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!!
2 comments:
Who would do you think would be a good fit for the Cubs. It never hurts to have another bat in the lineup, but the Cubs do have a lot of power once Ramirez starts hitting again.
I think the key is to find someone that can come in as a pitch hitter or take an occasional start. Especially if they can find someone with great on base percentage. Who do you think would be a good fit for the the team?
DNel
I like the idea of having an outfielder such as Jason Bay. He's being pursued by a few teams now and may be out of the question. If the Cubs wanted to go over the top they'd make an offer for Adam Dunn yet that would mean giving up too much probably. As far as obtaining another bench player a veteran like Sean Casey (solid batting avg.) that can play in the outfield is good to consider. That or go after a overlooked hitter like Alex Rios if he's available.
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