Jason Marquis experienced another good encounter with his former team. Friday night he threw ground ball pitch after pitch and stopped the St. Louis offensive attack. That's not to say there wasn't any drama towards the end. Ryan Dempster entered the game in the 8th and went on to collect his 5th save. In the lineup, Felix Pie hit his first homer of the season with a runner on base as did Aramis Ramirez in the 4th inning. For extra insurance (and the Cubs sure needed it) Cesar Izturis smacked a single over shortstop David Eckstein's head for an RBI single to bring home Alfonso Soriano in the 9th.
Stat line on Jason Marquis: 6.2 IP, 5 H, 3 R, 3 ER, and 3 BB, 1 HR, 0 SO
Despite the fact Soriano and Lee only had a hit a piece their ability to get on base often will work wonder for the Cubs. I'm also glad to see Lou testing the waters with Pie and Soriano both in the lineup. This club can only score more runs with these speedsters on the base paths. The run totals are gradually rising and will the different lineup cards everyday the mixture of talent will bloom. Coach Piniella knows he stick to the norms for managing a team since it's failed numerous times in the past. He's always twinking and adjusting which keeps opponents guessing. I'd like to see him continue going this route. Carlos Zambrano (1-2) takes the mound today for afternoon game at Busch Stadium against Adam Wainwright (1-1).
Saturday, April 28
Thursday, April 26
Lee leads the way in Cubs 9-3 victory
Derek Lee busted out the big bat Wednesday as he went 4-for-5 with 2 doubles, a homerun, and 2 RBIs. The lineup did the job scoring 9 runs on 16 hits. Ted Lilly was sharp, going 7 innings and giving up 6 hits and 2 earned runs. He didn't walk any batters and had 3 strikeouts. It was a good day all around for the Cubs against the Brewers. Luckily for Chicago Ben Sheets had to leave the game in the 3rd with a pulled groin.
Ryan Theriot had another 2-hit game, adding 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs. Everyone in the lineup got at least a hit except Jacque Jones. This is a vast improvement from recent weeks where the Cubs failed to drive in base runners. Lilly is credited with a 2-2 record and trying his best to make for Mark Prior's absence. It was a shame Rich Hill got hit with his first loss the other night. I still believe he will be a pivotal guy in the rotation since Prior is expected to miss the rest of the season after his elbow surgery.
The 8-13 record is just the opposite of Milwaukee at the moment. With the middle of the order hitting heavy as they did yesterday that will change. With an off-day Thursday, the Cubs look ahead to their second series with the Cardinals before traveling to Pittsburgh for a short 2-game road series with the Pirates. May be Cub fans can see the strikeout totals rise for Zambrano as well Soriano hit a few long balls!
Ryan Theriot had another 2-hit game, adding 2 runs scored and 2 RBIs. Everyone in the lineup got at least a hit except Jacque Jones. This is a vast improvement from recent weeks where the Cubs failed to drive in base runners. Lilly is credited with a 2-2 record and trying his best to make for Mark Prior's absence. It was a shame Rich Hill got hit with his first loss the other night. I still believe he will be a pivotal guy in the rotation since Prior is expected to miss the rest of the season after his elbow surgery.
The 8-13 record is just the opposite of Milwaukee at the moment. With the middle of the order hitting heavy as they did yesterday that will change. With an off-day Thursday, the Cubs look ahead to their second series with the Cardinals before traveling to Pittsburgh for a short 2-game road series with the Pirates. May be Cub fans can see the strikeout totals rise for Zambrano as well Soriano hit a few long balls!
Tuesday, April 24
Cubs drop two in a row, Zambrano gets no-decision
The series with the Cardinals was indeed a bummer. They had a perfect opportunity to capture the first series instead couldn't hold leads and lost 2-of-3 at Wrigley. Sunday the wind was the Cub's best friend and worst enemy. The lucky bloop hit off Mark DeRosa's bat which the wind pulled in from foul territory tied the game in the 9th for the Cubs, but leave it to Albert Poop-jos to interfere with a game-winning homer and rain on the Cubs expected parade. The fact that Alfonso Soriano had his biggest clutch hit as a Cub pinch-hitting became irrelevant in relation to the outcome.
