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!
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