YESTERDAY WAS HELLAFUN
I like low scoring games. I like it when a Cubs pitcher shows up and just shuts down the opposition. But I also enjoy the occasional high-scoring affair, and yesterday was definitely one of those days. The Cubs and Rockies matched each other punch for punch throughout most of the day before Jeromy Burnitz put it out of doubt by blasting a three run shot that landed somewhere near Kentucky.
Sergio didn't do very well, though. You know your pitcher is in trouble when guys who had been 1 for 16 start hitting taters off him. Rockies catcher J.D. Closser, who hadn't hit a homerun all year, blasted a shot off of Sergio in the second and that was just the start of the rolling ball.
Regardless, the Cubs offense did what it should've: they took the bad Colorado pitching for many rides. There's nothing more depressing than watching a bad pitcher make quick work of your team, and that sort of thing has happened to the Cubs far too often in the last couple of years. Later tonight, Greg Maddux and the Cubs take on Wilson Alvarez - a man I didn't realize was still in baseball. (It's not my fault, he spent a few years in Tampa.) The Cubs should hit him pretty well, except of course, he has a career ERA of 0.91 against the Cubs. But hey, that just means that we're due.
One other thing: this road trip is perhaps the most important of the season. It took the Cubs all month to battle back to .500, but now they're playing against some good teams. If the Cubs get scorched, that should tell us all we need to know about what level they're really at. If the Cubs win more or as many as they lose, then they're still alive. Obviously I hope they win, because it'd be nice to visit Chicago with the belief that your team is good.
Monday, May 30, 2005
Sunday, May 29, 2005
LATROY TRADED, ALL STILL NOT WELL
A lot has happened since I last blogged here. Mark Prior broke his elbow and will miss probably six weeks. The Cubs dropped two straight home games to the worst road teams in baseball. They find themselves in a position where they have to win today if they want to reach .500. Tomorrow they actually start playing good teams, so it's sort of important.
Oh, and the Cubs also traded LaTroy Hawkins, aka the reason we didn't make the playoffs last year. He was dealt to the Giants for two 23-year-old pitchers, Jerome Williams and David Aardsma.
Williams has started 46 games in his major league career. In 2003, he went 7-5 with a 3.30 ERA, and in 2004 he went 10-7 with a 4.25 ERA. He had elbow surgery in the off season, and has yet to rediscover his game. He had a 6.48 ERA in 16.2 innings this season before he was demoted, and since his demotion he's gone 1-4 with a 9.39 ERA. I assume the Cubs knew this before they made the trade, and I hope they know how to fix whatever's wrong with him.
Aardsma is an elite college and minor-league closer who had an ERA of 6.75 in his first season of limited action last year. This year he's starting at Double A, mostly to get in more work on his secondary pitches. He's currently 6-2 with a 2.93 ERA at Double A.
The one clear thing is that Williams isn't ready to replace Prior in the rotation. He might not be ready all year long. However, I wouldn't be surprised if the Cubs tried to gauge his first few starts at Iowa and, depending on how he does, promote him in a few weeks time.
Otherwise, the Cubs don't have too many choices. They have Darren Oliver, who's still pitching at Iowa, but I wouldn't call him a great choice. They also could resort to Leicester, who's started some games, but that's pretty much it at Iowa. John Koronka and Bobbie Brownlie are both struggling mightily. However, although I doubt Hendry would try this unless absolutely desperate, the Cubs have Carlos Nolasco at Double A. He's currently 6-0 with a 2.08 ERA, and has struck out 62 in 60.2 innings pitched with 18 walks. Perhaps he could be promoted and remind Cubs fans of what a rookie Amaury Telemaco did for the team.
Regardless, the LaTroy trade hasn't solved much of anything. Hawkins was actually doing alright as a middle reliever, and the Cubs lost that. Prior's out and there's still no certain choice as to who will replace him in the rotation.
Oh, and the offense remains spotty at best. Hopefully, Hendry has a few more tricks up his sleeve. Would anyone be upset if the Cubs wound up with say, Austin Kearns and Aubrey Huff for the loss of Corey Patterson and Jason Dubois?
A lot has happened since I last blogged here. Mark Prior broke his elbow and will miss probably six weeks. The Cubs dropped two straight home games to the worst road teams in baseball. They find themselves in a position where they have to win today if they want to reach .500. Tomorrow they actually start playing good teams, so it's sort of important.
Oh, and the Cubs also traded LaTroy Hawkins, aka the reason we didn't make the playoffs last year. He was dealt to the Giants for two 23-year-old pitchers, Jerome Williams and David Aardsma.
Williams has started 46 games in his major league career. In 2003, he went 7-5 with a 3.30 ERA, and in 2004 he went 10-7 with a 4.25 ERA. He had elbow surgery in the off season, and has yet to rediscover his game. He had a 6.48 ERA in 16.2 innings this season before he was demoted, and since his demotion he's gone 1-4 with a 9.39 ERA. I assume the Cubs knew this before they made the trade, and I hope they know how to fix whatever's wrong with him.
Aardsma is an elite college and minor-league closer who had an ERA of 6.75 in his first season of limited action last year. This year he's starting at Double A, mostly to get in more work on his secondary pitches. He's currently 6-2 with a 2.93 ERA at Double A.
The one clear thing is that Williams isn't ready to replace Prior in the rotation. He might not be ready all year long. However, I wouldn't be surprised if the Cubs tried to gauge his first few starts at Iowa and, depending on how he does, promote him in a few weeks time.
Otherwise, the Cubs don't have too many choices. They have Darren Oliver, who's still pitching at Iowa, but I wouldn't call him a great choice. They also could resort to Leicester, who's started some games, but that's pretty much it at Iowa. John Koronka and Bobbie Brownlie are both struggling mightily. However, although I doubt Hendry would try this unless absolutely desperate, the Cubs have Carlos Nolasco at Double A. He's currently 6-0 with a 2.08 ERA, and has struck out 62 in 60.2 innings pitched with 18 walks. Perhaps he could be promoted and remind Cubs fans of what a rookie Amaury Telemaco did for the team.
Regardless, the LaTroy trade hasn't solved much of anything. Hawkins was actually doing alright as a middle reliever, and the Cubs lost that. Prior's out and there's still no certain choice as to who will replace him in the rotation.
Oh, and the offense remains spotty at best. Hopefully, Hendry has a few more tricks up his sleeve. Would anyone be upset if the Cubs wound up with say, Austin Kearns and Aubrey Huff for the loss of Corey Patterson and Jason Dubois?
Thursday, May 26, 2005
BLAME BAKER?
The Cubs lost yesterday, partly because the offense couldn't score any runs off a guy with a road ERA of 8, and partly because Greg Maddux tried pitching into the 8th inning. In section 15-B of the Major League Rule Book, paragraph 12, line D, it specifically states: "You will not allow Greg Maddux to pitch into the 8th inning, especially after he has thrown 85 to 90 pitches."
Then again, the ML Rule Book probably says something about the importance of plate discipline, but Dusty doesn't care about that, either.
Today the Cubs take on the flailing Rockies. I feel like they need a sweep.
I'm going to be leaving town yet again today. But I'll be back tomorrow. Then I leave on Tuesday, and I'm not sure if I'll be back on Thursday or perhaps not until Friday or Saturday. Either way, I'm sure my loyal readers will find someplace else to learn more about their beloved Cubs.
The Cubs lost yesterday, partly because the offense couldn't score any runs off a guy with a road ERA of 8, and partly because Greg Maddux tried pitching into the 8th inning. In section 15-B of the Major League Rule Book, paragraph 12, line D, it specifically states: "You will not allow Greg Maddux to pitch into the 8th inning, especially after he has thrown 85 to 90 pitches."
Then again, the ML Rule Book probably says something about the importance of plate discipline, but Dusty doesn't care about that, either.
Today the Cubs take on the flailing Rockies. I feel like they need a sweep.
I'm going to be leaving town yet again today. But I'll be back tomorrow. Then I leave on Tuesday, and I'm not sure if I'll be back on Thursday or perhaps not until Friday or Saturday. Either way, I'm sure my loyal readers will find someplace else to learn more about their beloved Cubs.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
CUBS WIN
The Cubs finally had to resort to using a fifth starter yesterday, and it couldn't have gone better for the team. Sergio was the pitcher of choice (or is that necessity), and he went 7 strong innings, walking 1, and allowing only 2 earned runs. Yet, that wouldn't have been enough, if it wasn't for Roger Clemens having to leave the game with a tight groin after 5 innings of work. After the Rocket left, the Astros had to rely on their shoddy bullpen. And like most bad teams in bad slumps, Houston found a way to lose it, as they gave up 4 earned runs in the 8th inning.
This victory puts the Cubs back to a game under .500. The Cubs are tied for second place with the Brewers, and stand 7 games out of first place. They're also 3 games out of the Wild Card, and are currently chasing Atlanta and Arizona.
Tonight, 300-game winner Greg Maddux goes for the sweep against the tepid Brandon Backe, a pitcher with a 5.15 ERA this year, and a 5.04 career ERA. Oh, and his ERA on the road is 7.28, which means that even an inept offense should bitch slap him around a little.
After that, the Cubs face the floundering Colorado Rockies, another weak team with weak pitching. The Cubs need to continue their charge. If they go 4-1 the rest of the way, they'll leave their homestand with a 26-24 record. If they go 3-2, they'll be at .500, which isn't good enough in my opinion.
Of course, it'd be really great if they left Chicago with a 26-22 record, but let's not get our hopes up too high.
The Cubs finally had to resort to using a fifth starter yesterday, and it couldn't have gone better for the team. Sergio was the pitcher of choice (or is that necessity), and he went 7 strong innings, walking 1, and allowing only 2 earned runs. Yet, that wouldn't have been enough, if it wasn't for Roger Clemens having to leave the game with a tight groin after 5 innings of work. After the Rocket left, the Astros had to rely on their shoddy bullpen. And like most bad teams in bad slumps, Houston found a way to lose it, as they gave up 4 earned runs in the 8th inning.
