going to try batting him 2nd to start the year. And use... (wait for it) ...Theriot in the leadoff spot. Sigh.
Fukudome would be a better choice to bat first or second, but right now it looks like he'll start in the fifth spot. Or maybe he'll bat second against lefties. Or maybe not. (This is where I point out that Pinella used 125 different batting orders last year, so very little is ever set in stone.)
The projected bench:
The aquisition of Reed Johnson makes Matt Murton the odd man out, and he'll likely be dealt. He's actually a better hitter against lefties over his career than Johnson (.326/.399/.510 vs. .308/.371/.462), but the difference is that Murton isn't good enough defensively to play center.
The reason for the two light-hitting INF in Cedeno and Fontenot is flexibility. Fontenot is another lefty bench bat and another guy who can play short or second other than Cedeno. It makes sense, but it's still a shame to see a good hitter like Murton buried because of it.
Blanco was hurt much of last year. He owns a career 64OPS+, so he's not quite as awful as he appears in the small sample above. He'll probably start once a week or so to make sure Soto doesn't get overworked in his first year.
2007 Stats
| Player | AB | BA | OBP | SLG | BB/K | OPS+ |
| C Geovany Soto - R* | 385 | .353 | .424 | .652 | 53/94 | |
| 1B Derrek Lee - R | 567 | .317 | .400 | .513 | 71/114 | 131 |
| 2B Mark DeRosa - R | 502 | .293 | .371 | .420 | 58/93 | 102 |
| 3B Aramis Ramirez - R | 506 | .310 | .366 | .549 | 43/66 | 129 |
| SS Ryan Theriot - R | 537 | .266 | .326 | .346 | 49/50 | 72 |
| LF Alfonso Soriano - R | 579 | .299 | .337 | .560 | 31/130 | 123 |
| CF Felix Pie - L* | 229 | .362 | .410 | .563 | 19/40 | |
| RF Kosuke Fukudome - L** | 296 | .294 | .443 | .520 | 69/66 |
*Denotes AAA Stats
**Denotes Japan League Stats
For all the talk about Derrek Lee having a down year, he posted the second best OBP and SLG of his career, only behind his otherworldly 2005. He and Aramis Ramirez remain a great duo; the recurring problem is getting guys on base in front of them. Soriano and Theriot (or Jacque Jones) hit 1-2 most of last year, and as you can see above, neither one of them is an OBP machine.
Soriano was also slowed by leg injuries last year, stealing only 19 bases after swiping 41 and 30 the previous two season. In an effort to keep his legs healthy, Pinella's going to try batting him 2nd to start the year. And use... (wait for it) ...Theriot in the leadoff spot. Sigh.
Fukudome would be a better choice to bat first or second, but right now it looks like he'll start in the fifth spot. Or maybe he'll bat second against lefties. Or maybe not. (This is where I point out that Pinella used 125 different batting orders last year, so very little is ever set in stone.)
The projected bench:
2007 Stats
| Player | AB | BA | OBP | SLG | BB/K | OPS+ |
| OF Reed Johnson - R | 275 | .236 | .305 | .320 | 16/56 | 66 |
| INF Ronny Cedeno - R | 74 | .203 | .231 | .392 | 3/18 | 55 |
| INF Mike Fontenot - L | 234 | .278 | .336 | .402 | 22/43 | 87 |
| 1B/OF Daryle Ward - L | 110 | .327 | .436 | .527 | 22/23 | 144 |
| C Henry Blanco - R | 54 | .167 | .193 | .222 | 2/12 | 6 |
| *OF Matt Murton - R | 235 | .281 | .352 | .438 | 26/39 | 100 |
The aquisition of Reed Johnson makes Matt Murton the odd man out, and he'll likely be dealt. He's actually a better hitter against lefties over his career than Johnson (.326/.399/.510 vs. .308/.371/.462), but the difference is that Murton isn't good enough defensively to play center.
The reason for the two light-hitting INF in Cedeno and Fontenot is flexibility. Fontenot is another lefty bench bat and another guy who can play short or second other than Cedeno. It makes sense, but it's still a shame to see a good hitter like Murton buried because of it.
Blanco was hurt much of last year. He owns a career 64OPS+, so he's not quite as awful as he appears in the small sample above. He'll probably start once a week or so to make sure Soto doesn't get overworked in his first year.
Also, Carmen Pignatiello won the final bullpen spot. Sean Marshall and Matt Murton were officially optioned to Triple-A.
Cubs lose 4-3 to the Brewers in 10 innings. It was a pitchers' duel for nine innings before Kerry Wood and Eric Gagne gave up three runs each in the ninth. Then Howry gave up a run in the 10th and that was the game.
Kosuke Fukudome had a great debut though, going 3-3 with a walk and the game-tying 3-run homer in the ninth.
Prior to the game, a new statue was dedicated outside Wrigley in honor of Cub legend Ernie Banks. It was also declared "Ernie Banks Day" in Chicago.
Kosuke Fukudome had a great debut though, going 3-3 with a walk and the game-tying 3-run homer in the ninth.
Prior to the game, a new statue was dedicated outside Wrigley in honor of Cub legend Ernie Banks. It was also declared "Ernie Banks Day" in Chicago.
Brewers 8, Cubs 2
Not much to say about this one. Ted Lilly was bad and the bullpen wasn't any better. Solo homeruns from Derrek Lee and Geovany Soto accounted for the only two runs.
Zambrano update:
Not much to say about this one. Ted Lilly was bad and the bullpen wasn't any better. Solo homeruns from Derrek Lee and Geovany Soto accounted for the only two runs.
Zambrano update:
QUOTE
Carlos Zambrano was asked by the Cubs medical staff to change some of his pre-game habits to try to alleviate the cramping issue that's been a recurring theme for him over the last four seasons.
...
While Zambrano had been told to cut down on his caffeine intake before, he has not listened to the medial staff's advice. Zambrano typically drinks 12-16 ounces of water or Gatorade between innings, but still gets dehydrated, which leads to the cramping. It's happened in three of Zambrano’s four Opening Day starts since 2005 and also has occurred during the summer months.
...
While Zambrano had been told to cut down on his caffeine intake before, he has not listened to the medial staff's advice. Zambrano typically drinks 12-16 ounces of water or Gatorade between innings, but still gets dehydrated, which leads to the cramping. It's happened in three of Zambrano’s four Opening Day starts since 2005 and also has occurred during the summer months.
Soto had a very tough time behind the plate today. Lots of steals and wild pitches.
Steve Phillips also just said "They had a tough loss opening day, after giving up the lead...urr...tying the game and then giving up the lead...umm..." Hey, Steve...They never had the lead (true for game 2 as well).
Steve Phillips also just said "They had a tough loss opening day, after giving up the lead...urr...tying the game and then giving up the lead...umm..." Hey, Steve...They never had the lead (true for game 2 as well).
Cubs 6, Brewers 3
Cubs get their first win behind Ryan Dempster. Wood gets his first save and Aramis Ramirez hits his first homer. Soriano returns to the leadoff spot and goes 1-4 with a walk and 2 RBI. That whole "batting 2nd" thing didn't last very long. Shocking, I know.
In other news, Class A pitcher Robert Hernandez was suspended 50 games after testing positive for stanozolol.
There's also this tidbit in the Tribune about Steve Bartman:
Cubs get their first win behind Ryan Dempster. Wood gets his first save and Aramis Ramirez hits his first homer. Soriano returns to the leadoff spot and goes 1-4 with a walk and 2 RBI. That whole "batting 2nd" thing didn't last very long. Shocking, I know.
In other news, Class A pitcher Robert Hernandez was suspended 50 games after testing positive for stanozolol.
There's also this tidbit in the Tribune about Steve Bartman:
QUOTE
Any holdovers still blaming Steve Bartman should let the infamous Cubs fan off the hook, Moises Alou says.
....
"Everywhere I play, even now, people still yell, 'Bartman! Bartman!' I feel really bad," Alou told the Associated Press. "You know what the funny thing is?" he added. "I wouldn't have caught it anyway."
....
"Everywhere I play, even now, people still yell, 'Bartman! Bartman!' I feel really bad," Alou told the Associated Press. "You know what the funny thing is?" he added. "I wouldn't have caught it anyway."
Astros 4, Cubs 3
Frustrating game. Rich Hill was shaky at times but delivered a quality start. The real cuplrit here was the offense, which looked like it had the proverbial early tee time. It took only 71 pitches for Astros pitcher Chris Sampson to go 6.2 innings. He was finally chased after Geovany Soto drove in two runs with a single in the seventh to tie it, but then an error by DeRosa and a misplay by Soriano let the Astros score two more runs in the eighth. DeRosa made amends with a solo homer in the ninth off of Jose Valverde, but the comeback stopped there.
Forgot this yesterday, but Scott Eyre is behind in his rehab:
Frustrating game. Rich Hill was shaky at times but delivered a quality start. The real cuplrit here was the offense, which looked like it had the proverbial early tee time. It took only 71 pitches for Astros pitcher Chris Sampson to go 6.2 innings. He was finally chased after Geovany Soto drove in two runs with a single in the seventh to tie it, but then an error by DeRosa and a misplay by Soriano let the Astros score two more runs in the eighth. DeRosa made amends with a solo homer in the ninth off of Jose Valverde, but the comeback stopped there.
Forgot this yesterday, but Scott Eyre is behind in his rehab:
QUOTE
Cubs reliever Scott Eyre has yet to throw off a mound while rehabbing in Arizona and will not be activated when his time on the disabled list is up next week.
Eyre was placed on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to March 23, because of inflammation in his left elbow. He has been able to play catch.
Eyre was placed on the 15-day disabled list, retroactive to March 23, because of inflammation in his left elbow. He has been able to play catch.
Cubs 9, Astros 7
Not a pitchers' duel.
Jason Marquis was Jason Marquis, and for awhile, Roy Oswalt was Roy Oswalt. Then in the seventh, the Cubs rallied for five runs off of four different Astros pitchers. Lee (4-4, HR, 2RBI), Fukudome (2-4, 2RBI) and Reed Johnson (2-5, 2RBI) led the offense. Johnson started his first game in CF and hit second, mercifully dropping Theriot to the eighth spot for the day. Soriano remained at leadoff and went 0-5 with 5 LOB. He's hitting .045 (1-22) thus far. Kevin Hart got the win in relief and Kerry Wood pitched a perfect ninth for his second save.
Not a pitchers' duel.
Jason Marquis was Jason Marquis, and for awhile, Roy Oswalt was Roy Oswalt. Then in the seventh, the Cubs rallied for five runs off of four different Astros pitchers. Lee (4-4, HR, 2RBI), Fukudome (2-4, 2RBI) and Reed Johnson (2-5, 2RBI) led the offense. Johnson started his first game in CF and hit second, mercifully dropping Theriot to the eighth spot for the day. Soriano remained at leadoff and went 0-5 with 5 LOB. He's hitting .045 (1-22) thus far. Kevin Hart got the win in relief and Kerry Wood pitched a perfect ninth for his second save.
