Cubs, Zambrano blank Reds 6-0

The pride is swelling with a clear indication of confidence as this Chicago club is in fine tine (Wow, that sounds sort of like a Viagra commercial). It was all gravy Sunday afternoon at Cinergy Field as the Cubs shut out the Reds behind another mesmerizing performance by Carlos Zambrano. Plus he even had 3 hits! Does this superstar do it all or what? Derek Lee (11) popped a 2-run shot late to give his team an added cushion. 2 runs was all the Cubs ace really needed.

After going 7 innings, Zambrano left the game with 6 K's to his totals and allowed just 2 hits and 3 walks. He cruised to his 14th win and felt little effect after bouncing a line drive off his heel, which Aramis Ramirez bare-handed and threw out the runner at first. 13 hits is more like the Cubs lineup is capable of producing on a regular basis. Going through the order at least 5 players had 2 or more hits a piece. I like their chances when they can pull together such hitting showcases. Pagan's 2-run single up the middle in the 9th drew many cheers from fans and the dugout.

Ryan Theriot, Mike Fontenot, and Koyie Hill are seeing extra playing time and they're making the most of it. Sure Hill or Fontenot didn't get a hit yesterday, but their experiences on the field are invaluable. That play Mike made to end the game along the infield was incredible! Shades of a young Ryno is his prime. Today the Cubs start the series with the Phillies as Ted Lilly (11-4) returns to the mound to face Cole Hamels (11-5). The matchup looks to shape up for a close game in a real pitcher's duel. Cub offense don't fail me now!

Cubs falter in Series finale, but take 2-of-3

Last night in St. Louis there was nothing in the making for a Cubs victory. The Cardinal bats tore up Cubs pitching in a 11-1 romp. Too many homers and extra base hits were given up. Former Cardinal, Jason Marquis' appearance wasn't what Cub fans had hoped for in an attempt at a sweep. With the Brewers' loss Thursday night the Cubs missed a spot to gain extra ground in the division. *Check out this cool MLB Cubs blog for more news and updates: Bleeding Blue

The 7 hits didn't amount to much for the Cubs as Braden Looper took control for 7 innings. Jason Kendall did pick up 2 hits in the game. The Cubs stranded 8 runners on base, which absolutely killed their chances. Derek Lee hit a solo homer, serving as the lineup's only run. This club is still moving in the right direction and his made tremendous progress in the last 2 months.

I don't know what the deal is with Kerry Wood now or Wade Miller. Speculation going on around the franchise claims Wood is better than ever. At this point who really cares? The Cubs should've traded him a few years back when they had a chance to get good talent in exchange for him. The rotation with Zambrano, Lilly, Hill, Marquis, and Marshall is pretty solid. Another good southpaw though would definitely help. Starting today the Cubs see the Reds for another 3-game bill as Rich Hill (6-6 3.58 ERA) takes the ball against Bronson Arroyo (4-11 4.58 ERA)

Zambrano triumphs to 13th win, Cubs take Game 1 against Cards

Back on the road the Cubs fared well last night in St. Louis for the first game of the a 3-game series. They edged the Cardinals 4-3 behind another notable pitching performance by Carlos Zambrano. He has no doubt been on a roll the past month! If the Cubs ace stays hot like this he could very well become a 20- game winner. He pitched 6.1 innings, giving up 2 earned runs on 5 hits and 3 walks.

Aramis Ramirez went 4-for-5 with an RBI. Derek Lee returned to the team and punched out 2 hits. Called up from Triple A Ronny Cedeno made a couple plate appearances and had a hit. Also Ryan Dempster returned to his role as closer and collected his 17th save Tuesday night. The Cubs need him to stay healthy and close out tight games similar to last night. Nipping at the Brewers' heels Chicago is only 3 games behind them. Lilly (10-4) takes the mound tonight opposite Wainwright (9-7). Come on Milwaukee drop a couple games!

Cubs drop 2-of-3 against D-backs ending hot streak

The run was nice while it lasted, but like all good things for this franchise they eventually come to an end. Then again hope isn't lost on the season. There is plenty of baseball left until the fall. Sean Marshall (4-4 L) gave a valiant effort, pitching 6 innings Sunday and yielding a run on 5 hits. He struck out 5 in the 3-0 loss.

