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!
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