The old Greg Maddux returned to the mound yesterday to help the Cubs notch their second straight win against the Reds. They go for the sweep tonight at Great Amerian Ball Park. Going 5.2 innings was all the club needed from Maddux. He picked up his 6th win the day after Kerry Wood pitched a well-rounded game.
stat line on Maddux: 7 H, 3 ER, 0 BB, 1 SO
I've heard criticism about Jacque Jones' level of play the last month or so. This guy needs to stay on the team. He providing some offensive punch that the Cubs suffer without. Last night Jones went 2-for-4 with a solo homer and a 3-run double. I realize the outfielder is a free swinger (he will have to learn to show more patience), but his power and production is so valuable to the team right now.
The best news last night was that everyone in the starting lineup got at one hit except Maddux. Todd Walker (2-for-2, 2 hits and 2 runs) is developing his timing better and getting on base more often in the past 3 weeks, however he's not a typical first basemen and should be playing at second. Dusty still doesn't understand how to set up the lineup. Aramis Ramirez is a no. 3 or 4 hitter, Todd Walker can either be at the 2 spot or towards the end of the lineup, and find a rotationary replacement for Pierre. For crying out loud, he doesn't HAVE to play EVERYDAY!
The speed is still available with Womack, Bynum, and Perez. The Cubs have displayed improvement on the field this week, but the club's management shouldn't think for a minute that this will last. If they don't go after a backup first basemen and another dependable outfielder they setting the team up for misery again in the near future. The fans demand a CHANGE and if these clowns in the front office don't respond I say give them the boot.
Wednesday, May 31
Monday, May 29
Losing drought snapped, Wood captures first win
It's about time the Cubs showed signs of a slight turnaround. After blowing a lead to Atlanta on Saturday then making a comeback in the 9th on Sunday only to fall short in extra innings and getting sweep they desperately needed the victory against Cincy today. Kerry Wood was finally able to put together a solid outing. The only run he allowed was solo homer off the bat of Adam Dunn.
Wood picked up his first win since July 21 of last year. Going 6 innings he gave up 5 hits, 1 walk, and struck out 4. The offense delivered; providing some power as Todd Walker and Matt Murton homered. New acquisition Tony Womack went 2-for-5 with a double and single. Kerry Wood also helped his own cause with two hits and a RBI. This was exactly what the doctor ordered. The Cubs ended their 6 game skid, regaining a sense of confidence and pride.
I'm glad something has changed to pull this team from the trenches. The past week was again rough, but with a healthy Wood back there is a lot of optimism in the air. Everyone believes this team has defeated themselves before even reaching June. Sure, they are 19-31 at present, but they must keep playing hard and not get down on their luck. If there is any spirit or determination within this club they will pull together, through better or worse, and find ways to win.
Creeping back into the Central isn't going to be an easy task. They are going to face two hot teams, the Reds and Cardinals this week. Errors and mental laspes can't happen if Chicago is take the series against these competitive division opponents. Time to go to serious work and make a dent in the standings.
Wood picked up his first win since July 21 of last year. Going 6 innings he gave up 5 hits, 1 walk, and struck out 4. The offense delivered; providing some power as Todd Walker and Matt Murton homered. New acquisition Tony Womack went 2-for-5 with a double and single. Kerry Wood also helped his own cause with two hits and a RBI. This was exactly what the doctor ordered. The Cubs ended their 6 game skid, regaining a sense of confidence and pride.
I'm glad something has changed to pull this team from the trenches. The past week was again rough, but with a healthy Wood back there is a lot of optimism in the air. Everyone believes this team has defeated themselves before even reaching June. Sure, they are 19-31 at present, but they must keep playing hard and not get down on their luck. If there is any spirit or determination within this club they will pull together, through better or worse, and find ways to win.
Creeping back into the Central isn't going to be an easy task. They are going to face two hot teams, the Reds and Cardinals this week. Errors and mental laspes can't happen if Chicago is take the series against these competitive division opponents. Time to go to serious work and make a dent in the standings.
