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!