Cubs unable to bail out Mets, Sabathia just too impressive

One final game held in the balance for two teams vying for the NL wildcard. The Cubs battled the Brewers in Milwaukee Sunday, not with any pressure to win really, but playing the role of spoilers. Lou Piniella opted to use several of his reserves off the bench and much of bullpen in the last game of the regular season. Missing in the lineup was Mark DeRosa, Jim Edmonds, and Geovany Soto. Plus Zambrano was scratched from starting as no pitcher used went longer than 2 innings on the mound. It was just the opposite for the Brewers, who stayed with C.C. Sabathia the entire way. Real smart move since the big southpaw keep his team alive and shut down the Cubs' lineup after giving an unearned run in 9 innings.

With the 3-1 outcome to give the Brewers the wildcard since the Mets' lost at Shea it's set up for the Cubs to face the Dodgers in the division series. With the momentum shifted in Milwaukee's favor it's actually works out for the best that the two Central teams don't meet in the first round. Since the Brewers have got hot all of a sudden with Ryan Braun hitting the daylights of the ball with game-winning homers and Sabathia maybe being the most dominant pitcher in the playoff mix they're going to being a threat against any opponent. Although I picked the Mets to win the wildcard the Brew Crew deserves this chance. Cubs fans can relate to long droughts and not entering the postseason in 26 years is quite a lengthy absence.

Moving towards the playoffs the Cubs have already decided to keep Jeff Samardzija on the roster. They will need his arm in the pen. That leaves a few other openings. The way Hoffpauir has hit I think he belong on that roster as well. Seeing him enter games in pinch-hitting spots could really help the team with run production. I feel the same way about Fontenot and Cedeno coming as replacements or getting those at-bats here and there. DeRosa is dealing with a strained left calf yet will probably be ready for the opening game this week against the Dodgers. The main focus is being prepared this first round series and having guys healthy. The Cubs finished the regular season with a 97-63 record, three off from the historic number I had anticipated. That's fine because it's PLAYOFF TIME and the Cubs are ready to deliver! Go Cubs, let's make history!

Cubs drop nail-biter in 9th, already notched home-field advantage

One day later after the Cubs sealed a comeback and won in extras the Mets turn around nearly duplicate it. The exception is the game didn't go into extra innings at Shea Stadium last night. This time it was the Cubs pen who didn't hold a lead. Nothing, however can be took away from
the career game by Micah Hoffpauir. The up and coming prospect went 5-for-5 with 2 homeruns and 5 RBIs! What a performance, a memorable night which included his first Major League homeruns. Way to go Hoffpauir! It was another thrilling contest which I missed. Good to see the Mets still kicking and pushing for a playoff spot. With a win on the previous day the Cubs managed to clinch home field advantage for the playoffs.

With the Cubs resting some of their regular starters, Pie and McGehee got to play with exposure in the game for more than 5 minutes. Both had hits, wanting to will their way onto the postseason roster. The lineup combined for 11 hits against the Mets. The night belonged to Micah Hoffpauir despite the 6-5 loss. He drove in 5 of the 6 runs. Rich Harden had a decent outing going 6 innings to allow 2 earned on 2 hits and 5 walks. The Cubs rotation has to work on cutting down on walks. They will be real important in the playoffs. Out of the pen Neal Cotts had a little trouble as did Kevin Hart who gave up the game-winning single in the 9th by Carlos Beltran. The Cubs have their final series left with Milwaukee this weekend and maybe a make-up game with Houston. They will have a part in the Mets and Brewers' fate. Whatever happens it's set to be an electric regular season finish.

Cubs make matters worse for Mets, win in extras

The Mets seemly had the game in the palm of their hands last night in Shea Stadium. With everything starting out in the home team's favor during the 9th inning the Cubs managed to force the game into extra innings. Going into the 1oth game tied at 6 the Cubs' bats answered. The hit brigade involved a clutch RBI double from Derek Lee and a 2-run shot by Aramis Ramirez (27th homerun). The middle of the order delivered at the right moments, racking up 15 total hits. Also getting in the act was Mark DeRosa, who connected on a solo homer (21st) in the 2nd inning and added a 2-run double later in the game. What production the Cubs utility specialist has put up this year! He's run his RBI total to 87.