Saturday, May 27
Slump extends with back-to-back losses to Braves
Much talk and rumors are circulating that the Cubs are going to fire Dusty Baker. Most fans dislike the way he's managed the club thus far. GM Jim Hendry announced, to clear any confusion, that Baker will remain the manager until his contract runs out at the end of the year. Then an extension may be granted. This past week the Cubs performance hasn't changed; getting sweep by the last place Marlins and losing two straight to the Braves at home.
The Cubs scraped out a mere run in today's game against Horacio Ramirez (1-0) in his return from the DL. Despite the lone run the lineup did bang out 10 hits yet too many runners were left stranded on base. This team sure does miss Derek Lee, same goes for all us Cubs fans. The 18-30 record speaks volumes. At least one injured Cub is making progress as Mark Prior makes a rehab start in Class A Peoria on Monday. If all goes well he will return to rare form.
The restored strength in pitching when Prior comes back still won't have much of an impact if the offense remains stangant, unable to average around 4-5 runs a game. For example, Sean Marshall had another good outing today, pitching 6 innings and only giving up 2 earned runs. The problem is coming from the top of the lineup. Pierre is hitting around .230 and not getting on base enough. On the other hand, the rest of batting order fails to drive runners in when they do reach base most of the time.
People are wondering what GM Jim Hendry is going to do to turn the club around. He's says that he reserves decision making at his own pace or when he's ready. Well, Hendry doesn't want to be rushed...that's understandable EXCEPT WHEN A TEAM THAT HE'S RESPONSIBLE FOR IS PLAYING PISS POOR AND TRADES OR SIGNINGS NEED TO BE MADE SOON BEFORE THE TEAM FALLS SO FAR BEHIND THAT THEY HAVE NO CHANCE IN HELL OF MAKING THE PLAYOFFS AGAIN FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR. ALSO, THE FANS ARE ENRAGED!! (Can't you tell, I'm fed up with this crap).
Being slow as FREAKING molasses isn't an option when a team is trying to make a run in contention for the postseason. Why the hell hasn't this bozo took appropriate action? Forget about Baker, this upper management jackass needs to get canned! He has made no attempt nor took any real steps to find a solution for the Cubs' woes. So he made a mistake by acquiring Juan Pierre so get rid of him. Plenty of teams need a healthy, speedy player on their team. Stop looking for weak alternatives and lost causes for the Cubs, go straight after the best available talent to fill voids at first base and the outfield. Hendry don't think too hard, just start making some deals NOW damn it!
The Cubs scraped out a mere run in today's game against Horacio Ramirez (1-0) in his return from the DL. Despite the lone run the lineup did bang out 10 hits yet too many runners were left stranded on base. This team sure does miss Derek Lee, same goes for all us Cubs fans. The 18-30 record speaks volumes. At least one injured Cub is making progress as Mark Prior makes a rehab start in Class A Peoria on Monday. If all goes well he will return to rare form.
The restored strength in pitching when Prior comes back still won't have much of an impact if the offense remains stangant, unable to average around 4-5 runs a game. For example, Sean Marshall had another good outing today, pitching 6 innings and only giving up 2 earned runs. The problem is coming from the top of the lineup. Pierre is hitting around .230 and not getting on base enough. On the other hand, the rest of batting order fails to drive runners in when they do reach base most of the time.
People are wondering what GM Jim Hendry is going to do to turn the club around. He's says that he reserves decision making at his own pace or when he's ready. Well, Hendry doesn't want to be rushed...that's understandable EXCEPT WHEN A TEAM THAT HE'S RESPONSIBLE FOR IS PLAYING PISS POOR AND TRADES OR SIGNINGS NEED TO BE MADE SOON BEFORE THE TEAM FALLS SO FAR BEHIND THAT THEY HAVE NO CHANCE IN HELL OF MAKING THE PLAYOFFS AGAIN FOR THE SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR. ALSO, THE FANS ARE ENRAGED!! (Can't you tell, I'm fed up with this crap).