What was the deal with the lineup? They must have been tired and worn out. The lineup had just 4 hits. Off days like yesterday are normal, but the Cubs can't experience too many rolling into August because that's when the tension will elevates and they're got to rise to the challenge. All in all the club is in good shape, preserving a 51-46 record.

Starting today the Cubs are on the road for a big 3-game series with the Cardinals before traveling to Cincy to face the Reds. They need to keep their lead over their NL Central rivals and try to push past the Brew Crew. Lou will have to find way to get more at-bats for Jason Kendall (more him to the no. 2 or 5 spot in the lineup). Derek Lee is set to return to the lineup Tuesday, which ought to give the team a big lift on offense. The series in St. Louis should be quite entertaining. Go for the sweep Cubs!

Cubs drop 1-run game at Wrigley

Saturday afternoon at Wrigley Field wasn't all that pleasant for the home team. Tied at 2 in the 7th inning with the Diamondbacks the Cubs bullpen gave up the go ahead run from a solo homer. Aramis Ramirez had an opportunity to tie or put the Cubs ahead in the 8th instead grounded into an inning ending double play. Oh well, they're still close to the Brewers and can very well catch them next week.

The Cubs were rolling on a nice streak at home, I think 7-1 in the last 8 games there. Lou is become calm over the course of a few weeks and really has this franchise playing winning baseball. So much pressure is riding on him not only the players and as a veteran manager he's responded well. Yet I'm always amuse when he comes stomping onto the field, flings his hat, and kicks dirt while giving the umpires an ear full! As a true Cubs fan you're got to enjoy that whether they're winning or losing. Still the Cubs until September have to bear down and go on runs to make the second half interesting. Go Cubs!

Cubs stomp Giants 12-1

The level and energy the Cubs are playing at now is astounding. They finally appear to be serious about winning. With the franchise already announced to be sold at the end of the season the guys in the clubhouse aren't thinking about that. Koyie Hill had a huge game yesterday at Wrigley with two doubles and 5 RBIs. Production of this nature is always welcomed. Jacque Jones busted out his slump with a hit, 2 runs scored, and 2 RBIs. Derek Lee hit a solo homerun.

I can't believe how far the starting pitching has come. Carlos Zambrano cruised to his 12th win after pitching 5 quality innings of shutout ball. He allowed just 2 hits and 2 walks while striking out 3 batters. This club is really in the zone. Their chances are looking better each day in the Central. Eventually the Cardinals and Reds will start playing more up to par, but until then the Cubs need to keep putting up the pressure. Lilly (9-4) takes the ball today for an afternoon start against the Giants' Matt Morris (7-5).

Ramirez' double late seals comeback

The Cubs resume their winning ways with 4 consecutive wins after last night's close contest at Wrigley Field. Barry Bonds didn't play Monday night as he took his recovery day. Rich Hill played a good game, collecting his 6th win behind 8 innings of 4-hit 2-run pitching. He allowed a homer to Pedro Feliz early and not much afterwards. Aramis Ramirez was the hero with the huge 2-run double in the 8th to pull them ahead.

I don't know how long the Cubs can keep this stellar play up, although they're clearly making strides towards the postseason. Management took a big step yesterday by acquiring Jason Kendall from the Oakland Athletics. They traded catcher Rob Bowen and minor league lefty Jerry Blevins to get the veteran All-Star catcher. This was a smart move and good deal for the Cubs. They didn't have a permanent catcher after Barrett left. Now they have another solid arm on defense and hitter.

For a while the franchise seemed dead set on dealing away Jacque Jones. He's struggled for a while at the plate and is desperately trying to snap out of his drought. If the Cubs had to they could trade him, but who could they get in exchange? Why Griffey's name was ever mentioned in trade talks is beyond me. That was just completely unrealistic. The main goals at present are jumping ahead of the Brewers and reaching .600. These are very attainable and I know the Cubs can do it.

P.S. Cub fans if you missed it be sure to check out the special broadcast on HBO: Wait 'Til Next Year.

Cubs nip Astros 7-6, complete sweep at home

What a weekend for the Chicago Cubs! They took care of business at Wrigley serving up a series of long balls and handed their NL Central rivals a sweep. Way to go Cubs! Standing at 47-43 they're a mere 3 games out of first. The Brewers play the D-backs starting tonight (which is a real favorable series for them). Yesterday's action featured a 3-run shot by Derek Lee who reached base in all 4 plate appearances.