Although he didn't get the decision, which turns out to be good, Carlos Zambrano had a bad outing. In 4.2 innings he yielded 5 earned runs off 3 hits and 4 walks. The chunk came from a Carlos Delgado grand slam. This wasn't Z's night as he missed capturing his 15th win. Alfonso Soriano continues to swing a hot bat, going 2-for-5 with an RBI double. As I expected the Cubs helped out the Brewers enabling them to tie the Mets for the wildcard. Seeing both teams play it's hard to go wrong with their lineups, but pitching is definitely a bigger concern I think for New York right now. The Cubs on the other hand have the option of resting their rotation until the playoffs. This is where I think Lou could start Sean Marshall as a fill-in again and give one pitcher the day off.

Another decision the Cubs management will have to make is who to keep as a reserve on the bench when the rosters shrink back to 25. Hoffpauir has shown the ability to hit for a good average off the bench, which will be a valuable asset for them heading into the postseason. At the same time speed will give them a lift with scoring chances such as hit-and-runs, stolen bases and defense by having Pie around. It's going to be a tough choice there, but the bullpen has enough depth and strength to last. Kerry Wood will be key as well. He notched his 32nd save Wednesday night. I don't see Samardzija going anyway. He's performed as needed when called upon to hold games or keep leads in relief appearances.

Cubs closing in on 100 wins, psychologically beating a dead goat

I'm content with the fact the Cubs have captured another division title in back-to-back seasons. So far no trouble is standing in their way. They'd had their share of adversity to overcome in 2008 with injuries, inconsistency at times, and blasphemous curse dwellers. That's right we Cub fans are sick and tired about being reminded of long time struggles and a century long championship drought. As a switch-a-roo the actual magic number I think that will unfold for this franchise will be 100! That ought to put to rest most of these bum naysayers who are apparently sore losers (Cardinals fans). Chicago land is reveling in the wonderful season, both by the Cubs and White Sox. Will the two teams face one another later in the postseason, who in the heck knows?

With only 5 more victories to go the Cubs can establish a memorable yet history-making season by reaching the 3-digit mark. I'm sure counting on it as well as these images of old goats and Steve Bartman flashbacks diminishing. With the Cubs 95-60 it's a short time forthcoming before the straining thralls of franchise history explode with a celebration like no other unveiling. Another thing that would be great the rest of the way is those who aren't Cub fans please stop jumping on the bandwagon and trying to ride the coat tails all the way to sweet Wrigleyville! One minute these carpet baggers are ragging on the Cubs' good name the next they're lined up to brag about them and kiss ass. I dare say such people are loyal Cub fans.

Whatever happens here in the final week rest assured the Cubs will be in good spirits. Wrigleyville is ready for the postseason, putting dibs on tickets in Chicago while the Brewers yearn for the wildcard, which can be theirs for the taking. The Mets and Brewers both seem deserving of the a playoff spot, and either team will make for a competitive division series. Let it be known to all hypocrites, sore losers, and pessimists out there the Cubs are for real in 2008 so the rest of the NL better bring it!

Cubs clinch division which means Cubs freaking rule!

The season only continues to get better for the historic Chicago Cubs. Two years in a row they have clinched the division title! This accomplishment was imminent after the Brewers hit a losing spell while the Cubs gained momentum. This is one of the best years to be a Cub fan because they are having a remarkable season with record-breaking games and incredible comebacks. Yesterday the Cubs resumed their winning ways. Lou decided to load up the lineup with prospects and as it turns out the youngsters put on a good show. In the 5-1 victory over the Cardinals the bats sprung into action. Felix Pie (yes, the same one I've been preaching about all year) went 2-for-4 with a triple and 2 runs scored. The left-handed outfielder has also has serious speed which he exhibited in the game.

Accounting for 2 runs was Casey McGehee who had 2 hits. In the 6th inning Jim Edmonds came in as a pinch-hitter and lifted a sac fly to left to score Felix Pie. A wild pitch later in the 7th
allowed Ronny Cedeno to cross home plate for the Cubs 5th run. After wrapping up the division on Saturday the Cubs are now playing for home-field advantage in the playoffs. With a win Sunday the Cubs jump to 94-60, on the verge of surpassing a season mark set by the 1989 team. I expect more franchise history to be made later. Ryno and Grace may be gone, but the Cubs are shining with expectations to go as far as their talent will take them. The critics and sore losers out there who use goats, curses, and other excuses for the franchise's struggles in the past have no sense. The Cubs are in a comfortable position now, able to rest their top players and refine their game for the postseason.