Cubs 3, Astros 2
Quite the contrast from yesterday. A great outing from Big Z (7IP, 2ER, 0BB, 7K) and perfect relief from Marmol and Wood set the tone. Soriano hit his first homer of the season, and Derrek Lee homered for the second straight day. He's up to three already, compared to hitting only one in all of April last year.
Reed Johnson started in CF for the second straight game. According to Rotoworld:
Pie did come in on defense late. Hopefully this is just a short-term thing and not a sign that Pinella's losing patience with Pie already.
Quite the contrast from yesterday. A great outing from Big Z (7IP, 2ER, 0BB, 7K) and perfect relief from Marmol and Wood set the tone. Soriano hit his first homer of the season, and Derrek Lee homered for the second straight day. He's up to three already, compared to hitting only one in all of April last year.
Reed Johnson started in CF for the second straight game. According to Rotoworld:
QUOTE
Pie played Friday after getting hit by a pitch Thursday, but Reed Johnson has started the last two days. Since the Cubs will be facing lefties in the first two games of the series against the Pirates beginning on Monday, Pie figures to keep sitting.
Pie did come in on defense late. Hopefully this is just a short-term thing and not a sign that Pinella's losing patience with Pie already.
Cubs 10, Pirates 8 (12)
Another wild one. The Cubs had a 7-0 lead after the third inning, then Ted Lilly and the defense came unglued in the fourth inning, allowing five runs. From there, the Pirates kept chipping away (helped by some more shaky defense) until the game was tied 8-8 in the seventh. That's where it stayed until the 12th inning when the Cubs went ahead on a sacrifice fly from Aramis Ramirez and a bases-loaded walk by Mark DeRosa. Carlos Marmol got the save. Presumably, Wood had the day off after pitching back-to-back days.
News and Notes:
* Hart and Wuertz are going to share setup duties since Bob Howry is struggling to find his groove (though he pitched a scoreless inning today):
Career-wise, Howry's been a better pitcher as the season wears on, so this move shouldn't change the bullpen dynamic long-term.
* Ryan Theriot didn't start today because of a sore wrist. He came in during the 9th inning on defense, then walked twice (!) and stole two bases in the extra frames.
* Kosuke Fukudome is hitting a robust .458. Soriano went 1-6 today, raising his average to .094.
Another wild one. The Cubs had a 7-0 lead after the third inning, then Ted Lilly and the defense came unglued in the fourth inning, allowing five runs. From there, the Pirates kept chipping away (helped by some more shaky defense) until the game was tied 8-8 in the seventh. That's where it stayed until the 12th inning when the Cubs went ahead on a sacrifice fly from Aramis Ramirez and a bases-loaded walk by Mark DeRosa. Carlos Marmol got the save. Presumably, Wood had the day off after pitching back-to-back days.
News and Notes:
* Hart and Wuertz are going to share setup duties since Bob Howry is struggling to find his groove (though he pitched a scoreless inning today):
QUOTE
''It's probably a combination of [velocity and location],'' Piniella said of Howry's problems. ''I'm going to use him in a different role, with more steady work. I might even use him in games we're behind, so we might have to slip someone else into his [late-inning] role.
''The biggest thing is we need to get Howry straightened out. We need to get Bob going because he's a horse.''
''The biggest thing is we need to get Howry straightened out. We need to get Bob going because he's a horse.''
Career-wise, Howry's been a better pitcher as the season wears on, so this move shouldn't change the bullpen dynamic long-term.
* Ryan Theriot didn't start today because of a sore wrist. He came in during the 9th inning on defense, then walked twice (!) and stole two bases in the extra frames.
* Kosuke Fukudome is hitting a robust .458. Soriano went 1-6 today, raising his average to .094.
Cubs 6, Pirates 4 (15)
So, Ryan Dempster (!) pitches seven scoreless innings (!!), giving up just one hit (!!!). The Cubs had a 1-0 lead from the third inning on, then stretched it to a 2-0 lead in the eighth. Carlos Marmol gives up a run in the bottom of the eighth, then Kerry Wood blows the save in the ninth by serving up a solo homer to Jason Bay. In the 14th, Aramis Ramirez hits a 2-run homer to put the Cubs up 4-2, only to see Kevin Hart return the favor to Adam LaRoche in the bottom of the inning. In the 15th, Felix Pie comes up big with a 2-run single, and the newly recalled Sean Marshall manages to make it stand.
The Cubs offense totalled 14 hits and 8 walks yet only managed the six runs. Soriano went 2-6 with 2 walks (both intentional), Fukudome got two more hits, and Ramirez went 3-7. Reed Johnson started in CF again today and went 2-3 before Pie came in on defense.
To make room for Marshall, Carmen Pignatiello was optioned to AAA. Lou Pinella said the move had nothing to do with Pignatiello's struggles, only that the Cubs "need innings." (Not that far fetched after the last two games. Whew.)
So, Ryan Dempster (!) pitches seven scoreless innings (!!), giving up just one hit (!!!). The Cubs had a 1-0 lead from the third inning on, then stretched it to a 2-0 lead in the eighth. Carlos Marmol gives up a run in the bottom of the eighth, then Kerry Wood blows the save in the ninth by serving up a solo homer to Jason Bay. In the 14th, Aramis Ramirez hits a 2-run homer to put the Cubs up 4-2, only to see Kevin Hart return the favor to Adam LaRoche in the bottom of the inning. In the 15th, Felix Pie comes up big with a 2-run single, and the newly recalled Sean Marshall manages to make it stand.
The Cubs offense totalled 14 hits and 8 walks yet only managed the six runs. Soriano went 2-6 with 2 walks (both intentional), Fukudome got two more hits, and Ramirez went 3-7. Reed Johnson started in CF again today and went 2-3 before Pie came in on defense.
To make room for Marshall, Carmen Pignatiello was optioned to AAA. Lou Pinella said the move had nothing to do with Pignatiello's struggles, only that the Cubs "need innings." (Not that far fetched after the last two games. Whew.)
Ryan Dempster look awfully good tonight. It'll be interesting to see if he can continue his run of success. Their fourth best starter still isn't in the rotation.
Cubs 7, Pirates 3
Sweep! And it didn't even take extra innings!
Rough night for Rich Hill. He gave up three runs in the first inning and needed 72 pitches to complete just three frames. Jon Lieber would go on to pitch 4.1 scoreless innings in relief, giving the offense plenty of time to figure out Matt Morris. Geovany Soto led the way, going 4-5 with 2 doubles and a 2-run homer. Soriano (2-5), Mike Fontenot (2-5, HR), and Theriot (2-3, BB) also had good nights at the plate, which was especially important as Lee, Ramirez and Fukudome combined to go 0-12. (Though Fukudome drew a walk and scored on Soto's homer.) Howry and Wood finished up with 1.2 innings of perfect relief.
It was reported earlier that Hill and Jason Marquis were going to switch turns in the rotation for matchup reasons, but Marquis is apparently under the weather. He'll be pushed back to Sunday and Zambrano will pitch tomorrow against the Phillies on normal rest.
Sweep! And it didn't even take extra innings!
Rough night for Rich Hill. He gave up three runs in the first inning and needed 72 pitches to complete just three frames. Jon Lieber would go on to pitch 4.1 scoreless innings in relief, giving the offense plenty of time to figure out Matt Morris. Geovany Soto led the way, going 4-5 with 2 doubles and a 2-run homer. Soriano (2-5), Mike Fontenot (2-5, HR), and Theriot (2-3, BB) also had good nights at the plate, which was especially important as Lee, Ramirez and Fukudome combined to go 0-12. (Though Fukudome drew a walk and scored on Soto's homer.) Howry and Wood finished up with 1.2 innings of perfect relief.
It was reported earlier that Hill and Jason Marquis were going to switch turns in the rotation for matchup reasons, but Marquis is apparently under the weather. He'll be pushed back to Sunday and Zambrano will pitch tomorrow against the Phillies on normal rest.
Phillies 5, Cubs 3
It looked like it'd be a laugher when Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez hit back-to-back solo homers off of Brett Myers in the first inning. Instead, the only other offense the Cubs would muster was another solo homer from Soriano in 6th inning. And on the mound, Zambrano got roughed up for nine hits and five runs over six innings of work. Thus ends the winning streak.
Note that Kosuke Fukudome started in CF tonight and hit second (!). From the article, it doesn't sound like the shift to the 2-hole is permanent. What's more important is that Felix Pie rode pine against a righty pitcher. Pie has a grand total of 7 ABs in the last five games. Not good.
The other big news of the day is that Rich Hill is moving to the bullpen for the weekend, due to his recent control problems.
The Cubs also received minor league outfielder Doug Deeds from the Twins today to complete the Craig Monroe trade. Here's his BR page.
It looked like it'd be a laugher when Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez hit back-to-back solo homers off of Brett Myers in the first inning. Instead, the only other offense the Cubs would muster was another solo homer from Soriano in 6th inning. And on the mound, Zambrano got roughed up for nine hits and five runs over six innings of work. Thus ends the winning streak.
Note that Kosuke Fukudome started in CF tonight and hit second (!). From the article, it doesn't sound like the shift to the 2-hole is permanent. What's more important is that Felix Pie rode pine against a righty pitcher. Pie has a grand total of 7 ABs in the last five games. Not good.
The other big news of the day is that Rich Hill is moving to the bullpen for the weekend, due to his recent control problems.
QUOTE
Hill is to be available in the pen Sunday, [Pitching coach Larry]Rothschild said, and his status will be reevaluated after that.
With another off day on the schedule Monday, the Cubs plan to start Ryan Dempster and Carlos Zambrano in the first two games against Cincinnati at home, Tuesday and Wednesday, skipping Hill - who would not start until Thursday at the earliest.
With another off day on the schedule Monday, the Cubs plan to start Ryan Dempster and Carlos Zambrano in the first two games against Cincinnati at home, Tuesday and Wednesday, skipping Hill - who would not start until Thursday at the earliest.
The Cubs also received minor league outfielder Doug Deeds from the Twins today to complete the Craig Monroe trade. Here's his BR page.
Phillies 7, Cubs 1
Another sub-par outing from Ted Lilly. After giving up a 2-run homer in the second inning to Pedro Feliz, Lilly appeared to settle down, only to then fall apart in the fifth inning: single to Shane Victorino, foul out, double by Chase Utley, wild pitch (Victorino scores), homer to Ryan Howard. Lilly's ERA stands at 9.95 after three starts. Bob Howry also surrendered two more runs in his inning of work after showing progress against the Pirates earlier this week.
None of that really matters, as the Cubs offense had no answer for Cole Hamels anyway (same as most hitters these days). They scratched out one run against Ryan Madson in the eighth, but that was all.
Kosuke Fukudome didn't start for the first time; he later came in as a pinch hitter and stayed in at CF. Mark DeRosa started in RF in his stead, giving Ronny Cedeno the start at second.
Another sub-par outing from Ted Lilly. After giving up a 2-run homer in the second inning to Pedro Feliz, Lilly appeared to settle down, only to then fall apart in the fifth inning: single to Shane Victorino, foul out, double by Chase Utley, wild pitch (Victorino scores), homer to Ryan Howard. Lilly's ERA stands at 9.95 after three starts. Bob Howry also surrendered two more runs in his inning of work after showing progress against the Pirates earlier this week.
