Yes, I stayed up for the end of this one -- when Kerry Wood loaded the bases in the last of the 9th I was starting to wish I hadn't -- but in the end, all was well, after Kerry struck out Matt Kemp to preserve the Cubs' 5-4 win over the Dodgers, their fourth straight win over LA (giving them the all-time series lead over the Dodger franchise, 1011-1010).
Figures, doesn't it, that the one game I'm going to manage to stay up late to see its conclusion this week, is the longest one of the week, going three hours and seven minutes. So I am a bit bleary-eyed but happy this morning, as the Cubs maintain the best record in baseball at 39-22; check the "Best Starts Since 1900" box on the sidebar to see the 2008 team has now moved up; there are now only five Cub teams since 1900 that have started better: 1906, 1907, 1910, 1918 and 1969.
That's four pennant winners and one that shoulda.
And Kerry Wood, who some here were ready to throw under the bus when he had a tough debut as closer on Opening Day, is now leading the National League in saves.
Once again, this team won with a different hero; last night it was Kosuke Fukudome, who hit his first MLB home run away from Wrigley Field and who drove in the winning run with e perfectly-placed single off his countryman Takashi Saito in the 9th inning. Maybe the arrival of Kosuke's family in the USA has something to do with it:
"Perhaps it's because my family is in town," Fukudome said of his wife and young son, who joined him in San Diego. "I'll make sure they stay."
Hey, whatever works. The Cubs blew an early 4-0 lead when Jeff Kent homered twice, once off Ryan Dempster, once off Bob Howry, who nearly did a Ted Lilly slam-the-glove-down move, rare for him -- you almost never see Howry show emotion on the mound -- but this resilient team came back. Props to Neal Cotts for throwing a scoreless inning -- so far, since his recall, Cotts looks more like the setup man who had a 1.94 ERA for the 2005 champion White Sox, than the guy who got sent down seemingly never to return last year.
I still worry, as I am sure you do, a bit about Derrek Lee, who went 0-for-4 again last night. I'm sure he'll come out of this; it hasn't hurt his defense, which was clearly in evidence again last night, and plenty of great players go into slumps. Right now, with Daryle Ward out (and not likely to return anytime soon) and Micah Hoffpauir back at Iowa, it's not likely D-Lee will get a day off until the team off day on Monday, after which -- I never thought I'd write this -- I actually hope Hoffpauir will be back, not only to maybe give D-Lee a breather, but to get rid of the 13th pitcher, an unnecessary luxury for a manager who seems to have fallen in love with the scourge of the first decade of the 21st Century, the one-batter appearance.
This is too much complaining for a team that's playing this well, I fear. Even Jim Edmonds seems to be getting a bit closer to the guy we all hated in Cardinal red; he had two more hits last night and made a slick diving catch in CF. So enjoy the moment; there's only one more Late Night With The Cubs (tonight) until the team heads to San Francisco at the end of this month. Onward, and this morning please give some thanks to the Nationsls' Elijah Dukes, who hit a two-run walkoff HR in the 10th inning to give Washington a doubleheader split with St. Louis after they had blown a 7-0 lead; this kept the Cubs' lead in the NL Central at its largest of the year, 3.5 games. Till tonight.
0 recs | 399 comments
First
great game last night . . . time to read Al’s recap now
gwood - June 6, 2008
I too am a little worried
about DLee, this is a pretty bad funk he is in. But, as you say Al, he’s too good of a hitter to be in this slide for long.
Isn’t it nice though that while we are worrying about (probably) our best all around player, that doesn’t mean we have to worry about the team as a whole. These guys are a pleasure to watch.
gwood - June 6, 2008
I didn't get to see the game last night...
...(damn you mediacom!!), but I’ve noticed that Lee’s timing is way off. Anyone else see this? He’s starting his leg kick sooner than he does when he’s on. Anyway, go Cubs!
IowaCubs- - June 6, 2008
He seems a little heavier to me
Definitely doesn’t run as fast as he used to…. maybe it’s slowing up his swing a little.
tony412 - June 6, 2008
I thought something was wrong
when he missed a pitch from Hoffman wed. night that was right in DLee’s wheel house.
gwood - June 6, 2008
In Iowa City the game was on Mediacom channel 74
They usually put them there if there’s a Sox game on FSC.
Usually.
jasoniniowa - June 6, 2008
Des Moines Mediacom
is carries the Cardinals instead of the Cubs. Sucks for the Cub fans in Des Moines.
sue369 - June 6, 2008
Mediacom
It was on channel 22 in Dubuque. Much like Iowa City, they usually put them on 22 when the Sox are on 27. You should check your alternative channels. I think 22 here is called Mediacom Connections.
rambler19 - June 6, 2008
haha, that sounds like a regional airline!
northsider - June 6, 2008
Once again
Ryan The Riot! He seems to always play a big part in late inning rallies by somehow getting on base. I know he’s not the best defensive SS but you gotta love his O.
plenz - June 6, 2008
Someone referred to his BA as "empty" earlier...
I think her is now making his hits count. he is good enough to be here no matter what other people say.
Kinky Reggae - June 6, 2008
"Empty" refers to lack of extra-base hits, not timeliness...
So in that regard, his BA is still empty, as he has one extra-base hit in his last 15 games.
As long as he keeps hitting .330, it’s not a problem. He’s hitting .330 now, which is keeping his OPS at a respectable .800. The question comes if/when that average drops to around .280. That’s what the poster used the term “empty” BA meant.
In other words, having an “empty” BA doesn’t mean that you aren’t making your hits count. The two are unrelated statements.
SouthernCub - June 6, 2008
Man oh man
is he fast. I couldn’t imagine being able to run like that.
lostinthevines - June 6, 2008
yep… he continues to prove his worth to me
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
It was a great game last nite. Al, thanks for the recap. This team isn't perfect
but it’s pretty darn amazing. And different “heroes” on different nights, we’re not depending on one player to always be the hero… I’m off on vacation for a couple of weeks so probably won’t be able to watch as many games but look forward to being at the game in Toronto on the 14th and then at Wrigley on the 21st… GO CUBBIES….
MinnesotaFan - June 6, 2008
Rogers Center is an odd place to see a game
Not as odd as Chase in PHX (which feels like an airplane hangar) but odd nonetheless.
Be cool to see the Cubs though. Hope the roof is open.
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
Also hope the roof is open
Forecast:
6/13 Sunny High: 84 °F
6/14 Rain Probable High: 80 °F
6/15 Sunny High: 81 °F
tony412 - June 6, 2008
That's a week from now, so...
... the forecast could change.
Al Yellon - June 6, 2008
I'll be there 13th and 14th
Where you sitting?
On the 14th I’ll be in Section: 113B
tony412 - June 6, 2008
I can't wait for the Cubs
to get back on this side of the country, I’m getting tired of staying up late.
MScubbie - June 6, 2008
errrr
i fell asleep when it was 4-0. I hate these stinking late nighters.
cubsluver22 - June 6, 2008
I didn't want
to fall asleep last night, because I fell asleep on wednesday night….I got a little superstitious.
