Zambrano brings A game against Brewers, Cubs prevail

Wow, what a pleasant series it's been so far for the Cubs in Milwaukee. Man, did Big Z bring the heat last night! I thought for sure it was going to come down to the 8th inning before either team scored. As the offense spurred the Cubs got to Ben Sheets in the 6th and unloaded a 5-spot on the scoreboard. That's what I'm talking about. The Cubs rarely ever go wrong when they take the first lead in a game and extend it. Aramis Ramirez surfaced a break through hitting performance going 4-for-5 with a RBI and 2 runs scored in the 7-1 romp over the Brewers. Pieces to the offensive production are turning in motion as Kosuke Fukudome also showed signs of overcoming a drought. He had a 2-hit night, one a triple which scored 2 runs.

The stat line on Carlos Zambrano is as follows: 8 IP, 5 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 2 BB, 9 K, 0 HR

Due to the high pitch count Lou Piniella didn't want his ace to overwhelm his arm so he didn't let him go for the shutout. I'm sure Big Z would've pulled it off yet it was a smart decision to bring in Jeff Samardzija for the 9th. In his 3rd appearance out of the bullpen the rookie gave up a run on a hit and a walk. Cub fans can live with that as Samardzija looks to be a solid addition to the pen and a quality replacement for Wood until his return. As the trade deadline approaches the Cubs have a possibility to extend their bench by adding another bat. Since Jason Bay is under heavy consideration by the D-Rays looking elsewhere in the NL the Cubs may find another outfielder.

Seeing the lineup tally 15 hits shows the Cubs building on positive points and having the pieces of the puzzle fall in place. Plus this productive spurt against the Brewers can carry over to the other road games, boosting the team's overall team batting average with runners in scoring position. Not to be a nag with the recent success, but somehow the Cubs still have to cut down on stranded base runners. Tuesday night the Cubs left 20 runners on base! Ugh! There has got to be a way to significantly reduce such high totals. I bet Lou has a few ideas in his head and will bring the occasional pinch runner or swap players during middle innings. If Cedeno could get some more at-bats it might help as well as try the hit-and-run more often. Other than that the Cubs are playing great baseball! Keep up the stellar performance!

Cubs bring out the lumber finally in 9-6 victory over Marlins

How sweet it is when the Cubs' bats pound the baseball and drive in runs. For most of the series at home against the Marlins that was practically nonexistent. Sunday a power surge hit the lineup as Alfonso Soriano delivered a 3-run homer in the 4th inning off Mark Hendrickson to tie the game at 5 all. After a solo shot by the Marlins' Dan Uggla the Cubs put a rally together in the 7th. Mike Fontenot came to the plate as a pinch-hitter with the bases full and slapped a 3-run double to right field. Previous to the clutch hit Derek Lee jacked a solo homerun to center. Finally the Cubs put the runs on the scoreboard and avoiding what could have been an embarrassing series.

Let's not forget about the bullpen's work either yesterday. Chad Gaudin came in middle relief to after Marquis departed in the 6th to keep the game close. In an inning he had two strikeouts and didn't give up anything. Giving the decision Gaudin recorded his first win as a Cub. Jeff Samardzija up the ante and did one better going 2 scoreless innings with 3 K's leaving the Marlins batters dumbfounded. Great diving catch by Edmonds to end the game! What a way to turn around the series! As a result of the comeback the Cubs take sole possession again of first in the NL Central as the Brewers lost Sunday night.

Coincidentally, a margin spread can be expanded or reversed as the two teams start a 4-game series today in Milwaukee. The Cubs offense will again be tested in a series designed to be a pitcher's battle. There are still a few days left before the trade deadline and the Cubs have a chance to make another deal. I stand firm with my belief, the Cubs need more punch in the lineup so grab an outfielder. How can they go wrong? Even if they have to unload a few relievers it will be well worth it.