None of that really matters, as the Cubs offense had no answer for Cole Hamels anyway (same as most hitters these days). They scratched out one run against Ryan Madson in the eighth, but that was all.
Kosuke Fukudome didn't start for the first time; he later came in as a pinch hitter and stayed in at CF. Mark DeRosa started in RF in his stead, giving Ronny Cedeno the start at second.
Cubs 6, Phillies 5 (10)
Strange outing for Marquis (5.0IP 4H 2ER 5BB 2K), as he was very wild yet still mostly effective. His inability to go deeper into the game hurt, however, as Michael Wuertz coughed up the lead in the sixth inning before even retiring a batter. Sean Marshall and Carlos Marmol cleaned up his mess, and Kerry Wood pitched two scoreless innings to pick up the win. Bob Howry got the save after a bit of drama.
The offense did a nice job making Jamie Moyer work (92 pitches over 5 innings) and touched him up for four runs, two coming on a double by Derrek Lee in the third. Mark DeRosa hit a controversial homerun in the sixth; the ball appeared to travel over the LF foul pole and was ruled fair, though the replay looked inconclusive. (I was watching the EI feed; maybe those watching the TBS broadcast got a better look?) The Cubs tied the game in the eighth inning against Tom Gordon and J.C. Romero, then went ahead in the 10th on a Chase Utley throwing error. Rudy Seanez was pitching at the time--it was like a reunion tour of Red Sox castoffs!
Elsewhere, the debate about Big Z and his caffeine still rages:
Strange outing for Marquis (5.0IP 4H 2ER 5BB 2K), as he was very wild yet still mostly effective. His inability to go deeper into the game hurt, however, as Michael Wuertz coughed up the lead in the sixth inning before even retiring a batter. Sean Marshall and Carlos Marmol cleaned up his mess, and Kerry Wood pitched two scoreless innings to pick up the win. Bob Howry got the save after a bit of drama.
The offense did a nice job making Jamie Moyer work (92 pitches over 5 innings) and touched him up for four runs, two coming on a double by Derrek Lee in the third. Mark DeRosa hit a controversial homerun in the sixth; the ball appeared to travel over the LF foul pole and was ruled fair, though the replay looked inconclusive. (I was watching the EI feed; maybe those watching the TBS broadcast got a better look?) The Cubs tied the game in the eighth inning against Tom Gordon and J.C. Romero, then went ahead in the 10th on a Chase Utley throwing error. Rudy Seanez was pitching at the time--it was like a reunion tour of Red Sox castoffs!
Elsewhere, the debate about Big Z and his caffeine still rages:
QUOTE
Zambrano had his first decaffeinated start, and said he felt something was wrong with his fastball. The right-hander has been asked to cut out the caffeine to avoid dehydration, which may be causing the cramping in his arms. However, he may be having problems because he went cold turkey.
"I think it was a game where he didn't feel real strong," Rothschild said of Zambrano's start Friday against the Phillies. "I've seen him pitch well on days like that. He wasn't at his best, obviously."
Rothschild is a coffee drinker. He knows.
"Anybody who drinks a cup of coffee in the morning knows the effect it has on you," Rothschild said. "That's something we need to figure out a little bit, too, to get him a quick start coming out of the bullpen and everything."
So, no caffeine, no Red Bull?
"I'm ready to put it back in his locker, to tell you the truth," Rothschild said.
Piniella said Rothschild said the team physician isn't going to be happy with his suggestion.
"I don't know anything about it," Piniella said. "I've never had Red Bull in my life."
"I think it was a game where he didn't feel real strong," Rothschild said of Zambrano's start Friday against the Phillies. "I've seen him pitch well on days like that. He wasn't at his best, obviously."
Rothschild is a coffee drinker. He knows.
"Anybody who drinks a cup of coffee in the morning knows the effect it has on you," Rothschild said. "That's something we need to figure out a little bit, too, to get him a quick start coming out of the bullpen and everything."
So, no caffeine, no Red Bull?
"I'm ready to put it back in his locker, to tell you the truth," Rothschild said.
Piniella said Rothschild said the team physician isn't going to be happy with his suggestion.
"I don't know anything about it," Piniella said. "I've never had Red Bull in my life."
QUOTE(MidnightC @ Apr 13 2008, 04:34 PM)
Man, is it that hard to chug some water/gatorade after downing your coffee/Red Bull?
If this were happening to a Red Sox pitcher, I would be livid.
Cubs 9, Reds 5
A warm welcome back for Dusty Baker. Some of Ryan Dempster's pixie dust wore off tonight (6.0IP 4ER 5BB 3K), but the Cubs jumped all over the Reds' pitching to make it a moot point. Derrek Lee (3-5, HR, 3RBI) was the biggest offensive star, with Kosuke Fukudome (2-3, BB), Ryan Theriot (2-4, 2B, 2RBI) and Mark DeRosa (2-4, HR, 3RBI) also collecting multiple hits. Felix Pie started in CF for the first time in what seemed like forever and went 0-4 with 3 strikeouts. I'm sure riding pine for several days and having to face Aaron Harang had nothing to do with it.
Funny moment: When Kerry Wood came on in the ninth, the Reds announcers briefly explained how his injury troubles had nothing to do with Dusty Baker and everything to do with Wood's "minor league mechanics."
Notes:
* Alfonso Soriano strained his right calf in the first inning and had to leave the game. He was tracking a flyout and did that annoying hop he does to catch the ball, and came up lame. DeRosa took over in LF for him, Mike Fontenot covering second. Depending on how serious the injury is, we may or may not see the return of Matt Murton. For now, Soriano's day-to-day.
* Rich Hill supposedly will make his next start this weekend against the Pirates, after he wasn't needed in relief during the Phillies series. Pinella did make a semi-cryptic comment, however, that may indicate Hill has a short leash:
Hill's only pitched nine innings thus far, with a 7/7 K/BB ratio. Note, though, that Ted Lilly's been even worse than Hill to start the season, and of course there's no talk of him possibly losing his rotation spot. Small sample sizes are apparently only taken into account for veterans with big contracts.
A warm welcome back for Dusty Baker. Some of Ryan Dempster's pixie dust wore off tonight (6.0IP 4ER 5BB 3K), but the Cubs jumped all over the Reds' pitching to make it a moot point. Derrek Lee (3-5, HR, 3RBI) was the biggest offensive star, with Kosuke Fukudome (2-3, BB), Ryan Theriot (2-4, 2B, 2RBI) and Mark DeRosa (2-4, HR, 3RBI) also collecting multiple hits. Felix Pie started in CF for the first time in what seemed like forever and went 0-4 with 3 strikeouts. I'm sure riding pine for several days and having to face Aaron Harang had nothing to do with it.
Funny moment: When Kerry Wood came on in the ninth, the Reds announcers briefly explained how his injury troubles had nothing to do with Dusty Baker and everything to do with Wood's "minor league mechanics."
Notes:
* Alfonso Soriano strained his right calf in the first inning and had to leave the game. He was tracking a flyout and did that annoying hop he does to catch the ball, and came up lame. DeRosa took over in LF for him, Mike Fontenot covering second. Depending on how serious the injury is, we may or may not see the return of Matt Murton. For now, Soriano's day-to-day.
* Rich Hill supposedly will make his next start this weekend against the Pirates, after he wasn't needed in relief during the Phillies series. Pinella did make a semi-cryptic comment, however, that may indicate Hill has a short leash:
QUOTE
"And then you know we've got [ Sean]Marshall and [ Jon] Lieber that deserve an opportunity also," Piniella said. "I'm not talking about now. I'm talking down the road a little bit."
Hill's only pitched nine innings thus far, with a 7/7 K/BB ratio. Note, though, that Ted Lilly's been even worse than Hill to start the season, and of course there's no talk of him possibly losing his rotation spot. Small sample sizes are apparently only taken into account for veterans with big contracts.
Cubs 12, Reds 3
Derrek Lee is simply on fire; 3 for 4 with a walk and another homer tonight, giving him a sexy .393/.449/.787 line on the season. He and Fukudome (2-3, BB 2RBI) led the offense tonight, with Soto and DeRosa also getting key doubles. That explosions combined with a good outing from caffeine-free (?) Zambrano (7.0IP 2ER BB 5K, plus going 3-4 with the bat!) was more than enough to sink the Reds again.
Notes:
* Alfonso Soriano was placed on the 15-day DL as a result of his injury last night. Last year in April, Soriano strained a hamstring and was out from the 16th through the 22nd. (Not to be confused with the more severe quad injury he had in August.) It's disconcerting seeing so many leg-related injuries piling up on him of late.
* With Soriano on the DL, infielder Eric Patterson was called up from AAA Iowa. That's right; the Cubs lost an outfielder and they didn't recall Matt Murton. The mind boggles. It seems like the team goes out of its way to keep Murton from playing.
Eric Patterson, for anyone who didn't know, is the younger brother of former Cubs "phenom"/current Reds outfielder Corey Patterson.
* Rich Hill will start Friday against the Pirates. GM Jim Hendry expressed faith in Hill to turn things around, but also cited that there's plenty of backup if he doesn't:
So, he and Pinella are on the same page, essentially. We'll have to wait and see how much rope they'll give to Hill.
* Felix Pie didn't start against the righty Josh Fogg tonight, but he did come in on defense in the seventh inning (and drew a walk in his only AB). It might have something to do with a hard hit Pie took into the ivy last night, but I haven't found anything official yet. Otherwise, not to get all soapbox-y or anything, if Lou's not going to give the kid a fair chance, he should just be sent to AAA so he can at least be playing regularly.
Derrek Lee is simply on fire; 3 for 4 with a walk and another homer tonight, giving him a sexy .393/.449/.787 line on the season. He and Fukudome (2-3, BB 2RBI) led the offense tonight, with Soto and DeRosa also getting key doubles. That explosions combined with a good outing from caffeine-free (?) Zambrano (7.0IP 2ER BB 5K, plus going 3-4 with the bat!) was more than enough to sink the Reds again.
Notes:
* Alfonso Soriano was placed on the 15-day DL as a result of his injury last night. Last year in April, Soriano strained a hamstring and was out from the 16th through the 22nd. (Not to be confused with the more severe quad injury he had in August.) It's disconcerting seeing so many leg-related injuries piling up on him of late.
* With Soriano on the DL, infielder Eric Patterson was called up from AAA Iowa. That's right; the Cubs lost an outfielder and they didn't recall Matt Murton. The mind boggles. It seems like the team goes out of its way to keep Murton from playing.
Eric Patterson, for anyone who didn't know, is the younger brother of former Cubs "phenom"/current Reds outfielder Corey Patterson.
* Rich Hill will start Friday against the Pirates. GM Jim Hendry expressed faith in Hill to turn things around, but also cited that there's plenty of backup if he doesn't:
QUOTE
The Cubs signed Jon Lieber in January as an insurance policy, and the veteran right-hander likely will get the first chance to start if Hill continues to struggle.