Carlos Zambrano had a much better outing Monday against the Brewers. He should've picked up the win yet it didn't happen.
Zambrano's stat line: 5 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 3 BB, 7 SO
Milwaukee, for the life of me...I don't understand always plays well against Chicago. They're off to a good start too. What bothers me is that the Cubs out hit the Brewers 9 to 7 and lost by one run, 5-4. Usually it's a blowout by either team. The production from the lineup came from the middle of the order as Derek Lee and Aramis Ramirez drove in the 4 runs. Ramirez slammed a solo homer into left-center. What happened to the rest of the lineup after one day? Soriano did get 2 hits and 2 runs to his credit, but no one else stepped up.
The veterans on this team will have to take over at times to ignite that spark in the lineup. Cliff Floyd, Jacque Jones, and Mark DeRosa have performed okay, but they've got to lead by example for the younger guys like Cedeno and Theriot. Their leadership will have a positive influence. Rich Hill is the most reliable, effective player on the club right now. His 0.45 ERA is the best in the league...truly remarkable for such a still developing pitcher. His talent and skills are enormous. Look for more good things from him. Tonight the Cubs get make somewhat of a dent in their homestand with a victory over the Brew Crew. The big bats need to come out and deliver!
P.S. What to test your knowledge on Cubs trivia? Click here.
Carlos Zambrano had a much better outing Monday against the Brewers. He should've picked up the win yet it didn't happen.
Zambrano's stat line: 5 IP, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 3 BB, 7 SO
Milwaukee, for the life of me...I don't understand always plays well against Chicago. They're off to a good start too. What bothers me is that the Cubs out hit the Brewers 9 to 7 and lost by one run, 5-4. Usually it's a blowout by either team. The production from the lineup came from the middle of the order as Derek Lee and Aramis Ramirez drove in the 4 runs. Ramirez slammed a solo homer into left-center. What happened to the rest of the lineup after one day? Soriano did get 2 hits and 2 runs to his credit, but no one else stepped up.
The veterans on this team will have to take over at times to ignite that spark in the lineup. Cliff Floyd, Jacque Jones, and Mark DeRosa have performed okay, but they've got to lead by example for the younger guys like Cedeno and Theriot. Their leadership will have a positive influence. Rich Hill is the most reliable, effective player on the club right now. His 0.45 ERA is the best in the league...truly remarkable for such a still developing pitcher. His talent and skills are enormous. Look for more good things from him. Tonight the Cubs get make somewhat of a dent in their homestand with a victory over the Brew Crew. The big bats need to come out and deliver!
P.S. What to test your knowledge on Cubs trivia? Click here.
Sunday, April 22
Cubs shut out nemesis 6-0
What a day it was Saturday afternoon for former Cardinal, Jason Marquis! He stuck it to his old team with a excellent pitching performance. St. Louis had no answers Saturday afternoon against Marquis at Wrigley. Albert Puljos seemed like a sore loser too (which is unlike him). He claimed his ex-teammate always gets lucky when it comes to working out of jams. Well, just maybe...Albert was powerless and unable to outguess or hit Marquis yesterday. That's what I think anyway.
Michael supplied the pop with a 3-run shot in the game, which sealed the win. It's about time the Cub bats came to life. They always hit well against their NL rivals and are more motivated to score runs. Unlike the previous week, the lineup banged out at least 10 hits and score more than 4 runs. Jason Marquis pitched 7 innings, yielding 7 hits, 0 runs with 5 strikeouts. Matt Murton got a start in the outfield and went 2-for-4. Ronny Cedeno also had 2 hits, one a solo homer in the 7th inning. It was productive day for the Cubs.
