Pirates grab first game, but Cubs rebound in Game 2

Friday wasn't a good day for Carlos Zambrano. He'd been a roll in the last month or so, winning 7 games in consecutive starts. At 12-4 he's still having a splendid year. The Cubs ace scattered 5 earned runs on 9 hits and 3 walks. The offense gave him absolutely nothing. This has happened way too many times in the past. Pittsburgh's starter just got lucky, seeing the Cubs for the first time. Rookie are surprising when faced for the first time.

The Cubs attacked right back today as they just rapped up a 7-5 victory. Matt Murton hit his 6th homer of the year and Angel Pagan added an extra insurance shot of his own. Mark Prior (1-5) finally collected his 1st win. His total pitch count was 103 as he went 5.2 innings allowing 3 runs on 5 hits with 3 walks and 5 strikeouts. I'm glad to see someone in the rotation besides Zambrano pick up the slack. The fact that Ramirez and Barrett have been consistent at the plate is also a good sign.

To me I think the Cubs needed to sweep the Pirates and then focus on the upcoming series with the Brewers. Splitting the series with Arizona didn't help the Cubs in the standings. The way St. Louis is playing it's ridiculous how the Cubs don't take full advantage. If the Cardinals lose today then Chicago is 12.5 games back in the division. That's hard to believe since the Cubs have to win 18 games to reach .500. They've to really concentrate and commit to even get close to the Astros and Brewers. Cincy has cooled off tremendously since the first half. If the Cubs would've just won 5 or 6 more games back in June and July they'd be okay now.

Sunday the Cubs give the ball to Rich (1-4) against Pirates starter Ian Snell (9-7). If the wind is blowing out the Cubs lineup better bring their whooping sticks. Hill will need all the offense he can get, they don't even have to hit the long ball just drive in ample runs. Juan Pierre's presence on base will be a big factor. In RBI spots and in the clutch Aramis and Barrett should deliver. Oh yeah, and Dusty keep Nevin at first base!