Today is a special day for baseball.
As you likely know, MLB is honoring the 60th anniversary of Jackie Robinson's first game by having many players wear his now-retired uniform number 42. The idea was originally Ken Griffey Jr's, but as other players heard about his desire to honor Jackie by wearing this number, many others wanted to do so. As a result, dozens of players and coaches will don #42 today -- you can see a complete list here.
The Cubs will have six men wearing the number -- players Derrek Lee, Cliff Floyd, Jacque Jones and Daryle Ward, and coaches Gerald Perry and Lester Strode. It's been written elsewhere that doing this somehow "cheapens" Robinson's memory.
Quite the contrary, I think. What Robinson did was more than courageous, and I don't think that any of us, sixty years on, can truly know what he went through and what it meant to the African-Americans in this country at the time, or indeed, what it meant to our entire society. In many ways Robinson was at the forefront of the civil rights movement of the '50s and '60s. To this day, the 46,572 who paid to see Jackie play his first game at Wrigley Field on May 18, 1947 is the largest paid crowd in the history of the ballpark (note to sticklers: I am well aware that the 51,556 on June 27, 1930 is the largest total crowd in Wrigley Field history, but that included many freebies -- and there's no way the Chicago Fire Department would allow that many in the park today).
Anyway, it is my opinion that this tribute to Jackie Robinson is a fitting one. In fact, it might be even more fitting if MLB would unretire #42 and allow players to wear it in tribute to Robinson on an everyday basis, instead of just remembering him on April 15. In that way, his legacy would be noted on the field of play every day.
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Today ought to be the day that Alfonso Soriano gets untracked. He is 14-for-28 lifetime vs. Lohse, with two doubles, 4 HR and 10 RBI (and that includes a 1-for-5 against him last week). Expect Jeff Conine to start at 1B for the Reds today; he is .304/.346/.565 in his career vs. Lilly with 2 HR in 23 AB.
My SBNation counterpart at South Side Sox has some nice things to say about Neal Cotts, well worth reading (scroll down a bit, it's below the photo of Billy Joel. Yes, Billy Joel).
And, if you think the weather's been bad in Chicago, a massive storm targeting the eastern third of the country is likely to cause postponements today in Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and possibly also Cleveland, Atlanta and Pittsburgh (and the last two cities there also had games postponed yesterday).
Finally, today's giveaway at the ballpark is a Lou Piniella bobblehead. This ought to be a popular item -- in fact, it's so popular that even before the gates open, there's already at least one on eBay.
Today's game is on WGN-TV, so it should be available to most of you who have cable or satellite; it's also at the Mediacenter and, of course, on MLB.com Gameday.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
0 recs | 259 comments
that storm you speak of..
..is really starting to be felt around the east coast. Living in VA, its pouring right now!Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
Storm
It looks like those six games have already been postponed. That must be some storm.Makes me glad it's nice and sunny here in Chicago.
Jesse Guam - April 15, 2007
disagree on one point . . .
"Anyway, it is my opinion that this tribute to Jackie Robinson is a fitting one. In fact, it might be even more fitting if MLB would unretire #42 and allow players to wear it in tribute to Robinson on an everyday basis, instead of just remembering him on April 15. In that way, his legacy would be noted on the field of play every day."Sorry, Al, but I really disagree with you on this point. Unretiring it would completely rob the number of its historical significance, and further encourage subsequent people coming to the game to forget this important legacy. With each passing decade, that already seems to be happening (cultural amnesia being what it always is), but keeping that number sacred is a way to keep that legacy in circulation.
my 2 cents.
hoosiercubbie - April 15, 2007
I Fully Concur
Unretiring #42 would lead to the number's misuse, abuse and general cheapening. Jackie Robinson's place is in American history, not just MLB history. His memory deserves the same level of treatment and respect as any great American from George Washington to the present.Luigi - April 15, 2007
That would depend...
... on who wore it. Perhaps the honor would be subject to approval by MLB. But I still think having active players wear it -- and you can see how many active players feel it's an honor to do so today -- wouldn't cheapen it at all.JMHO.
Al Yellon - April 15, 2007
perhaps. . . .
having a special approval process and ceremony with MLB for select players to take the number would still work and be a way to constantly re-honor Robinson. But I'd still just like to see it left alone, except for special occasions like today.I was thinking more of forgetful fans than players. Perhaps, Al just has more faith in people's willingness and ability to remember history than I do.
hoosiercubbie - April 15, 2007
I see what you mean...
... yes, Robinson's memory is honored at every ballpark with a retired number. But how many of those "forgetful fans" tune that out, or don't notice it?With a player -- a significant player, yes, perhaps one subject to approval by MLB -- wearing it, I'd think the number, and thus the memory of Robinson, would be out there on the field every single day.
Just a thought.
Al Yellon - April 15, 2007
oh, you're absolutely right . . .
. . . "forgetful fans" are going to forget regardless.But bringing back the number (IMHO) will just facilitate that and make it worse.
I agree "approved" usage might help, but I just think retiring the number is the best way to fully keep visibility and value to its significance.
I cannot help but think that other people wearing it permanently will somehow diminish its cultural and historical rarity and aura, regardless of intentions.
hoosiercubbie - April 15, 2007
One Player
It might be cool if one player in all of MLB was allowed to wear it. That would be a very special honor given to one person to honor Jackie Robinson. When that player retires, it is given to another player to wear.MissouriKev - April 15, 2007
I think we should just leave it.
I don't think the whole approval thing would work, and then MLB would be playing favorites with players probably. It would be pretty bad if people started fighting over Robinson's number. I don't know if that would happen, but I want to avoid it.Also, I think if the player is great and they wear Robinson's number that might place him(JR) in a shadow. I think some players want to make the number they wear theirs, and with Jackie's number I wouldn't want them to do that. It's his number.