This victory puts the Cubs back to a game under .500. The Cubs are tied for second place with the Brewers, and stand 7 games out of first place. They're also 3 games out of the Wild Card, and are currently chasing Atlanta and Arizona.
Tonight, 300-game winner Greg Maddux goes for the sweep against the tepid Brandon Backe, a pitcher with a 5.15 ERA this year, and a 5.04 career ERA. Oh, and his ERA on the road is 7.28, which means that even an inept offense should bitch slap him around a little.
After that, the Cubs face the floundering Colorado Rockies, another weak team with weak pitching. The Cubs need to continue their charge. If they go 4-1 the rest of the way, they'll leave their homestand with a 26-24 record. If they go 3-2, they'll be at .500, which isn't good enough in my opinion.
Of course, it'd be really great if they left Chicago with a 26-22 record, but let's not get our hopes up too high.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
THE PICTURE GROWS CLEARER
After about a month and a half and 42 games played, things are looking a little clearer in baseball. And the word is, the Cubs are going to be buyers, not sellers. I think that after the Cubs were a depressing five games under .500 on May 7th, a lot of us thought it was over and done with. Well, the Cubs aren't winners yet, but they ended the skid and have gone 7-4 since that time. Not great, but it's a start.
With that in mind, there are some teams that really are done for. These teams include the D-Rays (15 games under .500), the Royals (18 games under .500), the Reds (12 games under .500), Astros (14 games under .500), and Rockies (16 games under .500). Teams on the bubble include the Mariners (7 games under .500) and A's (9 games under .500)
The D-Rays are already the second cheapest team in all of baseball, with a meager 37.9 million payroll. They're going to be almost impossible to make trades with, because they simply don't need to trade away any of their young players. Charles Johnson is the most expensive player on the team, with a 9 million dollar salary. Huff is second, making a meager 4.9 million this season. Perhaps the D-Rays might talk if the Cubs were willing to take Johnson off their books as well as toss in a bunch of prospects for Huff and Baez, but that's unreasonable, unrealistic, and I doubt the Rays are going to go under if Johnson stays on the team.
The cheapest team in all of baseball is the Royals, who are probably anxious to deal first baseman Mike Sweeney (making 11 million this year), but no one else even comes close salary-wise. I don't think the Royals have much to offer any team that's not in Triple A.
The Reds are already in self-destruct mode, outright releasing D'Angelo Jiminez and Danny Graves. They also have the albatross known to Pete Gammons as Junior Griffey, a man who's been healthy this year but appears a shell of his former self. Naturally, most teams would want Austin Kearns or Adam Dunn, but the Reds would have to be morons to give up either outfielder, as both possess a world of talent and potential, and both are only 25-years old.
The Astros have one huge trade commodity who is almost certainly going to split town before the All Star break, if the losing continues. That's Roger Clemens, a man who's on pace to win 11 games with a 1.29 ERA. He's also making 18 million this year, but if the Yankees remain out of first place into the break, I wouldn't be surprised if they swung a deal for him, salary and all. (I still think it'd be nice if he went back to Boston.) Houston's also carrying expensive salaries for Jeff Bagwell (18 million), Lance Berkman (10 million), Andy Pettitte (8.5 million), and Roy Oswalt (5.9 million), but these guys are mostly untradable.
The Rockies retain their greatest trade commodity in Todd Helton, a man the Cubs were rumored to be interested in before the season started. Helton and Preson Wilson account for more than 50% of Colorado's 48 million dollar payroll and you have to believe that the Rockies would love to unload one or both of their veterans. But again, they have little of value on their team and will be hard pressed to dump many of their busts.
The Mariners are a team that James of North of Wrigley thought would be much improved, and while they won't lose as much as last year, they're still not good enough to overtake their division. The Cubs could benefit from this team, if they'd be willing to take on some salary. The Mariners might be willing to part with veteran southpaw (and ex Cub) Jamie Moyer, who was having a pretty good year until his last three outings. (He wouldn't be good for the Cubs, I'm just mentioning him.) Eddie Guardado, on the other hand, could be available to close, and he'd be a damned sight better than anyone the Cubs have. He currently possesses a 2.12 ERA, and has 11 saves in 12 chances.
Finally, the Athletics are a team quickly going nowhere, and unlike Jim Hendry, Billy Beane is not one to sit on his hands. Although he's currently a shell of his former self, Barry Zito is probably available. He's 27, left handed, and a Cy Young winner. Closer Octavio Dotel is also probably available for trade, although he's the Spanish LaTroy. He'd be fine in a setup role.
With all that in mind, it's clear to me that there are moves that could be made. The Cubs really aren't out of it yet. However, I will go far enough to say that if a few trades aren't made before the end of June, it could get ugly. The holes are glaring and really need to be filled as quickly as possible. I'm sure there's a seller on the market somewhere. It's time for Jim Hendry to go make a purchase!
After about a month and a half and 42 games played, things are looking a little clearer in baseball. And the word is, the Cubs are going to be buyers, not sellers. I think that after the Cubs were a depressing five games under .500 on May 7th, a lot of us thought it was over and done with. Well, the Cubs aren't winners yet, but they ended the skid and have gone 7-4 since that time. Not great, but it's a start.
With that in mind, there are some teams that really are done for. These teams include the D-Rays (15 games under .500), the Royals (18 games under .500), the Reds (12 games under .500), Astros (14 games under .500), and Rockies (16 games under .500). Teams on the bubble include the Mariners (7 games under .500) and A's (9 games under .500)
The D-Rays are already the second cheapest team in all of baseball, with a meager 37.9 million payroll. They're going to be almost impossible to make trades with, because they simply don't need to trade away any of their young players. Charles Johnson is the most expensive player on the team, with a 9 million dollar salary. Huff is second, making a meager 4.9 million this season. Perhaps the D-Rays might talk if the Cubs were willing to take Johnson off their books as well as toss in a bunch of prospects for Huff and Baez, but that's unreasonable, unrealistic, and I doubt the Rays are going to go under if Johnson stays on the team.
The cheapest team in all of baseball is the Royals, who are probably anxious to deal first baseman Mike Sweeney (making 11 million this year), but no one else even comes close salary-wise. I don't think the Royals have much to offer any team that's not in Triple A.
The Reds are already in self-destruct mode, outright releasing D'Angelo Jiminez and Danny Graves. They also have the albatross known to Pete Gammons as Junior Griffey, a man who's been healthy this year but appears a shell of his former self. Naturally, most teams would want Austin Kearns or Adam Dunn, but the Reds would have to be morons to give up either outfielder, as both possess a world of talent and potential, and both are only 25-years old.
The Astros have one huge trade commodity who is almost certainly going to split town before the All Star break, if the losing continues. That's Roger Clemens, a man who's on pace to win 11 games with a 1.29 ERA. He's also making 18 million this year, but if the Yankees remain out of first place into the break, I wouldn't be surprised if they swung a deal for him, salary and all. (I still think it'd be nice if he went back to Boston.) Houston's also carrying expensive salaries for Jeff Bagwell (18 million), Lance Berkman (10 million), Andy Pettitte (8.5 million), and Roy Oswalt (5.9 million), but these guys are mostly untradable.
The Rockies retain their greatest trade commodity in Todd Helton, a man the Cubs were rumored to be interested in before the season started. Helton and Preson Wilson account for more than 50% of Colorado's 48 million dollar payroll and you have to believe that the Rockies would love to unload one or both of their veterans. But again, they have little of value on their team and will be hard pressed to dump many of their busts.
The Mariners are a team that James of North of Wrigley thought would be much improved, and while they won't lose as much as last year, they're still not good enough to overtake their division. The Cubs could benefit from this team, if they'd be willing to take on some salary. The Mariners might be willing to part with veteran southpaw (and ex Cub) Jamie Moyer, who was having a pretty good year until his last three outings. (He wouldn't be good for the Cubs, I'm just mentioning him.) Eddie Guardado, on the other hand, could be available to close, and he'd be a damned sight better than anyone the Cubs have. He currently possesses a 2.12 ERA, and has 11 saves in 12 chances.
Finally, the Athletics are a team quickly going nowhere, and unlike Jim Hendry, Billy Beane is not one to sit on his hands. Although he's currently a shell of his former self, Barry Zito is probably available. He's 27, left handed, and a Cy Young winner. Closer Octavio Dotel is also probably available for trade, although he's the Spanish LaTroy. He'd be fine in a setup role.
With all that in mind, it's clear to me that there are moves that could be made. The Cubs really aren't out of it yet. However, I will go far enough to say that if a few trades aren't made before the end of June, it could get ugly. The holes are glaring and really need to be filled as quickly as possible. I'm sure there's a seller on the market somewhere. It's time for Jim Hendry to go make a purchase!
WHATTA RUSCH!
Other unused titles include:
*Cubs Rusch to victory
*Cubs win in quick fashion, but were in no Rusch
*Don't Rusch these Cubs, they're still in it
*Don't do drugs
Regardless, the Cubs defeated the Astros yesterday and although Houston is a meager 2-20 on the road, the Cubs will be hard pressed to follow it up today, as Sergio Mitre will be facing Roger Clemens. Yesterday's 4-1 victory (thanks to two towering homeruns by Corey and Burnitz) leaves the Cubs only 2 games under .500, with six more games at home before they return to the road for a west coast swing.
Although it's only May, there are already a few interesting things going on in baesball. First, the Reds are waving the white flag and are in the process of releasing two veterans: D'Angelo Jiminez and Danny Graves. Both players could help the Cubs.
Jiminez is a fleat-feeted second baseman who, unlike Todd Walker or even Jerry Hairston, is a true leadoff hitter. In 563 at bats last year, Jiminez hit 28 doubles, 12 homers, walked 82 times, and struck out 99. Unfortunately for him (and the Reds), this ain't last year. So far this season, D'Angelo is batting a meager .229. But he's only 27 and it's pretty doubtful that he's done as a ballplayer. But even if he never has comparable numbers to 2003 and 2004 again, he's still a better backup option than "Little Hack." Plus he has played a few games at short and if his defense isn't attrocious there, he could eventually replace Neifi as the starting shortstop. In other words, he's worth the risk.