Also with homers were Angel Pagan's 2-run shot (4) and Ryan Theriot's (2) solo homer which was the difference in the game. The lineup tore up Astros' pitching in the 2nd with 6 runs then only scratched out a run for the rest of the game. That doesn't matter when they win. Jason Marquis experienced another down game after lasting 4 innings, but the bullpen picked up the slack and did a great job in Game 3 of the series. Kudos to them for their vast improvement from months past.

Tonight the Giants are in town for a 3-game bill with all the attention centered around Barry Bonds. I'm sure he'll get at least one homerun, although I don't care what he does as long as the Cubs take the series. They've got to keep the pressure riding on the Brewers. Chicago is a more experienced club who's persistence and leadership personas look to have a lasting effect on their success. I'd like to see the Cubs outperform the 11-hit performance they put together Sunday afternoon. It's about time for Jacque Jones to heat up. Soriano and him make a nice touch in the outfield. Note to Rich Hill: Don't give Bonds anything to hit...give him some chin music if you have to today.

Zambrano dominates Astros in route to a 6-0 shutout

Wow, the Cubs haven't lost their touch coming out of the break. In fact they're playing with great poise like a club on a mission. What a fantastic gem Carlos Zambrano hurled against Houston. They couldn't muster a run on him through 6.3 innings, only managing 3 hits. Big Z finished with 7 strikeouts. As the summer heats up so does Carlos. This man is on point with his location and velocity.

Derek Lee hit a 2-run double late to seal the deal for the Cubs. Soriano, Theriot, DeRosa, Floyd, and ZAMBRANO all had 2 hits a piece as the lineup crunched out 12 total hits. When one player performs well from from an offensive and defensive standpoint it rubs off on teammates. That seems to be the case here. Bob Howry came in the 9th to nail down the door. The Cubs stand at 45-43, inching closer to the Brewers.

Unfortunately, there is bad news for Chicago fans as Felix Pie was called down to Triple A and Jacque Jones was announced as the primary starting centerfielder. I'm not so sure this was a wise move...anyway if the Cub bats resume the good contact at the plate they shouldn't have any problems. I push for the Cubs to have a productive homestand! Make the most of this hot streak and KEEP WINNING!

Soriano, Lee make All-Star game interesting late

The Cub bats made their presence felt at the 78th All-Star game in San Francisco. In the 9th inning with the NL down 5-2 Alfonso Soriano slugged an opposite field 2-run shot with 2 outs. J.J. Hardy and Derek Lee (1-for-2) both walked to bring up the Phillies' Aaron Rowand. Unfortunately he couldn't get a hit or reach base and the NL lost 5-4. It was a thrilling game, going down to the final out. Ichiro (All-Star MVP) made history with the first inside the park homerun! I'm happy at least 2 Cub players made the All-Star team.

Next year I look for Zambrano to be there in rare form as usual. At the break Chicago is only 4 games in back of the Brewers. With the festivities and all the last few days hopefully everybody has got a chance to rest and return to play fully recuperated. I think Alfonso Soriano should've been in the homerun Derby. I watched most of the event and actually had picked Vladmir Guerrero to win it...and he pulled it off! Just the same though I would have rooted for Lee or Soriano if they'd participated.

After 2 additional off days the Cubs are set to play the Astros, Giants, Diamondbacks at home before going on another road trip to finish out July. With the offense in full swing this club is going to be okay until they get into August. Then they'll have buckle down and beat some stiff competition. I forward to what awaits in the latter part of the season. Get that rest in while you can Cubs!

Cubs enjoy break after uplifting road trip

The Cubs still look fresh and optimistic about the second half. They get a break for the All-Star festivities which start today after taking 1-of-2 from the Pirates. A few Cub faces should appear in the All-Star game. Derek Lee will be present for sure. Experiencing a resurgence month of June the Cubs are well on their way to climbing atop the division. Seeing the bullpen work effectively in the past 3 weeks has been a pleasant surprise.