I don't really care about jersey numbers now, but Robinson's is obviously important.
sparkles721 - April 15, 2007
I think I agree, too
What if somebody wound up with the number who didn't quite live up to the honor of wearing it? There are some who might want it for 'publicity' purposes, which would demean the whole purpose of the situation. Perhaps a yearly special day, like today -- is the best answer. #42 is worn on that day only. That would act as a constant reminder (I think only some of the MLB memorials are actually effective -- the #42 flag atop Wrigley can be easily ignored) to the public why the number is important.San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
I Agree
A once a year event such as today is sufficient to keep the memory alive in the minds of future generations of fans. To pass the number out to everyday players will eventually generate controversy that would likely overshadow the meaning of the number. Could you imagine players using the wear of #42 as a contract issue? Could you imagine the petty jealousies between and among players that would create a feeding frenzy by the ravenous media machine? Could you imagine the shame of a highly revered player having a closeted skeleton exposed, and on and on? The reasons not to use #42 for day-to-day wear are much more numerous and important than those in favor of it. Al, your heart is in the right place, but it is a bad idea period.Luigi - April 15, 2007
In reading all your comments...
... I think you are right. Mike said to me today when I mentioned this at the park, "Should some Cub be able to wear #14 in honor of Ernie Banks?"It's not quite the same thing, but I saw his point.
As long as Jackie's legacy is remembered, and what he did not EVER forgotten, then the honor of the retired number forever is something that should indeed be kept just as it is. Today's special remembrance, we hope, will bring some more attention to what he did, and also to the declining numbers of African-Americans in the game today.
Thanks to all who posted about this. You changed my mind.
Al Yellon - April 15, 2007
Storm is coming
Been raining steadily for about 6 hours in NYC but the heavy winds are suppossed to hit in less than 2 hours. I came to the office early to do some important stuff on a good computer ( taxes and fantasy baseball) I am leaving now to get home beforeit gets REALLY bad.jessica - April 15, 2007
Update
The Following Games have been washed out///postponed:Royals at Orioles
Nationals at Mets
Astros at Phillies
Angels at Red Sox
and more are bound to pop up soon
Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
The Schedulers
will certainly earn their money trying to straighten out this mess.Luigi - April 15, 2007
Remembering Robinson
I was fortunate enough to attend the Cubs/Mets game at Shea Stadium in 1997 when they retired #42 throughout the league. Bud Selig, President Clinton, and Jackie Robinson's widow were there and all of them spoke. It was a wonderful ceremony!I have to agree with hosiercubbie and many other fans that they should not unretire #42. I don't believe that players remembers Jackie Robinson ONLY on April 15th - I believe that many players remember what he did everytime they step on the field. And by honoring Robinson on April 15th, it reminds young people, both in and out of baseball, what a huge step this was for African-Americans back in the late 40's. Yes, many believe that this was the start of the civil rights movement, and to not honor Robinson every year would be a huge mistake and would be forgetting part of American history.
augie90 - April 15, 2007
More Robinson notes....
... each player today will wear a #42 sticker on his helmet.And, all the players wearing #42 get two jerseys -- one to keep, the other will be auctioned off to benefit the Jackie Robinson Foundation.
Now that would be a cool souvenir to bid on, and you'd know your $ would be going to a good cause.
Finally, as part of the pre-game ceremony honoring Robinson, Derrek Lee will speak, honoring Jackie's legacy.
Al Yellon - April 15, 2007
AL - Lineups?
Hey Al - do you have a lineup for today?TheEman - April 15, 2007
Unretiring Robinson's number
Would make his legacy more of a novelty than how it should truly be remembered, as a groundbreaking time in baseball and America. What would have been the point of retiring the number in the first place?Unfortunately, MLB has overplayed this and is taking the meaning out of this by letting entire teams (besides the Dodgers, of course) wear the number.
nextyearcub - April 15, 2007
Yesterday's Poll Question on the Broadcast
...speaking of the Sweet Lou bobblehead, yesterday's poll question on the broadcast was something along the lines of "would you rather have a manager who wears his emotions on his sleeve, or one who hides it well" or some such. Naturally, the former was the overwhelming winner. It was such a stacked question! They may as well have worded it, "Everyone still hate Dusty Baker's management style?" The result would have been the same!For the record, I would have voted with the majority on that one, I just wanted to point out what a loaded question it was.
drone1047 @ Bleed Cubbie Blue - April 15, 2007
Hoping for a win
for Lilly today.GO CUBS!!!
sue369 - April 15, 2007
lineup
Soriano CFTheriot 3B
Jones RF
Lee 1B
Barrett C
Floyd LF
Cedeno 2B
Izturis SS
First off, DeRosa should be starting at 2B
Lee and Jones should be reversed
and what the hell happened to Matt Murton??
Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
Is Murton in the Doghouse?
Is he hurt? What's up with Orange Guy?Luigi - April 15, 2007
another righty on the mound...
...another Floyd start.grogg2434 - April 15, 2007
Derosa
Gimpy back, i believe.DmL
dmlichte - April 15, 2007
Lou
likes having Floyd in there giving us another Lefty, nothing against matt, im sure we will still see him a lot and most likely on a regular basis will be used to replace cliff late in gamesCubbieBeerFan21 - April 15, 2007
Oh and..
based on a small sample size, obviously, Floyd is batting .600 with 2 doubles and a homer versus Lohse.grogg2434 - April 15, 2007
Anyone have a suggestion...
for a relatively unknown 4th outfielder for my fantasy team?I currently have Wells, Podsednik, and Bay as my everyday starters with Murton sitting on the bench.
