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!