A big hat's off to Ryan Dempster for recording his 17th win yesterday at Wrigley Field. He's won 14-of-20 starts at home this year. To monitor his pitch count and endurance Lou Piniella only let Dempster pitch through 5 innings. That was all he needed to pick up the decision anyway. Smart thinking by the Cubs' manager. I know Dempster would have won 20 games if not for the lack of no decisions earlier this season. That's okay because he looks to be fresh come playoff time. Here is his stat line from the game yesterday:

5 IP, 6 H, 1 ER, 0 BB, 1 SO, 0 HR

Today Jason Marquis (10-9) will start against Jonathan Niese(1-0) to kick off a 4-game series against the Mets at Shea Stadium. This series could determine whether the Brewers get the wildcard. Personally, I'd rather see the Mets in the playoffs, but Milwaukee has come a long way and will have to fight for that final spot. I think the Phillies will the be the toughest contender for the Cubs in October. They've got a loaded lineup and a decent rotation. At least the Cubs can be relieved knowing they have the division title and just have to stay healthy and start preparing for the big games awaiting them. Go Cubs Go!

Soto long ball sends game into extras, Cubs prevail

What a finish to the game last night in Chicago! With 2 outs in the bottom of the 9th Geovany Soto saves the day with a 3-run homer. This didn't allow Rich Harden to lose or get a decision. When the Cubs hit dingers they get great results. Fighting off the urgent attack from the Brewers showed the Cubs are capable of anything. Also hitting homeruns were Aramis Ramirez (26) and Jim Edmonds (19). The last time the Cubs came back from a 4-run deficit in the 9th inning with 2 outs was in May 2000. Another ironic tidbit about that is they were playing the Brewers! How about the the game-winning single up the middle by Derek Lee? A sweet finish to seal the comeback. Maybe this will be a big confidence boost for Lee to get him swinging back to his normal pace.

Allowing him back in the lineup Fukudome came up empty in the stunning victory yesterday, going 0-for-3. He'll eventually find his timing again at the plate. Lou has the option of sitting him with Reed Johnson, Felix Pie, and Mark DeRosa available to man the outfield position. I don't get it or fathom how he keeps on performing so well, but Jim Edmonds still is producing and making highlight plays in center. What has gotten into this guy since coming over from the Padres. It has to be the difference in atmosphere and of course playing at historic Wrigley Field! I haven't seen much playing time from the prospects. This would be a good time for them to get at-bats while the Cubs are on a roll.

As it shapes up the Cubs' magic number is 2. That makes me one game off as I predicted the Cubs only needed 95 wins to wrap up the NL Central. Whether the Cubs reach 100 or not it's fine either way because they'll prepare for the playoffs...maybe have a few days to rest and regroup on strategies. The bullpen looks to be getting in tune once again. Kerry Wood got extra work in last night to hold off the Brewers and received the decision to record his 5th win. Marmol, Wood, and Samardzija will be the key go-to-guys in the pen during the postseason. Their pitching could influence the outcomes of close games.

The Brewers and Astros have endured a rough week with the Cubs taking advantage of both meetings (Still can't feel good entirely about the Astros series, the players should've been with their families). The two games with Houston I assume will be made up at a later date. The 9 or 10 game cushion in the division is enough for the Cubs. Their biggest challenge left on the schedule is the Mets, who the Cubs meet for 4 games in New York after completing a weekend series against the Cardinals. It's possible the Cubs can help the Brewers with a few wins in Flushing so a playoff birth for the wildcard isn't out of the question. Then again I like the idea of seeing the Mets and Cubs hook up in the playoffs. Whatever happens the Cubs will be ready for any challenge.

