Down to the final week, the Cubs played give-and-take with Cincinnati. Neither team seemed to care if they won or not. Battling on pitch after pitch, Royce Clayton got the game winning hit in the 9th off Scott Eyre to send the Reds to the locker room happy. It was a must win for the Reds as kept their slim hopes alive for the playoffs. I thought it was possible that the Cubs could somehow finish the year with 70 wins...that glimmer of optimism got shot down quick. The real unfortunate soul of today's game was Juan Mateo.
No matter how well this kid pitches or hangs in there until late innings the offense never has his back. That has to discouraging and frustrating for any pitcher, young or old. The only possible point worth mentioning about the lineup is Aramis Ramirez 37th homerun. I think he will pass several career marks in this club's history in the years to come. From the other side of the field, it was another horrible outing for Ryan Dempster who not only blew the save, but recorded his 9th loss of the season. I know the Reds were hungry to make a comeback and only needed a run to tie the game, but this inconsistency from the regular closer is down right pitiful.
What can Cub fans expect with the season nearing a close anyway I guess? If this franchise can't see the need for drastic changes and take action when they finish the year in last place then there is no chance of turning the club into a contender again. It would be in their best interest to start looking for available options to trade Kerry Wood. He's been dead weight the last 2 years and has wasted revenue. I still think Wood is talented and can serve a valuable role, but the Cubs have gave him enough chances and received very little in return. I think the whole rotation needs to restructured with the exception of Zambrano. Wade Miller can stay or go I really don't care (His also been injured for most of the year). Serious business decisions must be made in the off-season.
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