Today the Cubs are playing Game 3 and are currently locked at a 7-7 tie in the 7th inning. Michael Barrett and Aramis Ramirez have already homered. Both starting pitchers got roughed up in the early innings. Bob Howry has come on for the Cubs now in the 8th. The top to middle of the Cubs order has succeeded today as Theriot has a couple hits and D. Lee has got on base a few times. The Cubs can claim the series, 2-of-3 and gain more confidence still without a sidelined Alfonso Soriano who's expected to return soon. I can't wait to see him and Felix Pie in the lineup together. Go Cubs!
Michael supplied the pop with a 3-run shot in the game, which sealed the win. It's about time the Cub bats came to life. They always hit well against their NL rivals and are more motivated to score runs. Unlike the previous week, the lineup banged out at least 10 hits and score more than 4 runs. Jason Marquis pitched 7 innings, yielding 7 hits, 0 runs with 5 strikeouts. Matt Murton got a start in the outfield and went 2-for-4. Ronny Cedeno also had 2 hits, one a solo homer in the 7th inning. It was productive day for the Cubs.
Today the Cubs are playing Game 3 and are currently locked at a 7-7 tie in the 7th inning. Michael Barrett and Aramis Ramirez have already homered. Both starting pitchers got roughed up in the early innings. Bob Howry has come on for the Cubs now in the 8th. The top to middle of the Cubs order has succeeded today as Theriot has a couple hits and D. Lee has got on base a few times. The Cubs can claim the series, 2-of-3 and gain more confidence still without a sidelined Alfonso Soriano who's expected to return soon. I can't wait to see him and Felix Pie in the lineup together. Go Cubs!
Thursday, April 19
Cubs, Zambrano unsuccessful against Braves
The last 2 games for the Cubs were more than disappointing. After dropping a 14-inning game to the Padres due to failure to produce runs late at Wrigley the Cubs did just the opposite Wednesday against the Braves except Zambrano had another shaky outing. As a result the Cubs lost 8-6. I'm not mad at Carlos because I understand how badly he wants to win and the pressure he's under. Somehow this new Chicago club has to come together and function as a whole. They punched out 8 hits yesterday, which was decent and did the same in the 4-3 loss to San Diego.
Already this early in the season, the rotation has pitched real quality innings and did their job, but the offense doesn't execute. It's hard for Miller, Lilly, and Marquis to feel confident when the lineup is constantly scuffling at the plate. Don't get me wrong, it's not everyone. Derek Lee and Ryan Theriot (this guy is very promising) have been consistent and are getting on base often. The problem is the middle to bottom of the order aren't driving in the runs.
One thing I'm pleased with is having Felix Pie in the lineup, filling in for Soriano who's still on the DL. Well...it's about freaking time! Whenever Alfonso returns I believe the offense will be more productive if both outfielders are in the lineup. Lou can bounce Pie around in different spots in the order and see what works best. Back to yesterday's game, it wasn't pretty for Zambrano yet served as a learning experience. Despite this bad outing he avoided the lost as it was recorded to Scott Eyre who came in the 7th. The Cubs ace pitched 6 innings, giving up 5 earned runs on 8 hits and 5 walks. 4 of those runs came from homeruns by Jeff Franceour and Scott Thorman.
The walks obviously are killing Zambrano so this is an immediate area he needs to work on to cut down each game. I don't know if Zambrano is 100%, but maybe he needs to rely less on the fastball and not overwork his pitching arm. This is what plagued Mark Prior and Kerry Wood I think because they would force too many high pitch counts and it got to the point where it effected their control. No one wants this to happen to Carlos. He's the work horse on the team, and in my opinion the most influential leader too.
Maybe he can work out complications with his mechanics and that will correct everything. The Cubs look to rebound today in Atlanta as they send Rich Hill (2-0 0.64 ERA) to the mound against Mark Redman (0-2 12.96 ERA). Nothing besides good things have come from Rich Hill and I look for that to continue. Go get 'em Cubs!