There are few NL hitters available and one big name AL star outfielder the Cubs probably can't afford. Jim Hendry must at least try to work out a negotiation. Such a move could make or break the franchise's near future. Today Ted Lilly (10-6) will go toe-to-toe with C.C. Sabathia (10-8) in a heated duel. Which southpaw will have the upper hand? Can't wait to find out tonight. Kick the Brew Crew's butt! Go Cubs go!!

Offense stirs with Soriano back, Cubs relish time at home

The heavens opened up and God allowed magic to continue in Wrigleyville. That's right the Cubs remain in a groove at home and Soriano is BACK baby! Since reemerging in the lineup the sweet-swinging slugger has helped start a 2-0 win streak. After the horrid play, mainly the lackluster run production on the road the Cubs are getting serious. Last night in the 6-3 triumph over the Marlins Carlos Zambrano brought the heat, fanning 6 batters. In 7 innings Big Z allowed 6 hits and 2 runs without a walk. I like to see the Cubs ace under control and getting run support.

With Lou giving a few guys the night off it was the reserves coming up big on offense. Ronny Cedeno and Henry Blanco smacked solo homers. In his second game back from the DL Soriano went 1-for-3 with a run scored. His presence alone in the leadoff spot again will give the rest of the lineup, especially the middle of the order, better pitches to see. The Cubs have ran their mark at home to 38-12. With the lineup more balanced and stabilized now they're ready to fight to the finish in the NL Central. The Cubs will have to contend for a while without Kerry Wood who was placed on the DL this week with a blister on his pitching hand. As shown last night Marmol will hang tough as a temporary replacement as closer.

The All-Star reliever is learning quick how to work out of jams. After walking 3 batters to load the batters Marmol managed to run a count to 3-2 and get the strikeout to end the game. Fans just got to keep the faith in him. With outcome at Wrigley in Game 1 of the series Marmol notched his 4th save. The pieces are coming together again as Zambrano elevates his record to 11-4, keeping his ERA under 3 as Ramirez snaps out of his hitting drought drilling a 2-run double Thursday night and the streaky Alfonso Soriano is back healthy and ready to lead the charge.

The Cubs still have a problem. Unfortunately, the Brewers are nipping at the their heels after sweeping the Cardinals and have inched within a game of first place. Later in August and September when the two teams meet for a couple eventful series it will be gut-check time. Let's just say the Cubs aren't planning on being dethroned. Get another streak going Cubbies and keep scoring RUNS!!

Offense continues to run dry, road trip a buzz kill

Life on the road is a constant uphill struggle for the Cubs. Watching them try to score runs is like waiting for Novocaine to subside after having your teeth drilled. It's just not fun. If I have to witness another game in which the offense has 4 or 5 chances to drive in runs and comes up short I might be compelled to jump off a roof or balcony. Last night another total lack of production from the lineup allowed the D-backs to have their way and cruise to an easy victory. The outcome wasn't centered around Jason Marquis' pitching at all. He hung around for 6 innings and served up a homerun and 3 earned runs on 5 hits and 2 walks. Collecting his 6th loss Marquis wasn't the reason for the Cubs' inefficiency.

Having two of the team's main power hitters slumping in Lee and Ramirez shows the run production withering each game. The immediate problem is nobody in the lineup is picking up the slack. Ryan Theriot is the only one batting with any consistency in the last 7 games or so, claiming a .474 average with 9 hits, a run, and 3 RBIs. The offense must get recharged somehow because stranded 16 runners on base can't lead to success in road games. Plus I don't know why Lou doesn't have Reed Johnson playing in center more often and giving Edmonds days off. Another good contact hitter with speed can help open up holes on the infield and possibly lead to executing well timed hit-and-run opportunities.