Being slow as FREAKING molasses isn't an option when a team is trying to make a run in contention for the postseason. Why the hell hasn't this bozo took appropriate action? Forget about Baker, this upper management jackass needs to get canned! He has made no attempt nor took any real steps to find a solution for the Cubs' woes. So he made a mistake by acquiring Juan Pierre so get rid of him. Plenty of teams need a healthy, speedy player on their team. Stop looking for weak alternatives and lost causes for the Cubs, go straight after the best available talent to fill voids at first base and the outfield. Hendry don't think too hard, just start making some deals NOW damn it!
Tuesday, May 23
Cubs get speared 9-1 by the fighting fish
No matter who the Cubs face they're constantly falling victim to good pitching performances. That or the starting lineup can't EVER score enough runs. When will this change? As a Cubs fan the low point of the season, which is now continues to get worse. The Marlins' Ricky Nolasco (Who? Never heard of him). The starting pitcher went 7 quality innings while yielding 1 earned run from 4 hits and 2 walks.
Aramis Ramirez drove in Chicago's only run with a solo blast in the 7th inning. The Cub bats combined for 6 total hits. The situation with production isn't getting any better. There is only 3 or 4 guys in the lineup who contribute regularly, driving in runs. The rest are slumping; struggling mightily to reaching base and get hits. I think the Cubs need a new hitting coach. Anyone is talking about firing certain team personel. Obviously, whatever is going on in practice isn't working.
At Florida tonight, Kerry Wood goes for his second start. You can only wonder how steady his control and mechanics are after last Thursday's start. All the jitters or anxiousness should be gone. The velocity will be there for Wood, though it is the pitch count and how far he will go in the late innings. The bullpen needs some rest and time to rejuvenate after last night as Sean Marhall only pitched 3.1 innings. A complete game would be nice for Wood, but I'm sure as well as Cubs fans he will settle for a win.
Aramis Ramirez drove in Chicago's only run with a solo blast in the 7th inning. The Cub bats combined for 6 total hits. The situation with production isn't getting any better. There is only 3 or 4 guys in the lineup who contribute regularly, driving in runs. The rest are slumping; struggling mightily to reaching base and get hits. I think the Cubs need a new hitting coach. Anyone is talking about firing certain team personel. Obviously, whatever is going on in practice isn't working.
At Florida tonight, Kerry Wood goes for his second start. You can only wonder how steady his control and mechanics are after last Thursday's start. All the jitters or anxiousness should be gone. The velocity will be there for Wood, though it is the pitch count and how far he will go in the late innings. The bullpen needs some rest and time to rejuvenate after last night as Sean Marhall only pitched 3.1 innings. A complete game would be nice for Wood, but I'm sure as well as Cubs fans he will settle for a win.
Saturday, May 20
Home plate collision ignites brawl in Southside showdown
The start of Interleague play hasn't rubbed off any good luck on the Cubs. Saturday afternoon at U.S. Cellular Field the Cubs got shutout 7-0 by the WhiteSox. Second basemen Tadahito Iguchi hit two homeruns, one of those a grand slam and had 6 RBIs. This seems to be reoccurring pattern. The offense remains dismal, which is downright depressing. Rich Hill (0-4) had another bad outing as well, only lasting 4 innings while giving up 7 earned runs on 5 hits and 5 walks. Today the action on the field got heated when the Sox' A.J. Pierzynski slammed into catcher Michael Barrett. There were a lot of mixed reactions about the incident.
Barrett took offense to the collision, thinking it was done intentionally. He then grabbed Pierzynski by the jersey and punched him in the jaw. Immediately both benches cleared with players and coaches getting involved to protect their respective team members. I didn't see the game live, but on the highlights and replay it definitely looked like A.J. was trying his best to run over Barrett, who at the time didn't even have the ball in his glove. The hit at the plate was totally unnecessary. Due to the turn of events both catchers were tossed from the game. Michael will serve a suspension to be determined later.
The worst part about the game for the Cubs was their continual failure to score runs. This team is going to drop towards the bottom of the division near the Pirates, trail the Cards, Reds, Astros by a wide margin if the club's management doesn't strike a few deals. They desperately NEED at least two additional productive bats in the lineup. I'm getting tired of repeating myself. Right now no one in the starting lineup is hitting exceptionally well or will be able to carry the team until Lee returns.
