Maddux climbs to 4-0 as Cubs roll to victory against Cards

The Cubs better thank God they still have Greg Maddux. The 40-year-old veteran pitched so magnificently Sunday afternoon at the new Busch Stadium that Cardinals hitters were asking the home umpire to check the ball for scuff marks. Don't they know Maddux is too smart to cheat. He's been around long enough to know to how to get hitters out by making calculated pitches. The Cubs bats came alive, providing more than enough run support.

Hitting in the no. 4 spot in the lineup (No, Dusty put in the no. 3 hole), Aramis Ramirez cranked a two-run shot out over the left-field wall. Jacque Jones also homered later in the game. Todd Walker hit a 2-run single for additional insurance. Juan Pierre slapped a double down the third base line and got on base 3 times. He's the key man in the lead off spot. Whether they have Derek Lee for a while in the starting lineup or not the Cubs can still score around 5 runs a game.

Maddux once again was superb, pitching 7 shutout innings only allowing 5 hits and 1 walk. He struck out 4 in the 7-3 victory. He continues to be impressive, showing no signs of slowing at his age. It must be a credit to work ethic. Now if the Cubs can get Zambrano going they'll be in business. The Cubs are set to meet the Marlins, Brewers, and Pirates in the upcoming two weeks.