"Absolutely, and Sean Marshall is throwing the ball well too," Hendry said. "We want Rich to be able to do it. That's the intent, and over time it will work itself out. Hopefully Rich will get on track.
"And no matter what happens, whether somebody fails or somebody gets hurt, we feel like we're covered now. Lieber and Marshall can step into any spot in the rotation and do a good job."
"Absolutely, and Sean Marshall is throwing the ball well too," Hendry said. "We want Rich to be able to do it. That's the intent, and over time it will work itself out. Hopefully Rich will get on track.
"And no matter what happens, whether somebody fails or somebody gets hurt, we feel like we're covered now. Lieber and Marshall can step into any spot in the rotation and do a good job."
So, he and Pinella are on the same page, essentially. We'll have to wait and see how much rope they'll give to Hill.
* Felix Pie didn't start against the righty Josh Fogg tonight, but he did come in on defense in the seventh inning (and drew a walk in his only AB). It might have something to do with a hard hit Pie took into the ivy last night, but I haven't found anything official yet. Otherwise, not to get all soapbox-y or anything, if Lou's not going to give the kid a fair chance, he should just be sent to AAA so he can at least be playing regularly.
Smells like BS to me but here is a follow up on Pie.
No link to the article yet.
QUOTE
After saying Felix Pie would start all three games against the Reds, manager Lou Piniella had him out of the lineup on Wednesday.
Piniella was working with Pie prior to Wednesday's game and at one point became quite animated with his young center fielder. "We're working with him on shortening up his swing... And we're going to work with him for a few days until he feels nice and comfortable," Piniella said.
Piniella was working with Pie prior to Wednesday's game and at one point became quite animated with his young center fielder. "We're working with him on shortening up his swing... And we're going to work with him for a few days until he feels nice and comfortable," Piniella said.
No link to the article yet.
QUOTE(rembrat @ Apr 17 2008, 11:02 AM)
Smells like BS to me but here is a follow up on Pie.
No link to the article yet.
No link to the article yet.
More details here.
QUOTE
"I told him there's no hurry," Piniella said. "I said, 'When you feel comfortable, we'll get you out there.' I would think a week or so of taking [batting practice]and getting used to getting some weight shift and front-arm extension and a little shorter swing.
"This kid will catch on, and when he does and he feels comfortable with it, we'll run him out there."
"This kid will catch on, and when he does and he feels comfortable with it, we'll run him out there."
On the surface at least, it sounds like Pinella is trying to get Pie on track, which is good to know. Of course, this doesn't tell us how much game action the kid's going to get moving forward (and he's not in the starting lineup again today). The more Reed Johnson hits, the further Pie could be buried. Some in the Chicago media already want him buried.
Normally I'd stick just to official media items here, but the Cub Reporter has a great post about the Pie situation today that basically sums up my feelings on how the team's handling him. Worth reading the whole thing.
QUOTE
But what's really got me riled up is the bullshit that Lou and the Cubs are pulling with Felix Pie. The kid has some problems at the plate, no doubt. And I'm glad Lou is showing an active interest in working with him. But damn, he sits for almost a full week on the road trip and his first game back is against one of the better pitchers in the game, Aaron Harang. What you expect from him? Then Lou piles on a bit by leaving Pie out there in the seventh inning when Dusty brings in the lefty Jeremy Affeldt. Pie predictably strikes out again. Then after kicking Pie's dog and sleeping with his girlfriend, Lou keeps him out of the lineup when the pitching equivalent of a pinata is on the mound in Josh Fogg. Damn!
Reds 9, Cubs 2
I think Ted Lilly made a new enemy today. He cruised rather easily through the first three innings, then ran into trouble in the fourth inning by giving up a bases-clearing double to Joey Votto. After a scoreless fifth, Votto took Lilly deep in the sixth for two more runs. Lilly's ERA dropped all the way to 9.16 with this outing. Jon Lieber took over in the seventh, and after a bunt single and an error by Ryan Theriot had two on with nobody out, Griffey came to the plate and jacked homerun #596 to officially put the game out of reach. Bob Howry gave up another run in his appearance, so his struggles continue.
Despite collecting nine hits and four walks off of Reds pitching, the Cubs offense could only scratch out the two runs. Might have something to do with Lee, Ramirez and Fukudome combining to go 2-14 with 7K's. File this game under "just one of those days."
More bad news for Felix Pie, though: Reed Johnson went 4-4.
I think Ted Lilly made a new enemy today. He cruised rather easily through the first three innings, then ran into trouble in the fourth inning by giving up a bases-clearing double to Joey Votto. After a scoreless fifth, Votto took Lilly deep in the sixth for two more runs. Lilly's ERA dropped all the way to 9.16 with this outing. Jon Lieber took over in the seventh, and after a bunt single and an error by Ryan Theriot had two on with nobody out, Griffey came to the plate and jacked homerun #596 to officially put the game out of reach. Bob Howry gave up another run in his appearance, so his struggles continue.
Despite collecting nine hits and four walks off of Reds pitching, the Cubs offense could only scratch out the two runs. Might have something to do with Lee, Ramirez and Fukudome combining to go 2-14 with 7K's. File this game under "just one of those days."
More bad news for Felix Pie, though: Reed Johnson went 4-4.
Cubs 3, Pirates 2
Rich Hill was a bit wobbly, but overall he had a good day, and became the first lefty to record a win for the Cubs this year. Lieber, Marshall, Marmol and Wood followed up with some good outings of their own, and the offense did just enough to seal the deal. This outing should hopefully buy Hill some leeway in regards to retaining his rotation spot.
Felix Pie's still riding pine except as a defensive replacement, and judging from what Reed Johnson's doing with the bat (.375/.422/.425), that's probably not going to change anytime soon. Eric Patterson also got his first start since his callup. He went 0-4 with 2Ks.
An update on the progress of the sale of the team:
Rich Hill was a bit wobbly, but overall he had a good day, and became the first lefty to record a win for the Cubs this year. Lieber, Marshall, Marmol and Wood followed up with some good outings of their own, and the offense did just enough to seal the deal. This outing should hopefully buy Hill some leeway in regards to retaining his rotation spot.
Felix Pie's still riding pine except as a defensive replacement, and judging from what Reed Johnson's doing with the bat (.375/.422/.425), that's probably not going to change anytime soon. Eric Patterson also got his first start since his callup. He went 0-4 with 2Ks.
An update on the progress of the sale of the team:
QUOTE
[Tribune Company Chairman Sam]Zell said in a conference call with creditors Thursday he now expects the confidential Cubs figures to be released to potential buyers in the next 10 days or so and a sale to be completed "sometime this year," regardless of what happens in ongoing negotiations with the state over Wrigley, or whatever the park winds up being called.
"You ought to read the latest newspaper because it's all out there," Zell said, noting there continues to be "steady progress" in talks for a ballpark deal. "We're trying to do what is the optimum transaction with the Illinois Sports Authority while simultaneously running with a book on the Cubs going both ways, with or without the sports authority."
"You ought to read the latest newspaper because it's all out there," Zell said, noting there continues to be "steady progress" in talks for a ballpark deal. "We're trying to do what is the optimum transaction with the Illinois Sports Authority while simultaneously running with a book on the Cubs going both ways, with or without the sports authority."
Cubs 13, Pirates 1
Score early, score often. This game was all about the offense, led by Ryan Theriot (2-4, BB, 3R), Geovany Soto (2-4, 2B, BB), Aramis Ramirez (1-2, 2B, 2BB), and Kosuke Fukudome (1-3, 2BB). Derrek Lee also hit another homerun, giving him seven already on the season. So much for that "lost power," eh?
Jason Marquis had a good outing (6.0IP 6H 1ER 1BB 7K), and even helped his own cause by driving in a run in the third inning. Kevin Hart and Michael Wuertz finished up.
Centerfield watch: Reed Johnson went 0-3 with a walk as the leadoff hitter.
Rectifying what was (IMO) a mistake, the Cubs have recalled Matt Murton from the minors. Eric Patterson was sent back to Triple-A as a result. The article cites that the Cubs will be facing a bunch of left-handed pitching in the immediate future, so having Murton around makes a heck of a lot more sense. Why the team didn't realize this before is anyone's guess, but better late than never.
Score early, score often. This game was all about the offense, led by Ryan Theriot (2-4, BB, 3R), Geovany Soto (2-4, 2B, BB), Aramis Ramirez (1-2, 2B, 2BB), and Kosuke Fukudome (1-3, 2BB). Derrek Lee also hit another homerun, giving him seven already on the season. So much for that "lost power," eh?
Jason Marquis had a good outing (6.0IP 6H 1ER 1BB 7K), and even helped his own cause by driving in a run in the third inning. Kevin Hart and Michael Wuertz finished up.
Centerfield watch: Reed Johnson went 0-3 with a walk as the leadoff hitter.
Rectifying what was (IMO) a mistake, the Cubs have recalled Matt Murton from the minors. Eric Patterson was sent back to Triple-A as a result. The article cites that the Cubs will be facing a bunch of left-handed pitching in the immediate future, so having Murton around makes a heck of a lot more sense. Why the team didn't realize this before is anyone's guess, but better late than never.
Cubs 13, Pirates 6
Too bad the Cubs can't play the Pirates every day. Big days for Ryan Theriot (4-5, 2 2B, 2RBI), Aramis Ramirez (4-5, 2B, HR, 4RBI), Geovany Soto (2-2, 2BB, 2R) and Derrek Lee (2-4, 2RBI). Matt Murton got his first start since being recalled and went 1-6 with 2RBI. And with all that offense, it didn't matter that Ryan Dempster was just OK (5.0IP, 3ER, 2BB 3K), and that Howry, Wuertz and Marshall each gave up a run in their relief appearances.
This win, combined with a loss from the Brewers and Cardinals, also puts the Cubs in first place in the NL Central!
Kosuke Fukudome was a late scratch from the lineup due to swelling from a cyst above his right eye. Pinella doesn't think he'll miss more than today. Scott Eyre is also moving closer to returning and should start a rehab assignment soon.
Centerfield watch: Reed Johnson 2-5, 2B, 3R, 6 LOB. Felix Pie 0-1, K
Too bad the Cubs can't play the Pirates every day. Big days for Ryan Theriot (4-5, 2 2B, 2RBI), Aramis Ramirez (4-5, 2B, HR, 4RBI), Geovany Soto (2-2, 2BB, 2R) and Derrek Lee (2-4, 2RBI). Matt Murton got his first start since being recalled and went 1-6 with 2RBI. And with all that offense, it didn't matter that Ryan Dempster was just OK (5.0IP, 3ER, 2BB 3K), and that Howry, Wuertz and Marshall each gave up a run in their relief appearances.
This win, combined with a loss from the Brewers and Cardinals, also puts the Cubs in first place in the NL Central!
Kosuke Fukudome was a late scratch from the lineup due to swelling from a cyst above his right eye. Pinella doesn't think he'll miss more than today. Scott Eyre is also moving closer to returning and should start a rehab assignment soon.
