Watching Cubs games this year like so many in the past is depressing. When it looks like they going to make a turnover things become bleak (or worse). The good news for Cubs fans is they're responsible for ending the Reds 8-game winning streak on Friday. Also Greg Maddux reached another milestone moving to 13th on the all-time wins list.
Maddux: (W, 7-5) 5.1 IP 4 H 2 R 2 ER 0 BB 2 HR 2 SO
That's great for Maddux, he deserves the recognition. The 6-5 win was held up by the thinnest margins as Ryan Dempster closed out the game in the 9th to pick up his 10th save. What I have a hard time understanding is why the starting lineup responded with enough runs and hits last night. I know they faced Bronson Arroyo the other day, yet there isn't a real clear explanation to why the lineup can produce for 1 or 2 games then go ice cold the next 6, failing to produce on several scoring opportunties.
Years ago Harry Carey was right, this team isn't going to win enough games without ample offense. Not much has changed since then. They have to drive in sufficient runs or you can forget about it. All the superior pitching in the world won't help if a club can't score runs in crucial situations. The best clutch hitter on the team is Derek Lee and he's still injured so guys like Ramirez, Barrett, and Nevin will have step up to the challenge. They can't worry about a slump forming. They just need to take care of business.
Today in Game 3 of the series between the Reds, Carlos Zambrano (4-3) will shoot for his second straight win as he combatants Brandon Claussen (3-6). The offense better give Carlos at least 4 runs. They aren't facing a tough pitcher so there is no excuse. Dusty should start Walker at second and put Nevin at first. They need more power in the lineup. Go get 'em in Cincy...have some patience at the plate.
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