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!