MScubbie - June 6, 2008
I went to sleep
last night b/c I stayed up to watch wednesday night’s game. I plan on watching tonight’s game however, so hopefully the Cubs can overcome my little bit of influence.
gwood - June 6, 2008
Also stayed up
that was a mistake. I am SO tired! Anyway, Al, I am happy to have you in the Hoffpauir camp! We appreciate your support!
I hope he succeeds up here, if for no other reason then because he may make good trade bait. I like him a lot, whether all you people say he is destined to be a nobody.
GO CUBS!
Kinky Reggae - June 6, 2008
I would like to see Hoffpauir
get some more chances too in hopes that he can increase his trade value. I don’t think he really has a place on this team long term, especially once Ward gets back, but he could be a fine addition to an AL team who needs a DH/1B, maybe even the Red Sox at this point with Ortiz out for an extended period of time
gwood - June 6, 2008
Hoffpauir is a DH in the Cub system.
The club need one for the games in the AL parks and Ward is out. Bring back the Hoff.
N Oakley - June 6, 2008
Is Ward
that much a better option than Hoff? Short term and long term.
tony412 - June 6, 2008
To me, yes (short term)
but mostly because Ward has a proven track record of success in the pinch-hitter role in the Majors. Although Hoffpauir is turning some heads. Hoffpauir still looks a little over matched at the plate at times too.
Long term, who knows, Ward doesn’t move too well and back injuries are never good.
gwood - June 6, 2008
I think D Ward's contributions to the team tip the scale
He’s a clubhouse guy, he’s experienced, his value as a PH can obviously be quantified but I think there is a confidence factor with a PH like D Ward (on both his part and Lou’s) that can’t be overstated.
He’s a perfect fit for THIS team. Maybe not every team, but for sure this one.
That being said I really hope we find a spot for Hoff. I like what I’ve seen so far.
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
I agree
if not traded, he could be a future DWard.
Kinky Reggae - June 6, 2008
This may be blasphemy but
I would rather see Hoffpauir come up to DH vs. Murton
gwood - June 6, 2008
Hoffpauir
is a 28 year old 1st baseman who has 19 major league AB’s. You are right , he doesn’t have a place on this team other than DH when we play in AL parks and filling in for Ward. Spending time trying to build up his non-existent trade value seems like a waste to me. Sure the Cubs could trade him but they won’t get much. Boston will DH Ramirez while Ortiz is out.
That said, I agree with Al, 13 pitchers is ridiculous.
rlpete - June 6, 2008
Hoffpauir vs. Murton
It’ll depend on how many RHP and LHP are scheduled to pitch for Toronto, Tampa and the White Sox, the three AL teams we play on the road.
Al Yellon - June 6, 2008
You know Zambrano's going to want to bat in these parks
but I’m certain Lou will DH for him.
Or will he???? Hmmmm.
flachimesa - June 6, 2008
That's a good question
it’ll be interesting to see what Lou does in this respect. I would guess that he would use the DH to protect Z from any injuries he may sustain running the bases etc. But just to replace Z’s bat, there is no reason to do that.
gwood - June 6, 2008
I definitely agree that Lou shouldn't let Big Z DH but...
...I wouldn’t be completely surprised if he did. Lou’s been very generous with Carlos’ ABs thus far, always letting him have that last plate appearance when he pitches and even using him as a pinch hitter. I’d prefer not to take the risk, but Carlos seems to have a way of persuading Lou otherwise.
daver - June 6, 2008
Once a pitcher bats for himself
you can’t use a DH later in the game. So while we’re pretty comfortable with Z at the plate, we’d either have to have Howry, Eyre, Marmol, etc., bat for themselves, or use up PHs for their atbats. That would be a disadvantage if the host AL team is using a DH.
I was at a Sox game the first year of the DH rule, and late in the game a pitcher batter for himself. It was noted as the “first time” that had happened since the DH was established. I wonder how many other time that’s happened – I sure don’t recall seeing any others. Not that I watch a lot of AL baseball, but still.
ChipSet - June 6, 2008
Soriano as DH?
In the AL parks, make Soriano the DH. Put Johnson in LF and Edmonds in CF.
memphiscub - June 6, 2008
I like the sound of that
and bat Johnson 9th
gwood - June 6, 2008
That...
is not a bad idea.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
+3
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
Fourthed.
Al Yellon - June 6, 2008
5th
Madison Cub Fan - June 6, 2008
last
daver - June 6, 2008
nope
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
The problem with that idea is that one of Johnson/Edmonds...
...is going to be on the wrong side of their platoon split. Against a lefty, I’d call up Murton and run out a Murton/Johnson/Dome outfield, with Soriano at DH. But that scenario isn’t likely to come up until the Sox series; unless I’m missing something, the Rays and Jays have only one lefty starter between them, Scott Kazmir.
cwyers - June 6, 2008
I still don't see a problem.
Johnson can play left, and he and Edmonds (as of late) have hit better than Murton. I like the idea of the those two in field with Dome and still not losing Soriano’s bat.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
Here's the problem.
Reed Johnson versus RHP, 2008: .237/.298/.312
Jim Edmonds versus LHP, 2008: .091/.130/.136
This is why there’s a platoon. Factor in the fact that Soriano isn’t likely to hit as well as a DH (DHing is harder than hitting generally), and you’re looking at a recipe for disaster.
cwyers - June 6, 2008
Yeah, Soriano seems so "sensitive"...
...(for lack of a better word) to being taken out of his routine, that I would suspect he’d be disastrous as a DH. He’d have so much pent up energy from sitting on the bench all game, that he’d be swinging at balls before they left the pitcher’s hand.
daver - June 6, 2008
Then let him also be the batboy.
He can expend that nervous energy retrieving bats, foul balls, and giving the ump fresh balls.
TWSS (preemptive)
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
It's not just Soriano.
If you look at any hitter, they have a tendancy to hit worse off the bench (PH/DH) than they would if they were batting as part of the starting lineup.
And then you’re talking about using one of Edmonds/Johnson when they don’t have the platoon advantage. In that event, you’re probably better off using someone like Hoffpauir as DH.
cwyers - June 6, 2008
Except that bastard
Pujols. That’s a scary dude.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
That should be exactly the 10th day after Big Hoff was sent sent down.
So, he’ll be back for interleague play.
That’s nice timing for us… and gives us a chance to showcase Hoff for the AL.
SackMan - June 6, 2008
I think you miss the point
The statement was that DHing is harder than hitting generally. Generally.
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
What about running Onedec out to left?
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
More likely what you'd do is put Cedeno at second...
...and put DeRosa in left. Which I think is a better option.
cwyers - June 6, 2008
Last year, Lou went with ARam at DH
the last 3 games, all wins against the Sox. He was productive as a DH in 2 out of 3 games, with 4 hits, including a HR, a double, one HBP and 2 RBI in 13 PA.