The way the Cubs played today and for the past 3-4 weeks they should be ashamed. The offensive performance has been piss poor, showing no signs of promise. Kerry Wood didn't impress in his first start on Thursday, that's okay if he can regain his composure and mechanics. If not it may be time to put him on the trading block for potential takers. There must be someone in this whole organization that has the desire to be a win instead of sitting back and watching the season gradually take a downward spiral until it plunges straight into the toliet. It's only May, let's play hard-nosed freaking baseball! Start learning to make adjustments at the plate and hit the stinking ball, come on guys!
Barrett took offense to the collision, thinking it was done intentionally. He then grabbed Pierzynski by the jersey and punched him in the jaw. Immediately both benches cleared with players and coaches getting involved to protect their respective team members. I didn't see the game live, but on the highlights and replay it definitely looked like A.J. was trying his best to run over Barrett, who at the time didn't even have the ball in his glove. The hit at the plate was totally unnecessary. Due to the turn of events both catchers were tossed from the game. Michael will serve a suspension to be determined later.
The worst part about the game for the Cubs was their continual failure to score runs. This team is going to drop towards the bottom of the division near the Pirates, trail the Cards, Reds, Astros by a wide margin if the club's management doesn't strike a few deals. They desperately NEED at least two additional productive bats in the lineup. I'm getting tired of repeating myself. Right now no one in the starting lineup is hitting exceptionally well or will be able to carry the team until Lee returns.
The way the Cubs played today and for the past 3-4 weeks they should be ashamed. The offensive performance has been piss poor, showing no signs of promise. Kerry Wood didn't impress in his first start on Thursday, that's okay if he can regain his composure and mechanics. If not it may be time to put him on the trading block for potential takers. There must be someone in this whole organization that has the desire to be a win instead of sitting back and watching the season gradually take a downward spiral until it plunges straight into the toliet. It's only May, let's play hard-nosed freaking baseball! Start learning to make adjustments at the plate and hit the stinking ball, come on guys!
Wednesday, May 17
Zambrano shines in second win, offense improves
It's a good thing the Cubs caught the Nationals at the right time. With both teams scuffling of late the game could have gone either way. Thanks to Carlos Zambrano (2-2), who pitched another terrific game in back-to-back starts the Cubs prevailed in Washington D.C. 4-0 The off-day Monday was much needed, it gave the club a chance to rest and think over strategies or deficiences in their overall game.
Scoring 4 runs against the Nationals was a slight improvement from previous weeks. The offensive output is gradually turning around. A good sign was that 3 players in the starting lineup got 2 hits a piece and Juan Pierre reached base twice. Todd Walker (2-for-3) and Aramis Ramirez contributed 4 RBIs together. The real story is Zambrano's pitching performance. His stat line for Tuesday's night game is the following: 8 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 2 BB, and 8 SO. The Cubs ace was amazing. He appears to be returning to his true form; working out problems with his mechanics and control.
Today the Cubs resume the 3-game series with the Nationals as they send Sean Marshall (2-1 4.93 ERA) to the hill to duel Washington's Zach Day (2-3 5.85 ERA). With some effective hit-and-runs (assuming the Cubs hitters reach base enough)and a little pop the Cubs should be able to pull off another victory in game 2. Waiting up ahead on the schedule are the WhiteSox, Marlins, and Braves. It may not be a pleasant end of the month for the Cubs.
Scoring 4 runs against the Nationals was a slight improvement from previous weeks. The offensive output is gradually turning around. A good sign was that 3 players in the starting lineup got 2 hits a piece and Juan Pierre reached base twice. Todd Walker (2-for-3) and Aramis Ramirez contributed 4 RBIs together. The real story is Zambrano's pitching performance. His stat line for Tuesday's night game is the following: 8 IP, 4 H, 0 ER, 2 BB, and 8 SO. The Cubs ace was amazing. He appears to be returning to his true form; working out problems with his mechanics and control.
Today the Cubs resume the 3-game series with the Nationals as they send Sean Marshall (2-1 4.93 ERA) to the hill to duel Washington's Zach Day (2-3 5.85 ERA). With some effective hit-and-runs (assuming the Cubs hitters reach base enough)and a little pop the Cubs should be able to pull off another victory in game 2. Waiting up ahead on the schedule are the WhiteSox, Marlins, and Braves. It may not be a pleasant end of the month for the Cubs.