Already this early in the season, the rotation has pitched real quality innings and did their job, but the offense doesn't execute. It's hard for Miller, Lilly, and Marquis to feel confident when the lineup is constantly scuffling at the plate. Don't get me wrong, it's not everyone. Derek Lee and Ryan Theriot (this guy is very promising) have been consistent and are getting on base often. The problem is the middle to bottom of the order aren't driving in the runs.
One thing I'm pleased with is having Felix Pie in the lineup, filling in for Soriano who's still on the DL. Well...it's about freaking time! Whenever Alfonso returns I believe the offense will be more productive if both outfielders are in the lineup. Lou can bounce Pie around in different spots in the order and see what works best. Back to yesterday's game, it wasn't pretty for Zambrano yet served as a learning experience. Despite this bad outing he avoided the lost as it was recorded to Scott Eyre who came in the 7th. The Cubs ace pitched 6 innings, giving up 5 earned runs on 8 hits and 5 walks. 4 of those runs came from homeruns by Jeff Franceour and Scott Thorman.
The walks obviously are killing Zambrano so this is an immediate area he needs to work on to cut down each game. I don't know if Zambrano is 100%, but maybe he needs to rely less on the fastball and not overwork his pitching arm. This is what plagued Mark Prior and Kerry Wood I think because they would force too many high pitch counts and it got to the point where it effected their control. No one wants this to happen to Carlos. He's the work horse on the team, and in my opinion the most influential leader too.
Maybe he can work out complications with his mechanics and that will correct everything. The Cubs look to rebound today in Atlanta as they send Rich Hill (2-0 0.64 ERA) to the mound against Mark Redman (0-2 12.96 ERA). Nothing besides good things have come from Rich Hill and I look for that to continue. Go get 'em Cubs!
Tuesday, April 17
Cubs defeat Padres 12-4, Soriano leaves game
Yesterday the Cubs offense took care of business, eventually providing ample run support behind Jason Marquis. The right-hander went 6 innings and only allowed 2 runs on a couple of hits. Everything went smooth except for the Alfonso Soriano pulling his hamstring early in the game. He had to leave the game and is listed as day-to-day. Thankfully this wasn't a serious injury yet it still sucks.
Derek Lee chipped in with 2 hits and a RBI in the win over San Diego while Michael Barrett and Mark DeRosa both homered to give the Cubs an advantage. Soriano was 1-for-2 with a run scored before pulling his hamstring. The bats came alive and I look to see a continuation today as the Cubs will face the Padres at 2:20 p.m. for Game 2 at Wrigley. Wade Miller squares off with former Cub, Greg Maddux. The Cubs seek redemption and will try to bring out the whooping stick against the veteran Cy Young winner. We'll see what happens.
Derek Lee chipped in with 2 hits and a RBI in the win over San Diego while Michael Barrett and Mark DeRosa both homered to give the Cubs an advantage. Soriano was 1-for-2 with a run scored before pulling his hamstring. The bats came alive and I look to see a continuation today as the Cubs will face the Padres at 2:20 p.m. for Game 2 at Wrigley. Wade Miller squares off with former Cub, Greg Maddux. The Cubs seek redemption and will try to bring out the whooping stick against the veteran Cy Young winner. We'll see what happens.
Saturday, April 14
Zambrano drops second game, Cubs lose 6-5 against Reds
The Wrigleyville faithful have yet to see a Cubs win at home. After having two days rest fans would think the lineup would be ready and able to be productive. As usual things didn't go the Cubs way Friday afternoon. Carlos Zambrano had an off-game at the mound, but he made up for his mistakes by hitting a homerun and a double, driving in one and scoring two runs. The good feature from this game was the Cubs did score 5 runs, but Zambrano was credited with 6 runs in the 5th inning. That was the difference in the game. The real bad news for Chicago is Aramis Ramirez who is now out with a wrist injury as Ryan Theriot replaced him over at third, going 3-for-5 at the plate with 2 RBIs yesterday.