What will Lou do (“WWLD”)?
Maybe keep Soriano and his arm/assists in LF, move DeRo over to 3B and platoon FonteYES (against righties) and Onedec (against lefties) at 2B?
flachimesa - June 6, 2008
Last year, ARam had chronic leg issues...
...and needed the days off anyway. This year it’s Soriano with the leg problems. You do it as much to rest Soriano’s legs to try and keep him healthy as you do anything else.
cwyers - June 6, 2008
Good point!
n/t
flachimesa - June 6, 2008
Lou is that you?
I like this a lot… so many more options in an AL batting order. A whole different dynamic.
tony412 - June 6, 2008
Prediction...
... Hoff will end the year in Cleveland.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
Is hafner
expected to be out that long?
gwood - June 6, 2008
His DL stint, as of yesterday,
is “indefinite,” according to YahooSports. Apparently, his shoulder is still too weak to swing a bat.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
I'm not really in the "Hoffpauir camp".
I’m in the camp of GET RID OF THE 13TH PITCHER!
!
Al Yellon - June 6, 2008
Word
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
CMON AL!
Give a little. Why not Patterson or Murton then?
Kinky Reggae - June 6, 2008
Lou loves...
...the left handed power hitter.
carmen_fanzone - June 6, 2008
I'm with you Al
13 is at least one pitcher (and possibly two pitchers) too many.
danimal15 - June 6, 2008
Amazing
how when you are tired, superstitions are hard to maintain. I was trying to keep the remote in my hand so as to fool the gods again…just my thang…and I fell asleep and dropped the romote and woke up to a tie game a la Bob Howry Cow.
Kinky Reggae - June 6, 2008
Didn't see the game
but I happened to flip over to FSN in time to see Dukes’ shot. It was mammoth, probably 410 to straight-away center. I actually found myself yelling, “Go, go, go!” urging it along like I would a Cub.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
For his first Bomb
it was very impressive. Great timing too.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
The Cardinal who hit the go ahead home run
in the top of that inning, that was his first career home run too.
gwood - June 6, 2008
And a Pitcher!!!
Mark Worrell
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
First at-bat, too.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
If Howry had taken the t-shirt from SWL in San Diego
He never would have given up that home run.
Respect the shirt!!
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
Amen.
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
Word.
Al Yellon - June 6, 2008
Heck yeah.
daver - June 6, 2008
If it helps Keep Dome happy
I’d be happy to contribute to some sort of “nanny” fund that would allow them to hire an entire entourage to make sure they were comfortable WHEREVER they were. :)
Seriously, it’s really cool his family is finally here to share this great experience.
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
Elijah Dukes
Al, did you ever think you would be typing “give thanks to Elijah Dukes”?
Cubs starting pitchers
Last 9 “Non quality” starts, cubs record 9-0
Last 1 “Quality” start, cubs record 0-1
It is an easy game.
gocubsgo22 - June 6, 2008
LOL
No, that’s a phrase that never would have entered my head before last night.
Al Yellon - June 6, 2008
Kerry Wood had me scratching holes
in the back of my couch. So glad he managed to eke out the last K. Goodness, that was painful! Go Cubs.
Emelie - June 6, 2008
His last pitch
I saw on Comcast highlights and it was all gas lightsout flame. This is why he’s the closer. Stay healthy Kerry, stay healthy.
mrcubsfan - June 6, 2008
absolutely
the very last pitch was faassst. Bottoms up to health.
Emelie - June 6, 2008
You are not kidding.
I’ve taken to calling him “Kid C” – the “C” is for “Cardiac”. THROW STRIKES AND STOP HITTING BATTERS!!! Jeezus – that’s six hit batsmen this year. For someone that only pitches one inning every other day or so, that’s excessive to say the least.
lostinthevines - June 6, 2008
Do you want to face Kerry?
Knowing that he HAS hit 6 batters and is throwing over 95 MPH. I don’t care how accomplished the hitter is that has to be in the back of their mind. I know we fans don’t like it but the byproduct is fear in the hitter and that is certainly what you want from your closer. Just quit loading the bases Kerry and making us nervous. Hit a guy if you want once in a while just to keep batters on their heels. (I wonder if Kerry….deep down inside…..gives a little chuckle when he drills someone and says to himself “They aren’t going to be comfortable against me!” Kind of a sadistic evil pitcher thing going on.)
mrcubsfan - June 6, 2008
That's what I was thinking.
Maybe he’s establishing his reputation early so come playoff time batters won’t know what to expect. Wood did play with Maddux, the master of baseball foreshadowing.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
The best example of this that I can remember
is when Randy Johnson was pitching to John Kruk (the only reason I remember this is b/c they talk about it weekly on baseball tonight it seems). Randy threw the first pitch high and hard about two feet over Kruk’s head. Kruk always says all he wanted to do was be able to walk back to the dugout after that at-bat
gwood - June 6, 2008
LOL
I remember that conversation.
mrcubsfan - June 6, 2008
All Star game
Wasn’t it?
iluvryno - June 6, 2008
Despite the heart palpitations last night...
Since blowing a save at home against Milwaukee on May 1, Wood is 13 for 14 in save chances with a 0.93 ERA and 25 Ks in 19 1/3 innings.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
I was one of those who were
ready to ditch Wood after opening day, the brutal Milwaukee loss, etc. and I’m very happy to admit that it looks like I was wrong. He doesn’t always make it look pretty, but right now he’s doing the job and that’s enough.
As for D-Lee-I think it’s interesting that people are always ready to talk and argue about dropping Soriano from the lead-off position but people rarely talk about dropping Lee from the three hole where he’s been going through brutal streaks all year long.
bluekoolaide - June 6, 2008
It was normal time for once for us west coast people...
...but when it isn’t normal it’s usually better for us because the games are ending earlier or are done when we get home from work, LOL…
Nice write up of the game. I got out of my laziness a little a week or two ago and looked up Wood’s stats and he’s pitched very well. He has had essentially 3 poor outing (2 against the Brewers) that have inflated his stats. But when you look at his production in total, he’s getting it done and he’s doing it well. Part of the problem with perception is that you tend to remember the 3-4 HBPs because you don’t see that much unless your closer is Mitch Williams, so it sticks with us. But you look at his stats in total and his WHIP being under one (very good for Woos) and he’s really produced in this role. What upset me last night was walking the King of the Judys, Juan Pierre, it was frustrating, LOL…
There is an enormous amount of pressure that comes with trying to carry the weight of 100 years of losing. This team is surely going to hit some rough spots ahead because of that pressure and because the rotation is not providing enough innings and IMO, Lou mishandles this pen. Al is right on about the one hitter reliver—it hurts your bullpen because you make too many changes. Lou has got to commit to other guys longer and let them pitch or there won’t be much left in the arms of the 3 Amigos come September. It particularly makes no sense when you are carrying an absurd number of pitchers on the roster.