Danny Graves, on the other hand, is also a risk. Actually, he's an even bigger risk than Jiminez. First, he's had 10 saves in 12 tries, but that ignores his 7.36 ERA, his 12 walks in 18 innings, to only 8 K's. Teams are hitting .357 against him. But there is one interesting stat: the majority of his grief has come from two really, really bad outings. Take away those two outings, where he gave up 9 earned runs in 1.1 innings of work, and Graves has something like a 3.17 ERA. It's conceivable that he could help the Cubs, even as another middle reliever. Again, although he's a risk, I say it's worth it.
One final newsworthy note for today: apparently, Venezuela loves its players so much that Henry Blanco is like a rock star back home. He's hugely popular among the faithful. Maybe the Cubs should arrange to play an exhibition there someday. It'd be interesting to see the fans.
Other unused titles include:
*Cubs Rusch to victory
*Cubs win in quick fashion, but were in no Rusch
*Don't Rusch these Cubs, they're still in it
*Don't do drugs
Regardless, the Cubs defeated the Astros yesterday and although Houston is a meager 2-20 on the road, the Cubs will be hard pressed to follow it up today, as Sergio Mitre will be facing Roger Clemens. Yesterday's 4-1 victory (thanks to two towering homeruns by Corey and Burnitz) leaves the Cubs only 2 games under .500, with six more games at home before they return to the road for a west coast swing.
Although it's only May, there are already a few interesting things going on in baesball. First, the Reds are waving the white flag and are in the process of releasing two veterans: D'Angelo Jiminez and Danny Graves. Both players could help the Cubs.
Jiminez is a fleat-feeted second baseman who, unlike Todd Walker or even Jerry Hairston, is a true leadoff hitter. In 563 at bats last year, Jiminez hit 28 doubles, 12 homers, walked 82 times, and struck out 99. Unfortunately for him (and the Reds), this ain't last year. So far this season, D'Angelo is batting a meager .229. But he's only 27 and it's pretty doubtful that he's done as a ballplayer. But even if he never has comparable numbers to 2003 and 2004 again, he's still a better backup option than "Little Hack." Plus he has played a few games at short and if his defense isn't attrocious there, he could eventually replace Neifi as the starting shortstop. In other words, he's worth the risk.
Danny Graves, on the other hand, is also a risk. Actually, he's an even bigger risk than Jiminez. First, he's had 10 saves in 12 tries, but that ignores his 7.36 ERA, his 12 walks in 18 innings, to only 8 K's. Teams are hitting .357 against him. But there is one interesting stat: the majority of his grief has come from two really, really bad outings. Take away those two outings, where he gave up 9 earned runs in 1.1 innings of work, and Graves has something like a 3.17 ERA. It's conceivable that he could help the Cubs, even as another middle reliever. Again, although he's a risk, I say it's worth it.
One final newsworthy note for today: apparently, Venezuela loves its players so much that Henry Blanco is like a rock star back home. He's hugely popular among the faithful. Maybe the Cubs should arrange to play an exhibition there someday. It'd be interesting to see the fans.
Monday, May 23, 2005
IS IT OVER YET?
Another series, another defeat. This time, it bites a little harder because the Cubs lost two to the freakin' White Sox. You just know that welfare queens slept a little more soundly last night.
Then again, things aren't all that bad. Although I still think he could've used a missed turn, Carlos disagreed. Naturally. Then he went out and threw 7 strong innings of 1-hit baseball. The Cubs only blew it after he left. But they were able to win the last game on the arm of Mark Prior, and the bat of Jason Dubois, who blasted a three-run homer before Dusty resorted to his bag of old tricks and replaced him with Hollandsworth late in the game. Prior threw only the second complete game the Cubs have had all season, but he did it while giving up 3 homeruns and tossing 126 pitches.
Hmm. The last time a Cub insisted on going the distance, his arm started acting up the next game. Hopefully Mark hasn't been spending too much time online.
The Cubs move on to Houston today, where they'll face a team that's already 13 games under .500. It sort of puts the season in perspective, since we're all pissed that the Cubs are 3 games under .500.
I'll probably be mocked by any pessemist that comes over to this site, but I have a confession to make. I've been keeping a secret. That secret is, I don't think this team is out of it yet. Don't get me wrong. I absolutely wouldn't be surprised if they failed to win more than they lose, and I would be a little amazed if they actually fought back to win the post season. Regardless, as long as Prior, Maddux, and Zambrano stay healthy, this team has a shot at winning 3 out of every 5, and Rusch is good enough to usually win the 4th. If the bullpen can bounce back (which it might, now that sweaty Joe is back), if they can stay within five or six games until Hendry can swing some deals, then this season is far from over.
I just hope the Cubs don't prove me wrong by losing their next six.
Another series, another defeat. This time, it bites a little harder because the Cubs lost two to the freakin' White Sox. You just know that welfare queens slept a little more soundly last night.Then again, things aren't all that bad. Although I still think he could've used a missed turn, Carlos disagreed. Naturally. Then he went out and threw 7 strong innings of 1-hit baseball. The Cubs only blew it after he left. But they were able to win the last game on the arm of Mark Prior, and the bat of Jason Dubois, who blasted a three-run homer before Dusty resorted to his bag of old tricks and replaced him with Hollandsworth late in the game. Prior threw only the second complete game the Cubs have had all season, but he did it while giving up 3 homeruns and tossing 126 pitches.
Hmm. The last time a Cub insisted on going the distance, his arm started acting up the next game. Hopefully Mark hasn't been spending too much time online.
The Cubs move on to Houston today, where they'll face a team that's already 13 games under .500. It sort of puts the season in perspective, since we're all pissed that the Cubs are 3 games under .500.
I'll probably be mocked by any pessemist that comes over to this site, but I have a confession to make. I've been keeping a secret. That secret is, I don't think this team is out of it yet. Don't get me wrong. I absolutely wouldn't be surprised if they failed to win more than they lose, and I would be a little amazed if they actually fought back to win the post season. Regardless, as long as Prior, Maddux, and Zambrano stay healthy, this team has a shot at winning 3 out of every 5, and Rusch is good enough to usually win the 4th. If the bullpen can bounce back (which it might, now that sweaty Joe is back), if they can stay within five or six games until Hendry can swing some deals, then this season is far from over.
I just hope the Cubs don't prove me wrong by losing their next six.
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
M.V.LEE pt. 2
I know it's not very likely, but on the off chance that the Cubs come back and actually compete this season, Derrek Lee's offensive output will be a big reason why. Furthermore, if the team makes the playoffs, Derrek will deserve the MVP award.
He cemented my beliefs by hitting two homeruns and driving in all four of the Cubs RBIs yesterday. This puts The Derrek at 12 homeruns, 37 RBI, and a .372 batting average in just 37 games. It puts the Cubs at only 3 games under .500. Derrek is currently on pace for 53 homers, 57 doubles, 162 RBI, 101 BB, and 35 steals. Sooner or later, the rest of the offense will need to pick up the slack.
The best news from yesterday centers around Corey Patterson's demotion from the leadoff spot. Corey has an OBP of under .300 and is only batting .258. Meanwhile, Jerry "The Disappointment" Hairston, who has apparently been annoying Dusty Baker by drawing a lot of walks, batted in the leadoff spot yesterday.
WALK WATCH 5-18
It occurs to me that I've forgotten to update the Walk Watch as of late. Here's how things are looking: on May 13th, the Cubs walked 5 times, while the Nationals matched that total. The Cubs won the game 6-3. On May 14th, the Cubs walked 0 times, the Nationals walked once, and the Cubs lost 4-3. On the 15th of May, the Cubs walked 4 times, the Nationals once, and the Cubs lost 5-4. Then yesterday, the Cubs and Pirates both walked twice.
The Cubs, by the way, are 7-9 in one run games this year. Your bullpen at work.
One final note: I'm going to out of town today, and probably won't be back to blog until Saturday or Sunday.
I know it's not very likely, but on the off chance that the Cubs come back and actually compete this season, Derrek Lee's offensive output will be a big reason why. Furthermore, if the team makes the playoffs, Derrek will deserve the MVP award.He cemented my beliefs by hitting two homeruns and driving in all four of the Cubs RBIs yesterday. This puts The Derrek at 12 homeruns, 37 RBI, and a .372 batting average in just 37 games. It puts the Cubs at only 3 games under .500. Derrek is currently on pace for 53 homers, 57 doubles, 162 RBI, 101 BB, and 35 steals. Sooner or later, the rest of the offense will need to pick up the slack.
The best news from yesterday centers around Corey Patterson's demotion from the leadoff spot. Corey has an OBP of under .300 and is only batting .258. Meanwhile, Jerry "The Disappointment" Hairston, who has apparently been annoying Dusty Baker by drawing a lot of walks, batted in the leadoff spot yesterday.
WALK WATCH 5-18
It occurs to me that I've forgotten to update the Walk Watch as of late. Here's how things are looking: on May 13th, the Cubs walked 5 times, while the Nationals matched that total. The Cubs won the game 6-3. On May 14th, the Cubs walked 0 times, the Nationals walked once, and the Cubs lost 4-3. On the 15th of May, the Cubs walked 4 times, the Nationals once, and the Cubs lost 5-4. Then yesterday, the Cubs and Pirates both walked twice.
The Cubs, by the way, are 7-9 in one run games this year. Your bullpen at work.
One final note: I'm going to out of town today, and probably won't be back to blog until Saturday or Sunday.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
WILSON SIGNS WITH CUBS, SEASON SAVED
In a move of stunning surprise, the Chicago Cubs signed veteran infielder Enrique Wilson earlier today. Wilson, an infield specialist, is better known for his defensive skill than his offensive swing, but that isn't stopping the Cubs from being upgraded to a sheer offensive force.