Since it doesn't look like Matt is going to get a whole lot of AB's, there isn't much use in having him in a 9 team league.
grogg2434 - April 15, 2007
adam lind
miltowncubbie - April 15, 2007
Unfortunately
Yahoo has Lind listed under the Util position. I can't really use him there since I have Miguel Cabrera in that spot. Why not move Cabrera to 3B, you might ask? I have A-Rod there. :)grogg2434 - April 15, 2007
OF
Lind, while he is a bad defender played the first game in LF so he should gain eligibility there shortly.miltowncubbie - April 15, 2007
42 T-Shirt
MLB.com also has a Cubs player t-shirt with a plain "42" on the back of it available. These one-time items can disappear fast, so my order is already in.08Cubs - April 15, 2007
they
also have authentic jerseys for 179.00 i may pick of those uptbizzle83 - April 15, 2007
Jackie Robinson Steals Home
One thing that always astonished me was his ability to read the pitcher and steal home. Has anyone been able to do that since?JFCubFan - April 15, 2007
No
And probably the only person who could equal Robinson's ability to steal home before him would, ironically, be Ty Cobb.Josh Timmers - April 15, 2007
how do you steal home?
What's the common method for stealing home?
astroview - April 15, 2007
Stealing home...
Easier done with a left-handed pitcher. Pitchers don't tend to pay as much attention to a runner at third. So, you get a big walking lead, and break toward home before the pitcher starts his delivery. If the pitcher doesn't realize quick enough, you have a shot.SouthernCub - April 15, 2007
D-Lee with the high socks!
Wow--didn't think I'd ever see that out of him. Looks good.NightPutting - April 15, 2007
I went yesterday...
But it looks like someone's been playing a joke on me. It looks nice and sunny. Yesterday was not.northsidenonsense - April 15, 2007
last minute lineup change..
DeRosa is in at 2ndChanman25 - April 15, 2007
Yay!
Nobody will be patting Cedeno on the back for 12 pitch AB flyouts today.NightPutting - April 15, 2007
NO DUNN
ME DUNN ME MUST FIND BIG STICKdtpollitt - April 15, 2007
Adam Dunn...
is out with back spasms. Hate to see another guy hurt, but this will help the Cubs.northsidenonsense - April 15, 2007
Lilly with a 1-2-3 innning
good..Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
TheRiot
is the man - I hope he continues to start even after Ram comes back!ilovepie - April 15, 2007
Jones and Soriano hit the ball hard and well
...the only problem is Griffey was there to catch itChanman25 - April 15, 2007
Griffey
He made catches that anyone else would've made. They hit the ball well and hopefully that'll translate to runs in the next few innings, but at this time of year, you'd hope that these players would realize that those hits are going to be outs.DmL
dmlichte - April 15, 2007
A little disturbing
Barrett tried running on a dropped third strike with a man on first. You'd hope that he would be aware of the rules considering he's a catcher.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
Barrett is correct
and you are wrong. Two outs waive the 1st base occupied rule.tharr - April 15, 2007
Yep
I realized that after I typed the post.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
What kind of dumb comment was that?
Len:"I didn't realize that Wrigley Field was the only ball park left in the national league that Jackie Robinson played in."
Are you kiddin' me?
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
how is it dumb??
its true..Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
But....but...but...
IT'S OBVIOUS, ISN'T IT?The next oldest ballpark in the National League is Dodger Stadium, built in 1962. Wrigley is over 90 years old -- OF COURSE HE PLAYED THERE, AS DID BABE RUTH.
He can say the remark -- it's certainly correct but the way he phrased it....he sounded like a nine-year-old, not like a professional major league announcer. ("Wow, how about that! Robinson played here!!! Gee Whiz!! was the tenor of the statement) Brenly was smart enough to stay silent and not point out the fact Kasper sounded like this was the first game he'd ever seen.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
I think
he was surprised about the fact that Wrigley is the only park left in which Robinson played and that there are no other parks still around from Robinson's time. I'm pretty sure he realized that Robinson had played at Wrigley.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
If Kasper is surprised
...that Wrigley Field is the only National League ball park left that Robinson played in, I am wondering how he actually got a job as a MLB broadcaster.He could have phrased the sentence thusly:
"Of course, Wrigley Field is the only National League ball park that JR played in which still exists."
That makes the assumption that Len knows this already and is making the statement to remind younger viewers. There's nothing wrong with that.
But it seems history starts in 1970 for Len. He must have been a perfect fit in the Marlins booth.
If he wants to sound like a 12-year-old, so be it.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
It's dumb...
because Len should realize it was the only park around back then.ilovepie - April 15, 2007
I also agree
with Len's tone - the problem is, Len has those "its my first game, golly!" tones all the time.Chip's super nasal voice at least knew about the game and showed some fashion and fire - Len and Bob are just Tribune Robots.
ilovepie - April 15, 2007
PASSION and fire - oops! :)
ilovepie - April 15, 2007
I think
I could strike Soriano out.TheRamZamDLEE - April 15, 2007
THE RIOT!!!!!!
2 for 2!!Sarah Hope - April 15, 2007
Jackie Robinson's 1st Wrigley appearance
Mike Royko wrote a piece about going to Jackie's first game at Wrigley when he was 15 years old. He wrote the column the day Robinson died. You can find it here...http://www.press.uchicago.edu/Misc/Chicago/730719.html
the second column of the 3.
cashcowsquirtingsourmilk - April 15, 2007
If Royko was still alive
...he would have devoted a whole column to Len Kaspar's 'wide-eyed' comment.San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
This is completely off the beaten track...
...but for anyone that still enjoys the sunday paper and the comics page in particular, I would suggest reading "Get Fuzzy" today. If you can't find it in a paper, this link should helphttp://www.comics.com/comics/getfuzzy/
Cub fans everywhere--the ones who have a sense of history and humor--will truly appreciate this one.
snowyman28 - April 15, 2007
that is great...