Lou needs to step back from 100 years of pressure building and put 2 more everyday players on the roster and give the 3 Amigos more rest (or at least Marmol). There’s a long way to go and we need to be able to cross the finish line. I am loving watching this team but I cringe when think of a possible collapse down th stretch-think good thoughts-we are winning and we take it one game at a time. Go, Cubs!
DudeVf11 - June 6, 2008
Zzzzz...
lostinthevines - June 6, 2008
you need to get more sleep
respect the opinion
cubsonWGN4ever - June 6, 2008
Cut Lou a break
So far he has pulled all the right strings. If he had left he relife in longer who knows ? We probly dont have the record we have now. Win now and let the baseball gods take care of the rest.
cubbierc - June 6, 2008
Agreed...
...to me this is the toughest part of managing to win games. I think Lou recognizes this, but the emphasis on the L/R match ups and the L specialist, it’s way over rated and the way he uses it, to me it hurts the pen.
DudeVf11 - June 6, 2008
Don't forget
our shortstop has moved his table-setting average up to .330. Night in and out he has got on base. His 9th inning hit last night was the key to the win.
Also, I am amazed Edmonds is hitting after all looked lost and even I said he was done. He is looking like a great platoon partner…..for now at least. The bottom of our line-up has to be a nightmare for opposing pitchers with Johnson/Edmonds, DeRosa, Soto and our hitting pitchers.
mrcubsfan - June 6, 2008
Didn't watch the game
But checked the MLB.TV archive to see Edmonds’ hits, to see if they solid or not. Pleased to see how hard he hit that fast ball from Billingsley to straight right field, and the other one was a solid line drive to center. His “new” old swing seems to be working pretty well for him.
JohnM - June 6, 2008
I agree -- Edmond's stock continues to rise...
... on my own personal NASDAQ index. He hit both of those singles awfully hard—they definitely weren’t cheapies. And it’s getting harder and harder to argue that his bad speed has slowed down considering he got the first of his two hits off of Billingsley, who was throwing smoke for at least the first couple innings. The catch in centerfield was nice, though I still can’t help but think Felix would have caught that ball around his waist rather than six inches off the ground.
In any case, slowly but surely, you’re winning me over, Jimbo Ballgame. Please continue.
daver - June 6, 2008
It's odd
but it seems that eliminating the stride from his hitting approach has actually sped up his bat. I don’t know that much about the mechanics of a swing, but it would seem that eliminating the stride would decrease bat speed. Maybe it was his timing all along and not just bat speed and eliminating the stride has bettered his timing at the plate.
Either way, I am glad to see that Hendry’s gamble is seeming to pay off for us. Edmonds has help us out both offensively and defensively since his arrival, here’s to hoping it continues
gwood - June 6, 2008
I think eliminating the stride
shortnes the entire swing process, by eliminating that step. I am not sure if his bat is actually faster, but the time from decision to contact is shortned this way. I would assume it would cost some power. But Jimmy probably has gained some “old man strength” by now.
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
I guess this is mostly reiteration, but...
Lou should shuffle the batting order to try and take some pressure off DLEE. He can sometimes tend to lose his concentration and start committing on pitches too soon. He should bat 6th or 7th for a while.
And how about The Riot? You’ve gotta give all the credit to Lou for sticking with him despite the early success of Cedeno, who many were clamoring for just weeks ago. With his .335 average, how many NL teams could be sending him to the ASG as their lone representative?
Jerry Mumphrey - June 6, 2008
The Pen has been addicting lately...
...So i am sure it is a security blanket for Lou. Pen has been carrying them lately, so they were due for a hiccup (just baseball). Nice to see Kosuke have a good game on the road and Edmonds continue to contribute. Had a couple great catches last night.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
Kosuke's late inning heroics
I’m pretty sure this was Kosuke’s first late inning game winning RBI for the Cubs. He’s had other “game winning” runs (technically speaking) but usually not in the 8th or 9th, so it’s not talked about as much. The Japanese press has got to love it seeing it come off Saito as well.
southloop - June 6, 2008
I know it isn't game winning
but his opening day home run was pretty big in my book
gwood - June 6, 2008
Lee is definitely scuffling
I’m not worried long term, but he’s not helping us right now.
Brett Taylor - June 6, 2008
He is in the field...
Makes those tough dig outs at first look easy. I think we take that for granted. Look what happened when Hank White played first.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
+1
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
He is absolutely elegant in the field
He’s graceful and like every world class athlete makes it look easy as pie.
Emelie - June 6, 2008
Felix?
:)
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
I thought that too.
I can’t read “pie” or “dome” without instinctively placing the accent.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
Key though is
he’s not hurting us either because his glove is still fabulous. He isn’t taking his bat into the field, as they say
gwood - June 6, 2008
200/222/200 in his last 7 games with 9 K's
....he is clearly struggling. Historically he gets very hot in June, so lets hope its right around the corner.
One of the many great things about this years team is how they can still win when thier best hitter is struggling like this.
JB 23 - June 6, 2008
So true,
a few years ago if Lee or Aram didn’t hit we didn’t have a chance. This team is pretty special in the fact many stars sharing key hitting highlights. This team can play sustained winning baseball because of this.
mrcubsfan - June 6, 2008
Yeah, I keep reminding myself that...
...DLee has gone through slumps like this before, and he’s always come out of them. It’s hard to watch, but ya gotta have faith that he’ll pull it together eventually.
daver - June 6, 2008
Case and Point
One of your star players goes down (Soriano) and the team goes on a winning streak.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
Huh?
Soriano was very much a part of the just ended 9-game win streak. The Cubs went on a 6-game Win streak while he was out, however.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
I think he was referring to
the winning streak/percentage the team had while Sori was out earlier in the season
gwood - June 6, 2008
Exactly...
Back then, Lee carried them along with Soto.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
And Dome...
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
Nitpicking
It’s “Case in point” which is a short way of saying “an example of what we are discussing”
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
Sorry at work
and trying to multi-task.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
No need to apologize
it’s one of those “doggie dog world” things
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
Home is where the hardest.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
I get
carpool tunnel syndrome typing all of these replies
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
Thanks
for Clownin’ the new guy. Appreciate it. :)
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
Carpal
tony412 - June 6, 2008
That's the joke.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
:)
I laughed so hard when I saw that, that I choked and my wife had to do the Heineken remover
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
mmmmm . . . Heineken removal
gwood - June 6, 2008
That's called
“Sunday morning in front of the toilet.”
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
Or
praying to the porcelain goddess
gwood - June 6, 2008
Or
taking the Browns to the Super Bowl.
Jayo525 - June 6, 2008
Or
Dropping the kids off at the pool
Goat Whisperer - June 6, 2008
Or
releasing the chocolate hostages.
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
Driving the Porcelain bus
El Borto - June 6, 2008
Or
going poop!
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
Or
growing a tail
philadelphiacub - June 6, 2008
Ha-ha, I think this is the best one yet.
Blue W - June 6, 2008
I shouldn't read these...
It gives me a “low self of steam”
:)
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
But that point is mute.