Sunday, May 14
Lack of team chemistry and offensive execution paralyzing Chicago
It doesn't come as a surprise that the Cubs have got sweep twice this week by the Padres, who are 7-0 against them this season. The suffering is prolonged for Cubs fans as they witness another agonizing first half. For a team that has lost 14 of their last 16 games a miracle seems necessary to get the club on the right track. Sunday the Cubs got shut out 9-0, once again by the Padres, this time at Wrigley Field. Starting opposing pitcher, Clay Hensley earned his first complete game with a 2-hit shutout.
The inexcusably performance the past month should raise question and probe action by the team's management. What the hell is wrong with these idiots? Don't they ever want to be a winner?? It's downright infuriating to watch a team gradually crash with a thud to their demise like the numerous prior seasons. I don't know what it's going to take to knock sense into the Cubs GM and owner! These jackasses continue to sit on their hands and walk around making excuses because they don't have a clue as to how to run a successful baseball team. Right now potential key acquisitions are up for grabs such as Carlos Lee, Miguel Cabrera, Jose Guillen, Tony Clark, and Kevin Millar.
What is the Cubs front office trying to negotiate, a deal with Jeff Conine?? You've got to be fucking kidding me! These guys need to grow a pair and remove their head out of their own ass! There is no time for deep completation, fumbling around, and jewing down potential buyers for star studded fire power. They should know the game by now. If they don't they need to leave baseball. Dusty shouldn't have to take all the blame for this fiasco either. It's not his fault he has limited talent, chemistry, and experience to work with right now.
Sunday the Cubs set another historic letdown, adding to their misery that they'd rather forget by marking the first time ever they've lost a season series against a National League opponent. When it rains for the Cubs it pours. I don't know how this franchise thinks they can bounce back after a horrendous drought, falling to 15-22 on the season without making appropriate changes. The only bright spot is Kerry Wood, who's expected to return Thursday for his first scheduled start.
Not only is the Cubs offense not producing, but their pitching is started to waver too. Scott Williamson came in the game today in late innings and threw two consecutive wild pitches, allowing two unearned runs to score before even recording an out. That can't happen if the Cubs are to survive. It wouldn't hurt to make a few changes in the bullpen if at all possible. The only dependable arm has been Ryan Dempster as the closer so far. His role won't matter much if the Cubs fail time and again to build a lead or take it for that matter to give him a chance to get the save in the 9th. I say when Wood returns the Cubs should send Rich Hill back to Iowa and bring up Felix Pie. Get rid of Hairston, Walker, and Bynum in a trade. This team needs solutions quick.
The inexcusably performance the past month should raise question and probe action by the team's management. What the hell is wrong with these idiots? Don't they ever want to be a winner?? It's downright infuriating to watch a team gradually crash with a thud to their demise like the numerous prior seasons. I don't know what it's going to take to knock sense into the Cubs GM and owner! These jackasses continue to sit on their hands and walk around making excuses because they don't have a clue as to how to run a successful baseball team. Right now potential key acquisitions are up for grabs such as Carlos Lee, Miguel Cabrera, Jose Guillen, Tony Clark, and Kevin Millar.
What is the Cubs front office trying to negotiate, a deal with Jeff Conine?? You've got to be fucking kidding me! These guys need to grow a pair and remove their head out of their own ass! There is no time for deep completation, fumbling around, and jewing down potential buyers for star studded fire power. They should know the game by now. If they don't they need to leave baseball. Dusty shouldn't have to take all the blame for this fiasco either. It's not his fault he has limited talent, chemistry, and experience to work with right now.
Sunday the Cubs set another historic letdown, adding to their misery that they'd rather forget by marking the first time ever they've lost a season series against a National League opponent. When it rains for the Cubs it pours. I don't know how this franchise thinks they can bounce back after a horrendous drought, falling to 15-22 on the season without making appropriate changes. The only bright spot is Kerry Wood, who's expected to return Thursday for his first scheduled start.