Thanks for the linkLet's get some runs!!!
ilovepie - April 15, 2007
CUBS ROBINSON T SHIRT
I cant find it anywhere. Anyone have a link???Bricks and Ivy - April 15, 2007
here ya go...
http://shop.mlb.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2714100&clickid=body_rv_imgilovepie - April 15, 2007
thanks
im getting mineBricks and Ivy - April 15, 2007
lmaoooooo.......
lilly k'ed encarnicion!!!!! that ball was 8 inches from his hand!!! nice try goober!!! man i dont know about anyone else but theriot has to be in the lineup every single day!!! he is flat out a catalyst.cubsluver22 - April 15, 2007
Why are we not
beating the snot out of Lohse - this is twice in a row. Did he sell his soul to the devil or what? He's horrid!!!ilovepie - April 15, 2007
Lilly with his 10th K today
wow wee wee wowNittanyCub - April 15, 2007
Let's Get This Guy Some RUNS!!!
I don't remember Kyle Lohse having such Cy Young-like stuff....Lilly is pitching great and if Theriot would get to bat 9 times in a row we would be way ahead in this game...razzpunk - April 15, 2007
Is Lohse really that good
Thats twice that I thought the Cubs were going to (or should) beat him easily. The offense cant do anything against him.Me and Lou WS 07 - April 15, 2007
soriano hit one hard!
hasn't happened too much this year yetcashcowsquirtingsourmilk - April 15, 2007
Ryan TheRiot...
2007 Cubs MVP!!!ilovepie - April 15, 2007
Lets get a big inning
NO dp JaqueMe and Lou WS 07 - April 15, 2007
Jones
has no business hitting higher than 7th.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
wtf
was that JOCKCZ38 - April 15, 2007
Can we...
please trade Jones - we don't need him.ilovepie - April 15, 2007
unbelievable
Bricks and Ivy - April 15, 2007
that seems about right
Bricks and Ivy - April 15, 2007
Miserable
at bats by both Jones and Lee. You've got to put a ball in play to tie the game. Unwatchable.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
The guy behind the plate
is really squeezing the hitters -- 21K's combined? Jones hadn't a clue, he was hacktastic -- swinging wildly at bad pitches.But Lee, he was selective -- and everything was borderline high on the black. Strike "three" was NOT so.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
In that situation
you have to put a ball in play. Eddings has been miserable with his zone the entire game. Lee has to put a ball in play to tie the game on anything close. It was a terrible at bat.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
Dude, DeRosa can't keep starting 2nd anymore
I want this lineup one of these days:Soriano CF
Murton LF
Lee 1B
Ramirez 3B
Theriot 2B
Jones RF
Barrett C
Izturis SS
P
NittanyCub - April 15, 2007
If Theriot isnt hitting first or second
he will be seventh behind Jones and Barrett. You are not using him right batting fifth.Me and Lou WS 07 - April 15, 2007
If my memory serves me correctly,
Soriano refuses to bat anything but 1st. He might be better in the 2 slot, but I just feel that Murton would be more effective if he was put there instead.NittanyCub - April 15, 2007
he refuses?
what the hell does that mean? bench him then. why would anybody sign a cancer like that for any amount of money?i'm baffled.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Well, because
that cancer was the first 40/40/40 guy in the history of the MLB.The lineup is all wishful thinking to begin with, though, as I doubt it will ever happen. Fiddlesticks.
NittanyCub - April 15, 2007
If that is the case
then sit his ass on the bench. He's not helping us the way it is.sue369 - April 15, 2007
I'd like to
see that lineup too but I doubt it will happen.sue369 - April 15, 2007
Wow
way to suck that one up guysWalker71421 - April 15, 2007
2006 cubs
cant believe this crapCZ38 - April 15, 2007
I feel sick
Why do I keep watching this team year after year?danimal15 - April 15, 2007
Don't know
but that might have been enough to push me over the edge. Missed few games over the last 10 years but I can't take anymore of this. Pathetic.BringBackRyno - April 15, 2007
i'm getting really close to that edge as well
it feels like a couple bad innings will send me away, but certainly a couple more years of this well turn me into a bassfisherman or something.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
that was pathetic
barrett came close on that first foul but wtf??cashcowsquirtingsourmilk - April 15, 2007
FFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCCCCCCCCcccKKKKKKKKKKKkkkkk
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
1st and 3rd nobody out
Only the Cubs could fail to score. Even a DP scores a run. Horrific. D-Lee stares at 3 straight? WTF?grifdog - April 15, 2007
Horrible!!!!
razzpunk - April 15, 2007
this team sucks!
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
All against Llose
A bum. A total bum.danimal15 - April 15, 2007
i really can't stand this shit
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Hindsight 20/20
but Quade has got to send Fonz on that hit - Freel doesn't throw that well, Fonz is fast, tie the game. I don't flippin' understand.PS trade jones now!!!!
ilovepie - April 15, 2007
he can't bat third
no way. fuck you lou.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Can't stand watching him
He shouldn't be batting third and he shouldn't be playing over Murton/Theriot/Pie/anyone. How long does it take Lou to figure this out?BringBackRyno - April 15, 2007
No excuse
You have to send him there. They weren't even going to throw home. Unbelievable.okiecubbie - April 15, 2007
and i hate len and bob
can't even stand to have the sound on.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
it has nothing to to with lohse
this team just sucks. plain and simpleBricks and Ivy - April 15, 2007
big time.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
pie..
better be getting ready..what the hell was Jacque Jones swinging at??Lilly won't get a deserved win over some no named Lohse
Lee should have swung at that last pitch...0-2 count means swinging at close pitches!!!
and why was Soriano stopped!!
God!!
Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
Another career day for a pitcher
Lohse career high in strikeouts. That at bat by Jones was worse than anyone on the roster could have done, including all pitchers.BringBackRyno - April 15, 2007
Jones
On strike 3, he looked exactly how I would have looked facing an MLB pitcher. No MLB player should look that bad, except against maybe Randy Johnson or Roger Clemens. Certainly not against the bum the Reds have out there.danimal15 - April 15, 2007
this as bad as friday.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
why cant i like another team
Bricks and Ivy - April 15, 2007
So, season's over, then?
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
no
they'll play thru another 150 games of fabulous cubs baseball and finish 10 games below .500. but you'll get your money's worth.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
is it just me or
have we been getting consistently screwed by the umps this year?CPattMVP2007 - April 15, 2007
it's just you.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
I Am Stunned!!!!
How can you not at least tie the game???? What was Jacque Jones doing??? What for the love of God did we hold Soriano for??? This team finds new ways to piss me off everyday!!!! Love those Cubbies!!!!razzpunk - April 15, 2007
Horrible strike zone maybe, but this game's a mess
Because of the man behind the plate.stelmodad - April 15, 2007
Not sure how
getting called out on strikes when the tying run is on third could be considered fine, but whatever.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
Ditto
I can see taking a couple, but with two strikes in that situation, you've got to swing if it's close, even just to try and foul it off. Don't know what Lee is thinking.danimal15 - April 15, 2007
That last pitch was three inches off the plate
Barrett comes in after seeing that abismal zone and has to swing another one two inches off the plate.The false K fest will keep on going...
stelmodad - April 15, 2007
razzpunk - couldn't have said it better myself...
The Cubs just can't have innings like they did in the bottom of the 6th today. Jones, what is he doing batting 3rd? The question still needs to be asked even though I am perfectly aware Ramirez is out of the lineup.AboutTheCubs - April 15, 2007
i hate to say this
but we suckCZ38 - April 15, 2007
Now Carlos...
what did the doctor say about excessive internet usage during the game?Ross - April 15, 2007
let's start movement
to stop that awful 7th inning stretch.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
How was Lee's at bat FINE????
He stood with the bat on his shoulder with 2 strikes instead of protecting the plate!!!razzpunk - April 15, 2007
yeah,
he doesn't look very good.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
we have to be one of the worst teams
in history at getting a run in from 3rd base with less than two outs over the past 3 years.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Stop showing God Damned Brady Quinn!!!
razzpunk - April 15, 2007
I am still pissed at Jones...
...he cannot hit in the clutch AT ALL!!!and now we really don't have a chance unless Soriano hits a HR really..
Damn You Jacque Jones!
Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
This site is becoming
more of therapy group, less of a blog every day.How depressing.
ttagaris - April 15, 2007
as the team becomes more of a joke
go figure.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Meanwhile
Lilly doesn't get a chance to win. I realize he'd thrown a lot of pitches, but he should have gone back out for the 7th. It's not like he was pinch-hit for. The guy is 29, not 21, and he was pitching great. Not sure what Lou is thinking.danimal15 - April 15, 2007
101 pitches
was enough this early in the season. I agree with Lou's decision.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
What's up with Brady Quinn
Singing the seventh inning stretch on Jackie Robinson day? Jeeze ...Littlerock Rynofan - April 15, 2007
This is not acceptable
We cannot be getting shut down by Kyle Lohse. And we cannot be getting struck out by Kyle Lohse 11 times in seven innings, who, over the course of his career, strikes out 5.6 batters per nine innings.I don't know what's wrong, but it's got to stop.
Josh Timmers - April 15, 2007
just a trough
yesterday was a crest. lilly pitched phenomenally. the cubs bats will wake up.CPattMVP2007 - April 15, 2007
boy, that's a sharp crest.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
prediction!!!!
jacque jones will belt one his next time up and win the game for us!!!!!! u heard it hear 1st!! uncle lou if you have any baseball knowledge in that big fat head of yours you will leave murton in left for good and theriot in the lineup every single day!!! man these guys gotta quit talking shit to the ump after a k-they gonna make it harder on themselves!!! we will win today!!cubsluver22 - April 15, 2007
Santo is so right.....
you cannot waste performances like Lilly's...for goodness sakes they only have 2 freaking hits and we have 4 yet we have the most unproductive hits of all time......UGGGGGGHHHHHHHH!razzpunk - April 15, 2007
oh sure you can.
the cubs do it every couple of days. you just can't do it and be competitive; that's what you meant.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Lou will be pissed..
...and start yelling..Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
Brady Quinn
Is representing himself much better than Devin Hester and Bernard Berrian did--those guys had nothing to say, and Berrian was texting people throughout the entire half inning..CPattMVP2007 - April 15, 2007
yeah, berrian was jackass
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
mike wuertz
amazingCZ38 - April 15, 2007
I'm about to puke
With all this ND/Quinn CRAP.He's a mediocre quarterback, who got absolutely slammed by any good competition he played (I could look good playing the service academies 3x a year, too!) with a coach that needs to go on weight watchers, at a school that is consistently overrated (don't believe me? when's the last time they won or even stayed close in a bowl game? that's the definition to me!)
sanantonecub - April 15, 2007
even if they have a few bad years
school's still got a pretty nice history. i think that has something to do with it.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
A decent history yes
But still hasn't won a National Championship in the modern era if I recall correctly. Their history is like Michigans - pre 1960.They are one of the main reasons the BCS is a joke, having a guaranteed spot if they beat the service academies, even though they consistently get pounded and take a spot from someone a lot more deserving each year. Join a damn conference, play some real competition, and see how you really do.
sanantonecub - April 15, 2007
you have to kidding me.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
be you know.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Both schools are struggling
recent but dated success...1970, 1971, 1994, 1995, 1997prolific yet dated success...1924, 1929, 1930, 1938, 1943, 1946, 1947, 1949, 1953, 1966, 1973, 1977, 1988
stelmodad - April 15, 2007
thank you
case.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Pictures speak a thousand words.
sanantonecub - April 15, 2007
congrats
nice looking field.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
As most 'experts' do
Throw anything before about 1958 out of the window, when there was no clear National Champion and a dozen different publications each crowned a different one.And regarding Nebraska vs Notre Dame, just ask any Irish fan about when Nebraska turned their stadium into a beautiful Sea of Red after all the Irish sold out.
sanantonecub - April 15, 2007
Ahh... the Nebraska disciple speaks...
that great football program has seen better days as well.stelmodad - April 15, 2007
Has Nebraska seen better days?