N Oakley - June 6, 2008
You know what can give you low self of steam?
Reptile Dysfunction
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
As Pete Townsend sings:
Let Milo Open the Door
N Oakley - June 6, 2008
As Robert Palmer said:
“Might as well face it, you’re a d**k with a glove.”
Hey… wonder if he’s talking about Bonds
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
not
Clemens?
drewishdrewid - June 6, 2008
for all intents and purposes… I think we’re taking this Cubs team for granite.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
That's true but..
it could be a blessing in the skies…
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
You guys are slowing down
my labtop
tony412 - June 6, 2008
love it!
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
I'll be right back. I have to visit the ATM machine.
daver - June 6, 2008
Don't forget your PIN number
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
I always forget mine...
I think I have “old-timers disease”...
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
For all intensive purposes
you should get that checked out
tony412 - June 6, 2008
Arigatou Saito-San
On Takashi Saito bobblehead night at Dodgers stadium, thank you for another blown save, sir!
JFCubFan - June 6, 2008
Saito and Dome are very close and good friends
Now Dome has two hits against Saito and this time is game winning – can they have dinner together again?
Sure they will.
dragonsfanatic - June 6, 2008
Is Saito still buying?
:D
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
Right
The elder have to pay. That’s the commandment in (Japanese) sports world, even the younger is superstar and the elder is not.
dragonsfanatic - June 6, 2008
Nice.
And now Dome’s family is in town so the bill is doubled!
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
Cuban on ESPN 1000 right now
Jayo525 - June 6, 2008
My concern about Kerry
is that it takes him time to get in the groove. As a starter, the book on Kerry (as with a lot of starters) is to get to him early because he gets stronger as the game goes on. As a closer he does not have that luxury and needs to be throwing strikes right away. Marmol seems to be able to get into throwing strikes right away and so seems to fit the closer mold. Kerry would have the same problem as a setup man as well so not sure how he can overcome this. I guess we will just have to accept the fact that by the end of the season we will all have our hair more grey or bald, no nails, a worn out path in our carpets in front of the T.V., no more voice and new cuss words. Such is the life of a Cubs fan in 2008.
tucsoncubsfan - June 6, 2008
Last Night in the Overflow
I pissed off Shanghai Badger with this…
i smell another hee seop choi
by lswaidz on Jun 5, 2008 9:59 PM CDT to parent up reply reply actions actions 0 recs
That was after a comment was made about Dodgers infielder Chin-lung Hu. I want to take a minute to clarify my comment, as I unknowingly insighted a minor riot, which was NEVER my intention.
The first year I REALLY got into the Cubs was when Hee Seop Choi fever was hitting the town almost as much as Fukudome Fever has hit it this year. Hee Seop was the “first baseman of the future” and was about as hyped up as any played I’d ever heard about, and I was so excited to see him play. Unfortunately, he did… and the hype was far from deserved. In only 80 games he hit .218 with 8 home runs. You can blame his collision with Kerry Wood on June 7, 2003 for some of his strugles, but still, a major disappointment.
Hee Seop went on to have a decent career, hitting .240 over the next two yaers with the Marlins and Dodgers, and is now playing with the Kia TIgers and doing ok, from what I’ve heard.
Hu with the Dodgers came up with the same fanfare, comparisons to Jimmy Rollins have been made, and he has a lot of weight to carry on his shoulders, and I wish him nothing but the best, once the Cubs leave town.
However, my comparison was never based race, solely on how both players were over hyped and have under delivered. I appologize if I upset anyone, but this forum isn’t a place for discussions of anything other than baseball and life, in my opinion. I’m here to have fun, joke around a little, and most importantly support the Cubs. To Shanghai and anyone else I upset last night, I am sorry – but please, understand I meant no harm, and hopefully stuff like this never happens again!
lswaidz - June 6, 2008
Regardless of who you compare him to
I agree with you, Hu as a prospect is very overrated. I don’t see much to get excited about.
rlpete - June 6, 2008
He is very fast though
I thought Dome got to the ball pretty quickly, but Hu got to third with no problems
gwood - June 6, 2008
When I first read you comment last night...
I was thinking the same thing as you. A comparison of baseball players and the hype they recieve. No need to apologize in my opinion.
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
Choi was an overrated, overhyped stiff
and so is Hu, so I say your analysis was right on!!!
Itchy - June 6, 2008
I saw it and thought
This is the downside posting (email can have the same effect). It’s tough to really understand a persons meaning if you’re just reading it.
In the future—video blogging.
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
Anyone else want to SHOOT Dempster last night...
...when he KEPT going 3-0, 3-0, 3-0 – ARGH!!! By the time Soto FINALLY came out to ‘talk’ to him, Lou was already coming out to GET him. They’re (Cubs) usually more ‘on top’ of that sort of thing – where someone usually would go out there sooner and go YO RYAN – THROW SOME F*CKING STRIKES!!! Drove me nuts.
(yes, I feel better now – thanks bundles)
malicedoom - June 6, 2008
Heck Yeah...
...seems like it’s been that way with him a lot lately. The last Rockies start too.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
A bit of pet peeve of mine
is people expecting players to do something that they have never shown a tendency to do. For example, the people that post that Soriano should be more selective at the plate. He never has been and thinking he will change at his age is hopeless.
Likewise Dempster has never been a control pitcher. His lifetime numbers are 666 walks in 1299 innings. That’s better than a walk every two innings. So far this season his numbers have actually been better than his career numbers. It may drive you crazy but that’s Ryan Dempster. He’s going to be wild.
rlpete - June 6, 2008
Guess you
don’t notice it as much when he was only pitching an inning at a time as a closer.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
Yes
2005: 92 IP/49 walks
2006: 75 IP/36 walks
2007: 66 IP/30 walks
2005 was really bad. The other two seasons just under a walk every 2 innings. So far this year:
2008: 80 IP/35 walks
rlpete - June 6, 2008
Gotcha.
Guess for me, it get’s magnified more as a starter.
Fishbone2 - June 6, 2008
I've Been Spoiled
By players who made adjustments as they got older and corrected their weaknesses. Jim Rice,for example, wasn’t known for his glove when he first came up with Boston but in time he made himself into a very good (and underrated IMO) outfielder. And I think of Sammy, who became a more selective hitter after years of flailing and hacking.
One time Keith Olbermann was mocking baseball fans who believe any player can hit and field like an All-Star “if they just tried harder”. I think he meant me! LOL
CaliCub - June 6, 2008
I'm not sure I'd agree with you on Rice
You are right on Sosa. It does happen occasionally but not that frequently. I wonder on Sosa though how much was pitchers no longer wanting to pitch to him versus better selectivity at the plate. When you go from 36 HR’s to 66 HR’s, pitchers are going to be a little more cautious.
rlpete - June 6, 2008
True True
Not everyone can make big changes in themselves after years of doing things a certain way for a long time, and that goes for most walks of life.
I can accept Soriano and Dempster for what they are, and it’s easier when the rest of the club can pick up a guy when he’s slumping or underperforming.