The most frustrating part of this game was that both Zambrano and Harang pitched 4 innings while the Cubs lineup couldn't spark a rally in late innings to at least force extra innings. Eventually I believe the Cubs will pick the right spots in games and drive these stranded runners home. The stat line on Zambrano was unfortunate: 4 IP, 6 H, 6 ER, 4 BB, 2 SO.
I realize the cold weather is having an effect on playing condition on the field. Still, viewing the talent in this new lineup one would think they'd play much better against their division rivals. Thus far, the 3-6 record proves otherwise. They can snap out of early season funk with a combined team effort...and I hope it's soon. Rich Hill makes his second start today opposite Bronso Arroyo. The young lefty goes for his second win. Go Cubs!
The most frustrating part of this game was that both Zambrano and Harang pitched 4 innings while the Cubs lineup couldn't spark a rally in late innings to at least force extra innings. Eventually I believe the Cubs will pick the right spots in games and drive these stranded runners home. The stat line on Zambrano was unfortunate: 4 IP, 6 H, 6 ER, 4 BB, 2 SO.
I realize the cold weather is having an effect on playing condition on the field. Still, viewing the talent in this new lineup one would think they'd play much better against their division rivals. Thus far, the 3-6 record proves otherwise. They can snap out of early season funk with a combined team effort...and I hope it's soon. Rich Hill makes his second start today opposite Bronso Arroyo. The young lefty goes for his second win. Go Cubs!
Thursday, April 12
Day game snowed out, Cubs in search of first home victory
Wednesday the guys in blue received a day off because of inclement weather with rain adding to snow, making conditions on the field unsuitable to play baseball. Today was already a scheduled day off so the rotation can rest their arms and be rejuvenated for this weekend. The make-up game for yesterday will be July 12. With the short break the Cub hitters should use this time to work on their swings by taking indoor batting practice in the cages. So far there hasn't been much run production from the top to middle of the order.
I noticed a few days ago Lou had either Jacque Jones or Mark DeRosa batting in front of Lee and Ramirez. It's good to see the Skipper 'testing the waters' a bit and changing the lineup up. The main area which needs improvement is getting guys on base. The one exception to this is Derek Lee who has a .987 OBP and you get much better than that. The past week the lineup hasn't accumulated more than 8 hits in a game. Such numbers would be fine if they start scoring more than 3 runs per game.
It's seems like the Cubs are starting off the season with what they left off doing in 2006. I understand it's only the third week...yet the fans come to Wrigley to see this club put runs on the scoreboard and win. Lou Piniella hopefully can speak some motivational words to his players to get them in gear. *From a non-fan's perspective I guess the Chicago Tribune has no faith in this team and wants to call it quits since they've already announced their plans to sell the franchise after the season.
All I know what to know is why now? After shelling out over $300 million, a franchise record, for the new talent the Cubs have acquired shouldn't the company at least wait and see what happens? The decision just comes down to money which can be profited by the Tribune. If this isn't motivation enough to propel the Cubs to succeed I have no idea what will. The important thing now is getting their first win at Wrigley and looking forward to brighter days.
Having Mark Prior reach success in his rehab stint in the Minors is a big goal. Then if all is well he can return to the rotation and a serve a pivotal role on the team again. Barring there is no snow to rain to wreak havoc Friday, the Cubs and Reds will hook up again for a 2:20 p.m. start as Zambrano (1-1) counters Aaron Harang (2-0) in their second meeting. I look for Chicago to have a productive day.
I noticed a few days ago Lou had either Jacque Jones or Mark DeRosa batting in front of Lee and Ramirez. It's good to see the Skipper 'testing the waters' a bit and changing the lineup up. The main area which needs improvement is getting guys on base. The one exception to this is Derek Lee who has a .987 OBP and you get much better than that. The past week the lineup hasn't accumulated more than 8 hits in a game. Such numbers would be fine if they start scoring more than 3 runs per game.