Not only is the Cubs offense not producing, but their pitching is started to waver too. Scott Williamson came in the game today in late innings and threw two consecutive wild pitches, allowing two unearned runs to score before even recording an out. That can't happen if the Cubs are to survive. It wouldn't hurt to make a few changes in the bullpen if at all possible. The only dependable arm has been Ryan Dempster as the closer so far. His role won't matter much if the Cubs fail time and again to build a lead or take it for that matter to give him a chance to get the save in the 9th. I say when Wood returns the Cubs should send Rich Hill back to Iowa and bring up Felix Pie. Get rid of Hairston, Walker, and Bynum in a trade. This team needs solutions quick.
Thursday, May 11
Zambrano stops Bonds in his tracks, gains first win
After a 8 game losing streak the Cubs were finally able to write the ship, beating the Giants 8-1 at San Francisco. Bonds was held hitless (0-for-3) by Carlos Zambrano (1-2), who went the distance to grab his first win of the season. He pitched 8 innings and gave up 1 earned run on 5 hits and 5 walks while striking out 6. The Cubs sure needed the victory just as much as Zambrano.
Jacque Jones came through in the clutch with a 2-run blast to right field, going 3-for-3 with 4 RBIs. He's must be a producer like this on a more regular basis. His bat will have an impact on the average of runs scored per game until the Cubs find another source(s) of offense.
Reports claim the Cubs have put negotiations with Jeff Conine on hold. I don't know why the club's management thinks this is the right fit over at first. He's a decent hitter at best and can't give the Cubs the punch they're in dire need of in the lineup. It would be nice if the GM and owner would start using their heads for something better than a hat rack because this team is in jeopardy of another poor season. Come on guys get your ass in the freaking game!
Jacque Jones came through in the clutch with a 2-run blast to right field, going 3-for-3 with 4 RBIs. He's must be a producer like this on a more regular basis. His bat will have an impact on the average of runs scored per game until the Cubs find another source(s) of offense.
Reports claim the Cubs have put negotiations with Jeff Conine on hold. I don't know why the club's management thinks this is the right fit over at first. He's a decent hitter at best and can't give the Cubs the punch they're in dire need of in the lineup. It would be nice if the GM and owner would start using their heads for something better than a hat rack because this team is in jeopardy of another poor season. Come on guys get your ass in the freaking game!
Tuesday, May 9
Woes continue, Maddux has short outing
Good Lord! Do the Cubs need hitting and fast. The Cubs finished the series at San Diego, dropping to 14-17 and getting swept by a Padres team, who overall performance last season was decent. Greg Maddux had another rough game, only lasting 3.2 innings while surrending 7 ER on 2 walks and 9 hits. Nothing at all is going the Cubs way (How am I not surprised?). Everyone in the organization seems more concerned about the rehabitation and progress of Kerry Wood rather then the team's horrid performance the last 2 weeks.
Somebody needs to wake up the Cubs or get them hunger to win. If that doesn't work use aggressive anger. Obviously, there needs to be new additions made to the lineup. Scoring 2 or 3 runs a game isn't going to cut it. Hell, the Cubs were shutout against the Padres, Diamondbacks, and the Pirates at least one game in each series. This is unacceptable; these teams don't have the best pitching by far in the National League.
The only good point about Monday's loss against the Padres was that the Cubs managed 3 runs, a slight improvement and Jacque Jones homered. I still blame this scoring problem on the club's management. Andy McPhail and Jim Hendri are two of the cheapest ass baseball owners around and don't want to make wise investments. You can't be frugal when the mounting lack of success in the franchise history (I'm talking about winning championships of course and postseason achievements) is riding of the line. The owner and GM have the power to make huge decisions, yes there is always pressure, although these guys suck big time at what they do.
The only thing they can boast is being a failure for the past 10 years in a row. Maybe the franchise needs a new owner, who is a baseball-oriented thinker that can strategize well and has the passion of a fan. Help better be on the way for the Cubs or they will indeed be in for another long, dreadful season. All the optimism in the world won't prevent this from happening. Let's just pray that the club makes some smart turnarounds soon.