CaliCub - June 6, 2008
Funny you should mention it.
Take a look at Soriano’s Fangraphs page and scroll down to plate discipline. He’s actually swinging a bit less, compared to last season. Again, sampling issues may be present.
cwyers - June 6, 2008
That extends to the team as a whole this year.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
I’ve noticed the improved plate discipline since he came back from his injury this year (and you can see his production improved too)
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
They mic
NBA and NFL players all the time. I would love to hear one of these catcher-initiated chat sessions.
“Ryan, I was just talking with Fox, and they said if you don’t start throwing strikes they’re not going to let you do your Harry Caray impression on Saturday. So, you know, get to it.”
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
If it makes you feel any better...
...Dempster was clearly as frustrated with his performance as you were/are with it. After Lou pulled him, he slammed his glove on the dugout bench and disappeared into the clubhouse to vent his anger privately.
What can ya do—he threw four great innings and then fell apart. I believe he ran into a similiar problem during his 5/31 start. (A game I attended.) I just hope it’s not a sign that his endurance is starting to run out.
daver - June 6, 2008
Dempster's endurance
“I just hope it’s not a sign that his endurance is starting to run out.”
I have fears of this as well.
Blue W - June 6, 2008
Vin Scully
I love the guy. I spent a lot of time in SoCal listening to him. But he annoyed me last night with two of his comments “The Cubs look like they’re kinda standing around waiting to be caught” and “the rookie catcher talking with the veteran”.
Also, Vin should learn to pronounce MLB players’ names.
Regarding the Soto-Howry discussion, maybe Vinny was right about Howry not appreciating Soto coming out to talk to him, but I’m not 100% convinced.
zevkalman - June 6, 2008
Noticed That Too
He kept saying the bit about the Cubs waiting to be caught ad nauseum – for a minute I thought I was listening to Tim McCarver.
CaliCub - June 6, 2008
Maybe back in the Bob Gibson era...
....but there’s nothing in the Cubs veteran pitchers’ actions this season that tell me that they are “pissed” that Soto comes out. Rookie or not.
That’s just Vin showing his age.
carmen_fanzone - June 6, 2008
Vin
shows his age every game, and I get hammered every time I point that out.
To each his own.
Josh Timmers - June 6, 2008
The Riot
Where would this team be if it wasn’t for Ryan Theriot. God willing he stays healthy this would be his first full season in the majors. Theriot was a key figure last year in helping the cubs come back from that horrible start (22-31). His numbers did drop in September but people need to realize the toll a season takes on a player especially one who plays almost everyday. I believe this kid will be a key player for this organization in the years to come. On a side note I hate Dodger fans…. also a word to wise never sit in the bleachersin Dodger stadium unless you want to get shanked!
Bpatterson83 - June 6, 2008
Why I'm Staying Home
My wife said I could probably scrounge for a general admission seat for tonight’s game, but I find Dodger fans that go to the stadium to be obnoxious and stupid. Besides the food and the bathroom is in better shape here at home, and I get the benefit of mulitple camera angles on TV.
CaliCub - June 6, 2008
Also, the traffic leaving Dodger Stadium is pretty horrible even if you leave in the 9th inning.
(Even though we all know that no self-respecting Dodger fan would be caught in Dodger Stadium after the 7th inning.)
But the nice thing is that you can always hang around the Silverlake or Echo Park district in L.A. afterwards and have some good food!
zevkalman - June 6, 2008
LOL
(Even though we all know that no self-respecting Dodger fan would be caught in Dodger Stadium after the 7th inning.)
How true.
malicedoom - June 6, 2008
Or Before the 3rd
CaliCub - June 6, 2008
Phillipe's
Great post-game place over by Union Station. Known for the best beef-dip sandwiches in LA.
CaliCub - June 6, 2008
My memory from being at Dodger Stadium
Was, as mentioned, no one showed up until the 3rd, everyone left after or before the 7th and, back when he was still an Astro, I realized how easy it was to annoy Moises Alou by having the entire left field crowd yell “ALOUUUUUUUUUUUUUU” over and over again. Of course, him turning around all pissed off (with what seemed like steam coming from his ears) did not exactly help the crowd quiet down. It was pretty funny. :)
malicedoom - June 6, 2008
He was pissed off
but his hands were pissed on.
Hey-o!
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
That calls for a...
...RIMSHOT!
daver - June 6, 2008
Haha..
I love that thing…keep posting it!
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
I didn't get to read the game thread, but did anyone else
see TheRiot pull the hidden ball trick on Ethier when he was on 2nd in I believe the 4th inning? Theriot glanced back at second saw Ethier was adjusting himself and mimed tossing the ball back to Dempster. The catchers view camera saw it cleanly with the ball still in Theriot’s glove. He paused, saw Ethier was still stanind on 2nd and lobbed it back to Demp. Didn’t work, but I laughed seeing it.
N Oakley - June 6, 2008
Scrappiness Defined!
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
I noticed it too
Thought my eyes were deceiving me!
danimal15 - June 6, 2008
I didn't catch that,
But I would love to see the old hidden ball trick. Such a sneaky, devious, wonderful play
El Borto - June 6, 2008
Lucy pulled that trick
Charlie Brown: Where’s the ball? I can’t pitch without the ball!
Lucy: Quiet, you dummy! We’re pulling the ol’ hidden ball trick.
Charlie Brown: We are? Who’s got the ball?
Lucy: I hid it the top drawer of my dresser.
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
I'm sure some guys try it occasionally and
you only hear about it when successful. In this case, there was a low camera looking at Theriot up close with Ethier behind him. You see Theriot motioning a throw to Dempster and the ball in the glove at his side. Lucky camera angle.
N Oakley - June 6, 2008
too bad
the mlb.com feed didnt catch that. I just rewatched that inning.
tony412 - June 6, 2008
I think
if anybody on this team is gonna do it, it’ll be him. Wrigley would go nuts.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
hidden ball trick
It once worked vs. Ozzie Guillen about 20 years ago, if I remember correctly. He got picked off of first by the hidden ball trick. Can’t recall which first baseman did it to him. It might have happened to him more than once.
danimal15 - June 6, 2008
Rowengartner
and that dude from Scrubs did it once.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
Can Rowengartner take over the 5th spot for Marquis?
zevkalman - June 6, 2008
gotta put it up
drewishdrewid - June 6, 2008
Upside down
Another person who wears the headband upside down....
dragonsfanatic - June 6, 2008
I can't read
a word of Japanese and even I can tell that’s not right.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
The seller should instruct it
or ask me here…
dragonsfanatic - June 6, 2008
or they should include an arrow
on the inside of the headband
Emelie - June 6, 2008
LOL, pwned!
Did anyone else catch the postgame on Comcast last night? (Yep, I stayed up and I’m borderline delirious this morning.) Dan Plesac was wearing the headband. Dan always strikes me as…how shall I put this?...simple.
daver - June 6, 2008
I saw that too..
What a tool..
