Cubs clinch division, hooray, hooray!

What a sigh of relief for Cub fans! The playoffs are no doubt in the Cubs' horizon. With a 6-0 shutout behind a pure gem by Carlos Zambrano the Cubs clinched the NL Central. To my surprise it only took 84 wins to wrap up the NL Central. Thanks in part to the Brewers' loss against the Padres last night it put the Cubs up 3 games, knocking the opposition out of playoff contention. I was starting to worry until they pulled off the victory, it appeared as if the division race would be decided in the last 2 games of the regular season. I'm sure glad that wasn't the case.

As far as the historic game, it was pertinent the offense delivered. That's what happened as both D. Lee and Soriano crushed homeruns while the rest of the lineup chipped in with clutch hits. This veteran bench and youthful mix of talent on the club is one of their top strengths. All that's on anyone's mind involved or following this franchise is they're headed to the postseason, oh yeah! This will mark the 3rd time in 7 years the Cubs will make a playoff appearance (Still can't get over the 1989 series against the Giants). The fellas can relax now and start to prepare for the intense action awaiting them this October.

My gut instinct told me Carlos Zambrano would bring his A game and steer this club in the right direction again. He went on to notch up his 18th win. Howry and Dempster combined for 2 scoreless innings Friday night allowing just 2 hits. These two final games with the Reds look to be a breeze now that the Cubs have clinched the playoffs. Lou should be given a lot of credit for his role in getting his team to be play with a boost in confidence. Can't wait until the postseason to catch the thrilling action. Congratulations to the 2007 Chicago Cubs on becoming NL Central Champions! Way to go!

Nothing but bad luck for Cubs in Florida

The final road trip has looked real grim for the Cubs. They couldn't even grab one game against the Marlins. That's weights so heavily on the pennant race in the Central. I don't understand why this franchise has such bad luck against the Marlins. Ted Lilly had yet to win a game against them in his career coming into the series and the offense again has struggled. What happened to the pop of those bats which were booming about a week ago? Steve Traschel who pitched just 4.1 innings in his Thursday afternoon start hasn't shown good stuff on the mound since joining the team. Giving up 5 runs put the Cubs in a pressure situation and seemed to make them too anxious.

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Ramirez and Soriano combined for 6 hits, but no one else much could get on base ahead of them. When guys swing too early in the count and ground into double plays like yesterday momentum is halted and it takes a team right out of an inning. The 10 hits from the lineup were irrelevant since the Cubs stranded 10 runners on base. This club has experienced offensive shortages for periods off and on throughout the season. If they truly want to win the pennant they MUST succeed on scoring opportunities. Otherwise they'll continue to work themselves into jams and find themselves trailing.

All the Cubs have to do is win 2 games to reach the playoffs. That's easier said than done. I can't believe they let the Marlins sweep them. They can't allow the Reds to give them the same trouble. There is no need to rush or go into panic mode in this final series. Big Z takes the mound today in Cincy against Bronson Arroyo. The Cubs ace will be fired up! I'd like to see at least a 4-5 run support for him. Once Zambrano get confident it's hard to stop him. Come on guys in blue, don't give up you're almost there. Just win two games, go Cubs!!

Willis, Marlins slide past Cubs 4-2

Extending the winning streak would have been great. Dontrelle Willis, however didn't let that occur Tuesday night in Florida as he pitched 8 innings dealing hard against the Cubs lineup. Ted Lilly was 0-4 coming into the game against the Marlins and was credited with all 4 earned runs. The southpaw went 5 innings allowing 8 hits and a walk. The Cubs were held to 3 hits. Their offense came from a 2-run homer by Craig Monroe.

I was afraid the Cubs may get too relaxed now after viewing the NL Central standings. The Brewers are 2 games back at the moment with a victory last night. The recent hitting outburst needs to resume tonight in Game 2 of the series because so much is still riding on these final 5 games. Usually this Cubs team scores most of their runs on the long ball, but timely hitting and execution is necessary for them to take the road series in Florida.