Yes. Is Nebraska also WELL on its way to reclaiming 'the glory days' in the upcoming seasons? YES.Nebraska doesn't get put into bowl games it doesn't deserve, as shown by its winning or staying close in almost every bowl game they are in. They also play real competition - Having some of Texas, Oklahoma, Texas A&M on the schedule every year, not to mention a non-conference lineup for the next decade lined up with USC, Virginia Tech, Tennessee, Wake Forest...
Most of all, you don't see Nebraska get anywhere near the undeserved respect from the media as ND.
sanantonecub - April 15, 2007
ND gets media for the same reason as the Yankees
Markets....and the ND media attention is excessive but evenly lauding and accusatory.
Nebraska is going through a reinvention period as are a lot of the previously dominant schools. There are many more legitamate teams out there and the natural path for the top talent isn't like it used to be.
BTW. A good friend of mine had a cousin who was a QB at Nebraska (Mike Stunz) so I get my fair share of Nebraska insider information and opinion.
stelmodad - April 15, 2007
honestly,
it's gonna be hard for nd to compete. the academic standards make it tough to recruit.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
i wish you guys well with your glory days.
enjoy them.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
you're funny...
you root for the Cubs AND you bring up glory days.stelmodad - April 15, 2007
MLB doesn't want to hear this
Especially with Jackie Robinson Day at Dodger Stadium coming up in about three and a half hours but . . .It's raining in Southern California right now.
Josh Timmers - April 15, 2007
Correct me if I'm wrong...
but wasn't Lohse part of the bad Rick Aguilera trade in 1999?ilovepie - April 15, 2007
YES HE WAS
But he was also DFA'd by the Twinkies....CubFaninNY - April 15, 2007
BCB
You guys are all insane. Barely 10 games into the season and everybody is flipping out. It's one damn game in 162. Just relax.miltowncubbie - April 15, 2007
Yeah 10 games in and trends are starting to show..
and those trends are so like 2006 it is scary....inability to get a run in from 3rd being one....razzpunk - April 15, 2007
not a bad AB from murton
ntCPattMVP2007 - April 15, 2007
Holy shit!!
Was that a Matt Murton sighting?sue369 - April 15, 2007
He still plays for the Cubs?
vegascubsfan - April 15, 2007
LOL
NittanyCub - April 15, 2007
it's so frustrating making all these pitchers
look like aces.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
no wonder clubs love coming to wrigley.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
soriano..
takes two hittable pitches..Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
i don't understand
why soriano can't learn to stop waving at those 2 strike sliders. figure it out alf.CPattMVP2007 - April 15, 2007
the guy is quite a bit like sammy
a bit faster. fewer homeruns. a bit worse in the field. apparently refuses to hit anywhere but in the leadoff spot (not really looking to do everything he can to help the club), etc.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
I don't understand
Why we can't score 1 stupid run off of Kyle Lohse (who has thrown 114 pitches)vegascubsfan - April 15, 2007
i don't understand why can't
get a damn runner in from third base with less than two outs. anybody know where i can find a percentage on this? over the last 3 years, we have to be below 20 percent.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
How many times does Theriot have to get on base
only to be stranded?vegascubsfan - April 15, 2007
Bottom of the 9th....
Jacque Itch Jones (swish)Derek Lee (put the pants back down!!!)
Michael Barrett (here he comes Mendoza line!)
Have faith Cubs fans.....stay boyishly positive like Len Kaspar (even if that means you need a frontal lobotomy)....
razzpunk - April 15, 2007
Kasper has to go.
bring in a "take me out to the ballgame"/ play by play guest. please.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Lohse is having
a career day, with help from the HP ump. Get over it. Yes, he was in the Cubs system, traded to the Twins in the Rick A. dealhttp://www.baseball-reference.com/l/lohseky01.shtml#TRANS
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
a career day...
thanks to the cubs.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Conditions are perfect for pitchers
Chilly, breezy and a generous ump. Lilly threw a great game.San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
Frustrated
How does a # 3 hitter go 11 games without an RBI?We should moved Jacque down in the batting order....preferably 10th or lower.
Saratoga - April 15, 2007
he should probably be 6th or 7th
i want him in the lineup. but he can't be batting 3rd. that's a joke.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Our bullpen sure does well...
WHEN WE DON'T HAVE THE LEAD!vegascubsfan - April 15, 2007
ha
we do just enough to lose close.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Is there some reason we can't hit a stinking HR?
razzpunk - April 15, 2007
Dempster has
another good inning.Now get some runs please !!!!
sue369 - April 15, 2007
Today is one game.
Calm the hell down.thekansasian - April 15, 2007
one game..
plus one game plus one gameplus one gameplus one gameplus one gameplus one gameplus one gameplus one game...it starts to add up, champ! People should be into the game!jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
If he did what he just did last AB
The game would be tied. rabble rabble.grifdog - April 15, 2007
not much you can do there
jones stuck against a lefty, yikesCPattMVP2007 - April 15, 2007
can hitters get losses??