All the talk this week is about Soriano be activated and ready to play today for the series finale in Arizona. I'm happy he'll be inserted back in the lineup, most likely at the leadoff spot yet he can't be looked upon to resurrect the offense. No doubt he'll provide the pop and jump start the scoring. There still is another quality element missing within the offense. I feel another reliable outfielder is needed, who possesses speed and hitting ability to give the Cubs that extra push in the right direction. Today Ted Lilly (9-6) will make an earnest effort for a win as Cubs fan pray the offense will ignite and provide the southpaw with run support. Taking the series in Arizona is out of the question and at least the Cubs can shoot for 1-for-3 and high tail it back to Wrigley to rub off those road woes. Chin up, Cubbies. There is too much season left!

Cubs bust out whooping stick, salvage series in Houston

Limping into Game 3 in Houston like a wounded dog the Cubs let out some frustration by pounding the ball in late innings. Expanding a 3-0 lead they blew it wide open with a series of extra base hits and singles against the Astros' bullpen. In previous days the offense ran dry, scuffling to scratch out more than a run. Mike Fontenot gave the Cubs a big lift in the 9-0 shutout yesterday hitting a solo homer in the 5th off Brandon Backe. Later he added a 2-run double to left-center for good measure. Derek Lee came out of a short slump, going 2-for-5 with 2 RBIs. The Cubs shatter a 3-game losing spell.

For the first time on the road this year Ryan Dempster (11-4) earns a win. *Dempster doing Harry Caray impersonation.

Maybe the transition for him can get the Cubs going on the road. They have 20 games on the road in the final month of the regular season. The NL Central is too close for comfort. The Cardinals have sneaked up from behind within 2 games of first place as the Brewers remain 3 games back. With Soriano expected back on Thursday help is on the way for the offense. His legs ought to be fined tuned by now and ready to provide an extra threat on the base paths.

Gunning for his first win today Rich Harden (5-1) takes the mound to meet the D-backs and Randy Johnson (6-7). They kick off the 3-game series in Arizona before returning home to play the Marlins. The young hard-throwing right-hander will try to outduel the Big Unit. With early run support he'll have a good chance to be a line for his first victory. Driving runners in position home will be the key objective for the lineup. Let's see those bats spring into action guys! Go Cubs Go!

Road blues resume for Cubs

I don't know why the Cubs can't manufacture sufficient runs on the road. The big boppers' bats go cold and no one else steps up to the challenge. At least that's what happened in the 2-1 loss in Houston Friday night. Fukudome, Lee, and Ramirez went 0-for-12, a rarity in any game.
Coming off the break the Cubs have gotten off on the wrong foot. Ted Lilly pitched a tremendous game and it sucks big time he didn't record the win. Why couldn't the lineup have gave him another run or two in late innings? I know Moehler was dealing too, keeping the Cubs out of a rhythm yet they still came up empty against the Astros' bullpen.

As a fan you hate to see a pitching gem go to waste. Lilly did more than his part, fanning 6 banners in 7 innings while allowing 6 hits, 2 walks, and a run earned. That hit in the bottom of the 9th on a high fastball by Miguel Tejada off Howry should've never happened. What a lucky break for the Astros! It won't come easy for them though for the rest of the series. Zambrano (10-3) will be gunning for another win and intends fill deep innings. The Cub bats have to spring to life and provide the run support. Although Big Z is on an unrestricted pitch count no one wants to see him overextend his pitching arm. He squares off against Wandy Rodriguez without another pitcher's duel expected. The Cubs must work to get on the board early and give Zambrano a lift.

Cubs finish first half on top in NL Central

What a glorious first half of the 2008 season it's been for the Chicago Cubs! Striving for history in the making the franchise is on a rabid pace at home for their best record in almost 50 years lead by a coach who has the right formula for success. So far there are no worries about mythical goats, Steve Bartman imposters, or Hell freezing over. With that aside the Cubs are kicking some serious a** in the NL! At the break they lead the Cardinals by 4.5 games and are tied with the Angels for the best record in baseball at 57-38. In honor of their stellar play the Cubs have 8 All-Stars headed to New York. Since Kerry Wood has a blister on his pitching hand Carlos Marmol was elected to replace him on the NL roster.