Cubs happy to be back home, Dempster collects 16th win

The action on the field in recent days has favored the Cubs. With the predicament stemming from the Houston series due to the hurricane and having to be relocated those 2 games didn't have to be played. Nonetheless, the Cubs got 2 wins. They gained extra ground on the Brewers as they got set for another encounter with them. Yesterday returning to Wrigley Field Ryan Dempster made the start. Having the lineup back him up in this one he came away with his 16th win. His stat line is as follows:

6 IP, 7 H, 2 ER, 2 BB, 9 K, 1 HR.

Derek Lee continues to hit, raising his run production totals and average as he had 2 hits against Milwaukee yesterday in the 5-4 final. Alfonso Soriano lifted a pitch into left field for his 29th homerun in the 7th inning to take a 4-2 lead. The Brewers trying to force a comeback score once in the 8th and 9th, but came short unable to tie the game. Kerry Wood gave up a run on 3 hits yet went on to close out the game for his 31st save. The bullpen kept the Brew Crew in check for the most of Game 1 and have rebounded from the previous week where their activity on the mound was erratic.

The hottest hitter for the Cubs at the moment is Aramis Ramirez is has pushed his RBI mark to 105 while going 3-for-4 last night with 2 RBIs. Plus the slugging third baseman has 41 doubles! Ron Santo must be impressed to see a fellow Cub at his position having such a

sensational year. I know the long time Cub Great and fan favorite will be around to see a historic postseason. With the lineup starting to hit again, everything appears to be in place for the Cubs. The only thing which stinks in my view is that Zambrano nor Dempster will reach 20 wins because of too many no-decisions and missed starts. I guess it will have to be water under the bridge because the Cubs are closing in on the division title. Sweep those Brewers and stake claim to the NL Central! Go Cubs Go!

Zambrano dazzles and delivers, no-hits Astros!

Unbelievable! That's the word which pops into my mind after finding out about and MISSING the historic game Sunday. First of all, I thought the game was postponed without knowledge that the venue was moved to Miller Park in Milwaukee. What a comeback performance from Carlos Zambrano, baby! He records the first Cubs' no-hitter in 36 years (Milt Pappas in 1972 at Wrigley Field). Who said Big Z has a dead arm? Oh, please! The Z man was only saving his energy for such a sterling occassion when the Cubs had a chance to pull ahead and inch closer to a division title. The Cubs ace managed to walk one batter and hit a batter while serving up 10 strikeouts. Way to Go Zambrano! Adding to the Sunday delight was Alfonso Soriano who launched his 28th homerun as Derek Lee hit a double and drove in 2 runs.

With Hurricane Ike hitting the Houston area this weekend everything worked out fine for the Cubs. Game 1 and 2 got postponed. They got out of the city at a good time, unfortunately others didn't being left to contend with the havoc from the winds and rains. It's also a shame Houston didn't get to be apart of the piece of history tossed yesterday. What a bummer for the many Cubs fans who didn't get to see this one since WGN didn't broadcast the game (or at least not in my area). An extra lead over the Brewers is what is in order to maintain sole possession of first place. At the moment the Cubs are up 7.5 games.

The rest of the series with Houston is going to be made up this week at the designated neutral location. Since Milwaukee is close to Wrigley Field the Astros are complaining that this is an unfair advantage for the Cubs. Commissioner Selig decided to move the series at the site with the idea I suppose since no other options nearby were available and to not have further delays or inteferences from the weather. The 2 games would have been moved elsewhere if the Brewers weren't scheduled to play on the road. With the arguments surrounding the change in venue, one thing can't be denied: the no-hitter stands. Nothing can be taken away from Carlos Zambrano's performance. After finishing up with the Astros the Cubs head back home to face the Brewers for 3 games then the Cardinals. These series may lead to the Cubs clinching the division. Congrads to Big Z on capturing his 1st career no-hitter! Wooooooooooo, go Cubs!

Back on the right pace: Cubs snatch up series in St. Louis

With all the constant negative reminders and forewarnings for ultimate doom the Cubs find a way to get back in stride. After experiencing a bad stretch where they lost 6 in a row the trip to St. Louis did the Cubs some good. Not only did winning the series lift their spirits, but the Cubs also gained a little ground in the division. Thanks to a Brewers defeat last night the Cubs garner a 5.5 game lead. The pitching was on point for the last 2 games, being stingy behind efficient run support. Thursday night before finding out the upcoming series in Houston will be postponed due to the hurricane approaching and probably moved to another city the Cubs focused on beating those Cardinals. Things got interesting in the 9th, but the Cubs pulled out a 3-2 victory!