QUOTE
"We're going to send him down to Daytona Beach or someplace that's warm and let him get some work there," Piniella said. "But he's probably still not on the horizon yet of being here. He's been out a while now and he's going to need a little time. What's a little time? A week to 10 days? I don't know."
Centerfield watch: Reed Johnson 2-5, 2B, 3R, 6 LOB. Felix Pie 0-1, K
Cubs 7, Mets 1
After feasting on the Reds and Pirates the past week, the Cubs face a real test against the Mets, and at least tonight, they passed. It was a taught pitchers' duel between Carlos Zambrano and John Maine for much of the game, the Cubs' sole offense coming on a 2-run homer from Aramis Ramirez in the fourth inning. Then in the eighth, the Cubs loaded the bases against Aaron Heilman with nobody out. After Mark DeRosa struck out and Geovany Soto popped out, Ronny Cedeno (!) smacked a ball up the middle to plate two more runs. After a pitching change, Felix Pie (!!), in as a defensive replacement, came to the plate and promptly hit his first ever Wrigley homerun to put the game away.
Notes:
- Hot-hitting Ryan Theriot was a late scratch from the lineup due to back spasms. He's day-to-day.
- Felix Pie was tentatively scheduled to start tomorrow for the first time since April 15th. He spent the day with Dave Keller, his minor league hitting coach, in an ongoing effort to get him on track in the majors.
The homerun tonight is hopefully a good sign that Pie's starting to come around and will finally get some more playing time.
- With his appearance tonight, Carlos Marmol has already thrown 13.1 innings and 207 pitches. Last year he pitched 69.1 innings, throwing 1,158 pitches (not including the playoffs). He's well on his way to eclipsing his 2007 workload. Something that bears watching.
Edit: Thank you, RedSoxinIsrael. Had a braincramp there.
After feasting on the Reds and Pirates the past week, the Cubs face a real test against the Mets, and at least tonight, they passed. It was a taught pitchers' duel between Carlos Zambrano and John Maine for much of the game, the Cubs' sole offense coming on a 2-run homer from Aramis Ramirez in the fourth inning. Then in the eighth, the Cubs loaded the bases against Aaron Heilman with nobody out. After Mark DeRosa struck out and Geovany Soto popped out, Ronny Cedeno (!) smacked a ball up the middle to plate two more runs. After a pitching change, Felix Pie (!!), in as a defensive replacement, came to the plate and promptly hit his first ever Wrigley homerun to put the game away.
Notes:
- Hot-hitting Ryan Theriot was a late scratch from the lineup due to back spasms. He's day-to-day.
- Felix Pie was tentatively scheduled to start tomorrow for the first time since April 15th. He spent the day with Dave Keller, his minor league hitting coach, in an ongoing effort to get him on track in the majors.
QUOTE
But wouldn't Pie be better served if he were playing every day in the Minor Leagues?
"That's a great question, but I can't answer that," Keller said. "As a coach and a teacher and a guy in player development, I wish I could send as many players up here as possible. That's all we want to do is try to get our players to the big leagues and get our players to succeed.
"Felix is not a prospect anymore. He's got to find a way to survive and put it all together."
Piniella understands it's tough to learn on the job.
"We understand this is not an easy thing," Piniella said. "You have to do it somewhere, and [Pie]is here with us now, and we'll work with him and continue to work with him and hope it catches on. We're not getting too drastic with the changes. We're trying to stay as elementary as possible. We're trying to get his weight shift a little more and get off his backside so he can have a better pass at the ball, stay in the strike zone longer and get to more pitches."
"That's a great question, but I can't answer that," Keller said. "As a coach and a teacher and a guy in player development, I wish I could send as many players up here as possible. That's all we want to do is try to get our players to the big leagues and get our players to succeed.
"Felix is not a prospect anymore. He's got to find a way to survive and put it all together."
Piniella understands it's tough to learn on the job.
"We understand this is not an easy thing," Piniella said. "You have to do it somewhere, and [Pie]is here with us now, and we'll work with him and continue to work with him and hope it catches on. We're not getting too drastic with the changes. We're trying to stay as elementary as possible. We're trying to get his weight shift a little more and get off his backside so he can have a better pass at the ball, stay in the strike zone longer and get to more pitches."
The homerun tonight is hopefully a good sign that Pie's starting to come around and will finally get some more playing time.
- With his appearance tonight, Carlos Marmol has already thrown 13.1 innings and 207 pitches. Last year he pitched 69.1 innings, throwing 1,158 pitches (not including the playoffs). He's well on his way to eclipsing his 2007 workload. Something that bears watching.
Edit: Thank you, RedSoxinIsrael. Had a braincramp there.
QUOTE(MidnightC @ Apr 22 2008, 04:01 AM)
After feasting on the Reds and Pirates the past week, the Cubs face a real test against the Mets, and at least tonight, they passed. It was a taught pitchers' duel between Carlos Zambrano and John Maine for much of the game, the Cubs' sole offense coming on a 2-run homer from Aramis Ramirez in the fourth inning. Then in the seventh, the Cubs loaded the bases against Aaron Heilman with nobody out. After Mark DeRosa struck out and Geovany Soto popped out, Ronny Cedeno (!) smacked a ball up the middle to plate two more runs. After a pitching change, Felix Pie (!!), in as a defensive replacement, came to the plate and promptly hit his first ever Wrigley homerun to put the game away.
- With his appearance tonight, Carlos Marmol has already thrown 13.1 innings and 207 pitches. Last year he pitched 69.1 innings, throwing 1,158 pitches (not including the playoffs). He's well on his way to eclipsing his 2007 workload. Something that bears watching.
- With his appearance tonight, Carlos Marmol has already thrown 13.1 innings and 207 pitches. Last year he pitched 69.1 innings, throwing 1,158 pitches (not including the playoffs). He's well on his way to eclipsing his 2007 workload. Something that bears watching.
Nitpick but it was actually the bottom of the 8th inning. I watched the game on TV here, it was a great night at Wrigley, great crowd. I was actually hoping for a Kerry Wood save in one of my fantasy leagues, so Pie's HR sucked. Then today I found out I didn't even put him in my lineup for this week and my opponent in another league has him
Anyways, it was a nice game - the Cubs are on a roll. Big Z pitched well, I was suprised to see he's not walking people this year (5 walks in 33 innings). Marmol and Wood pitched very quick innings (9 and 6 pitches).
FWIW, Marmol also pitched 41 innings in the minors last year, but as a starter.
Cubs 8, Mets 1
Finally, a quality start from Ted Lilly. He gave up just 1ER over six innings, though he still needed 107 pitches for the effort and sported a 4/4 BB/K ratio on the day. Still, it's an improvement. He also contributed by beating out a ground ball for an infield hit, setting the table for Reed Johnson's 2RBI single in the fourth.
This game was close for majority of it, just like last night, until the Cubs got the chance to feast on the Mets' bullpen. In the eighth inning, Felix Pie (2-5 on the day!) and Derrek Lee led off with singles, Aramis Ramirez flew out, then Kosuke Fukudome (3-3, 2BB) walked to load the bases. After Mark DeRosa hit into a fielder's choice (Pie out at home), Ronny Cedeno came to the plate, and just like last night, he came through big time, only even better: he hit a grand slam!
So the Cubs sweep this two game series and move on to Colorado to face the defending NL champs. And with the Brewers beating the Cardinals this afternoon, the lead in the NL Central is now 1.5 games.
Notes:
Ryan Theriot sat for the second straight day, but is apparently feeling better.
Soriano update:
Finally, a quality start from Ted Lilly. He gave up just 1ER over six innings, though he still needed 107 pitches for the effort and sported a 4/4 BB/K ratio on the day. Still, it's an improvement. He also contributed by beating out a ground ball for an infield hit, setting the table for Reed Johnson's 2RBI single in the fourth.
This game was close for majority of it, just like last night, until the Cubs got the chance to feast on the Mets' bullpen. In the eighth inning, Felix Pie (2-5 on the day!) and Derrek Lee led off with singles, Aramis Ramirez flew out, then Kosuke Fukudome (3-3, 2BB) walked to load the bases. After Mark DeRosa hit into a fielder's choice (Pie out at home), Ronny Cedeno came to the plate, and just like last night, he came through big time, only even better: he hit a grand slam!
So the Cubs sweep this two game series and move on to Colorado to face the defending NL champs. And with the Brewers beating the Cardinals this afternoon, the lead in the NL Central is now 1.5 games.
Notes:
Ryan Theriot sat for the second straight day, but is apparently feeling better.
Soriano update:
QUOTE
"There's no more pain," said Soriano, who doesn't have to wear the large boot that he had for the first few days he was on the DL. "It's still a little sore, but no more pain."
He has been able to hit off a batting tee in the Cubs clubhouse and expected to hit in the batting cage in Colorado, where the team plays a two-game series against the Rockies, beginning Wednesday.
When Soriano is ready to return, Cubs manager Lou Piniella will have to deal with more questions about his lineup. Soriano was leading off and batting .175 with a .230 on-base percentage, but Reed Johnson has done well at the top of the order, hitting .346 with a .417 on-base percentage. With the addition of Kosuke Fukudome, the Cubs lead the National League and are second in the Major Leagues in on-base percentage.
He has been able to hit off a batting tee in the Cubs clubhouse and expected to hit in the batting cage in Colorado, where the team plays a two-game series against the Rockies, beginning Wednesday.
When Soriano is ready to return, Cubs manager Lou Piniella will have to deal with more questions about his lineup. Soriano was leading off and batting .175 with a .230 on-base percentage, but Reed Johnson has done well at the top of the order, hitting .346 with a .417 on-base percentage. With the addition of Kosuke Fukudome, the Cubs lead the National League and are second in the Major Leagues in on-base percentage.
Cubs 7, Rockies 6 (10)
What a game!
Rich Hill's stuff is a naturally poor fit for Coors, but he made it through five innings before surrendering a run. He gave up a homerun to Clint Barmes to lead off the sixth, however, and after walking Todd Helton was pulled in favor of Michael Wuertz. Wuertz then couldn't retire anybody, and after Sean Marshall came in and struck out Brad Hawpe, Jon Lieber gave up a 3-run homer to Troy Tulowitzki, giving the Rockies a 5-3 lead.
But the Cubs battled back. Derrek Lee singled in a run in the 7th, then Aramis Ramirez hit a long 2-run homerun in the ninth off of Manuel Corpas to put the Cubs back on top 6-5. Kerry Wood then came in and promptly blew the save by giving up an RBI triple to Ryan Spillborghs. But never fear; a clutch hit from Ryan Theriot made it 7-6 in the 10th, and Carlos Marmol got the save.
This was the 10,000th franchise victory for the Cubs, and their sixth in a row.
* Good news: Alfonso Soriano took batting practice today and is getting closer to returning. Bad news: Pinella intends to put him back in the leadoff spot when he returns.
What a game!