Jones should get the loss, not Lilly..Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
I always hate it
when a pitcher like Lilly is lights out and still get saddled with a loss. Baring a miracle, it looks like he will today. Come on no decision!Walker71421 - April 15, 2007
Finally,
DLee gets the better of David Weathers and draws a walk.cubby23 - April 15, 2007
Why again....
is Jacque Jones not our 4th outfielder?USCKB - April 15, 2007
Because
nobody else on the team can play right field.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
agreed
not sure, not like Jacque's arm takes everyone else out of contention. Anybody in the Cubs OF could be trained to play RF.jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
YUCK!!!
sue369 - April 15, 2007
Hear hear
YUCK!!! really sums it up =(SVNorthsider - April 15, 2007
This game
was lost when jones struck out on three pitches and Lee stood there with the bat on his shoulder for strikes two and three. A good team has to take advantage of first and third with nobody out. Hopefully they play better tomorrow.I can't remember the last time a position player has hit a home run for this team.
cubsbak - April 15, 2007
One f*@#king run over 26 innings
And we win 1 of 2 games.ttagaris - April 15, 2007
Our lineup should be:
Soriano CFTheriot SS
Lee 1B
Ramirez 3B
Floyd RF
Murton LF
Barrett C
De Rosa 2B
Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
actually
A good lineup wouldn't have a man who can hit 40 home runs hit leadoff.jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
no, i disagree
our lineup should be:theriot 2b
soriano cf
lee 1st
aram 3rd
barrett c
jones rf
murton/floyd lf
izturis ss
or when aram's out:
theriot 3b
barrett c
lee 1b
soriano cf
floyd/murton lf
derosa 2b
jones rf
izturis ss
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
very few surprises this year
at least not good ones--see 5th inning friday. so, what we've one 1 series out of 4. that's not going to get it done.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
The difference between winning and losing
In my opinion the Cubs should have swept this series. Instead they lose two out of three. Some things never change. Too bad!Saratoga - April 15, 2007
Yep
They had their chances. A good team would've swept.cubsbak - April 15, 2007
Anybody notice
we out hit another team and lose???Bricks and Ivy - April 15, 2007
Too bad Theriot
Was responsible for 75% of them. Kinda makes it impossible, right?Littlerock Rynofan - April 15, 2007
the thing that sucks is..
...this year the cubs should be like 7-4 right now; Marquis and Lilly have pitched excellent in two starts and the team didn't win (ironically against Lohse both times). Friday should have been a win without a doubt..Chanman25 - April 15, 2007
It was a classic pitcher's duel
Lohse was Lites out, Lilly was just as good, save for Hamilton's hit. Would you have rather lost 13-12, and complained that the Cubs couldn't get anybody out? But people here will gripe about anything, but that's OK too.San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
we shouldn't get upset at anything
Right smooth jazz? ;) I mean it's just baseball. If it's upsetting, we can just turn it off.jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
and listen to some jazz..
i think i'm gonna need some morphine.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Well, having lost the last 7 in a row against
The Padres, we are due. Hensley and Maddux v. Marquis and Miller. (Weather permitting)San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - April 15, 2007
yuck.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
I keep remembering that last year
We were 14-10 in April. It didn't seem to do us much good. Lets hope this team gets the crap games out of the way early, learns from their mistakes, and gives us an opportunity to have some meaningful games in September (and October).sanantonecub - April 15, 2007
most cub teams
That start out poor, end poor.jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
never thought...
We'd be losing coz we can't hit. Just seems sad. 4-7. Yuck. WE had chances today, and we didn't capitalize. Jacque at-bat in the 6th was one of the worst at-bats I've seen over the last two year. Absolutely terrible.The approach at the plate today was heinous. Lohse hit all of his spots, but the Cubs weren't willing to get their bats off their back early in the count to take the ball to right.
Lohse pitched great, nothing you can do about it EXCEPT maybe try to be more active at the plate. WE need Rambo back like nobody's business.
jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
yeah, the cubs have been pitched
consistently way outside, often off the plate. they need to go opposite field almost exclusively for a while.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Lohse did not pitch great
he may be one of the worst pitchers in the entire league, unfortunately when someone faces the cubs we make them look like cy young because every batter in our lineup except theriot is just trying to hit a home run, now excuse me while i go vomitCubsBall2202 - April 15, 2007
absolutely sickening.......
lohse was horrible and the cubs did absolutely nothing but hack away at his shit pitches. 1st of all i wanna say i cant f'ing stand this platoon shit. i hate this different lineup every damn day. i realize aram being out hurts but this crap has got to stop. cliff floyd is not a everyday starter and niether is izturis. murton has to be out there everyday.i dont expect anyone to be very productive at their job if they dont play. find a position for theriot (ss) and leave him their and bat him 2nd unless he proves otherwise. lilly was outstanding and he oughta rip into his offense in the locker room. PATHETIC!!!cubsluver22 - April 15, 2007
lohse wasn't horrible
that's overstating it. he was good, but the good made him look fantastic.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
What?
12 Strikeout Horrible.What game were you watching?
Do you know anything about baseball?
TheEman - April 15, 2007
What is up with
Michael Barrett????If his defense sucks, then how about some RISP hits! You BOZO!
TheEman - April 15, 2007
Oh - Al, I'm sure he's
"A Great Guy".But c'mon!! Pass-ball city, no-throw out, no HIT!
What good is the guy? Hanging drywall??
TheEman - April 15, 2007
I will gladly do the honors
of pushing the panic button for everyone here. This team fucking sucks. I can't stand how many people put up with Jones shit every single game he should be getting mercifully booed out of chicago till he cries, HE IS PATHETIc!! A high school team could have tied that game in the 6th inning today, jones went up there with the attitude to swing if the pitch wound up in the cubs dugout, this team has 0 plate patience and im really wearing thin, well be lucky to go 2-5 vs sd/atlanta/st louis next weekCubsBall2202 - April 15, 2007
fuck, it'll be damn near a miracle.
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Some stats on April winning to make you think...