Although Wilson has only slugged 22 homeruns in 1,384 career at bats, while batting a meager .246, the Cubs can expect a drastic improvement at the plate, according to Dirk Pleasant, Wilson's agent.
"Oh yeah, we've really bulked him up," Pleasant said during the press conference. "But don't get the wrong idea. We didn't use steroids, or human growth hormone, or any of that (expletive deleted). We're talking protein shakes, raw eggs, a strict weight lifting regime, and the ultimate fighter contest."
In fact, contrary to rumors of Enrique Wilson playing in the minor leagues for the Baltimore Orioles, the veteran infielder has been duking it out in the ring against legendary tough men like Terry "Skull Crusher" Bachman, Arthur "I'll Kill You" Lewis, and Albert "Don't Call Me Albert" Wright. Wilson has gone 17-1 in 18 matches since the end of January, losing only once to the mystery fighter who goes only by the name "The Masked Zambrano."
"We're pretty excited to have him on the team, dude," said Cubs manager Dusty Baker. "I always thought he was a little guy, but now he's 260 pounds of pure muscle. A lot like Hack Wilson was, except without the booze, dude. In fact, that's what I'm going to call him. 'Little Hack.' Except he's bigger, dude. A lot bigger."
Wilson is expected to bat cleanup in the Cubs lineup, and to provide security at road games. He's also very excited for his opportunity to come to Chicago.
"Little Hack smash!" Wilson said. "Little Hack not afraid of puny breaking balls! Little Hack blast sissy fastball into upper stratosphere! Little Hack craves food!" He then left the conference.
Wilson is expected to start tonight's game against the Pirates.
In a move of stunning surprise, the Chicago Cubs signed veteran infielder Enrique Wilson earlier today. Wilson, an infield specialist, is better known for his defensive skill than his offensive swing, but that isn't stopping the Cubs from being upgraded to a sheer offensive force.
Although Wilson has only slugged 22 homeruns in 1,384 career at bats, while batting a meager .246, the Cubs can expect a drastic improvement at the plate, according to Dirk Pleasant, Wilson's agent.
"Oh yeah, we've really bulked him up," Pleasant said during the press conference. "But don't get the wrong idea. We didn't use steroids, or human growth hormone, or any of that (expletive deleted). We're talking protein shakes, raw eggs, a strict weight lifting regime, and the ultimate fighter contest."
In fact, contrary to rumors of Enrique Wilson playing in the minor leagues for the Baltimore Orioles, the veteran infielder has been duking it out in the ring against legendary tough men like Terry "Skull Crusher" Bachman, Arthur "I'll Kill You" Lewis, and Albert "Don't Call Me Albert" Wright. Wilson has gone 17-1 in 18 matches since the end of January, losing only once to the mystery fighter who goes only by the name "The Masked Zambrano."
"We're pretty excited to have him on the team, dude," said Cubs manager Dusty Baker. "I always thought he was a little guy, but now he's 260 pounds of pure muscle. A lot like Hack Wilson was, except without the booze, dude. In fact, that's what I'm going to call him. 'Little Hack.' Except he's bigger, dude. A lot bigger."
Wilson is expected to bat cleanup in the Cubs lineup, and to provide security at road games. He's also very excited for his opportunity to come to Chicago.
"Little Hack smash!" Wilson said. "Little Hack not afraid of puny breaking balls! Little Hack blast sissy fastball into upper stratosphere! Little Hack craves food!" He then left the conference.
Wilson is expected to start tonight's game against the Pirates.
SALVATION BEFORE THE STORM
The news out of Chicago regarding Carlos's condition is good, so far. The Tribune has reported that an MRI of Carlos Zambrano's elbow shows now structural damage, making him a tentative go for the series against the White Sox. Then again, they thought Kerry Wood's shoulder was ok, too.
I haven't mentioned it in a while, but I cover this sort of topic in my book. In the prologue, the narrator discusses Kerry Wood and how the Cubs pitched him in the 98 playoffs in spite of a month-long layoff. The narrator said something to the effects of, "surely they wouldn't jeopardize his career just to start him in the last game of a lost playoff series. Would they?" The following Spring Training, we had our answer.
With that in mind, regardless of what Carlos wants, or thinks he wants, maybe the Cubs would be better off giving him a skipped turn in the rotation. The season is pretty much lost already anyway, but the team could still kick and claw their way back if they had a healthy rotation. But to risk it by letting Carlos start so soon after his elbow scare is ludicrous. They're also risking his career.
Hopefully Baker and Hendry will do the cautious thing and give Carlos some extra rest.
The news out of Chicago regarding Carlos's condition is good, so far. The Tribune has reported that an MRI of Carlos Zambrano's elbow shows now structural damage, making him a tentative go for the series against the White Sox. Then again, they thought Kerry Wood's shoulder was ok, too.
I haven't mentioned it in a while, but I cover this sort of topic in my book. In the prologue, the narrator discusses Kerry Wood and how the Cubs pitched him in the 98 playoffs in spite of a month-long layoff. The narrator said something to the effects of, "surely they wouldn't jeopardize his career just to start him in the last game of a lost playoff series. Would they?" The following Spring Training, we had our answer.
With that in mind, regardless of what Carlos wants, or thinks he wants, maybe the Cubs would be better off giving him a skipped turn in the rotation. The season is pretty much lost already anyway, but the team could still kick and claw their way back if they had a healthy rotation. But to risk it by letting Carlos start so soon after his elbow scare is ludicrous. They're also risking his career.
Hopefully Baker and Hendry will do the cautious thing and give Carlos some extra rest.
Monday, May 16, 2005
THE UNLIKELY OCCURS: THINGS GET WORSE
I don't feel like telling jokes or building the suspense: Carlos Zambrano is hurt; perhaps seriously. I've been worrying about that in the back of my mind for some time now. Wood and Prior have missed time with injury, so Carlos was obviously next.
Can we just say that the season is a loss, now? Does anyone expect a resurgence?
One thing for sure, you have to respect Carlos. His elbow feels "like concrete," and yet he's also quoted as saying, "I'm a horse, right? They'll have to kill me. I don't want to miss any starts. I'll have to have my arm explode [to miss a start]. That will never happen."
Gotta love that Carlos.
By the way, if you're interested in owning a Fire Dusty t-shirt, you can order one off of Goat Riders. Just follow the link and click on the Goat Riders ad. The cheapest (there is a variety of gear available) is only $10.99, which isn't a bad deal for a t-shirt.
NEIFI! WE HARDLY KNEW YE
So, the Cubs followed the injury to Zambrano by losing to the Nationals 5-4, off of two errors at second by Neifi Perez. Perez is also down to .271, so I guess it's safe to say that the days of Neifi! are officially over. On the bright side, Todd Walker is due back pretty soon, so we can look forward to better production and slightly better defense at second.
The Cubs are off today but will play the Pirates tomorrow, and play a series against the White Sox at the end of the week. Not that it matters, right?
I don't feel like telling jokes or building the suspense: Carlos Zambrano is hurt; perhaps seriously. I've been worrying about that in the back of my mind for some time now. Wood and Prior have missed time with injury, so Carlos was obviously next.
Can we just say that the season is a loss, now? Does anyone expect a resurgence?
One thing for sure, you have to respect Carlos. His elbow feels "like concrete," and yet he's also quoted as saying, "I'm a horse, right? They'll have to kill me. I don't want to miss any starts. I'll have to have my arm explode [to miss a start]. That will never happen."
Gotta love that Carlos.
By the way, if you're interested in owning a Fire Dusty t-shirt, you can order one off of Goat Riders. Just follow the link and click on the Goat Riders ad. The cheapest (there is a variety of gear available) is only $10.99, which isn't a bad deal for a t-shirt.
NEIFI! WE HARDLY KNEW YE
So, the Cubs followed the injury to Zambrano by losing to the Nationals 5-4, off of two errors at second by Neifi Perez. Perez is also down to .271, so I guess it's safe to say that the days of Neifi! are officially over. On the bright side, Todd Walker is due back pretty soon, so we can look forward to better production and slightly better defense at second.
The Cubs are off today but will play the Pirates tomorrow, and play a series against the White Sox at the end of the week. Not that it matters, right?
Friday, May 13, 2005
M.V.LEE
In the hub-bub of the disappointment of the 2005 season, a lot of things have been overlooked. For example, Cubs lefty reliever Cliff Bartosh currently has an ERA of 2.45, and has struck out 11 in 11 innings. Not bad for a last-minute pickup. Will Ohman has yet to give up an earned run in 3.2 innings pitched. "Hairy" Jerry Hairston currently has an OBP about 100 points higher than his batting average, and while he's not any sort of a clutch hitter, I still think he'd be a sufficient leadoff guy. Jeromy Burnitz is batting .288 and is currently on pace for 29 homeruns and 103 RBI. Oh, and Derrek Lee has become the best hitter on the team, and is almost single-handedly keeping the Cubs near .500.
Not bad for a guy many people didn't want when he came to Chicago for Hee Seop Choi. Surprisingly, people were disappointed with his performance last year - as if 32 homeruns, 98 RBI, 39 doubles, and a .278 average were something to sneeze at.
Well, so far this year, Derrek is on pace for 59 doubles, 49 homeruns, 162 RBI, 108 BB, 34 steals, and is currently batting .383. He's getting on base at a .476 clip. He's the best defensive first baseman since Mark Grace. And just in case anyone was wondering, Hee Seop Choi is doing alright, but he's not exactly catching the infield grass on fire over in L.A.
TYPICAL BAKER
Over at the Tribune, Dusty was quoted as saying, "Our offense has been percolating most of the year. If you look at the stats, we're in the top five in runs scored. We just haven't been able to coordinate a good offensive day with a bad pitching day and a good pitching day with a bad offensive day. That's the problem. We've hit pretty good."
Paul Sullivan, the writer of the article, was deft enough to say, "Actually the Cubs entered Wednesday's game ranked ninth in the league in runs scored, even though they were first in home runs. They ranked 15th in walks and 14th in on-base percentage." (My emphasis.)