Rich Hill's stuff is a naturally poor fit for Coors, but he made it through five innings before surrendering a run. He gave up a homerun to Clint Barmes to lead off the sixth, however, and after walking Todd Helton was pulled in favor of Michael Wuertz. Wuertz then couldn't retire anybody, and after Sean Marshall came in and struck out Brad Hawpe, Jon Lieber gave up a 3-run homer to Troy Tulowitzki, giving the Rockies a 5-3 lead.
But the Cubs battled back. Derrek Lee singled in a run in the 7th, then Aramis Ramirez hit a long 2-run homerun in the ninth off of Manuel Corpas to put the Cubs back on top 6-5. Kerry Wood then came in and promptly blew the save by giving up an RBI triple to Ryan Spillborghs. But never fear; a clutch hit from Ryan Theriot made it 7-6 in the 10th, and Carlos Marmol got the save.
This was the 10,000th franchise victory for the Cubs, and their sixth in a row.
* Good news: Alfonso Soriano took batting practice today and is getting closer to returning. Bad news: Pinella intends to put him back in the leadoff spot when he returns.
Rockies 4, Cubs 2
Win #10,001 will have to wait for another day. Jason Marquis pitched well (7IP 2ER) and got a no-decision; Kevin Hart took the loss after giving up two runs in the eighth, thanks partly to some bad defense behind him. And the offense just couldn't get much going against Aaron Cook. The best offensive performance came from Felix Pie (!), who went 2-3 with an RBI single in the second inning. Pie's BA is steadily creeping up (.237 after today).
* Rich Hill will be skipped the next time through the rotation. This is supposedly to keep everyone else on regular rest patterns and isn't just because of Hill's ongoing control problems. Hill's next start won't be until May 3rd against the Cardinals.
Win #10,001 will have to wait for another day. Jason Marquis pitched well (7IP 2ER) and got a no-decision; Kevin Hart took the loss after giving up two runs in the eighth, thanks partly to some bad defense behind him. And the offense just couldn't get much going against Aaron Cook. The best offensive performance came from Felix Pie (!), who went 2-3 with an RBI single in the second inning. Pie's BA is steadily creeping up (.237 after today).
* Rich Hill will be skipped the next time through the rotation. This is supposedly to keep everyone else on regular rest patterns and isn't just because of Hill's ongoing control problems. Hill's next start won't be until May 3rd against the Cardinals.
Centerfielder Reed Johnson just had one of the great catches of all time - tremendous speed and dove for it sliding with his head going into the wall while on the ground. Make sure to watch Sportscenter tonight for this one.
It reminded me of when a hockey player goes head first into the boards and your body tenses up then you cringe. He is ok, wow.
It reminded me of when a hockey player goes head first into the boards and your body tenses up then you cringe. He is ok, wow.
Nationals 5, Cubs 3
Wil Nieves. Wil Nieves. Wil F-ing Nieves hit a walkoff homerun? Off of Bob Howry? Yes. Yes, he did.
I really don't have much else to say, as that fact kind of overshadows everything else that happened in this game. If you want the details, go read the play-by-play/recap. My mind is too blown.
(How in the hell do you give up a walkoff homer to Wil Nieves?! Just....GAH!)
Notes:
- Alfonso Soriano will be ready to play when he's eligible to come off the DL on May 1st.
Wil Nieves. Wil Nieves. Wil F-ing Nieves hit a walkoff homerun? Off of Bob Howry? Yes. Yes, he did.
I really don't have much else to say, as that fact kind of overshadows everything else that happened in this game. If you want the details, go read the play-by-play/recap. My mind is too blown.
(How in the hell do you give up a walkoff homer to Wil Nieves?! Just....GAH!)
Notes:
- Alfonso Soriano will be ready to play when he's eligible to come off the DL on May 1st.
QUOTE(MidnightC @ Apr 25 2008, 10:17 PM)
(How in the hell do you give up a walkoff homer to Wil Nieves?! Just....GAH!)
A: Your name is Bob Howry
Seriously, was there any way the Cubs were winning that after scoring only 1 to tie with bases juiced and 1 out? Then Howry came in. Game. Set. Match.
Lost $100
Cubs 7, Nationals 0
Nice easy win after that catastrophe last night. Zambrano was great, though his control (4/5 BB/K) wasn't at its best. What's even more important is that he went seven innings, giving the bullpen a bit of a break. And nearly everyone contributed on offense too, either getting at least one hit or drawing a walk. Tough to pick just one star on the night, though I'm slightly biased to Derrek Lee (2-3, 2BB, 3RBI). What's up with Ronny Cedeno? He went 3-5 tonight from the eight spot, bringing his season average to .375!
Geovany Soto was the dud, as he got Platinum Sombrero honors tonight.
Nice easy win after that catastrophe last night. Zambrano was great, though his control (4/5 BB/K) wasn't at its best. What's even more important is that he went seven innings, giving the bullpen a bit of a break. And nearly everyone contributed on offense too, either getting at least one hit or drawing a walk. Tough to pick just one star on the night, though I'm slightly biased to Derrek Lee (2-3, 2BB, 3RBI). What's up with Ronny Cedeno? He went 3-5 tonight from the eight spot, bringing his season average to .375!
Geovany Soto was the dud, as he got Platinum Sombrero honors tonight.
QUOTE(MidnightC @ Apr 26 2008, 08:34 PM)
Cubs 7, Nationals 0
Nice easy win after that catastrophe last night. Zambrano was great, though his control (4/5 BB/K) wasn't at its best. What's even more important is that he went seven innings, giving the bullpen a bit of a break. And nearly everyone contributed on offense too, either getting at least one hit or drawing a walk. Tough to pick just one star on the night, though I'm slightly biased to Derrek Lee (2-3, 2BB, 3RBI). What's up with Ronny Cedeno? He went 3-5 tonight from the eight spot, bringing his season average to .375!
Geovany Soto was the dud, as he got Platinum Sombrero honors tonight.
Nice easy win after that catastrophe last night. Zambrano was great, though his control (4/5 BB/K) wasn't at its best. What's even more important is that he went seven innings, giving the bullpen a bit of a break. And nearly everyone contributed on offense too, either getting at least one hit or drawing a walk. Tough to pick just one star on the night, though I'm slightly biased to Derrek Lee (2-3, 2BB, 3RBI). What's up with Ronny Cedeno? He went 3-5 tonight from the eight spot, bringing his season average to .375!
Geovany Soto was the dud, as he got Platinum Sombrero honors tonight.
I was at the game last night and Zambrano did go 7 last night but took almost 120 pitches to do it. I expected him to be gone after 6 when he was around 100 pitches. Guess the lack of hitting by the Nationals made him not worth pulling then...
Nationals 2, Cubs 0
Solid effort from Ted Lilly (6.0IP 2ER 2BB 7K) and the bullpen today, but the offense had no answer for John Lannan (who?). Can't win if you don't score. Le sigh.
Big series at Wrigley versus the Brewers starts Tuesday with Ben Sheets against Jason Marquis (talk about a mismatch).
* I feel I have to point out this article from today's Sun-Times. Maybe it's a bit over-the-top, but the overall point is correct: Alfonso Soriano should not hit leadoff. The fact that he will as soon as he comes of the DL is just maddening.
Solid effort from Ted Lilly (6.0IP 2ER 2BB 7K) and the bullpen today, but the offense had no answer for John Lannan (who?). Can't win if you don't score. Le sigh.
Big series at Wrigley versus the Brewers starts Tuesday with Ben Sheets against Jason Marquis (talk about a mismatch).
* I feel I have to point out this article from today's Sun-Times. Maybe it's a bit over-the-top, but the overall point is correct: Alfonso Soriano should not hit leadoff. The fact that he will as soon as he comes of the DL is just maddening.
Brewers 10, Cubs 7
As I said on Sunday, this was a pitching mismatch and it showed from the get-go. Even with an uncharacteristically wild Ben Sheets (7BB!) on the mound, Jason Marquis just couldn't keep up. He gave up ten hits and five runs in his five innings of work, and things kind of spiraled down from there. Kevin Hart gave up one run in the sixth, then Michael Wuertz let three runners inherited from Hart and Sean Marshall come around to score in the seventh. Even Jon Lieber gave up a run in his two innings of mop-up. Just a bad night for the pitching staff.
The offense did its best to keep the game close. Most notable is that Derrek Lee hit his eighth homer tonight, tying a club record for April set by Sammy Sosa (2000, 2002) and Lee Walls (1958). Aramis Ramirez walked three times, Mark DeRosa and Geovany Soto each went 2-4, and Mike Fontenot, put in as a defensive replacement in the sixth, went 2-2 with 3RBI. They had the makings of a rally against Eric Gagne in the ninth, but Reed Johnson, representing the tying run, grounded out to third to end it.
Before tonight, the Cubs were undefeated in games in which they scored four or more runs.
* Centerfield watch: Reed Johnson: 0-5, 4 LOB. Felix Pie: 0-1, BB, RBI Sac Fly.
* Homeplate umpire Jerry Crawford left the game after two innings because of an undisclosed illness and was taken to a nearby hospital.
* Kosuke Fukudome will be featured on the cover of this week's Sports Illustrated. The headline? It's Gonna Happen (in both Japanese and English). This is spectacular news for all the neurotic Cub fans out there.
As I said on Sunday, this was a pitching mismatch and it showed from the get-go. Even with an uncharacteristically wild Ben Sheets (7BB!) on the mound, Jason Marquis just couldn't keep up. He gave up ten hits and five runs in his five innings of work, and things kind of spiraled down from there. Kevin Hart gave up one run in the sixth, then Michael Wuertz let three runners inherited from Hart and Sean Marshall come around to score in the seventh. Even Jon Lieber gave up a run in his two innings of mop-up. Just a bad night for the pitching staff.
The offense did its best to keep the game close. Most notable is that Derrek Lee hit his eighth homer tonight, tying a club record for April set by Sammy Sosa (2000, 2002) and Lee Walls (1958). Aramis Ramirez walked three times, Mark DeRosa and Geovany Soto each went 2-4, and Mike Fontenot, put in as a defensive replacement in the sixth, went 2-2 with 3RBI. They had the makings of a rally against Eric Gagne in the ninth, but Reed Johnson, representing the tying run, grounded out to third to end it.
Before tonight, the Cubs were undefeated in games in which they scored four or more runs.
* Centerfield watch: Reed Johnson: 0-5, 4 LOB. Felix Pie: 0-1, BB, RBI Sac Fly.
* Homeplate umpire Jerry Crawford left the game after two innings because of an undisclosed illness and was taken to a nearby hospital.
* Kosuke Fukudome will be featured on the cover of this week's Sports Illustrated. The headline? It's Gonna Happen (in both Japanese and English). This is spectacular news for all the neurotic Cub fans out there.
Cubs 19, Brewers 5
Do not adjust your set; that was really the final score. Don't you just love an old-fashioned ass kicking? I know I do. And what the hell, Ryan Dempster is 4-0?! I have no delusions of this lasting, but if someone had told me this would happen in March, I never would've believed it. He was wild tonight, walking five, but when the offense scores that many runs, does anyone even care about the starting pitcher?