Somebody needs to wake up the Cubs or get them hunger to win. If that doesn't work use aggressive anger. Obviously, there needs to be new additions made to the lineup. Scoring 2 or 3 runs a game isn't going to cut it. Hell, the Cubs were shutout against the Padres, Diamondbacks, and the Pirates at least one game in each series. This is unacceptable; these teams don't have the best pitching by far in the National League.
The only good point about Monday's loss against the Padres was that the Cubs managed 3 runs, a slight improvement and Jacque Jones homered. I still blame this scoring problem on the club's management. Andy McPhail and Jim Hendri are two of the cheapest ass baseball owners around and don't want to make wise investments. You can't be frugal when the mounting lack of success in the franchise history (I'm talking about winning championships of course and postseason achievements) is riding of the line. The owner and GM have the power to make huge decisions, yes there is always pressure, although these guys suck big time at what they do.
The only thing they can boast is being a failure for the past 10 years in a row. Maybe the franchise needs a new owner, who is a baseball-oriented thinker that can strategize well and has the passion of a fan. Help better be on the way for the Cubs or they will indeed be in for another long, dreadful season. All the optimism in the world won't prevent this from happening. Let's just pray that the club makes some smart turnarounds soon.
Sunday, May 7
Cubs continue to slide, lose sixth straight
The offense disappoints again, failing to deliver when needed. After a stellar outing from Carlos Zambrano and Sean Marshall on back-to-back days the Cubs' bats remain ice cold. Their 6-3 loss Sunday against the Padres didn't stop the bleeding as the slump resumes. I've said it time and again, the Cubs front office needs to start making some moves. The team's performance as of late should be an embarrassment, not only for the fans, but also the entire organization and city of Chicago.
What really is infuriating for me as well as many Cubs fans is the lack of management; the delay or absence of sound decision making is killing this franchise. What the hell was the club thinking signing Kerry Wood to new, outrageous contract when he's been injured for much of the previous 3 seasons? I can't urge the GM and owner enough to negotiate with potential sellers in the market to acquire a star outfielder and decent first basemen.
Rumors are floating around that the Cubs have shown interest in the Tigers' Carlos Pena and Jeff Conine to fill the void at first base until Derek Lee returns from injury. They can look at these low market players all they want, but these guys aren't going to provide the offensive production the club desperately needs right now. The outfield situation still is left unsettled. The youth available aren't experienced enough, the Cubs have to find a quality veteran with a proven track to fill a rotating assignment in left or right field.
I realize Dusty Baker can't work wonders with the lineup he has available now, but at least he can do is pencil Ramirez in at the no. 3 hole instead of Todd Walker. Michael Barrett is leading the team in RBIs so why not place him in the 4th or 5th spot in the order? I don't understand the reasons behind wasting the best talent and resources. The scoring drought will be prolonged if an immediate change is not made. Chicago is on the verge of being swept by the Padres and falling 3 games under .500. After departing San Diego the Cubs will travel to San Francisco for a 3-game series with the Giants. Of all the bad luck they have to face Barry Bonds as he draws closer to passing Babe Ruth. Damn it! This can't be happening.
What really is infuriating for me as well as many Cubs fans is the lack of management; the delay or absence of sound decision making is killing this franchise. What the hell was the club thinking signing Kerry Wood to new, outrageous contract when he's been injured for much of the previous 3 seasons? I can't urge the GM and owner enough to negotiate with potential sellers in the market to acquire a star outfielder and decent first basemen.
Rumors are floating around that the Cubs have shown interest in the Tigers' Carlos Pena and Jeff Conine to fill the void at first base until Derek Lee returns from injury. They can look at these low market players all they want, but these guys aren't going to provide the offensive production the club desperately needs right now. The outfield situation still is left unsettled. The youth available aren't experienced enough, the Cubs have to find a quality veteran with a proven track to fill a rotating assignment in left or right field.