I've said it before and I'll say it again. The Cubs need, desperately, to fire Gene Clines and bring in a hitting coach with a different mentality toward the importance of walks. It's very, very important. There's just no way the Cubs will win anything if they can't get on base at a regular clip. Dusty has shown us one thing: he doesn't care about that. Therefore, it's time for Jim Hendry to step up and make it a priority.
Come on, Jim. Help us out on this one!
In the hub-bub of the disappointment of the 2005 season, a lot of things have been overlooked. For example, Cubs lefty reliever Cliff Bartosh currently has an ERA of 2.45, and has struck out 11 in 11 innings. Not bad for a last-minute pickup. Will Ohman has yet to give up an earned run in 3.2 innings pitched. "Hairy" Jerry Hairston currently has an OBP about 100 points higher than his batting average, and while he's not any sort of a clutch hitter, I still think he'd be a sufficient leadoff guy. Jeromy Burnitz is batting .288 and is currently on pace for 29 homeruns and 103 RBI. Oh, and Derrek Lee has become the best hitter on the team, and is almost single-handedly keeping the Cubs near .500.
Not bad for a guy many people didn't want when he came to Chicago for Hee Seop Choi. Surprisingly, people were disappointed with his performance last year - as if 32 homeruns, 98 RBI, 39 doubles, and a .278 average were something to sneeze at.
Well, so far this year, Derrek is on pace for 59 doubles, 49 homeruns, 162 RBI, 108 BB, 34 steals, and is currently batting .383. He's getting on base at a .476 clip. He's the best defensive first baseman since Mark Grace. And just in case anyone was wondering, Hee Seop Choi is doing alright, but he's not exactly catching the infield grass on fire over in L.A.
TYPICAL BAKER
Over at the Tribune, Dusty was quoted as saying, "Our offense has been percolating most of the year. If you look at the stats, we're in the top five in runs scored. We just haven't been able to coordinate a good offensive day with a bad pitching day and a good pitching day with a bad offensive day. That's the problem. We've hit pretty good."
Paul Sullivan, the writer of the article, was deft enough to say, "Actually the Cubs entered Wednesday's game ranked ninth in the league in runs scored, even though they were first in home runs. They ranked 15th in walks and 14th in on-base percentage." (My emphasis.)
I've said it before and I'll say it again. The Cubs need, desperately, to fire Gene Clines and bring in a hitting coach with a different mentality toward the importance of walks. It's very, very important. There's just no way the Cubs will win anything if they can't get on base at a regular clip. Dusty has shown us one thing: he doesn't care about that. Therefore, it's time for Jim Hendry to step up and make it a priority.
Come on, Jim. Help us out on this one!
Thursday, May 12, 2005
YOU KNOW YOU'RE IN TROUBLE WHEN TWO WINS IN A ROW FEELS LIKE A GOOD WINNING STREAK
In spite of ongoing bullpen woes, the Cubs managed a second victory yesterday, beating the Mets 4-3 in extra innings off of a Derrek Lee homerun. Ryan Dempster blew the save yesterday, and also suffered a bone bruise after a line drive bounced off his arm. There's no telling as to how long he'll be out for.
Shouldn't Joe Borowski be back soon?
According to a few articles I've seen, Jason Dubois might not become the full time starter after all. Hendry said he would be, but then Dusty said that he wants to stick with Hollandsworth some more. Which is crazy, of course. Regardless, until Dubois resumes sitting on the bench, I think I'm going to keep the Dube-Watch retired.
WALK-WATCH 5-12
In an astonishing move, the Cubs drew an amazing 7 walks yesterday, compared to the 4 drawn by the Mets. Corey Patterson drew a walk, as did Derrek Lee, Jeromy Burnitz, Mark Prior, Ben Grieve, and Henry Blanco walked twice.
Prior himself went 7 innings, struck out 7, walked 3, and allowed only 2 runs - 1 earned.
The Cubs are off today, but will be playing the Nationals for a three game series starting tomorrow. I wish I could see it, but I'll be in Toronto.
In spite of ongoing bullpen woes, the Cubs managed a second victory yesterday, beating the Mets 4-3 in extra innings off of a Derrek Lee homerun. Ryan Dempster blew the save yesterday, and also suffered a bone bruise after a line drive bounced off his arm. There's no telling as to how long he'll be out for.
Shouldn't Joe Borowski be back soon?
According to a few articles I've seen, Jason Dubois might not become the full time starter after all. Hendry said he would be, but then Dusty said that he wants to stick with Hollandsworth some more. Which is crazy, of course. Regardless, until Dubois resumes sitting on the bench, I think I'm going to keep the Dube-Watch retired.
WALK-WATCH 5-12
In an astonishing move, the Cubs drew an amazing 7 walks yesterday, compared to the 4 drawn by the Mets. Corey Patterson drew a walk, as did Derrek Lee, Jeromy Burnitz, Mark Prior, Ben Grieve, and Henry Blanco walked twice.
Prior himself went 7 innings, struck out 7, walked 3, and allowed only 2 runs - 1 earned.
The Cubs are off today, but will be playing the Nationals for a three game series starting tomorrow. I wish I could see it, but I'll be in Toronto.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
MADDUX PULLS A PRIOR
If I were to show you last night's box score at random, you probably would've thought it was someone else who went 6.2 innings,allowed 3 hits, walked 3 batters, and struck out 10. But no, that was our Greg Maddux, who still has the ability from time to time to throw like an ace.
Not that the Cubs needed a dominant performance. For the first time in what feels like two weeks, the offense sat up, shook off the cobwebs, and exploded for a big game. They won 7-0 off of two Corey Patterson homeruns, a Ramirez double, and a Burnitz bomb. Oh, and some know-nothing rook by the name of Jason Dubois hit a bomb, too, and drove in another run besides that!
And so, the Cubs are in the unusual position of a rubber game. If they win tonight, they win the three-game set with the Mets. And they actually could win. They have Mark Prior going against the other Zambrano, first name Victor.
WALK WATCH 5-11
Proving again that I know nothing of what I speak, the Cubs hammered the Mets yesterday, in spite of drawing zero walks. The Mets drew 4. I think the Cubs have answered an age-old question. The question is, is it possible to lose if you have good pitching?
The answer is yes, if your offense cannot adequately get on base.
If I were to show you last night's box score at random, you probably would've thought it was someone else who went 6.2 innings,allowed 3 hits, walked 3 batters, and struck out 10. But no, that was our Greg Maddux, who still has the ability from time to time to throw like an ace.
Not that the Cubs needed a dominant performance. For the first time in what feels like two weeks, the offense sat up, shook off the cobwebs, and exploded for a big game. They won 7-0 off of two Corey Patterson homeruns, a Ramirez double, and a Burnitz bomb. Oh, and some know-nothing rook by the name of Jason Dubois hit a bomb, too, and drove in another run besides that!
And so, the Cubs are in the unusual position of a rubber game. If they win tonight, they win the three-game set with the Mets. And they actually could win. They have Mark Prior going against the other Zambrano, first name Victor.
WALK WATCH 5-11
Proving again that I know nothing of what I speak, the Cubs hammered the Mets yesterday, in spite of drawing zero walks. The Mets drew 4. I think the Cubs have answered an age-old question. The question is, is it possible to lose if you have good pitching?
The answer is yes, if your offense cannot adequately get on base.
Tuesday, May 10, 2005
YOW, THAT SUCKED
You have to wonder if Jim Hendry keeps a list of regrets. If he does, is the signing of LaTroy Hawkins at the top of that list? Is the lack of progression this off season near the top as well? I was pretty optimistic about the Cubs before the season started, but now I have to ask myself "why?" This team clearly has more holes than a mine field. They lost yesterday 7 to 4 off of the arms of LaTroy, and newly appointed closer Ryan Dempster. This continued recent turn of events has led me to believe one thing:
We're screwed.
I wonder when the fire sale will start?
WALK WATCH 5-10
In yesterday's defeat to the Mets, the Cubs drew 3 walks, which happened to be one more than the Mets total of 2.
One other thought: I realize he got hammered in the first two innings, but is there any reason why Jon Leicester was pulled from the game after the third? He was only at 59 pitches and I would've thought that Dusty would've kept him around for at least two more innings, unless he continued to bomb.
You have to wonder if Jim Hendry keeps a list of regrets. If he does, is the signing of LaTroy Hawkins at the top of that list? Is the lack of progression this off season near the top as well? I was pretty optimistic about the Cubs before the season started, but now I have to ask myself "why?" This team clearly has more holes than a mine field. They lost yesterday 7 to 4 off of the arms of LaTroy, and newly appointed closer Ryan Dempster. This continued recent turn of events has led me to believe one thing:
We're screwed.
I wonder when the fire sale will start?
WALK WATCH 5-10
In yesterday's defeat to the Mets, the Cubs drew 3 walks, which happened to be one more than the Mets total of 2.
One other thought: I realize he got hammered in the first two innings, but is there any reason why Jon Leicester was pulled from the game after the third? He was only at 59 pitches and I would've thought that Dusty would've kept him around for at least two more innings, unless he continued to bomb.
Monday, May 09, 2005
WHERE HAS THIS SEASON GONE?
The Cubs ended their 7-game losing skid yesterday, on the arm of Carlos Zambrano. Carlos threw 136 pitches in his complete game bid, and that is perhaps the greatest example of just how bad the Cubs have become. They find the bullpen so untrustworthy that they turned to Carlos Zambrano, and asked him to close out his own ball game. There were a few scary moments, but it worked.
The Cubs host the Mets today, where they'll try to build on yesterday's win. Jon Leicester will get the nod, giving him his first-ever start at the major league level. Ah, the smell of desperation.
Speaking of desperation, the Cubs signed Darren Oliver to a minor league deal late last week. In his first start at Iowa, the Rockies reject gave up 9 runs on 9 hits in just over 2 innings of work. In other words, help's coming.