So...how about that Geovany Soto? He broke out of his mini-slump big time by hitting two 3-run homers, making him the biggest offensive standout. Clearly, no one else really sucked tonight, though the inconsistent playing time still isn't helping Felix Pie (0-4, BB, 2K). For a laugh, go check out Derrick Turnbow's line.
The Cubs finish the month at 17-10 , a new franchise record for April victories.
* Mark Cuban, who is still interested in buying the team, was at tonight's game.
* Bob Howry continues to struggle, giving up a 2-run homer in his inning of work. He did record two strikeouts, though.
* Umpire Jerry Crawford is OK.
* The state has a plan to renovate Wrigley without using any tax dollars.
* Soriano, who will be activated and lead-off in the next game, thinks he can steal 30 bases this season.
Do not adjust your set; that was really the final score. Don't you just love an old-fashioned ass kicking? I know I do. And what the hell, Ryan Dempster is 4-0?! I have no delusions of this lasting, but if someone had told me this would happen in March, I never would've believed it. He was wild tonight, walking five, but when the offense scores that many runs, does anyone even care about the starting pitcher?
So...how about that Geovany Soto? He broke out of his mini-slump big time by hitting two 3-run homers, making him the biggest offensive standout. Clearly, no one else really sucked tonight, though the inconsistent playing time still isn't helping Felix Pie (0-4, BB, 2K). For a laugh, go check out Derrick Turnbow's line.
The Cubs finish the month at 17-10 , a new franchise record for April victories.
* Mark Cuban, who is still interested in buying the team, was at tonight's game.
* Bob Howry continues to struggle, giving up a 2-run homer in his inning of work. He did record two strikeouts, though.
* Umpire Jerry Crawford is OK.
* The state has a plan to renovate Wrigley without using any tax dollars.
* Soriano, who will be activated and lead-off in the next game, thinks he can steal 30 bases this season.
Brewer 4, Cubs 3
I guess it's a good thing I didn't get to see this game. Big Z was Big Z (6.1IP 1ER 2BB 3K), including hitting a solo homer in the third to help his cause. Kosuke Fukudome went 4-4, Geovany Soto had big RBI double, and Ryan Theriot is still hot, going 3-4. And Carlos Marmol pitched 1.2 innings of scoreless relief, K-ing four in the process. It had all the makings of an easy, if low-scoring, victory.
But then came Kerry Wood. He hit Craig Counsel, gave up a PH double to Gabe Kapler, an infield hit to Jason Kendall and walked Rickie Weeks before even recording an out in the ninth. After retiring Mike Cameron, Ryan Braun hit a 2-RBI double to make it 4-3 Brewers, officially blowing the save and the game. The Cubs went meekly against Eric Gagne in the bottom half, capped by Felix Pie hitting into the game-ending double play. This one stings a little.
Alfonso Soriano went 0-4 in his return, hitting leadoff as promised.
* Matt Murton was optioned back to Triple-A to make room for Soriano. Murton got a grand total of 12 at-bats while he was up.
* It's unclear how Felix Pie and Reed Johnson will split time now that Soriano's back. Platooning them would make the most sense, but until Johnson cools off, it's hard to envision Pie getting the bulk of the starts.
I guess it's a good thing I didn't get to see this game. Big Z was Big Z (6.1IP 1ER 2BB 3K), including hitting a solo homer in the third to help his cause. Kosuke Fukudome went 4-4, Geovany Soto had big RBI double, and Ryan Theriot is still hot, going 3-4. And Carlos Marmol pitched 1.2 innings of scoreless relief, K-ing four in the process. It had all the makings of an easy, if low-scoring, victory.
But then came Kerry Wood. He hit Craig Counsel, gave up a PH double to Gabe Kapler, an infield hit to Jason Kendall and walked Rickie Weeks before even recording an out in the ninth. After retiring Mike Cameron, Ryan Braun hit a 2-RBI double to make it 4-3 Brewers, officially blowing the save and the game. The Cubs went meekly against Eric Gagne in the bottom half, capped by Felix Pie hitting into the game-ending double play. This one stings a little.
Alfonso Soriano went 0-4 in his return, hitting leadoff as promised.
* Matt Murton was optioned back to Triple-A to make room for Soriano. Murton got a grand total of 12 at-bats while he was up.
* It's unclear how Felix Pie and Reed Johnson will split time now that Soriano's back. Platooning them would make the most sense, but until Johnson cools off, it's hard to envision Pie getting the bulk of the starts.
I saw a lot of blame on Lou for leaving Soriano in there. He was expected to come out but Lou put Pie in for Johnson in CF as a defensive replacement instead of in LF for Soriano. Good chance Johnson/Pie catch the Kapler wind-blown double. Tough loss.
Cardinals 5, Cubs 3 (11)
Wonder of wonders, the long layoff didn't do anything to help Rich Hill's control problems. He lasted just 0.2IP, surrendering four walks in that span, the last of which forced in a run. Nothing's official at this moment, but judging by Piniella's quick hook, Hill's really deep in the doghouse now. Wuertz cleaned up Hill's mess (and gave up a run in the second inning), and then Jon Lieber helped save the pen by pitching 3.2 scoreless innings. The offense, however, had no answer for Adam Wainwright and the Cardinals' pen through the first eight innings.
Now, a few words on Alfonso Soriano. He's made quite an impact since his return, and not really in a good way. After last night's adventures, he made a few more gaffes in the field tonight, the worst of which came in the seventh on a routine flyout from Albert Pujols (it was generously ruled a hit) that helped lead to another run for the Cards. He was 0-4 with 2Ks from the leadoff spot through eight. When he stepped in against Jason Isringhausen in the ninth with Reed Johnson aboard (HBP), I admit I was thinking only about a K or a game-ending double play. But instead, he hit a homer to LF to tie the game!
Unfortunately, the Cubs couldn't push across the go-ahead run and the game went into extras. Kerry Wood bounced back and pitched a scoreless 9th. But in the 11th, Piniella got greedy and tried to steal a second inning of relief out of Chad Fox (see below), and the result was a walkoff homerun to Skip Schumaker. Bang-up job tonight, Lou!
* Prior to the game, Kevin Hart was optioned to Triple-A and Chad Fox was called up in his place. (Yes, that Chad Fox.) Fox hadn't pitched in the majors since 2005 before tonight, and he gave up four runs in 0.2IP in his lone appearance for Double-A Tennessee. I don't think he's long for the majors, to be honest.
* Aramis Ramirez was hit on the wrist by a pitch in the sixth. He stayed in for awhile, but left in the seventh inning. He's day-to-day for now.
Wonder of wonders, the long layoff didn't do anything to help Rich Hill's control problems. He lasted just 0.2IP, surrendering four walks in that span, the last of which forced in a run. Nothing's official at this moment, but judging by Piniella's quick hook, Hill's really deep in the doghouse now. Wuertz cleaned up Hill's mess (and gave up a run in the second inning), and then Jon Lieber helped save the pen by pitching 3.2 scoreless innings. The offense, however, had no answer for Adam Wainwright and the Cardinals' pen through the first eight innings.
Now, a few words on Alfonso Soriano. He's made quite an impact since his return, and not really in a good way. After last night's adventures, he made a few more gaffes in the field tonight, the worst of which came in the seventh on a routine flyout from Albert Pujols (it was generously ruled a hit) that helped lead to another run for the Cards. He was 0-4 with 2Ks from the leadoff spot through eight. When he stepped in against Jason Isringhausen in the ninth with Reed Johnson aboard (HBP), I admit I was thinking only about a K or a game-ending double play. But instead, he hit a homer to LF to tie the game!
Unfortunately, the Cubs couldn't push across the go-ahead run and the game went into extras. Kerry Wood bounced back and pitched a scoreless 9th. But in the 11th, Piniella got greedy and tried to steal a second inning of relief out of Chad Fox (see below), and the result was a walkoff homerun to Skip Schumaker. Bang-up job tonight, Lou!
* Prior to the game, Kevin Hart was optioned to Triple-A and Chad Fox was called up in his place. (Yes, that Chad Fox.) Fox hadn't pitched in the majors since 2005 before tonight, and he gave up four runs in 0.2IP in his lone appearance for Double-A Tennessee. I don't think he's long for the majors, to be honest.
* Aramis Ramirez was hit on the wrist by a pitch in the sixth. He stayed in for awhile, but left in the seventh inning. He's day-to-day for now.
Cubs 9, Cardinals 3
Kyle Lohse got some regression to the mean today. The Cubs put together a beautiful six run rally in the 4th, then tacked on three more in the 7th. That was more than enough offense for Ted Lilly (7IP 3ER BB 4K 2HR), and the perfect way to rebound from the last two days.
* Rich Hill has been demoted to Triple-A. His control issues are legitimately bad, but the Cubs couldn't have handled him any worse with the decision to jostle him in and out of the rotation and then skip him altogether before throwing him against a hot Cardinals team. For shame. Jon Lieber will start in his stead and RHP Sean Gallagher was called up to work out of the bullpen.
* Aramis Ramirez's wrist is still sore and he didn't play. X-rays were negative and he's hoping to play tomorrow. Fukudome got to bat cleanup today with Ramirez out and DeRosa started at 3B.
The Cub Reporter has invented an addition to WPA that is simply too awesome not to share:
Kyle Lohse got some regression to the mean today. The Cubs put together a beautiful six run rally in the 4th, then tacked on three more in the 7th. That was more than enough offense for Ted Lilly (7IP 3ER BB 4K 2HR), and the perfect way to rebound from the last two days.
* Rich Hill has been demoted to Triple-A. His control issues are legitimately bad, but the Cubs couldn't have handled him any worse with the decision to jostle him in and out of the rotation and then skip him altogether before throwing him against a hot Cardinals team. For shame. Jon Lieber will start in his stead and RHP Sean Gallagher was called up to work out of the bullpen.
* Aramis Ramirez's wrist is still sore and he didn't play. X-rays were negative and he's hoping to play tomorrow. Fukudome got to bat cleanup today with Ramirez out and DeRosa started at 3B.
The Cub Reporter has invented an addition to WPA that is simply too awesome not to share:
QUOTE
Cubs fans were displeased enough with Soriano to start the game after his 0-4 return from the DL and questionable defense in the 9th. He didn't do much to help by swinging at the first pitch against Wainwright last night. Things started turning around with an RBI fielder's choice in the third, but then it fell apart in the 7th. He misplayed a pop-fly by Pujols and then missed another that lead to the Cardinals third run, putting him into the "Neifi Rage" range, which by TCR calculations has only happened about twenty times in Cubs history. The most prominent being Neifi's entire career with the Cubs and the last season of Dusty Baker. But things can change quickly in baseball, and when he obliterated an Isringhausen fastball to tie it into the ninth, most was forgiven.
Cardinals 5, Cubs 3
Jason Marquis didn't fare so well against his former team (5.1IP 5ER 5BB 4K). He was spotted a 2-run lead early but he couldn't hold it, and the hole he dug proved too much for the Cubs to climb out of. I have no idea how the best offense in the NL was shut down by Todd Wellemeyer, but it was. Lee's 0-5 and Fukudome's 0-2 (with a walk) probably didn't help matters. The Cardinals now have a 1.5 game lead in the division.