Ryan Theriot came through on offense, going 2-for-4 with an RBI. To put the Cubs ahead 3-0 in the 6th inning Mike Fontenot drove in a run with a single. The Cards tried to make a comeback with 2 runs in the bottom half then came up empty. Kerry Wood, this time was able to be in control as he nailed down his 30th save. Not that their wasn't drama in the 9th, but it worked out in the Cubs' favor. Rich Harden was effective, pitching 6 innings. He didn't appear to show any ill-effects of a nagging arm problem. The following is his statline:

6 IP, 5 H, 2 ER, 1 BB, 3 SO, 0 HR

I noticed Felix Pie entered the game again as a defensive replacement yet didn't get an at-bat. That doesn't enable his future growth and a handful of plate appearances would benefit his future development. I understand Lou wants his best in the game during crunch time, but I think a few prospects off the bench could provide the extra offense Chicago needs.

I can only imagine what the Cubs' record would be if they'd have closed out other 1-run games earlier this year. That doesn't matter as much as staying atop in the NL Central and have the lineup stay productive for the rest of the way. Lou Piniella has plenty options now with the expanded rosters and can feel better about having his 2 starting pitchers back. Plus with the delay with the series in Houston will allow Zambrano and Harden to get extra rest and strength in their arms. I believe the next series in Milwaukee could give the Cubs the chance to put first place out of reach for their division rivals. Then again it all depends on how the Brewers respond later and the fact both teams square off for a final series at the end of the month.

Offense a no show in the 9th, Cubs drop two in a row

What is up with the Cubs' offense? Nothing seems to be clicking anymore. Tuesday night in St. Louis Ryan Dempster did his best to keep the game within reach. His teammates did give him a 3-0 lead then came up empty the rest of the game. Seeing these good pitching performances wasted from the starters is frustrating. Dempster pitched 7 innings to allow 3 earned runs on 7 hits and 2 walks. He also had 6 strikeouts. The big mistake he made in this outing was allowing runners to get on base ahead of Albert Pujols who hit a 3-run homer to tie the game in the 6th inning. Aramis Ramirez was the only guy in the Cubs' lineup doing the hitting as he went 3-for-4 with 2 RBIs.

The Cubs caught the worst of a critical situation in late innings. Geovany Soto was instructed to bunt for a sacrifice yet dribbled the ball straight to the pitcher for a double play, taking them out of a promising inning. In that given predicament with the team struggling to score Lou might as well let Geo swing away since he normally makes good contact. I know he was thinking the rookie catcher could put the runner in scoring position, but the guys behind him just weren't hitting last night. Edmonds went 0-for-2 while DeRosa and Soriano combined for 0-for-9. The problem in Game 1 was only one player in the middle of the order was hitting and nobody around him could.

Due to the diminishing run support the Cubs rotation will not have a single 20-game winner this season. That's not of utmost importance, although when the Cubs enter the playoffs and if the lineup doesn't produce with regularity it's going to become their own worst enemy. I always feel that pitching can hold down games, but offense actually leads to wins. With the roster fully expanded the Cubs once again have Felix Pie along with a handful of other talented prospects. Using Pie only for defensive purposes and pinch-running as mentioned last night by WGN broadcaster Bob Brenly (yes, I actually got to watch most of this game) isn't enough. Some way Lou Piniella will have to squeeze the most out of his young players on the bench.

The idea of rotating 2 or 3 outfielders to play center would work. Hoffpauir could also get a few starts in left or right field or enter in late innings with a switch. I'd also like to see what this McGehee has to offer so a decent amount of pinch-hitting spots would be good to see. I know Lou Piniella can only stretch things so far, having a tough job on his hands. He's done a excellent job so far this year. Instead of using Fukudome as a pinch-hitter let him have the whole game off to get refreshed and put in another capable option such as Cedeno, Johnson, or Ward. Sometimes a good contact hitter off the bench is the answer. They tend to get overlooked all too often. Today the Cubs need to write the ship, settle back in control as Ted Lilly (13-9) eyes a competitive start against Braden Looper (12-11). Okay, now LET'S SEE SOME RUNS CUBS!