An interesting and unsurprising stat: Cubs pitchers have allowed the second fewest walks in all of baseball. Cubs hitters have drawn the second fewest walks in all of baseball. The Cubs organization desperately needs to fire the hitting coach who encourages players to hack away at bad pitches, and to replace him with a hitting coach who knows the value of the walk.
Please?
DUBE-WATCH 5-9
After watching his batting average drop to .221 (19 for 86), with 1 homer, 7 RBI, and 5 doubles, the Cubs have decided to bench Hollandsworth in favor of Jason Dubois. At present, Dubois is 9 for 30 with 3 doubles, 3 homers, and 9 RBI. That's right, it only took about 40 days for the Cubs to realize what everyone else knew from the beginning: Jason Dubois is a better left fielder than Todd Hollandsworth. With their crack realization skills at work, they'll turn things around in no time what-so-ever!
One final interesting stat of note: In their last 8 games, the Cubs have averaged a whopping 2.75 runs a game. Their opponents have averaged 4.75 runs. In those 8 games, the Cubs drew 18 walks. Their opponents walked 36 times - literally twice as often.
So, now that the Dube-Watch is irrelevant, it's time for this site to turn its inquisitive eye onto other things. The Walk-Watch will begin starting at the next update. Or perhaps it should be called the No Walk-Watch?
The Cubs ended their 7-game losing skid yesterday, on the arm of Carlos Zambrano. Carlos threw 136 pitches in his complete game bid, and that is perhaps the greatest example of just how bad the Cubs have become. They find the bullpen so untrustworthy that they turned to Carlos Zambrano, and asked him to close out his own ball game. There were a few scary moments, but it worked.
The Cubs host the Mets today, where they'll try to build on yesterday's win. Jon Leicester will get the nod, giving him his first-ever start at the major league level. Ah, the smell of desperation.
Speaking of desperation, the Cubs signed Darren Oliver to a minor league deal late last week. In his first start at Iowa, the Rockies reject gave up 9 runs on 9 hits in just over 2 innings of work. In other words, help's coming.
An interesting and unsurprising stat: Cubs pitchers have allowed the second fewest walks in all of baseball. Cubs hitters have drawn the second fewest walks in all of baseball. The Cubs organization desperately needs to fire the hitting coach who encourages players to hack away at bad pitches, and to replace him with a hitting coach who knows the value of the walk.
Please?
DUBE-WATCH 5-9
After watching his batting average drop to .221 (19 for 86), with 1 homer, 7 RBI, and 5 doubles, the Cubs have decided to bench Hollandsworth in favor of Jason Dubois. At present, Dubois is 9 for 30 with 3 doubles, 3 homers, and 9 RBI. That's right, it only took about 40 days for the Cubs to realize what everyone else knew from the beginning: Jason Dubois is a better left fielder than Todd Hollandsworth. With their crack realization skills at work, they'll turn things around in no time what-so-ever!
One final interesting stat of note: In their last 8 games, the Cubs have averaged a whopping 2.75 runs a game. Their opponents have averaged 4.75 runs. In those 8 games, the Cubs drew 18 walks. Their opponents walked 36 times - literally twice as often.
So, now that the Dube-Watch is irrelevant, it's time for this site to turn its inquisitive eye onto other things. The Walk-Watch will begin starting at the next update. Or perhaps it should be called the No Walk-Watch?
Sunday, May 08, 2005
THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO
The last 7 games have been pretty depressing. The Cubs have lost, and lost some more, and right when you thought they couldn't lose, they said "hey, you give us too much credit." Then they lost some more.
But it's not entirely dreary. There are things to look forward to. In no particular order, here they are:
*The return of Joe Borowski
*The realization that Joe Borowski is done for
*The firing of Dusty Baker
*The firing of hitting coach Gene Clines
*The end of the losing streak
*The dismantling of the useless parts that this team carries with them (Hollandsworth, Neifi!, Macias, I'm looking at you)
*The end of the season
See? It can only get better!
Seriously, after this past off season, I can levy only one complaint at Jim Hendry. He's slow acting. Maybe that's not entirely his fault. Regardless, I think Hendry needs to act now. First, he needs to axe the hitting coach. Then, the bullpen coach. Then, Dusty Baker. Baker should be goneby the end of the month, if this slide continues. Clines should be gone by the end of the losing streak.
Oh, and a few trades wouldn't hurt, either.
The last 7 games have been pretty depressing. The Cubs have lost, and lost some more, and right when you thought they couldn't lose, they said "hey, you give us too much credit." Then they lost some more.
But it's not entirely dreary. There are things to look forward to. In no particular order, here they are:
*The return of Joe Borowski
*The realization that Joe Borowski is done for
*The firing of Dusty Baker
*The firing of hitting coach Gene Clines
*The end of the losing streak
*The dismantling of the useless parts that this team carries with them (Hollandsworth, Neifi!, Macias, I'm looking at you)
*The end of the season
See? It can only get better!
Seriously, after this past off season, I can levy only one complaint at Jim Hendry. He's slow acting. Maybe that's not entirely his fault. Regardless, I think Hendry needs to act now. First, he needs to axe the hitting coach. Then, the bullpen coach. Then, Dusty Baker. Baker should be goneby the end of the month, if this slide continues. Clines should be gone by the end of the losing streak.
Oh, and a few trades wouldn't hurt, either.
Friday, May 06, 2005
CUBS (12-15) AT PHILADELPHIA (12-17)
After a depressing three game sweep at the hands of the Brewers, the Cubs will be traveling to Philly where they'll play the last place uh, Phillies. The Cubs desperately need to turn things around, or perhaps completely implode so we can just get ready for the 2006 season. Here's how the pitching matchups will look:
Today at 3:20 EST: Mark Prior v. Cory Liddle
Tomorrow at 2:20 EST: Glendon Rusch v. Jon Lieber
The Day After at 2:20 EST: Carlos Zambrano v. Brett Myers
The Cubs desperately need Mark Prior to stop the hurting. A solid outing from Rusch and Zambrano would obviously be nice, too. But if the Cubs keep sliding, then we'll have to come to grips with the fact that the bullpen is too shoddy, and Dusty Baker has lost control of a temperamental clubhouse. At which point, I'm hoping he gets fired.
After a depressing three game sweep at the hands of the Brewers, the Cubs will be traveling to Philly where they'll play the last place uh, Phillies. The Cubs desperately need to turn things around, or perhaps completely implode so we can just get ready for the 2006 season. Here's how the pitching matchups will look:
Today at 3:20 EST: Mark Prior v. Cory Liddle
Tomorrow at 2:20 EST: Glendon Rusch v. Jon Lieber
The Day After at 2:20 EST: Carlos Zambrano v. Brett Myers
The Cubs desperately need Mark Prior to stop the hurting. A solid outing from Rusch and Zambrano would obviously be nice, too. But if the Cubs keep sliding, then we'll have to come to grips with the fact that the bullpen is too shoddy, and Dusty Baker has lost control of a temperamental clubhouse. At which point, I'm hoping he gets fired.
BREWERS BROOM THE BESTED CUBS
Before the season started, Paul White of Sports Weekly made a list of the best pitching staffs in baseball. He managed to include the Pittsburgh Pirates, but failed to consider the Cubs. Naturally, we Cubs fans knew better. We were annoyed with Paul White, and a number of guys over at the Desipio message board sent White angry Emails asking him just exactly what was it that he was smoking? His response was simple: where's the bullpen?
A week into May, we've discovered that we were the ones smoking something, not Paul White. The Cubs have now lost five straight games. They are 4-6 in 10 one-run games. They've lost their last two games in the 9th inning at the hands of the shakey bullpen.
I'm going to keep saying it, not becaus I'm an optimist, but because I'm a realist and I know better. The season's not over. The Cubs could still climb up and play great baseball and make the post season. It's far from over. Help is on the way, although it's anyone's guess as to whether or not Joe Borowski will be effective in the same way as '02 and '03.
You know, I think part of our problem is that we feel incredibly urgent because the big 100 year mark is sneaking up on us. Like zealots waiting for the apocalypse, we live in fear of that nice, big, even number, the ultimate symbol of our team's failure and inability.
Meanwhile, things are falling apart off the field as well as on. The Cubs had yet another ejected player yesterday, this one being Todd Hollandsworth. That makes 17 ejections in the last 189 games. Not a good sign. This team again seems tense and I doubt they're having a lot of fun out there. Although I don't expect it to happen, perhaps if the Cubs drop to 10 games under .500, Baker will get the axe. It's conceivable that a replacement manager can pick the team up the way the '03 Marlins were picked up after Jeff Torborg was fired.
Regardless, our mantra now is steady and true: something has to change.
DUBE-WATCH 5-6
In a move of astonishing absurdity, Dusty Baker replaced the ejected Todd Hollandsworth with Jose Macias yesterday, rather than with the rookie Dubois. Hollandsworth went 1 for 4 before his ejection, and left 4 men stranded on base.
Later today, I'll have the Cubs/Phillies series preview up and running, although it might be the last one for now. It takes a lot of work to write those up, and I have no idea if anyone even cares for it. If you want it to be saved, let me know.
Before the season started, Paul White of Sports Weekly made a list of the best pitching staffs in baseball. He managed to include the Pittsburgh Pirates, but failed to consider the Cubs. Naturally, we Cubs fans knew better. We were annoyed with Paul White, and a number of guys over at the Desipio message board sent White angry Emails asking him just exactly what was it that he was smoking? His response was simple: where's the bullpen?
A week into May, we've discovered that we were the ones smoking something, not Paul White. The Cubs have now lost five straight games. They are 4-6 in 10 one-run games. They've lost their last two games in the 9th inning at the hands of the shakey bullpen.
I'm going to keep saying it, not becaus I'm an optimist, but because I'm a realist and I know better. The season's not over. The Cubs could still climb up and play great baseball and make the post season. It's far from over. Help is on the way, although it's anyone's guess as to whether or not Joe Borowski will be effective in the same way as '02 and '03.