To conclude the first half the Cubs took a 4-2 loss from the Giants though won 2-of-3 in the series. The only real crummy part of yesterday's outcome was Ryan Dempster picking up his first loss at Wrigley this year. I guess it was going to happen sooner or later. He caught a bad break. That darn Tim Lincecum (11-2) has beat the Cubs twice, ruining their bid at a sweep. Coming off the bench facing the Giants bullpen Geovany Soto smashed a RBI single into right center putting the Cubs within two runs. Runners on first and third were wasted as Aramis Ramirez later hit into a double play. No big deal, those situations are going to happen sometimes. As a fan you can't complain when your team carries a 37-12 at home into the second half. Plus acquiring Rich Harden was a smart strategy. He had 10 strikeouts with one run allowed, but didn't get the decision. The bullpen spoiled his debut, but the Cubs pulled out the 'W' in extras.

A win by the NL in the All-Star game would be a major benefit for the Cubs with a potential trip hanging in the balance to the World Series. They still will have to work out health problems and kinks in the bullpen coming back from the break. Scott Eyre will likely be back around the same time as Soriano. Both are pieces to the puzzle which hold the Cubs' late season success. Maybe by then Marmol will straighten out his mechanics too and return to his early season form on the mound. I know everyone will have the pressure riding high on this franchise from August until October. If the Cubs stay low key about their stride and run for the postseason it will lighten the mood and create a positive atmosphere. For now the Cubs will enjoy the time off and have fun with the All-Star festivities. Kick back and relax Cubs because it's going to start being intense when you return to face the Astros on the road. Go NL All-Stars and Cubs!

Cubs serve up 7 homeruns to the Reds...again

I don't know what causes the Cincinnati Reds' bats to sizzle when they face the Cubs. They put on a power display Thursday afternoon at Wrigley, cranking 7 homeruns for a repeat performance. Such luck usually doesn't strike twice and only can be explained as the ball got into the strong wind current often and the Reds lineup experienced a streaky adrenaline surge.
Obviously, Ted Lilly encountered a rough start and didn't make it out of the 3rd inning. This was his worst outing of the season even though he only gave up 2 homeruns. Still the 6 hits and 4 earned runs credited to his totals urged Lou to pull him from the game early. These kinds of unfortunate outings happen and the Cubs will have to put it past them.

The offense held it's own in Game 3 as Ryan Theriot slapped a 2-run single while Mike Fontenot added the pop with a 2-run homer in the 4th inning. The bullpen weren't able to tame the Reds lineup as the Cubs made a conservative effort at a comeback. Chad Gaudin made his first appearance as a Cub in relief. He gave up 2 hits and an earned run in 2 innings pitched. That's not bad for a debut. As far as the rotation setup now is concerned I'm not content with Marquis notched as the no. 5 starter. Moving him to the bullpen and having Marshall in that spot would be the safer bet. Plus the Cubs need another lefty in the rotation to even things out.

With 3 games left before the All-Star break the Cardinals and Brewers are creeping up too close for comfort in the NL Central. Creating a little extra distance with a sweep this weekend is the plan. Trying to avoid trouble again from Matt Cain (5-7) the Cubs have redemption on their mind as Marquis (6-5) gets the start. Giving them a good 5-6 innings, he hopefully can keep the game close and the Cubs can pull out a 'W'. I'm glad to hear Soriano won't take the risk by playing the All-Star game. Another week of training and rehab may have him back to kick off the second half. The Cubs still need another option in the outfield so stop stalling Cubs management and call up Pie!

Cubs swing trade for Rich Harden, beat Reds 7-3

On a day where the Cubs shined at Wrigley Field again they pulled up a 6-player trade to acquire Rich Harden and Chad Guadin from the Athletics. In exchange for the pitchers they gave up Matt Murton, Eric Patterson, Sean Gallagher, and a prospect. It didn't take Jim Hendry long to strike a deal for Oakland's ace who he had his eyes on for 3 or 4 weeks. I think this is a good move for the Cubs. As always though health is a major concern so monitoring Harden's pitch counts in starts will be vital in order to over assert his arm. The Cubs were refreshed after their day off returning to Wrigley with the bats ready to attack. Geovany Soto continued where he left off in St. Louis driving a 3-run homerun into left-center in route to the 7-3 win.