Cubs blow lead in Game 3, drop series after homerun exhibition

I started to wonder whether or not I ought to watch the rest of the Cubs' regular season games. It's odd to me, when I miss a game like Game 2 at Cincy where the Cubs put on a homerun parade they usually win without question, but seeing the game on TV ruins a good time when they fail to execute, hold leads, or score enough runs. First of all, how does a team 30 games over .500 lose to the stinking Reds? Simply incomprehensible since the Cubs had several opportunities with runners in scoring position in Sunday's game yet didn't deliver when needed. The worst part for me to witness was having Sean Marshall pitch a fine game through 6 innings for 1-run on 3 hits and 2 walks. Kerry Wood ran into trouble in the 9th, walking a few batters while surrendering the lead and giving up the game-winning hit.

To give Fukudome another day off Micah Hoffpauir got the start in right field. He went 1-for-3 with a walk and run scored. Lou Piniella was hot under the collar following Sunday's loss to the Reds knowing his team had the contest wrapped up. He prides his team on good defense and pitching yet didn't see these aspects come into play effectively. I'm sure he'll have choice words for the guys back in the locker room. There is no sense in the Cubs not winning the last series on the road. They can't count on Milwaukee continuing to lose with them only trailing in second by 4 games. The contribution is definitely there though from the Cubs' bench. Ronny Cedeno hit a go ahead RBI double yesterday to give the Cubs momentum. Mike Fontenot and Daryl Ward are chipping in and doing a solid job as well.

Luckily for the Cubs they went on a 7-game win streak toward the end of August with a decent lead built up in the NL Central. That will fade away quick if they don't start winning with regularity. Following through on the fundamentals and executing needs to be in their mindset every game. They've got the talent and tools to succeed, it's up to them to function as a team. When Alfonso Soriano can blast 3 homers in a game that is always going to give them a major boost.

The real main issue is having such consistency. Scoring around 4-5 runs per game will be a big plus. If the Cubs can bring that to the table they'll be able to handle the competition during the playoffs. For now they have to take care of business and gut out these last 19 games. They resume play Tuesday opening a big 3-game series with the Cardinals then head to Houston for another triple bill. With Zambrano and Harden expected back by then the offense needs to kick it in gear! Go Cubs Go!

The woes and joys of being a Cubs fan

Seeing the Cubs drop 5 in a row isn't a picnic in the park for us Cub fans. At the same time we realize this 2008 team remains 30 games over .500 which was a far difference than in the past 10 years. There is always a problem, however which causes a setback. This time with less a month left in the regular season Carlos Zambrano is on the shelf. The reasons for his early departure in the last start were keep quiet. Lou found out he was hurt as the velocity wasn't there on his pitches. It turns out Zambrano has inflammation in his rotator cuff. A cortisone shot was administered to the tough-natured Venezuelan. With the nagging arm problem several days of rest and rehab will be order. Carlos is anticipated to make a start in the series at Houston next week.

Filling in for the rotation will be Sean Marshall, who has pitched better out of the bullpen this year, but is the most sensible choice to serve as a replacement. It stinks how Lilly and Dempster have got cheated out of picking up wins in their previous starts. Sometimes the offense wavers and gets shut down. The main area for improvement I believe is getting guys in the lineup prepared to drive in runners within scoring position with greater frequency. The positive side is getting players breaks here and there is the bench tends to hit well. Ronny Cedeno shows he's capable of producing given the chance at the plate. Mike Fontenot has also been consistent and added another solid left-handed bat in the lineup. These two guys must find as much extra spots in games as possible.

The day off gave the Cubs time to recompose themselves and work out a few kinks which may have linked to their offensive lapse in the last series at Wrigley Field. They're set for road action today as they will see the Reds for 3 games before traveling to St. Louis for another critical series. The Cubs also will be without Rich Harden most likely this week due to discomfort in his arm. Somehow the pitching staff has to get healthy to endure the long haul in the coming weeks. From there after some R&R can be allowed. The most important thing is for the offense not to give up and continue to battle against NL competitors. Think smart baseball and put those injuries out of mind. Go Cubs!