It's seems like the Cubs are starting off the season with what they left off doing in 2006. I understand it's only the third week...yet the fans come to Wrigley to see this club put runs on the scoreboard and win. Lou Piniella hopefully can speak some motivational words to his players to get them in gear. *From a non-fan's perspective I guess the Chicago Tribune has no faith in this team and wants to call it quits since they've already announced their plans to sell the franchise after the season.
All I know what to know is why now? After shelling out over $300 million, a franchise record, for the new talent the Cubs have acquired shouldn't the company at least wait and see what happens? The decision just comes down to money which can be profited by the Tribune. If this isn't motivation enough to propel the Cubs to succeed I have no idea what will. The important thing now is getting their first win at Wrigley and looking forward to brighter days.
Having Mark Prior reach success in his rehab stint in the Minors is a big goal. Then if all is well he can return to the rotation and a serve a pivotal role on the team again. Barring there is no snow to rain to wreak havoc Friday, the Cubs and Reds will hook up again for a 2:20 p.m. start as Zambrano (1-1) counters Aaron Harang (2-0) in their second meeting. I look for Chicago to have a productive day.
Monday, April 9
Cubs take 2-of-3 from Brewers
This Easter weekend was kind to the Cubs. They won two straight against the Brewers before dropping the third game Sunday, 9-4. Everything went smooth except for Wade Miller's outing. His 2007 debut didn't go according to plan nor ended the way he would have liked. Going 4 innings, the veteran right-hander allowed 6 earned runs on 9 hits and 2 walks. The back-to-back homers Miller gave up to Jenkins and Gross hurt the Cubs chances of making a comeback. Plus Scott Eyre yielded 3 runs in the 9th, which didn't help either.
Chris Capuano always seems to pitch well against Chicago. The lineup did okay, stretching 4 runs across the board. Derek Lee had another 2-hit game while Ramirez and Soriano only added one hit apiece. I don't think the star center-fielder has got comfortable yet at top of the order. To me it makes more sense to have him batting in the no. 2 hole because not only will he be in a position to steal bases, but also have more chances to drive in runs, allowing the other 2 big sluggers to see better pitches. That's one issue Piniella may want to take into consideration.
The Cubs are 3-3, which really doesn't speculate or mean anything for the rest of the season. The 2 losses in Cincy could have gone either way. I'd just like to see the new lineup get used to playing with one another everday and starting to click. The power from the middle of the order will develop sooner or later. Having a strong rotation that provides quality innings and keeps the allotment of runs down is truly important.
Today the Cubs start their home opener at Wrigley against the Astros, scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET. The homestand will be entertaining. I imagine the stands will be packed, especially in the bleachers and on the rooftops on Waveland Avenue. Again, I will miss the game (as many this summer), but can't wait to see the highlights, wishing Lilly another successful outing and for the Cubs to pick their first win at Wrigley!
Chris Capuano always seems to pitch well against Chicago. The lineup did okay, stretching 4 runs across the board. Derek Lee had another 2-hit game while Ramirez and Soriano only added one hit apiece. I don't think the star center-fielder has got comfortable yet at top of the order. To me it makes more sense to have him batting in the no. 2 hole because not only will he be in a position to steal bases, but also have more chances to drive in runs, allowing the other 2 big sluggers to see better pitches. That's one issue Piniella may want to take into consideration.
The Cubs are 3-3, which really doesn't speculate or mean anything for the rest of the season. The 2 losses in Cincy could have gone either way. I'd just like to see the new lineup get used to playing with one another everday and starting to click. The power from the middle of the order will develop sooner or later. Having a strong rotation that provides quality innings and keeps the allotment of runs down is truly important.
Today the Cubs start their home opener at Wrigley against the Astros, scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET. The homestand will be entertaining. I imagine the stands will be packed, especially in the bleachers and on the rooftops on Waveland Avenue. Again, I will miss the game (as many this summer), but can't wait to see the highlights, wishing Lilly another successful outing and for the Cubs to pick their first win at Wrigley!