I realize Dusty Baker can't work wonders with the lineup he has available now, but at least he can do is pencil Ramirez in at the no. 3 hole instead of Todd Walker. Michael Barrett is leading the team in RBIs so why not place him in the 4th or 5th spot in the order? I don't understand the reasons behind wasting the best talent and resources. The scoring drought will be prolonged if an immediate change is not made. Chicago is on the verge of being swept by the Padres and falling 3 games under .500. After departing San Diego the Cubs will travel to San Francisco for a 3-game series with the Giants. Of all the bad luck they have to face Barry Bonds as he draws closer to passing Babe Ruth. Damn it! This can't be happening.
Thursday, May 4
Maddux loses first game, Wood expected back in May
The offense has scuffled to say the least in the last couple games. A shutout from the Pirates' Zack Duke then a one-run output Wednesday night against Arizona shows the need for another productive bat in the lineup. Maddux lasted 5 innings against the D-backs and allowed 5 earned runs on 10 hits, an unlikely performance from the 40-year-old star pitcher. The Cubs still didn't give him enough run support so it wouldn't have mattered how well he pitched.
Reports claim that Kerry Wood is going to make a return this month. He's pitched simulated games and is expected to make his next stop in Peroria on his way through his rehab stint. If Wood can get his mechanics worked out then he will probably a big factor for the Cubs. If would be pointless for him to return to the roster not fully healthy. Risking another injury this soon could too devastating for the Cubs to rebound. Today Chicago meets their former pitcher, Juan Cruz (0-0) who faces Rich Hill (0-0) at Arizona. Time for those Cubs' bats to get active and drive in runs for the pitching staff.
Reports claim that Kerry Wood is going to make a return this month. He's pitched simulated games and is expected to make his next stop in Peroria on his way through his rehab stint. If Wood can get his mechanics worked out then he will probably a big factor for the Cubs. If would be pointless for him to return to the roster not fully healthy. Risking another injury this soon could too devastating for the Cubs to rebound. Today Chicago meets their former pitcher, Juan Cruz (0-0) who faces Rich Hill (0-0) at Arizona. Time for those Cubs' bats to get active and drive in runs for the pitching staff.
Tuesday, May 2
Cubs bounce back from blowouts against Brewers
After a horrid pitching performance from Carlos Zambrano and middle relief on Sunday, the Cubs prevailed over the Pirates 2-1 Monday afternoon at Wrigley Field. The offense didn't have to muster much behind another solid outing from Sean Marshall. The rookie went 7 innings, gave up 1 earned run on 4 hits and a walk while striking out five. Matt Murton hit the go-ahead RBI single in the 8th to pull the Cubs in front.
They need to forget about the series with the Brewers (who always seem to go on a hitting clinic against Chicago) and concentrate on playing the best month of May possible. I know Dusty doesn't have much to work with off the bench or in the lineup as far as having a regular everyday first basemen. This doesn't mean Todd Walker is suitable for the position until they find another player. He's a decent fielder at second, third, and maybe even short though he's not tall or big enough to play the position.
The club probably needs to grab another minor leaguer from Iowa (AAA) if they're not going to make a trade or sign a potential free agent. This organization cannot procastinate and sit back waiting for Derek Lee to get fully healthy. Today Angel Guzman (0-0) takes the mound opposite Zach Duke (1-2). The Cubs offense could be in for a long day if Duke brings his best heater. If they can get on the board early they should be fine. Guzman will need to have a decent pitching performance if they are to pull out another victory agains the Bucs.
They need to forget about the series with the Brewers (who always seem to go on a hitting clinic against Chicago) and concentrate on playing the best month of May possible. I know Dusty doesn't have much to work with off the bench or in the lineup as far as having a regular everyday first basemen. This doesn't mean Todd Walker is suitable for the position until they find another player. He's a decent fielder at second, third, and maybe even short though he's not tall or big enough to play the position.
The club probably needs to grab another minor leaguer from Iowa (AAA) if they're not going to make a trade or sign a potential free agent. This organization cannot procastinate and sit back waiting for Derek Lee to get fully healthy. Today Angel Guzman (0-0) takes the mound opposite Zach Duke (1-2). The Cubs offense could be in for a long day if Duke brings his best heater. If they can get on the board early they should be fine. Guzman will need to have a decent pitching performance if they are to pull out another victory agains the Bucs.
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