On the bright side, Sean Gallagher looked good in his 2008 MLB debut, pitching two innings and surrendering just one hit.
"Leadoff hitter" Alfonso Soriano: 1-4, 2K. Saw about 15 pitches. Now sporting a robust .548 OPS!
Centerfield watch: Reed Johnson: 1-4. (BA now down to .277) Felix Pie: DNP. Against a righty. Again.
* Aramis Ramirez sat for the second straight day. Sounds like he'll play Monday against the Reds (we hope).
* Tuesday will mark the ten year anniversary of Kerry Wood's 20-strikeout game. Hard to believe it's been that long, especially considering everything that's happened in Wood's career since that day.
Jason Marquis didn't fare so well against his former team (5.1IP 5ER 5BB 4K). He was spotted a 2-run lead early but he couldn't hold it, and the hole he dug proved too much for the Cubs to climb out of. I have no idea how the best offense in the NL was shut down by Todd Wellemeyer, but it was. Lee's 0-5 and Fukudome's 0-2 (with a walk) probably didn't help matters. The Cardinals now have a 1.5 game lead in the division.
On the bright side, Sean Gallagher looked good in his 2008 MLB debut, pitching two innings and surrendering just one hit.
"Leadoff hitter" Alfonso Soriano: 1-4, 2K. Saw about 15 pitches. Now sporting a robust .548 OPS!
Centerfield watch: Reed Johnson: 1-4. (BA now down to .277) Felix Pie: DNP. Against a righty. Again.
* Aramis Ramirez sat for the second straight day. Sounds like he'll play Monday against the Reds (we hope).
* Tuesday will mark the ten year anniversary of Kerry Wood's 20-strikeout game. Hard to believe it's been that long, especially considering everything that's happened in Wood's career since that day.
Reds 5, Cubs 3
Where to begin? Sloppy defense cost the Cubs in the early going; Dempster gave up five runs in his six innings and none of them were earned thanks to errors by Fontenot and DeRosa in the first and third, respectively. Cub hitters struck out eight times (in six innings) against Johnny Cueto but got three runs off of him. Geovany Soto had a great night going 3-3 with a walk and a solo homer.
The ninth inning was where this game went from "sucky loss" to "punch in the gut" loss. Reds closer Francisco Cordero was not sharp AT ALL. Fontenot and Pie led off the inning with singles. PH Daryl Ward hit a rope for an out after a long AB, then (miracle of miracles) Soriano worked a walk. Bases loaded. With Theriot batting, Cordero uncorked a wild pitch that didn't skip that far. Fontenot tried to score anyway and was out at home on a close play. Theriot then walked to make the out even more glaring. Derrek Lee then grounded to the right side and almost, almost beat it out. Alas, almost doesn't count. Pain.
Centerfield watch: Felix Pie: 1-3, BB, K. Reed Johnson: 0-1 (as a PH).
* Aramis Ramirez sat for the third straight day. Tomorrow or Wednesday, perhaps?
* Ronny Cedeno has been taking flyballs in CF, which might be a sign that Felix Pie could be en route to Triple-A. Honestly, I'm starting to wish this would happen. Playing every day in Triple-A is much better than getting jerked around by Piniella all the time. Pie sat this weekend against "easy" RHPs Kyle Lohse and Todd Wellemeyer, but played Friday and tonight against "hard" RHPs Adam Wainwright and Johnny Cueto. At this point, it looks a lot like Lou's just setting Pie up to fail so he'll have a reason to keep benching the kid and play Reed Johnson. Quoth Lou:
* Another look back at Kerry Wood's historic game.
Where to begin? Sloppy defense cost the Cubs in the early going; Dempster gave up five runs in his six innings and none of them were earned thanks to errors by Fontenot and DeRosa in the first and third, respectively. Cub hitters struck out eight times (in six innings) against Johnny Cueto but got three runs off of him. Geovany Soto had a great night going 3-3 with a walk and a solo homer.
The ninth inning was where this game went from "sucky loss" to "punch in the gut" loss. Reds closer Francisco Cordero was not sharp AT ALL. Fontenot and Pie led off the inning with singles. PH Daryl Ward hit a rope for an out after a long AB, then (miracle of miracles) Soriano worked a walk. Bases loaded. With Theriot batting, Cordero uncorked a wild pitch that didn't skip that far. Fontenot tried to score anyway and was out at home on a close play. Theriot then walked to make the out even more glaring. Derrek Lee then grounded to the right side and almost, almost beat it out. Alas, almost doesn't count. Pain.
Centerfield watch: Felix Pie: 1-3, BB, K. Reed Johnson: 0-1 (as a PH).
* Aramis Ramirez sat for the third straight day. Tomorrow or Wednesday, perhaps?
* Ronny Cedeno has been taking flyballs in CF, which might be a sign that Felix Pie could be en route to Triple-A. Honestly, I'm starting to wish this would happen. Playing every day in Triple-A is much better than getting jerked around by Piniella all the time. Pie sat this weekend against "easy" RHPs Kyle Lohse and Todd Wellemeyer, but played Friday and tonight against "hard" RHPs Adam Wainwright and Johnny Cueto. At this point, it looks a lot like Lou's just setting Pie up to fail so he'll have a reason to keep benching the kid and play Reed Johnson. Quoth Lou:
QUOTE
Asked if Pie was making progress, Piniella responded with one of his patented long pauses.
"He's working," he eventually replied. "He's getting hits here and there. I've got some people hurt, so I don't really want to be put in situations where I have to pinch-hit if I don't have to."
"He's working," he eventually replied. "He's getting hits here and there. I've got some people hurt, so I don't really want to be put in situations where I have to pinch-hit if I don't have to."
* Another look back at Kerry Wood's historic game.
Cubs 3, Reds 0
Two words: Carlos Zambrano. He took complete control over this game: 8.0IP 3H 0ER 3BB 3K, and the only real trouble he was ever in came in the second when he issued two of his three walks. Even two errors behind him made no difference. It was Big Z's game and everyone else was secondary. His ERA is now a dazzling 1.80.
Well, OK, Zambrano did need some run support. The biggest hit was a 2-RBI single in the fourth from Ronny Cedeno (!). And Aramis Ramirez, finally back, had the other RBI when he drove in Ryan Theriot in the first. Simple, easy, and much-needed victory.
It seems appropriate today that Kerry Wood struck out Adam Dunn to finish the game.
Centerfield watch: Felix Pie: 1-4, K. Reed Johnson: 0-1 (PH)
Notes:
* Jason Marquis will be pushed back so that he won't have to face the Diamondbacks on Saturday. He'll pitch Monday against the Padres instead. Not a bad idea.
* The same link mentions that the Cubs are thinking about going to 13 pitchers for awhile. Scott Eyre could be ready as soon as tomorrow or Friday, depending, and Piniella wants to stretch out Sean Marshall (which would be nice since Lou's been using him more like a LOOGY). If the Cubs do go with 13 pitchers, Felix Pie would probably be optioned.
* Speaking of Pie, I missed it live, but he robbed Ken Griffey Jr. of homer #598 with a great catch last night. Watch the highlight if you missed it too.
Two words: Carlos Zambrano. He took complete control over this game: 8.0IP 3H 0ER 3BB 3K, and the only real trouble he was ever in came in the second when he issued two of his three walks. Even two errors behind him made no difference. It was Big Z's game and everyone else was secondary. His ERA is now a dazzling 1.80.
Well, OK, Zambrano did need some run support. The biggest hit was a 2-RBI single in the fourth from Ronny Cedeno (!). And Aramis Ramirez, finally back, had the other RBI when he drove in Ryan Theriot in the first. Simple, easy, and much-needed victory.
It seems appropriate today that Kerry Wood struck out Adam Dunn to finish the game.
Centerfield watch: Felix Pie: 1-4, K. Reed Johnson: 0-1 (PH)
Notes:
* Jason Marquis will be pushed back so that he won't have to face the Diamondbacks on Saturday. He'll pitch Monday against the Padres instead. Not a bad idea.
* The same link mentions that the Cubs are thinking about going to 13 pitchers for awhile. Scott Eyre could be ready as soon as tomorrow or Friday, depending, and Piniella wants to stretch out Sean Marshall (which would be nice since Lou's been using him more like a LOOGY). If the Cubs do go with 13 pitchers, Felix Pie would probably be optioned.
* Speaking of Pie, I missed it live, but he robbed Ken Griffey Jr. of homer #598 with a great catch last night. Watch the highlight if you missed it too.
Reds 9, Cubs 0
I knew Great American Ballpark was a launching pad, but this was ridiculous. The Reds hit seven homers in this game off of Cubs pitchers, three of them by Joey Votto.
Jon Lieber: 4HR
Sean Marshall: 2HR
Sean Gallagher 1HR
Only Howry and Wuertz managed to keep the ball in the park today. Ouch.
Meanwhile, despite issuing six walks, Reds pitcher Edinson Volquez dominated the Cubs. He struck out ten batters over seven innings, needing 118 pitches for the effort. Ah, the life of a young arm under Dusty Baker. Enjoy it, Cincy fans!
So ends an uninspiring road trip for the Cubs. They'll have Thursday off and then face the Diamondbacks at home in an NLDS rematch. No Brandon Webb, thank goodness, but they will have to contend with Dan Haren, Randy Johnson and rookie Max Scherzer.
Centerfield watch: Felix Pie: 0-4, 3K. Reed Johnson: 0-5, 3K. Johnson's quietly regressed to 257/.336/.297 on the season. Wonder how long it'll take Lou to notice?
* Rich Hill pitched for Triple-A Iowa today. He took the loss, but only gave up two runs in five innings, with a 5/1 K/BB ratio. Another outing or two like that and he should be right back in the majors.
* Some team-wide updates/evaluations from Jim Hendry.
I knew Great American Ballpark was a launching pad, but this was ridiculous. The Reds hit seven homers in this game off of Cubs pitchers, three of them by Joey Votto.
Jon Lieber: 4HR
Sean Marshall: 2HR
Sean Gallagher 1HR
Only Howry and Wuertz managed to keep the ball in the park today. Ouch.
Meanwhile, despite issuing six walks, Reds pitcher Edinson Volquez dominated the Cubs. He struck out ten batters over seven innings, needing 118 pitches for the effort. Ah, the life of a young arm under Dusty Baker. Enjoy it, Cincy fans!
So ends an uninspiring road trip for the Cubs. They'll have Thursday off and then face the Diamondbacks at home in an NLDS rematch. No Brandon Webb, thank goodness, but they will have to contend with Dan Haren, Randy Johnson and rookie Max Scherzer.
Centerfield watch: Felix Pie: 0-4, 3K. Reed Johnson: 0-5, 3K. Johnson's quietly regressed to 257/.336/.297 on the season. Wonder how long it'll take Lou to notice?
* Rich Hill pitched for Triple-A Iowa today. He took the loss, but only gave up two runs in five innings, with a 5/1 K/BB ratio. Another outing or two like that and he should be right back in the majors.
* Some team-wide updates/evaluations from Jim Hendry.
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