You know, I think part of our problem is that we feel incredibly urgent because the big 100 year mark is sneaking up on us. Like zealots waiting for the apocalypse, we live in fear of that nice, big, even number, the ultimate symbol of our team's failure and inability.
Meanwhile, things are falling apart off the field as well as on. The Cubs had yet another ejected player yesterday, this one being Todd Hollandsworth. That makes 17 ejections in the last 189 games. Not a good sign. This team again seems tense and I doubt they're having a lot of fun out there. Although I don't expect it to happen, perhaps if the Cubs drop to 10 games under .500, Baker will get the axe. It's conceivable that a replacement manager can pick the team up the way the '03 Marlins were picked up after Jeff Torborg was fired.
Regardless, our mantra now is steady and true: something has to change.
DUBE-WATCH 5-6
In a move of astonishing absurdity, Dusty Baker replaced the ejected Todd Hollandsworth with Jose Macias yesterday, rather than with the rookie Dubois. Hollandsworth went 1 for 4 before his ejection, and left 4 men stranded on base.
Later today, I'll have the Cubs/Phillies series preview up and running, although it might be the last one for now. It takes a lot of work to write those up, and I have no idea if anyone even cares for it. If you want it to be saved, let me know.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
NOTHING GOOD TO SAY
I've got nothing good to say about the Cubs today, so I'm going to keep it short. They lost, yet again, this time because Robert Novoa tried his best Kyle Farnsworth impersonation. He got two outs in the 9th but allowed the bases loaded, then walked the winning runner home. Oops.
The Cubs try to avoid the sweep today.
It must feel like the hits just keep coming. I'm guessing the morale in the locker room isn't very high right now. Too many players have been hurt. Unfortunately, there's really nothing that Hendry or anyone can do. It's too early to make trades. But hey, look on the bright side: the majority of this team will be back next year, with room for improvement, and Dusty might even get fired before the start of next year! See? It's all for the best!
DUBE-WATCH 5-5
Jason Dubois went 0 for 3 in the series opener against the Brewers, with a strikeout. He didn't start or play in yesterday's game, where Todd Hollandsworth went 1 for 4 with an RBI. He also struck out once. Dubois is now batting .310 on the season, while Hollandsworth is batting .237.
I've got nothing good to say about the Cubs today, so I'm going to keep it short. They lost, yet again, this time because Robert Novoa tried his best Kyle Farnsworth impersonation. He got two outs in the 9th but allowed the bases loaded, then walked the winning runner home. Oops.
The Cubs try to avoid the sweep today.
It must feel like the hits just keep coming. I'm guessing the morale in the locker room isn't very high right now. Too many players have been hurt. Unfortunately, there's really nothing that Hendry or anyone can do. It's too early to make trades. But hey, look on the bright side: the majority of this team will be back next year, with room for improvement, and Dusty might even get fired before the start of next year! See? It's all for the best!
DUBE-WATCH 5-5
Jason Dubois went 0 for 3 in the series opener against the Brewers, with a strikeout. He didn't start or play in yesterday's game, where Todd Hollandsworth went 1 for 4 with an RBI. He also struck out once. Dubois is now batting .310 on the season, while Hollandsworth is batting .237.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
SO MUCH FOR THE SANCTITY OF THE GAME
Major League Baseball received another blow yesterday, when former major league pitcher Tom House admitted to steroid use in the 60's and 70's. House is best known for having caught Hank Aaron's 715th homerun while standing in the bullpen.
House claims that many major league pitchers popped any kind of steroid they could get, and injected themselves with human growth hormone. According to House, as many as six to seven pitchers per team used the drugs. Players of that era also used amphetamines, which are still in use today.
This isn't really surprising. At least, not to me. I've had arguments with sports enthusiasts before where I contradicted their belief that the historic game was pure. Players have always sought to gain an edge on the competition. If they weren't taking greenies or stealing signs, they were hiring psychics and doping up on steroids. As much as it might bother people, cheating is as much a part of the game as is the hit and run and the stolen base.
According to the Tribune, Larry Rothschild will be studying Kerry Wood's mechanics with the hopes of finding a way to keep him healthy. It's about time. I always had hoped that Wood's exposure to Prior (the guy with perfect mechanics) would lead him toward a less violent delivery. Hopefully the Cubs will find a way to keep Wood healthy. If not, next year will probably be the last year Wood is a Cub.
Hey, give the guy some steroids. Everyone's doing it.
Major League Baseball received another blow yesterday, when former major league pitcher Tom House admitted to steroid use in the 60's and 70's. House is best known for having caught Hank Aaron's 715th homerun while standing in the bullpen.
House claims that many major league pitchers popped any kind of steroid they could get, and injected themselves with human growth hormone. According to House, as many as six to seven pitchers per team used the drugs. Players of that era also used amphetamines, which are still in use today.
This isn't really surprising. At least, not to me. I've had arguments with sports enthusiasts before where I contradicted their belief that the historic game was pure. Players have always sought to gain an edge on the competition. If they weren't taking greenies or stealing signs, they were hiring psychics and doping up on steroids. As much as it might bother people, cheating is as much a part of the game as is the hit and run and the stolen base.
According to the Tribune, Larry Rothschild will be studying Kerry Wood's mechanics with the hopes of finding a way to keep him healthy. It's about time. I always had hoped that Wood's exposure to Prior (the guy with perfect mechanics) would lead him toward a less violent delivery. Hopefully the Cubs will find a way to keep Wood healthy. If not, next year will probably be the last year Wood is a Cub.
Hey, give the guy some steroids. Everyone's doing it.
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
CUBS (12-12) AT MILWAUKEE (11-13)
On the heel of the bad news that Kerry Wood is joining the walking wounded (or limping, in the cases of Nomar and Todd Walker), the Cubs will be playing three games at Chicago North, otherwise known as Milwaukee. Cubs fans flock to Milwaukee any time Chicago plays there, to the ire of Brewers fans. The official excuse is that we gobble up the tickets before the Brewers fans get a shot. If that's true, then Milwaukee must be home of America's Dumbest Fans (I can hear St. Louis objecting already). They're apparently smart enough to stand in line for six hours a day to get tickets, but not smart enough to get online and order them in probably 15 or 20 minutes.
Anyway, must-win series, yadda yadda, try to stay alive, blah blah blah, etc. etc.
Here's how the games match up:
Tuesday May 3rd, 8:05 EST: Carlos Zambrano (2-0, 4.31 ERA, 1.21 WHIP) v. Chris Capuano (1-2, 4.76 ERA, 1.66 WHIP)
Wednesday May 4th, 8:05 EST: Greg Maddux (1-1, 4.20 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) v. Victor Santos (1-1, 3.25 ERA, 1.01 WHIP)
Thursday May 5th, 1:05 EST: Kerry Wood's Ghost v. Gary Glover (2-1, 5.16 ERA, 1.41 WHIP)
Game Notes:
*There isn't an official line as to who's starting in Wood's place. Because of yesterday's off day, Mark Prior could move up into the spot, or Glendon Rusch could also have the start
*This is the second series in which the Cubs and Brewers have met. The Cubs won the first series 2 games to 1.
*The Cubs currently have four key players on the DL. Kerry Wood is expected to miss 5-6 weeks. Joe Borowski will begin his rehab stint at Iowa this week. Todd Walker is expected to miss at least two more weeks. Nomar Garciaparra will miss the next two and a half months. And Chad Fox may have thrown his last pitch. So much for an improvement on 2004.
Projections:
Eh, who the hell knows? The Cubs as they are currently stand are no better than a .500 ballclub. But that's just for now... sooner or later, they'll slip. It's too early to improve the team, but by the time July rolls around, it may be too late. This is also a team that keeps surprising (when you expect them to win, they don't, when you're sure they'll lose, they don't), so who knows? Maybe they'll sweep.
On the heel of the bad news that Kerry Wood is joining the walking wounded (or limping, in the cases of Nomar and Todd Walker), the Cubs will be playing three games at Chicago North, otherwise known as Milwaukee. Cubs fans flock to Milwaukee any time Chicago plays there, to the ire of Brewers fans. The official excuse is that we gobble up the tickets before the Brewers fans get a shot. If that's true, then Milwaukee must be home of America's Dumbest Fans (I can hear St. Louis objecting already). They're apparently smart enough to stand in line for six hours a day to get tickets, but not smart enough to get online and order them in probably 15 or 20 minutes.
Anyway, must-win series, yadda yadda, try to stay alive, blah blah blah, etc. etc.
Here's how the games match up:
Tuesday May 3rd, 8:05 EST: Carlos Zambrano (2-0, 4.31 ERA, 1.21 WHIP) v. Chris Capuano (1-2, 4.76 ERA, 1.66 WHIP)
Wednesday May 4th, 8:05 EST: Greg Maddux (1-1, 4.20 ERA, 1.17 WHIP) v. Victor Santos (1-1, 3.25 ERA, 1.01 WHIP)
Thursday May 5th, 1:05 EST: Kerry Wood's Ghost v. Gary Glover (2-1, 5.16 ERA, 1.41 WHIP)
Game Notes:
*There isn't an official line as to who's starting in Wood's place. Because of yesterday's off day, Mark Prior could move up into the spot, or Glendon Rusch could also have the start
*This is the second series in which the Cubs and Brewers have met. The Cubs won the first series 2 games to 1.
*The Cubs currently have four key players on the DL. Kerry Wood is expected to miss 5-6 weeks. Joe Borowski will begin his rehab stint at Iowa this week. Todd Walker is expected to miss at least two more weeks. Nomar Garciaparra will miss the next two and a half months. And Chad Fox may have thrown his last pitch. So much for an improvement on 2004.
Projections:
Eh, who the hell knows? The Cubs as they are currently stand are no better than a .500 ballclub. But that's just for now... sooner or later, they'll slip. It's too early to improve the team, but by the time July rolls around, it may be too late. This is also a team that keeps surprising (when you expect them to win, they don't, when you're sure they'll lose, they don't), so who knows? Maybe they'll sweep.
