Cubs starter Harden wields victory in 5-2 final

With the great support by Rich Harden yesterday afternoon in Wrigley the Cubs took care of the task at hand. The offense supplied enough energy to push across 5 runs as others contributed in their own ways. Alfonso Soriano went 2-for-4 with a run driven in to aid in the win. Fukudome had 2 RBIs and is striving for an improved season. With good strength from the bullpen the Cubs handled their opposition and kept them in check with a few scoreless innings pitched.

Rich Harden pitched 6 innings with 8 strikeouts while giving up 1 hit and 1 run. The team has pushed their record to 51-45. Their aim their sights on taking over the division with a large margin edge. Coach Piniella has found sparks from the bench with the younger talent which is starting to turn the corner. The veteran leaders sometimes get a day off to rest while these prospects so to speak get their time for exposure. The NL Central is going to be close once again this season due to the remarkable young talent involved. I'd expect to see more high run scoring games yet it's fine when the Cubs pull out the W!

Cubs sweep Nationals, humble the D.C. crowd

I enjoy the long ball just as much as any fan. Yesterday it took form with Alfonso Soriano as he connected on his 15th homer. Derek Lee came through with a few hits and an RBI at least as the Cubs prevailed 11-4. Pitching has been up and down for the rotation. In the third game of the series the Cubs starter did fine. Nobody can tell where the Cubs will end up in late August, but so far so good. Moving over past the other pretenders in the division and being notched in second place is okay for now. I look for better days come the fall when the NL races will heat up so to speak.