Coming off a good start Jason Marquis (12-8) is called upon to lead the Cubs to a win. I expect for him to go 5-7 innings. D. Lee and Soriano must keep pounding away and drive in those crucial runs. Look for Theriot to be a spark plug near the top of the order with influential bench hitting spots from Cliff Floyd, Daryl Ward, or Felix Pie. The odds are in favor of the Cubs yet they can't get lazy! Coral those Fish and take 2-of-3 before traveling to Cincy! Go Cubs Go!

Zambrano shuts out Pirates as Cubs gain extra ground

Thanks in part to a masterful pitching showcase by Carlos Zambrano the Cubs sailed to a 8-0 victory Sunday afternoon at Wrigley. Derek Lee and Ronnie Cedeno generated most of the offensive firepower, each smacking 2-run homers. They extended their division lead to 3.5 games over Milwaukee. With only 6 remaining games on the schedule the Cubs are inching ever so close to capturing the pennant. Zambrano regained his natural form with 6 innings of shutout ball, allowing 3 hits and 3 walks. He left the game in the 7th due to cramping with a big lead, which stayed intact and collected his 17th win.

Derek Lee had a big game with 2 hits and 3 RBIs while the lineup accumulated 14 hits. 5 players had at least 2 hits a piece. With the sweep to close out the home series finale the Cubs have their eyes set on the playoffs. First they have to take care of the Marlins and Reds to finish the season out on the road. All the Cubs have to do is concentrate on staying ahead of the Brewers. Things keep looking better and better for a franchise who has come up short of a world title for damn near a century. With Soriano, Lee, and Ramirez hot nothing will stand in this new Cub team's way.

I have to give Kerry Wood much credit in what he accomplished yesterday by pitching 2 innings late without giving up a hit or run! This guy had a rough, up hill battle in the last couple of years and it's good to see him become a significant contributing part of this club again. The off-day today will give the bullpen and the lineup rest before they start their 3-game series in Florida. Seeing the Cubs take the series and end up clinching the pennant will be a huge weight lifted off their shoulders.

Then after the celebration in Chicago they can relax a little before charging into the playoffs. From there the atmosphere will be electric, but the competition will be fierce with nothing coming easy their way. Keep those bats warm and ready to strike guys. Those rotten Cardinals are out of sight so no worries there. Take care of business in Florida and Cincy and bring home the PENNANT! WOOOOOOOO! GO CUBS!!

5-2 loss at Wrigley ties Cubs with Brewers

I know a minor setback isn't worth worrying over. Yet as a Cub fan one flaw or spell of misfortune is potentially hazardous for the remainder of the year. This 2007 club is different from all the rest in the past. Yes, they've struggled and been inconsistent, but somehow managed to pull together and fight their battles. Last night a win was not in the cards however, as Zambrano couldn't rediscover his magic, pitching just 5.1 innings while serving up 4 earned runs on 7 hits and 3 walks in route to the 5-2 loss. I don't expect Z to pull off stellar performances back-to-back. He's got to settle down and get the command on his pitches like he had earlier in the season.

Jacque Jones slapped a 2-run single through the infield in the 4th for the allotted offense Tuesday night. The guys in blue couldn't make a repeat comeback as they did the previous night at Wrigley. Now they are tied again with the Brewers atop the Central, who seem to be hitting the daylights out of the baseball with Prince Fielder, Corey Hart, and Geoff Jenkins on a tear. The Cubs have no more games with Milwaukee as 10 games remain on the schedule. If the Brewers get hot it's going to be a major problem. Two sweeps in a row would have really helped the Cubs on the road.

Maintaining their stride and pushing for a win streak is in their best interest. Scheduled for upcoming starts are Lilly (15-7), Marquis (12-8), and Hill (9-8). The trio has pressure riding on them, but if they focus and buckle down the Cubs will be okay. I can't believe this Cubs team hasn't won over 80 games already. This will be a big factor in the final series against Cincy. Tonight Ted Lilly should be ready and able to give his team a solid 6 innings or more in route to a win (fingers crossed).

P.S. Cub fans visit this Ted Lilly Fan Club site for great videos, news, surveys, and more!