Thursday, April 5
Lilly superb in first game, gives Cubs first win
I'm pleased how well the second game against the Reds went yesterday. The 4 runs the lineup put on the board were more than enough for Ted Lilly. If he can pitch this effective all season the Cubs have definitely made a wise investment. Going 7 innings, only allowing 1 walk, 3 hits, and an earned run, Lilly looked sharp. Soriano collected his first RBI as a Cub in the 4-1 win. Ramirez got 2 or 3 hits as well.
The crop of guys the Cubs have in the rotation and bullpen will give them real quality innings. Neal Cotts has faired well so far, getting in a few innings in the first 2 games. I still want to see Felix Pie get some action on the field. Management might as well test the waters and see what the prized prospect can do in the Majors. The more exposure he gains the better. Piniella may decide to use him as a pinch hitter often later in the year.
Today Jason Marquis goes to the mound against Victor Santos. Marquis doesn't want to allow Dunn to crank any homers in this one. If he can keep the walks down the Cubs should be okay. Lee, Soriano, and Ramirez can do some damage in the lineup and provide the run support for their young pitcher. Go Cubs!
The crop of guys the Cubs have in the rotation and bullpen will give them real quality innings. Neal Cotts has faired well so far, getting in a few innings in the first 2 games. I still want to see Felix Pie get some action on the field. Management might as well test the waters and see what the prized prospect can do in the Majors. The more exposure he gains the better. Piniella may decide to use him as a pinch hitter often later in the year.
Today Jason Marquis goes to the mound against Victor Santos. Marquis doesn't want to allow Dunn to crank any homers in this one. If he can keep the walks down the Cubs should be okay. Lee, Soriano, and Ramirez can do some damage in the lineup and provide the run support for their young pitcher. Go Cubs!
Tuesday, April 3
Zambrano, Cubs unlucky on Opening Day
The first game of the year didn't favor the Cubs. Their 5-1 loss to Cincy was kind of surprising to me. I know from now on not to make bold predictions this early. Despite Carlos picking up the loss, going 5 innings while yielding 5 earned runs on 6 hits and 5 walks, Derek Lee did get 2 hits as I expected. Unfortunately, the Cubs new lineup couldn't hit Aaron Harang. I don't think outcomes matter much on Opening Day, it's no big deal. I feel better knowing also that the Red Sox scored only a run in their opening game loss to the Royals. Still it never looks good when any team with high hopes isn't offensively efficient.
Lou will have to wait until at least Wednesday to record his first win as a Cubs coach. Everyone would have liked to see him get a 'W' in his debut. The Reds didn't experience any offensive shortages yesterday. Adam Dunn jacked 2 homeruns which was more than enough to seal the deal. The Cubs record on Opening Day against the Reds is 17-16 as they had won 9 of the last 13 games. Coming 2007 they had won 4 straight Opening Day games.
Those stats just go show you that the few weeks of the season is inconsequential. I care more about where the Cubs will be at during the All-Star break. Going on a big run in the second half can make or break a club. Chicago will have two more games against the Reds on the road before traveling to Milwaukee to meet the Brewers for a 2-game series. Ted Lilly, who's had the flu should be able to make his start this week. I'd enjoy seeing a few dingers off the Cub sluggers bats tomorrow with Soriano, Lee, and Ramirez driving in a couple runs.
Lou will have to wait until at least Wednesday to record his first win as a Cubs coach. Everyone would have liked to see him get a 'W' in his debut. The Reds didn't experience any offensive shortages yesterday. Adam Dunn jacked 2 homeruns which was more than enough to seal the deal. The Cubs record on Opening Day against the Reds is 17-16 as they had won 9 of the last 13 games. Coming 2007 they had won 4 straight Opening Day games.