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
I posted this in last nights game thread...
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
Brilliant.
zevkalman - June 6, 2008
He wears it upside up... :-)
dragonsfanatic - June 6, 2008
what a twonk
Emelie - June 6, 2008
I know this is obtuse,
but what exactly is a “twonk”
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
facepalm.
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
I take full responsibility for my ignorance,
but your response didn’t answer my question. I would like to know the definition and the etymology of the word “twonk.” Am I a twonk for not knowing what a twonk is? Wasn’t twonk a robot on Buck Rogers? Aren’t twonks those really sturdy trucks that kids play with?
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
that was Twiggy, wasn't it?
bebebebebebebe… what’s up, Buck?
drewishdrewid - June 6, 2008
Actually,
it was Twicky
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
I think Twiggy was a fashion model in the 60s.
daver - June 6, 2008
yeah,
and she played that babe in the Jaguar XKE in the Blues Brothers
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
"you want I should wipe those dead bugs off your windshield?"
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
LOL, good point!
daver - June 6, 2008
The trucks were Tonka Trucks
Blue W - June 6, 2008
You forgot
to use the sarcasm font
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
I'm still searching for it...
Blue W - June 6, 2008
And yes...this will be on the test.
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
Grazie Mille
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
The British
have by far some of the best words. Plonker is one of them.
gwood - June 6, 2008
I've always been partial to "wanker."
daver - June 6, 2008
TWSS
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
LOL, I knew someone was going to do this.
daver - June 6, 2008
That they do.
I’ve inundated myself with British culture these past few years and find myself using their terminology constantly.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
If you have picked up the accent too
that’s a bonus
gwood - June 6, 2008
+1
I actually slip into it all the time. I think I’m obsessed. I mean, look at my bloody avatar!
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
It didn't take Madonna very long.
daver - June 6, 2008
Or that Hugh Laurie
... oh wait…
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
Name this show!!!
“All in know is that in England, they call cigarettes faggs!”
“Well someone tell this cigarette to get me a drink!”
McRipper - June 6, 2008
Quantum Leap?
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
LOL
Nope!
McRipper - June 6, 2008
I do love "Quantum Leap" though.
McRipper - June 6, 2008
Me to0..
WARNING!!! I am about to embarrass myself!!!
I also liked that show “Sliders”.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
I like Kari Wuhrer, does that count?
McRipper - June 6, 2008
I suppose...
but she’s no Wade Welles
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
Anaconda!
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
TWSS!
McRipper - June 6, 2008
Hate Sci-Fi
Somehow loved Sliders.
Bildo1805 - June 6, 2008
Watch Firefly.
Thank me later.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
Did you see the Sarah Connor Chron...
last season on FOX… same actress…and a really good show.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
I liked that show...
hope it comes back…she was in “300” right?
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
yep
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
LOVED Firefly.
One of the 5 people who watched it in the beginning and was heartbroken when it got axed.
halfblindcubbiegirl - June 6, 2008
+1
Glad they got to make a movie.
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
Family Guy
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
YES!!!
One of the funniest shows ever created I must say.
McRipper - June 6, 2008
A cross between...
a twat, plonker and wanker. Not used as a serious insult, more of a friendly, playful insult.
thought to have originated in the Victorian era…meaning a lower class foreigner…
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
Twat?
McRipper - June 6, 2008
Not even touching it.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
TWSS
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
Twas waiting for it.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
You didn't have to wait very long...
I’m faster than most guys…
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
TWSS
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
She said that? Really?
Hold on to her then.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
hey wheres the credit for the screen shot?
haha – i like what you did with it though!
cubsonWGN4ever - June 6, 2008
Maybe
it was a rally headband when the Cubs were down.
I’m sure there’s plenty of people that wear it wrong though.
tony412 - June 6, 2008
Well
the photo was taken before the game….
dragonsfanatic - June 6, 2008
maybe he never took it off
after the previous night’s game in SD. I know, he’s an idiot.
tony412 - June 6, 2008
That's a rally headband!
It worked, too, since Fukudome got the game-winning hit.
(Yes, I’m sure the fan just didn’t know any better).
Otter23 - June 6, 2008
It just goes to show
you how deep and talented the Cub lineup is. Their best hitter has been in a slump for the last three weeks and they go 13-5 over that span.
Rick B - June 6, 2008
I'm watching the archived MLB.COM Cubs-Dodgers game from last night.
I can’t believe that Kerry Wood hit someone with the name of Terry Tiffy with a 1-2 count with 2 out in the 9th inning. I missed some of the bottom-of-the-9th play last night. I did wake up in time to see Kerry face Matt Kemp with a 2-0 count. Too bad I was too groggy to get too excited (and scared).
zevkalman - June 6, 2008
Question:
Has Dempster always waggled his glove during delivery as he taked the ball away? I’ve noticed it every start this year, but don’t remember seeing it while he was closing.
N Oakley - June 6, 2008
That's new...
he picked that up in the off seasons, and it’s stuck.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
No...
he started doing it this year. He’s supposedly doing it to keep him from tipping his pitches.
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
OT
SWL… your name was called upon earlier this week… where were you? :)
http://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/2008/6/3/544897/what-did-zambrano-sound-li#
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
I was at the game....
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
with your laptop?
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
I won't tell my wife...
that’s what you called her.
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
He somehow needed to do that motion to get his grip on just one of his pitches... presumably a new pitch.
So, he does the motion every time… to not tip his pitch.
I personally think it’s helping him pitch well, as that has got to be a little distracting to the hitter… or at least make it more difficult to see the delivery.
SackMan - June 6, 2008
I agree
It HAS to be annoying, coming from a former baseball player.
Fukumania - June 6, 2008
It also can serve as a good trigger for him to repeat his throwing motion
Like golfers
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
Late nighters
were nice when I was in college and going to bed early was midnight. Lets keep it rolling and DLee will be fine.
slocs55 - June 6, 2008
Newbie!
What’s up Cubs Fans. I’ve been trolling on this site for most of this season and only today was able to post because of work internet blocking. The block is disabled so I quickly signed up. I share everyones excitement regarding this magical (so far) season. I was in the bleachers for opening day and again last week to see the Cubs sweep the Dodgers out of town. I LOVE the 9pm starts this week. I get off work at 9pm so instead of going home I go straight to the bar to watch the Cubbies. Lets get another road series victory tonight!!
Muehl - June 6, 2008
Welcome to the land of poster Muehl...
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
Welcome, first lesson
In the future the word trolling is reserved for those who post in order to piss off the rest of us, generally speaking. Trolling = bad.
Instead, you have been a long time reader, first time poster.
You’re gonna like it here
gwood - June 6, 2008
I believe the correct term is
“lurker”
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
Post Idea
Might be fun to create a new post of the Do’s and Dont’s and Warnings for the New BCB Member… could be pretty funny.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
Don't recommend acquiring Rich Harden.
Just don’t.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
Word!
LMAO!