Ryan Dempster left his former team mesmerized yesterday with another brilliant outing. The stat line on Dempster: 7 IP, 2 H, 1 R, 1 ER, 4 BB, 5 SO

He garnered plenty of run support to pick up his 10th win. With the way he's pitching at home along with Zambrano, Lilly, and Harden the Cubs have a powerful rotation, a threat to any team in the NL. The offense is geared up at home. Aramis Ramirez had a triple and single with a RBI while Mike Fontenot contributed his part with a 2-run homer in the 4th off Aaron Harang, his 6th of the year. In 47 games at home the Cubs are hitting .311 and slugging .502. I expect those numbers to rise in the second half. If only they'd duplicate these performances on the road.

Finishing up the homestand with a sweep over the Reds and taking at least 2-of-3 from the Giants would give the Cubs an extra push leading into the All-Star break. By then it all is healed Soriano will rejoin the lineup. Carlos Zambrano (9-3) eyes another opportunity for a win taking the mound today for his 2nd start since coming off the DL. When he's amped up and bringing up the power I like the Cubs chances against any team. He counter the Reds' Johnny Cueto (7-8) in a NL Central matchup. I'll like to see Harden take it slow and easy in first start as a Cub this week. Go Cubs Go!

Ramirez' bat counter of attack, Cubs take series in St. Louis

The Cubs had a sweet time in St. Louis nearly sweeping the Cardinals. Game 1 belonged to Carlos Zambrano who maintained good control and his emotions stable to lead the Cubs to a 2-1 victory. As expected he eat up innings and held the Cardinals in check recording 6 strikeouts.

The second game was wrapped up until the 9th when Kerry Wood entered and gave up 3 runs on 3 consecutive hits which cost the Cubs the game. That's okay because that didn't shake them as they roared back to close out the series with a 7-1 romp on Sunday. Aramis Ramirez had the hot bat with 2 hits and 3 RBIs. Derek Lee and Ryan Theriot also had 3 hits a piece, helping ignite the lineup's 16 hits.

Having Reed Johnson at the top of the order influenced the run scoring output. He set the tone going 2-for-4 with 2 runs scored. The early lead was needed for Sean Marshall who had his best start, pitching 6 innings to allow only a run on 6 hits. Finally he's credited with his first win and it's well deserved. Howry and Marmol made easy work of the Cardinals' batters in relief. They put up goose eggs on the scoreboard. The best news for Cubs fans this weekend has to be 7 players on the roster being named to the All-Star game. The most historic significance though is Geovany Soto who hit his 15th homerun Sunday becomes the first rookie catcher to be selected to be a starter in the All-Star game. This is such a high honor and achievement for the Cubs' players.

The question on the franchise ponders is should Soriano play in the All-Star Game. To me this is a no-brainer since he isn't close enough to full recovery yet. It's an automatic safe for him to sit this one out. I'll have to settle for cheering on from the dugout. The Cubs can't risk his health for the second half when they're in a hot pennant race. The Brewers have reeled in C.C. Sabathia to contend in the NL Central. The Cubs have to face it this team won't go away and are currently tied with the Cardinals for second place. I think the Cubs will have to counter this trade and not settle for being content at their present situation.

Jim Edmonds was a bad investment in my view and can be added in multi-player deal if the Cubs find another suitable outfielder or pitcher. I've always felt the Cubs can never have enough offense. After a day off the Cubs return to Wrigley Field looking to extend their spread in the Central. The Cubs lineup offensive intensity will be measured in the upcoming series with the Reds and Giants. Congrads to the 7 Cub All-Stars. Way to go!