Cubs looking sharp, take 3-of-4 from Cards

The series in St. Louis was a real success as far as the Cubs are concerned. The 1-run loss was the only small flaw and that game could have gone either way. Zambrano, Lilly, and Marquis (winner from Sunday's contest) all had good starts. The offense yesterday evolved from Matt Murton who drilled a fat 3-run shot off Mark Mulder in the early going. From there the Cubs only scored a run, but it was plenty for Jason Marquis. He collected his 12th win. With the victory Chicago takes a 1 game lead over the Brewers.

I have to like how the final weeks of the season are shaping up for the Cubs. They came so close to back-to-back sweeps against the Astros and Cardinals. They're 78-72 which is okay yet doesn't allow them to get comfortable. Finishing out the remainder of the schedule at home should be a treat. One problem this club MUST correct is being able to drive in runners on base. In Sunday's matchup the Cubs stranded 25 runners!! Luckily their opponent fared almost the same leaving 21 on base.

The Reds come into town today and Wrigley will no doubt be packed for the final homestand. Rich Hill (9-8) will start in Game 1 against Bronson Arroyo (9-14). Cincy are playing the role of spoilers and most likely won't play lackluster baseball. Rich better watch out for Dunn, Phillips, and Griffey. Keep plugging and extend the win streak Cubbies!

Homers from Soriano, Ramirez wrap up win

The series at Houston went smooth except for the fact that the Cubs lost the opener in extra innings. They have a great opportunity at a sweep on the road, but came up by the shortest of margins. Last night, however it was all gravy because the Cub bats sprung into action and drove in 6 runs, all I might add off homeruns! Soriano crushed his 25th while Ramirez went deep for his 23rd of the year. That's the type of sweet offense I like to see. Daryl Ward and Cliff Floyd also popped one bomb a piece into the stands. Steve Traschel garnered his first win after going 5 innings to qualify for the decision. I'm glad Lou left him in the game in the 5th.

Seeing the increase in production makes this Cub fan feel good. Pitching can only go so far for this club and can't guarantee wins of any variety (close or wide). 11 hits left a good impression to finish out the series as the Cubs play 3 games in St. Louis starting today. A sweep could do wonders for them. The half game lead in the Central isn't comforting. Carlos Zambrano (15-12) will have to pitch under a degree of control and fend off Adam Wainwright (13-10) and the Cardinals.

* Cub fans be sure to check out this neat Fox Sports Cub blog.

Stepping up in the clutch and nailing these games down are crucial. Guys in pressure-filled spots such as in mid-relief or in a save's opportunity can't be mental worry-warts or become too emotional in the heat of battle. This will ultimately work against the Cubs. They must keep cool heads and stay focused. Lou will lead the charge and hopefully offers words of wisdom and encouragement to the animated, high energy Zambrano. Dropkick those Cards and work towards capturing the pennant! Wooooooo, yeah...go Cubs!

Back in first after clobbering Cardinals

The sweet swings from yesterday's 12-3 bashing was a sight to see. I was pleased to see the production from the guys in blue. Aramis Ramirez was the player of the game with 4 hits, 2 being homeruns and 2 RBIs. Derek Lee went 3-for-4 with a homerun while Jacque Jones cashed in on 3 hits and 2 RBIs. 18 total hits were crunched out. Ted Lilly went on to record his 15th win, best among the rotation. I'm sure glad the Cubs picked up the W because the Brewers lost in to the Pirates to force a tie in the Central.

3 games over .500 is not good, but kind of expected with all the Central division teams playing up and down baseball. The Cubs have to charge forward and try their best to garner a lead and take the series in Houston before facing St. Louis on the road for 3 games. I'd like to see the hard hitting continue and this great mix of players drive in ample runs. Now is definitely the time to get serious and focus on one game at a time and not worry about the standings. Taking 2-of-3 from the Astros is a realistic goal now. I think the magic number for the Cubs is 88 wins. They're 15 away from that mark. Come on Cubs push to keep that top position!

Out of first and out of whack; what's next?