A little stat to throw out at you guys who don't think April games are important:In the history of the Chicago Cubs not a single team has started 4-7 or worse and MADE THE POSTSEASON. Not one. In the over 100 years of Cubs baseball. Not one. I researched this.
ON TOP OF THIS, not since 1972 has a Cub team started 4-7 or worse and finished over .500. NOT ONCE.
The last time was 1972 when the Cub started 2-9, and finished 85-70.
The Cubs started 4-7 or worse in 1981, 1982, 1983, 1986, 1987, 1994, 1997, and 2002.
The combined won-loss record of those teams was 512-673.
That's 69.98 wins per year in a 162 game season.
You're right, though. It doesn't matter.
jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
This would have
made the Wild Card:"the last time was 1972 when the Cub started 2-9, and finished 85-70."
TheEman - April 15, 2007
ahhh!
Very perceptive of you! Only 12 teams in the ole NL those days! Fact was, it was tougher to make the playoffs back then. And yes, many teams that have finished 4-7 or worse have made the playoffs. I mean...we are due...right??? (let's hope:)jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
THAT'S SOME...
...great stuff right there - thanks.Why do I do this to myself?
ilovepie - April 15, 2007
We can start out april 9-0
and we still wont make the playoffs, we are the cubs, we dont win home games for some reason and we lose to mediocre pitching, believe me this will go on all year longCubsBall2202 - April 15, 2007
No, it doesn't matter.
Teams have started far worse than 4-7 and made the postseason. What difference does it make that Cub teams from the past didn't do this? Is this any of those teams? No, it's not.God, give it at least a month before you give up.
Al Yellon - April 15, 2007
what did you think of that jones at bat?
buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
I think Lohse could have
thrown a pitch into the cubs dugout and jones would have swung, he was trying to be a heroCubsBall2202 - April 15, 2007
I'll try, Al
I'll try my darndest. I just wanted people to see that the games sure do matter.Hopefully this Cub team is different from the others. We can change history!
jdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
Exactly.
Yes, these games do matter. But last year's team started 7-4 in its first 11 games. Did that make a difference in the final result?Al Yellon - April 15, 2007
DITKA??
I have to tell you, I really get almost a Ditka-esque feeling from Lou, IMO.It will be REALLY interesting to see what changes are coming if things continue like this.
Those of you who followed the Bears when Ditka took over may remember he cleaned house and got rid of people who just couldn't get the job done.
TheEman - April 15, 2007
Maybe everyone should
just come to terms with the fact that this is a very expensive, very medicore team.PriorandAramisfan23 - April 15, 2007
so, i've accepted that
now what? i still can't stand when they leave a runner on third base with less than 2 outs.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Lou was great...
On the post-game. Unlike any statements in the last 4 years, he stated basically if the hitters aren't doing their jobs, he's gonna find people who can.I sense his frustration as well as ours. As I've stated many times, he will not stand for it.
To not get ONE run with 1st and 3rd and NO outs (even a double play gets a run) is inexcusable!
Make NO MISTAKE - Lou is a stat guy, and after the month of April, I look for wholesale changes with guys that cannot produce with situational hitting.
TheEman - April 15, 2007
does that mean soriano...
gets moved from the leadoff spot? that is issue 1. he should take a tip from his buddy larussa. put a pesk up front, contact guy: murton (sans anxiety attack), barret, theriot; put a power hitter in the 2 hole, fastballs: soriano, jones, or barrett.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
Lou says all the right things......
but this is still the team that Jim Hendry constructed which means if Lou wants to find new guys, Hendry is going to be the one that's finding them. That'll only lead to more of the same.PriorandAramisfan23 - April 15, 2007
How is everyones
patience? Theriot needs to hit leadoff, and Jones out of the 3 hole please.Maddux will beat the Cubs.
Johnny Callison was a Cub - April 15, 2007
Speaking of getting dominated by bum pitchers
Im sure everyone can recall last year when tomorrows starter clay hensley from san diego threw about an 82 pitch complete game against us, that may have been the worst thing i have seen in my lifeCubsBall2202 - April 15, 2007
last year?
Last year? What do you mean last year? I don't remember a 'last year'?! (heh) erased from my memoryjdoolsiu - April 15, 2007
it was just like this year...
only with more homeruns.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
stick around awhile...
i have a feeling we'll soon have a new day come, usurper.buckmulligan - April 15, 2007
yup
I was at that one. Quite digusting really.mike @ Bleed Cubbie Blue - April 16, 2007
If anyone happened to catch
Lou's postgame press confrence, could you sum it up for meCubsBall2202 - April 15, 2007
See above
TheEman - April 15, 2007
What I got out of Lou's postgame press conference-
AboutTheCubs - April 15, 2007
theeman and back mulligan!!!!!!!
what game were u2 watching???? lohse was horrible!!cubs were swinging at pitches at their ankles,outside,outside and low and at our throats!!my 8 yr old could pitch to jones and soriano and strike them out. hell my wife knows nothing about baseball nor does she like it but when jacque was hitting she stood next to me and said "man he thinks he is swinging a tennis racket doesnt he?" if soriano is gonna leadoff he needs to start acting like a lead off hitter! why not bunt a time or two or better yet take some pitches? i think a good ol fashion ass chewing and benching his ass for a game or two by uncle lou will bring him back down to earth and make him regain his focus. he's trying to be pretty at the plate and hit hr's. cliff floyd needs to be sitting right next to daryle ward on a daily basis. he wasnt a good starter the last 3 years? so why in the hell is he starting now? dont say righty lefty matchups cause thats a bunch of BS. platooning players sucks. i wanna see the lineup be the exact same for at least 4 games a week with the exception of barret/blanco! theriot has a good head on his shoulders and has proved himself as a starter.cubsluver22 - April 15, 2007
Right on
I like your thinking.danimal15 - April 15, 2007
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