Those stats just go show you that the few weeks of the season is inconsequential. I care more about where the Cubs will be at during the All-Star break. Going on a big run in the second half can make or break a club. Chicago will have two more games against the Reds on the road before traveling to Milwaukee to meet the Brewers for a 2-game series. Ted Lilly, who's had the flu should be able to make his start this week. I'd enjoy seeing a few dingers off the Cub sluggers bats tomorrow with Soriano, Lee, and Ramirez driving in a couple runs.
Sunday, April 1
Thoughts and predictions on Opening Day game tomorrow
I won't say that Spring Training was brutal on the Cubs then again it wasn't real uplifting either with arm problems for Prior and Wood. Finally the season Opener is only a day away, the time for speculating and inquiring is over. When the Cubs arrive at Cinergy Field all they have to be concerned about is playing good baseball. This means being effective and executing, a strategy they've struggled with throughout 2006. The franchise seems hell bent on making up for lost times and wiping last season's 66-96 finish from fans' memories. I like the approach management has took so far, they just have to continue on this path.
Lou Piniella becomes the 50th coach in franchise history, feeling good about the ball club that's been assembled this off-season. Someone with his experience and baseball knowledge can only rub players the right way. The adjustments he thinks may need to be made later is with the defense. Carlos Zambrano makes his third straight start on Opening Day Monday. I'll miss the game since I have to work (should take the day off instead). I think Zambrano will pitch at least 6 innings and get the win. Avoiding a high pitch count would be great. He has a tendency to outstretch the usual limit.
The opening match up between the two NL Central rivals will put Zambrano (16-7 3.41) up against Aaron Harang (16-11 3.76 ERA in 2006), slated for a 1:10 p.m. start. The following is projected starting lineup for the Cubs:
1. CF Alfonso Soriano
2. LF Matt Murton
3. 1B Derrek Lee
4. 3B Aramis Ramirez
5. RF Jacque Jones
6. C Michael Barrett
7. 2B Mark DeRosa
8. SS Cesar Izturis
9. P Carlos Zambrano
This lineup can put some runs on the board, enough to give their starting ace a cushion. What I don't like about the lineup is having Izturis starting over Ronny Cedeno. Obviously, he's shown who the better hitter is in Spring Training. I'm okay with Murton hitting second for Opening Day. The spot could work for him. Later in the season I think Piniella could experiment with Barrett there as well since he has good OBP. Having Lee in the lineup always helps, who I expect will get at least 2 hits tomorrow. Let's kick the new season off right when a win on Opening Day!
Lou Piniella becomes the 50th coach in franchise history, feeling good about the ball club that's been assembled this off-season. Someone with his experience and baseball knowledge can only rub players the right way. The adjustments he thinks may need to be made later is with the defense. Carlos Zambrano makes his third straight start on Opening Day Monday. I'll miss the game since I have to work (should take the day off instead). I think Zambrano will pitch at least 6 innings and get the win. Avoiding a high pitch count would be great. He has a tendency to outstretch the usual limit.
The opening match up between the two NL Central rivals will put Zambrano (16-7 3.41) up against Aaron Harang (16-11 3.76 ERA in 2006), slated for a 1:10 p.m. start. The following is projected starting lineup for the Cubs:
1. CF Alfonso Soriano
2. LF Matt Murton
3. 1B Derrek Lee
4. 3B Aramis Ramirez
5. RF Jacque Jones
6. C Michael Barrett
7. 2B Mark DeRosa
8. SS Cesar Izturis
9. P Carlos Zambrano
This lineup can put some runs on the board, enough to give their starting ace a cushion. What I don't like about the lineup is having Izturis starting over Ronny Cedeno. Obviously, he's shown who the better hitter is in Spring Training. I'm okay with Murton hitting second for Opening Day. The spot could work for him. Later in the season I think Piniella could experiment with Barrett there as well since he has good OBP. Having Lee in the lineup always helps, who I expect will get at least 2 hits tomorrow. Let's kick the new season off right when a win on Opening Day!
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