I'm glad the Sunday afternoon game in Pittsburgh wasn't televised because it would've been painful to watch. The 10-5 loss knocked the Cubs right out of first place in the Central. They've failed to get a streak going or some kind of rally. Steve Trachsel's performance left a lot to be desired. He hasn't looked sharp in either of his two starts. Sunday he went only 2 innings while surrendering 6 earned runs on 6 hits and a walk. After I complimented the starting pitching and bullpen they pull such a horrible stunt.

Soriano cranked his 24th homer, but again to no avail as the bullpen gave up 4 more runs, 3 which came from Kerry Wood who couldn't even retire a batter in the 8th inning. Why does this club struggle so much against non-contenders which have possess no real threat. Cub fans have come to expect the breakdowns and utter chaos around this time each season. Yet it seems as if they're concentrating too much on the division race rather than on their current opponents. This is a great hindrance for any team seeking a postseason birth.

I'm sick of seeing games where the Cubs do score sufficient runs then the bullpens falls apart or the offense scuffles when a starter goes deep into a game and keeps them within striking distance. Lou Piniella, I like and have utmost respect for him, but for God Sakes don't give Wood the ball in a situation where the Cubs have a good chance to win or unless they have a comfortable lead. Otherwise you're just asking for trouble. Kerry isn't the pitcher he used to be, everyone has to face this reality. I'd rather see Marmol, Howry, and Eyre in mid-relief because they, for the most part have proved to be effective.

I had no idea what to expect today as the make up game with the Cardinals will be this afternoon at Wrigley before the Cubs travel to Houston for a 3-game series. No time for more screw ups and inconsistency. The defense has been of high quality all year. Straightening out all other flaws is the main challenge. Ted Lilly (14-7) to the hill to square off against Joel Piniero (4-2). The Cubs need to fight and do anything to record a victory...take no prisoners Cubs!

Pittsburgh not so kind in Game 1, Cubs hanging on barely

The last 3 games have proved to be wretched for the Cubs. They gave away a lead at home against the Dodgers in the final game of the series and allowed things to get even tighter in the Central. Thanks however to losses by the Cardinals and Brewers Friday night the 6-1 defeat against the Pirates didn't hurt as much. Why the Cubs can't get a run or streak going is beyond me. One night the offense is alive and well and the next it's dead cold. There is absolutely no consistency within the lineup. Derek Lee has keep his hitting touch active, serving up 2 hits in the loss last night.

Luckily the Cubs don't trail their division opponents by a wide margin. They have to reach 80 wins here soon or else St. Louis may blow by them and run away with the pennant. Cub fans sure don't want to see such a travesty occur. Rich Hill (8-8) got touched up for 6 runs on 9 hits and a walk. The run support for starters has become a major issue again. This can't continue to plaque the club in such a hot division race. I plan on checking out the game tonight on WGN and hope to see the guys bang out a decent amount of runs. Soriano better refrain from swinging at pitches low and outside of the strike zone and do his best to get on base for Lee and Ramirez.

With 22 homeruns many fans feel Alfonso shouldn't stay at the lead-off spot. I agree because he'd have a better chance to drive in runs in the no. 2 slot. Maybe hitting 3rd is an option without one of the other 2 boppers in the lineup, but definitely not in the 5th hole. Jacque Jones and Cliff Floyd have served well in the rotating shifts in the outfield. I'd like to see Monroe turn his swing around and drive in runs.

Lou can't be too anxious to pull guys in and out of games when they're performing well. He must be careful in making such timely decisions. Zambrano (14-11) has to bring a quality start to the table tonight at PNC Park and keep his mouth and emotions in check as he battles the Bucs' Ian Snell (9-11). Get your butts in gear Cubs!!

Lilly in control, brushes off Dodgers in 8-2 victory

A sense of worry and panic seemed to be in the air at Wrigley last night as both coach and general manager were both seen by ESPN cameras pacing and antsy. Lou was pulling out all the stops in the 8-2 win by using most of his bench, switching his defensive alignment, and experimenting with his bullpen. Aramis Ramirez pushed the Cubs ahead early with a 2-run homer off Dodgers' starter Eric Stults, who lasted just 4.1 innings. Derek Lee roped a single later and a run scored off a misplayed ball in the outfield.