How about the production brewing from the lineup? These guys have made a big transition since the opening of the season. The consistency at the plate seems to finally be there. Cub fans have long awaited for such offense. Ramirez and Lee lead the team in batting average, homeruns, and RBIs. The prospects, Fontenot and Theriot had faired extremely well in June and appear to be heating up for July. Their bats can help the Cubs inch out close games.

Lilly's last start was great! He's 8-4 with an ERA under 3.30. Zambrano, Marquis, and Marshall have showcased excellent performances on the mound as well. Keeping the runs allowed per game will be pivotal for the starting pitchers. Having the bullpen rested is vital too. I'd like to see more appearances from Ryan Dempster though because he hasn't got enough chances to showcase his best stuff. I look forward to seeing him nail down several games in the coming months. Enjoy the break Cubs and come back ready to pounce!

Cubs down Nationals 4-2

The road trip so far has been a success. They took 3-of-4 from the Nationals and the pitching is held up well. Last night Aramis Ramirez and Mike (3 hits) supplied most of the offense. Ramirez also made a great bare-handed play at third base. Will Ohman got his first win coming on in middle relief after Sean Marshall exited in the 6th inning. The Cubs move to 43-41, which is okay at the time being. A sweep at Pittsburgh would give them an extra boost.
*Read what this Cub's fan had to say about the game last night.

This Chicago club has played with passion and intelligence ever since Lou got suspended. His emotion seemed to jolt an energy or vigor in the players. They're lucky to finish up the first half against less challenging competition. With performances similar to what Daryl Ward's 2 hit 2 RBI night against Washington. He filled in nicely in place of Derek Lee. Bob Howry also got his 4th save.

If the bullpen continues to get the job done in middle relief the Cubs can probably jump into first place. They'll want to gain as much ground in the Central as possible moving into August. The Reds, Cardinals, Pirates, and Astros are playing mediocre baseball now so it's time to take control. Sweet Lou I'm sure will try out a few hitting strategies moving into the series with the Pirates at PNC Park. Then the All-Star festivities will get underway.

Cubs look to make short run, beat Nats 3-1

Those of little faith have no idea how the season will eventually turn out for the Chicago Cubs nor do Cub fans for that matter. One thing is for certain, this franchise has a good mix of talent and experience. I see this team headed in the right direction despite what anyone else thinks. Yesterday Carlos Zambrano pitched yet another sterling game and recorded is 10th win. Unfortunately, he got snubbed from making the All-Star game (few pitchers have matched his performance in June).

On the road the Cubs have played better recently and are now 2 games over .500. This is a big deal for the club because normally they're digging a hole for themselves while being around 10-15 games out of first. Ryan Theriot and Cliff Floyd drove in the 3 runs, which was plenty for Zambrano who last 6.2 innings allowing a run on 3 hits and 4 walks. Alfonso Soriano chipped in with 2 hits in the lineup. This guy is really scored some runs in the past 2-3 weeks! Cub fans ought to see more of this after the All-Star break.

Rich Hill (5-5) is throwing today as the game has already got underway and the Cubs are trailing 1-0 after 2 innings. Matt Chico (3-5) made the start for the Nationals. This is a perfect opporuntity for the Cubs to get another sweep before taking their chances in Pittsburgh. If Ramirez, Lee, and Soriano continue to thrive only good things will happen. Keep up the scoring Cubs!

Theriot and Lee do the damage offensively as Cubs beat Brewers 5-1.

A day after the Cubs had their 7-game win streak broke up they came positive in Game 3 vs. the Brewers and won 5-1 at Wrigley Sunday afternoon. Jason Marquis cruised to his 6th win pitching 7 innings and giving up a run on 4 hits and a walk. The offense gave him all the run support needed. Derek Lee and Ryan Theriot had 3 hits a piece, scoring all 5 runs. Aramis Ramirez drove in 2 runs. The Cubs go back to .500 and have to put the heat on the rest of the division.

The way the Brew Crew is playing Chicago is lucky to have took the series 2-of-3. One more week precedes the All-Star break. 2nd place is good for the Cubs now, but going on another short run got really give them great momentum heading into the second half. On the schedule for this week they'll see the Nationals and Pirates on the road. This is a favorable 5 game stretch for the Cubs. Oh yeah, I'm pulling for Zambrano and Ramirez to make the All-Star team. They both deserve to get selected.