Cubs bring out the lumber yet fall to Astros 9-7

The past two series at home have eluded the Cubs. After winning 7 straight the tables have turned with players needing extra time in between starts and defensive switches between made here and there. After dropping Game 1 to the Astros last night an extra-innings battle did go the Cubs' way either. Seeing solo homeruns from Soriano, DeRosa, Soto, and Edmonds looked as they were in control yet spotty pitching and crummy officiating from behind the plate caused the contest to get away from the Cubs. Down 7-3 in the 6th inning the Cubs chipped away by scoring 3 runs. Ryan Theriot laced a 2-run double down the first base line. A line-drive single up in the middle was followed later by Mike Fontenot.

With 4 consecutive losses the Cubs face their worst news resulting during the middle of the game Tuesday night. Carlos Zambrano exited the mound in the 5th after throwing 86 pitches and having problems with arm. It's not determined yet if Big Z will be placed in the DL. He complained about soreness in his pitching arm and maybe it will pass in a few days after receiving treatment from the team trainer. Already the Cubs have pushed back a start for Rich Harden so having Zambrano out for an extended period could be crucial. Let's hope that isn't the case. On a brighter note, the Cubs have called up a few guys from Triple-A to expand the roster. Reliever Michael Wuertz has rejoined the team along with Micah Hoffpauir while adding a newcomer in Casey McGehee.

With Lou always tweaking and strategizing with the lineup the prospects are sure to get a couple at-bats and exposure in games. Also, returning from a long, frustrating injury is Angel Guzman who will be available in relief. He pitched a scoreless frame last night, allowing a hit and one walk. The depth is certainly there for the Cubs. It's up to the lineup to hit with more consistency having runners in scoring position.

Derek Lee and Soriano together stranded 10 runners on base. That can't happen for the rest of season. Although, the Brewers lost last night they're still creeping up close to the Cubs. Picking up a W in the series finale today will help because the schedule won't get any easier with upcoming matchups with the Cardinals, Astros, and Brewers, 6 games in which are played on the road. In the mean time Carlos get that arm healthy to bring up the heat later, Cubs just keep battling!

Cubs settle for split with Phillies, Zambrano's absence a bummer

With the series finale on Sunday I liked the Cubs chances of taking 3-of-4 from the Phillies. It appears to be in the works until Carlos Zambrano got scratched from as the starter. A tired arm was the explanation for his unavailability. That's cool if Big Z needs an extra few days to rest, but the Cubs sure needed him. Sean Marshall took his place and didn't fair too well. The young southpaw lasted 5.1 innings and forked out 5 runs on 9 hits and 2 walks. The Cubs' lineup was unable to get a strong rally against Philly's bullpen. They had their best chance in the 8th when Geovany Soto singled then moved to second on a wild pitch. He later came around to score on a single by pinch-hitter Henry Blanco. I always like to see the two catchers getting the credit they deserve yet the rest of lineup came up empty.

*Readers be sure to check out the following link: A League Of Her Own, an informative, fan-friendly Cubs page with cool pictures!

Another start at shortstop by Ronny Cedeno showed that Lou is giving the youngster more chances to prove himself. As extended the privilege Cedeno went 1-for-2 with an RBI and walk before being replaced by Ryan Theriot later in the game. Coming off the bench Daryl Ward had a hit and is serving as an offensive weapon. I like what he brings to the table, good power and consistency. Since Zambrano missed the start it was a bummer, still the Cubs want to keep him fresh. From reports on the Cubs official website it looks like they'll do the same with Rich Harden. I only hope the bullpen can pick the slack at times and continue to be effective.

With most everyone off for Labor Day the Cubs get back at it starting an important series with the Astros. Jason Marquis (9-7) is the expected starter to square off with Roy Oswalt (12-9). This could be another tough encounter for the Cubs. They'll have to rely more on their late-inning hitting or try to get to Houston's bullpen early. With the Brewers hot on their trail in the Central, 4.5 games back it's very important to keep the pressure on them. Whatever it takes the Cubs need to find a way to pull out the stops and win this upcoming series. Plus they look to expand their rosters and have help coming up from Triple-A Iowa. Micah Hoffpauir is one names already speculated. Another bat available would be huge for the club. Go Cubs!