Mark DeRosa gave the Cubs an extra cushion with a big 2-run single in the 8th inning. The lineup delivered 13 hits while the pitching dazzled and delighted the packed home crowd. It's amazing how faithful Cub fans are that they always come out in mass multitudes whether the team is winning or losing. Ted Lilly gave them a major reason to stick around and watch all the action. He pitched 6.2 innings with 6 hits, a walk, and 2 runs to his credit, which lead to his 14th win. He's owns the best record in the rotation.

The youth and exurberance was on display Wednesday night at Wrigley as Lou 'mixed things up'. Felix Pie made a brief experience and had two nice running catches in center before slipping on the wet grass while Theriot entered the game late smacking a hit off the Dodger's bullpen. The mixture of young talent and veteran experience is starting pay dividends for the franchise. Finally GM Jim Hendry has seen the light! Or at least a shimmering of it. I have to admit I feel good about the rotation, defense, bench, and bullpen. The offense has it's moments, but still is kind of up and down.

Today the Cubs at this moment are trailing the Dodgers 2-1 in the 7th. This game could be crucial for them. Both teams are in a playoff race with little breathing room. Not having Ramirez is the order really hurts. Somebody must step up and deliver in the clutch. Splitting the series is almost a necessity at this point. Come on Cubs make a comeback!

Cubs drop two in a row, lead down to half a game

The pitching hasn't shown to hold up well in the series so far at home against the Dodgers. Zambrano had another bad outing on Monday and reacted the wrong way after the game. Of course emotional, passionate players like him will get upset and regret comments they make later. I think Carlos just needs to find a comfort zone and keep good control on strike locations. Usually he does, but now the Cubs need him to step up more than ever.

Yesterday in Game 2 Steve Trachsel pitched his first game and did okay, giving up just 3 runs in 6 innings. The offense didn't produce any more than 2 runs on 8 hits. Daryl Ward made a start in right field and went 2-for-3 with a RBI and runs scored. An average of 4-5 runs a game is key this late in the season. The lineup is fine, Jacque Jones is turning his plate approach around to his effect and guys off the bench are serving bigger roles.

The Cubs need to jump on top of Dodger pitching early against starter Eric Stults (1-2). Lilly shoots for his 14th win tonight at Wrigley. I really don't see why him or Zambrano shouldn't have become 20-game winners. They've had bad breaks and poor luck on certain occassions.

I think Piniella would be wise to start Matt Murton in right field or Feliz Pie. Plus he can start using Cedeno more off the bench. This team needs as much offense as they can possibly get heading into the final weeks. Bring out the big lumber tonight guys and good luck!

Lee's 2-run homer game winner, Wrigley host Dodgers

It was power and a sweet leather in the outfield which enabled the Cubs to come from behind Sunday afternoon in Wrigley to dust off the Astros, to take the series 2-of-3. Jacque Jones made a spectacular catch in right-center to save a run. He made sure Soriano wouldn't have to strain himself to make the out. Aramis Ramirez was wrongfully called out on strikes and then ejected after slamming his helmet to the ground and exchanging words with the home plate umpire.

Lee's 2-run homer came in the 8th to give the Cubs a 6-5 lead. Soriano went 2-for-4 with an RBI and scored the tying run. Carlos Zambrano is pitching today against Esteban Loaiza. The game is tied 1-1 now in the 3rd. Check out stats and game on the WGN blog. Soriano hit a solo homer to lead off the game. The Cubs hold a small lead in the Central and really could use a 2 straight wins again if not a sweep. They're 70-65, which is decent at the time being. A game and an half lead won't last long so applying the most pressure as possible.

With the rest of September to play the Cubs have around 25-27 more games to play. They must make the most of pitcher mismatches and utilize team effort against their opponents weaknesses. During crunch time all eyes will be on Lee, Ramirez, and Soriano to deliver. Plus the club has a sense of relief in rotation by adding former Cub, Steve Traschel. His arm will probably make a difference in the last 2 weeks of the season. Beat those Dodgers! Go Cubs!