WOOD TO MISS 5-6 WEEKS
The news is pretty bad coming in from the Tribune. Kerry Wood has a strained rotator cuff and will miss more than a month of the baseball season.
The Cubs pitching has already been strained - the bullpen is in shambles, and the rotation hasn't lived up to its reputation. There's no official word on who'll replace Wood, although it could be Glendon Rusch. The Cubs were going to turn Dempster into the closer, but that's now out of the question, as he needs to stay in the rotation.
I wonder what Sergio is up to? Not that I'm advocating the Cubs turn to him. He's not exactly a Major League pitcher, although on his best day, he looked good.
This might just be another nail in the coffin of the 2005 Cubs. They lost their closer, their second baseman, short stop, and now Wood. I bet Prior is already feeling nervous.
I'll have the series forecast later today.
The news is pretty bad coming in from the Tribune. Kerry Wood has a strained rotator cuff and will miss more than a month of the baseball season.
The Cubs pitching has already been strained - the bullpen is in shambles, and the rotation hasn't lived up to its reputation. There's no official word on who'll replace Wood, although it could be Glendon Rusch. The Cubs were going to turn Dempster into the closer, but that's now out of the question, as he needs to stay in the rotation.
I wonder what Sergio is up to? Not that I'm advocating the Cubs turn to him. He's not exactly a Major League pitcher, although on his best day, he looked good.
This might just be another nail in the coffin of the 2005 Cubs. They lost their closer, their second baseman, short stop, and now Wood. I bet Prior is already feeling nervous.
I'll have the series forecast later today.
Monday, May 02, 2005
OUCH
Yesterday's game was pretty brutal. After dominating for his first three starts, Mark Prior proved to be vulnerable. Of course, this sort of thing happens to even the best pitchers. I can remember a game in Toronto a few years ago when Clemens was rocked by the Jays - the Rocket was blasted for six runs in five innings, and the Yankees went on to lose 11-3. So, yeah, it happens to the best.
Today is an off day, before the Cubs travel to Milwaukee where they'll try to right the ship. We should also find out today or tomorrow about how severe Kerry Wood's shoulder is. According to one article from the Tribune, it could be bad. Wood said that he felt pain in his shoulder when he threw, where previously he'd only felt pain between innings. Not a good sign.
DUBE-WATCH 5-2
In the past week, Jason Dubois is 3 for 8 (.375 AVG) with 2 homeruns and 4 RBI. However, rather than start Dubois when he's clearly on fire, Dusty decided to go with Hollandsworth yesterday. He then decided that Dubois's hot bat would best be served on the bench, and used Ronny Cedeno and Jose Macias as his two pinch hitters. Well, the young Cedeno got a hit, Macias obviously didn't, and Hollandsworth went 0 for 4 with a strikeout, and left 3 men on base. Todd's average is now back down to .236, meaning that Dubois is batting a full 100 points higher than him on the season.
According to Cubs.com, Dusty Baker is satisfied with keeping Hollandsworth in the lineup. Baker said, "I'll play him against most lefties and certain righties. I've got an idea of what his strengths and weaknesses are just like they [opponents] have an idea as to what his strengths and weaknesses are. He's prone to strikeout against certain pitchers. A lot of it depends on when Holly [Hollandsworth] starts swinging better, too. Now is not the time to ditch Holly. It's only April. There are a number of guys who are good hitters having bad Aprils."
According to the same article, in spite of being 9th on the club in total at bats, Dubois is 6th in RBI, leads the team in slugging, and is sixth in extra base hits.
Yesterday's game was pretty brutal. After dominating for his first three starts, Mark Prior proved to be vulnerable. Of course, this sort of thing happens to even the best pitchers. I can remember a game in Toronto a few years ago when Clemens was rocked by the Jays - the Rocket was blasted for six runs in five innings, and the Yankees went on to lose 11-3. So, yeah, it happens to the best.
Today is an off day, before the Cubs travel to Milwaukee where they'll try to right the ship. We should also find out today or tomorrow about how severe Kerry Wood's shoulder is. According to one article from the Tribune, it could be bad. Wood said that he felt pain in his shoulder when he threw, where previously he'd only felt pain between innings. Not a good sign.
DUBE-WATCH 5-2
In the past week, Jason Dubois is 3 for 8 (.375 AVG) with 2 homeruns and 4 RBI. However, rather than start Dubois when he's clearly on fire, Dusty decided to go with Hollandsworth yesterday. He then decided that Dubois's hot bat would best be served on the bench, and used Ronny Cedeno and Jose Macias as his two pinch hitters. Well, the young Cedeno got a hit, Macias obviously didn't, and Hollandsworth went 0 for 4 with a strikeout, and left 3 men on base. Todd's average is now back down to .236, meaning that Dubois is batting a full 100 points higher than him on the season.
According to Cubs.com, Dusty Baker is satisfied with keeping Hollandsworth in the lineup. Baker said, "I'll play him against most lefties and certain righties. I've got an idea of what his strengths and weaknesses are just like they [opponents] have an idea as to what his strengths and weaknesses are. He's prone to strikeout against certain pitchers. A lot of it depends on when Holly [Hollandsworth] starts swinging better, too. Now is not the time to ditch Holly. It's only April. There are a number of guys who are good hitters having bad Aprils."
According to the same article, in spite of being 9th on the club in total at bats, Dubois is 6th in RBI, leads the team in slugging, and is sixth in extra base hits.
Sunday, May 01, 2005
SO LONG, KERRY
Maybe it's premature, but I've begun to get the feeling that this will be the next-to-last year Kerry Wood pitches for the Cubs. He can't stay healthy, he hasn't been effective, and he's been getting a whole lot of money from the team for his failings. That isn't to say that the team's worse with him on it - in fact, I think that a healthy Wood makes the Cubs a much better team. But that's just the point. He's not healthy.
Wood left yesterday's game after 3 innings and 54 pitches. He'd allowed three earned runs, struck out 6, and elevated his ERA to 6.15. The Cubs wound up losing the game 7-5, after a three run 7th inning by the Astros. Later today, Mark Prior will try to right the ship by facing off against assface Roy Oswalt. (Ah, the beauty of blogger. Were I a real journalist, I could've never gotten away with calling Roy Oswalt an assface.)
There's no word on how serious Wood's shoulder injury is.
DUBE-WATCH 5-1
Jason Dubois again was forced onto the bench yesterday. Todd Hollandsworth started. He went 1 for 4 with no extra bases. His average on the year is now .250. By contrast, Dubois pinch hit for Kerry Wood in the 4th. He hit a two-run homerun, giving him three on the year. Dubois is now 9 for 26, with a .346 batting average. He's on pace to have 183 at bats, to go along with 21 homeruns and 63 RBI.
You just know that Dusty will never give him a shot if the guy's batting almost 100 points higher than the left field starter. Sooner or later, Jason will slump a little. His numbers will come back to earth, and Hollandsworth will still be the starter. Of course, even a slumping Dubois is as good as Hollandsworth, in my opinion.
Will Hendry or someone step in and demand that Dubois becomes the starter?
Maybe it's premature, but I've begun to get the feeling that this will be the next-to-last year Kerry Wood pitches for the Cubs. He can't stay healthy, he hasn't been effective, and he's been getting a whole lot of money from the team for his failings. That isn't to say that the team's worse with him on it - in fact, I think that a healthy Wood makes the Cubs a much better team. But that's just the point. He's not healthy.
Wood left yesterday's game after 3 innings and 54 pitches. He'd allowed three earned runs, struck out 6, and elevated his ERA to 6.15. The Cubs wound up losing the game 7-5, after a three run 7th inning by the Astros. Later today, Mark Prior will try to right the ship by facing off against assface Roy Oswalt. (Ah, the beauty of blogger. Were I a real journalist, I could've never gotten away with calling Roy Oswalt an assface.)
There's no word on how serious Wood's shoulder injury is.
DUBE-WATCH 5-1
Jason Dubois again was forced onto the bench yesterday. Todd Hollandsworth started. He went 1 for 4 with no extra bases. His average on the year is now .250. By contrast, Dubois pinch hit for Kerry Wood in the 4th. He hit a two-run homerun, giving him three on the year. Dubois is now 9 for 26, with a .346 batting average. He's on pace to have 183 at bats, to go along with 21 homeruns and 63 RBI.
You just know that Dusty will never give him a shot if the guy's batting almost 100 points higher than the left field starter. Sooner or later, Jason will slump a little. His numbers will come back to earth, and Hollandsworth will still be the starter. Of course, even a slumping Dubois is as good as Hollandsworth, in my opinion.
Will Hendry or someone step in and demand that Dubois becomes the starter?
Archives
10/01/2003 - 11/01/2003
11/01/2003 - 12/01/2003
12/01/2003 - 01/01/2004
01/01/2004 - 02/01/2004
02/01/2004 - 03/01/2004
03/01/2004 - 04/01/2004
04/01/2004 - 05/01/2004
05/01/2004 - 06/01/2004
06/01/2004 - 07/01/2004
07/01/2004 - 08/01/2004
08/01/2004 - 09/01/2004
09/01/2004 - 10/01/2004
10/01/2004 - 11/01/2004
11/01/2004 - 12/01/2004
12/01/2004 - 01/01/2005
01/01/2005 - 02/01/2005
02/01/2005 - 03/01/2005
03/01/2005 - 04/01/2005
04/01/2005 - 05/01/2005
05/01/2005 - 06/01/2005
06/01/2005 - 07/01/2005
07/01/2005 - 08/01/2005
08/01/2005 - 09/01/2005
10/01/2005 - 11/01/2005
11/01/2005 - 12/01/2005
12/01/2005 - 01/01/2006
01/01/2006 - 02/01/2006
02/01/2006 - 03/01/2006
03/01/2006 - 04/01/2006
04/01/2006 - 05/01/2006
07/01/2006 - 08/01/2006
01/01/2007 - 02/01/2007
05/01/2007 - 06/01/2007
02/01/2008 - 03/01/2008
03/01/2008 - 04/01/2008
04/01/2008 - 05/01/2008