Cubs split series, ready to kick off 4th of July with a bang

As it stands the Cubs are still atop the NL Central even after their shortcomings on the road trip. Expecting to take the series in San Francisco they had a tough assignment last night in Giants starter Tim Lincecum. Unable to get much going offensively, the Cubs scored a run through 5 innings. Vying for a rally Mark Derosa smoked a pitch up in the zone off Lincecum in the 6th landing in the gap in right center for a 2-run double. He's now driven in 42 runs. Sean Gallagher in his reported last start didn't make it past the 5th. He yielded 4 runs on 4 hits and 2 walks. Lou decided to demote the young righty to the bullpen to make room in the rotation with Zambrano back.

Since leaving the Friendly Confines the Cubs have gone 2-5 yet are still 16 games over .500. I don't see their record holding up so well after the All-Star break if they continue to scuffle on the road. The good news though is Reed Johnson, Aramis Ramirez, and Big Z are back! I feel like the lineup can churn out extra runs needed to win close ball games. The 8-3 loss Thursday night didn't prevent the Cubs from getting a split against the Giants. They're looking forward to the big 4th of July epic encounter with the rival Cardinals tonight. Zambrano (8-3) is expected to give the relievers a break, going deep into the game.

*Cubs fans check out entertaining videos and updates at Ball Hype

With the way Mark DeRosa has hit as of late Lou may want to put him in the no. 5 spot with Soto behind in 6th. With the Cubs catcher slumping a bit this move can help him see better pitches. I'd like for Fukudome to start showing the patience he demonstrated earlier in the season and waiting back on off-speed pitches. He's been striking out too often. The bats were be tested tonight against Braden Looper (9-5) to open the 3-game series in St. Louis. Jim Edmonds will most likely start for the Cubs and get a warm reception from the fans. With the tension between these two teams I expect more than fireworks. Bring the heat Big Z and beat those Cardinals! Go Cubs!

Offensive shortage keeps Cubs grounded in San Fran

I don't like missing Cubs games when they pour out the runs. That's exactly what happened Monday night in a 9-2 win over the Giants in which Mark DeRosa slugged two homeruns (one a grand slam). Ted Lilly wooed the visiting crowd with a dominating performance as well to capture his 9th win. Then the Cubs just lost the momentum or energy Tuesday night at the plate. The lineup was baffled against Matt Cain, not scoring a run until the 9th after the starter departed the mound. Derek Lee led off the inning with a triple which was followed by a shallow flyout by Daryl Ward. With 1 out Soto hit a single to center to drive in the only run. A rally started but ended with 2 runners on base as Ryan Theriot battled to stay alive yet finally went down swinging to end the game 2-1.

With a shortened bench due to the injuries the Cubs need to start searching for another outfielder or utility player because they're scuffling to put runs on the board while on the road. I sure hope Reed Johnson speeds up his recovery time and comes back 100% healthy as well as Soriano. Relying on a single star player to get hot isn't going to work for the Cubs as the All-Star break approaches. Stringing together the hits and playing small ball is what the club must learn to do. The rotation shows they're effective as Marshall, Lilly, and Marquis (7 innings, 1 earned run last night) have gone deep into recent games without giving up more than 3 runs a piece. Having a prospect like Eric Patterson helps with having speed on the base paths and using hit-and-runs with a small ball attack. Rather than go for the long ball the Cubs can start laying down bunts more often and aim to hit to the opposite field with an effort to boost their run production.

Before the trade deadline it would be wise to at least strike a deal for another hitter. Zambrano appears to be ready to roar back and stay healthy to sustain the rotation for the time being. From the news by WGN's broadcast duo Felix Pie hit a homerun last night for Triple-A Iowa after rehabbing from a brief injury. I really believe the left-handed speedster deserves another shot in the Major League this year. Micah Hoffpauir is another young prospect hitting well there too. He's compiled 28 RBIs in 24 games while batting .319. At current the Cubs have a 2.5 game lead over the Cardinals, but don't want to slip behind. Taking 3-of-4 from the Giants in this series would be real good. The Cubbies got to maintain their stride and find ways to win on their road trip.