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!