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
Another suggestion: Don't use the term "Word" on every post
j/k
Word up!
flachimesa - June 6, 2008
Fine! Don't be hip
LOL
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
1989 hip maybe
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
dood, "word" is back in a major way
also hip with the kidz is misspelling words.
/wurd
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
ha, didn't even notice
your “i haz show” sig
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
forrealzies?
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Is "wurd 2 yur mutha" bak 2 ?
n/t
flachimesa - June 6, 2008
No way Broham
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
so 80's
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
Don't start a Trade for Brian Roberts post...
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
Go to..
the BCB Dictionary
And learn what: TPWSNBN+, LSA, CGPOA, FWIW and the PHG mean…
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
And TWSS too..
That one gets asked at least once a day on here.
Bump Bailey - June 6, 2008
My bad
I meant lurking I guess. and thanks for the lesson.
Muehl - June 6, 2008
Second lesson
Start lots of arguments about how Soriano should be moved from the leadoff spot
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
I like Soriano as the leadoff man.
I have a feeling that was a condition of him signing with the Cubs is that they wouldn’t move him from there. I also remember a few times recently feeling relieved to have him coming up to bat after we flipped the batting order in the middle of a game. Its sometimes nice to have a power threat in that position instead of an base hit/double guy with speed and a good average….......sometimes.
Muehl - June 6, 2008
there's a guy
who posts here, MDBNIU, that will run some of these issues into the ground, that’s why we mentioned Rich Harden and Soriano.
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
Yeah I've seen him on here
I had never even heard of Rich Harden until I started reading his posts and the follow up burns by everyone else.
Muehl - June 6, 2008
trolling = bad
lurking (which i think is what you were doing) = indifferent
posting = good
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
posting = good?
Depends on how you do it!
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
Welcome Noob
Hazing starts right before game time.
Jayo525 - June 6, 2008
I keed.
Welcome Aboard.
Jayo525 - June 6, 2008
Thanks.
Should I know what “I keed” means?
Muehl - June 6, 2008
You're damn right you should, buster!
daver - June 6, 2008
He keeds… he keeds…
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
Oh, got it. That was a nice post....
...........for me to poop on!!
Muehl - June 6, 2008
N008 iz teh sUx0R!!11
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
I'm not even going to
bother googling that one
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
probly wouldn't help
reserved for real nerds
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Better to be a real nerd
than a real turd.
halfblindcubbiegirl - June 6, 2008
OH SNAP!
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
PWND!
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
re: "what does ______ mean??"
google it. then ask.
/major pet peeve
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
What does "google it" mean?
;-)
AlabamaCubFan - June 6, 2008
I'm confused...
why is “google it” blue and bold?
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
It's a link.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
LOLZ
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
i'm on ur website
checkin out ur show. liked the mustache hall of fame.
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Thanks...
one month with a mustache is far enough for me.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
did edmonds catch last nite save any runs?
updating the edmonds-o-meter
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Google it.
bwahaha, couldn’t help it.
Bildo1805 - June 6, 2008
touche!
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Bildo1805 - June 6, 2008
ok, i googled,
i assume her name (Dasha) is pronounced similarly to touche?
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Yeah, I was wondering what the relevance of the picture was, too.
daver - June 6, 2008
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Water. All. Over. Desk.
Well done. That is hilarious.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
omg
usually i use LOL figuratively. that was a real OMGWTFBBQ LOL!
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
TWISTED
thats great
Hammer - June 6, 2008
Aw, man. Her manager's gonna pull her from the game for that for sure.
There goes the no-hitter.
daver - June 6, 2008
Here come's a no-shitter
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
HAHAHA!
sue369 - June 6, 2008
perhaps that deserves the...
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
AAHHHHH!
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
i love the
ONOZ…
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
+1 to you, sir.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
Oh yea...
Another thing to share with new members…. don’t do what where doing… Don’t flood posts with a gazillion images.
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
AKA
NLPATT
Lou In Blue - June 6, 2008
Yes, do as we say, not as we do.
daver - June 6, 2008
try this instead...
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
More advice for newbies
Don’t prattle on endlessly about why pitchers today should go deeper into ballgames and pitch more complete games the way they did 20 or 30 years ago.
danimal15 - June 6, 2008
also..
don’t say “prattle”....
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
lol
Muehl - June 6, 2008
Prattle prattle prattle
Ha!
danimal15 - June 6, 2008
Stop prattling on.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
on who?
santoswoodenlegs - June 6, 2008
Hu
fixed.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
AHA!
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
---
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
Hahahahah
its sad I can completely identify that feeling
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
Sheesh
You can now rename this post “When LOLCATS attack”
Leaving early for the day. See ya BCB… go Cubs!
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
and i couldnt watch the game last nite
due to the F’ing 6-team, 2-state blackout for Vegas.
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Don't know.
But he had one against the wall Wednesday night that did.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
if avg. CF wouldn't have caught that one
it was 2 runs (runners on 1st and 2nd). but the consensus on here at the time seemed to be that anyone woulda caught it.
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Gotcha.
neverAcquiesce - June 6, 2008
(but i'm gonna give it to him cuz the consensus on here
is BS)
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
(in a good way)
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
After reading all the posts in between this one
This came COMPLETELY out of left field.
LMAO.
halfblindcubbiegirl - June 6, 2008
doug collins
will not be bulls coach!!!!!!!
cubsluver22 - June 6, 2008
And Doug killed the deal!
It’s almost like Paxson wants to get fired….or this is further cementing my already low opinion of Reinsdorf. I’m not sure which.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
what the flip is going on over there... sheesh
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
No kidding.
What an embarrassment.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
LOL
pwned puddy tat
BlueSox - June 6, 2008
Yep.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
Yeah....Flip...exactly
Good thing i’m not a Bball fan
eswan9 - June 6, 2008
What a day....
Just got the chance to log on to these internets today, busy work day. Looks like the same ol’ pregame thread chatter.
-Couple hilarious images from SWL and Co.
-Multiple “word” references
-250 posts about another euphemism
Good day!
Lou In Blue - June 6, 2008
I've been here most of the day
and have accomplihsed virtually nothing at work
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
I salute you.
Well, I would, but lifting my arm is really asking a lot.
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
You don't need your arms...
to salute :)
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
TWSS
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
ding ding ding...
we have a winner!
digitalbenjamin - June 6, 2008
What a great
game last night. Kerry does like to leave us on the edge of our seats for sure. Looking forward to the game tonight. No storms predicted for to tonight so I should be in good shape.
This thread was hilarious. Everyone had their “game on”.
sue369 - June 6, 2008
It's been a fun day
I wonder what Al will say?
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
He'd have
a good laugh.
sue369 - June 6, 2008
When will
the game thread start tonite?
Muehl - June 6, 2008
usually
around 6ish.
drewishdrewid - June 6, 2008
Ak the gnome
gary varsho - June 6, 2008
I have to leave now
so I leave you with this
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
I also meant to say
Go CUBS!! Enjoy the game tonight, everyone.
CyberCyclist - June 6, 2008
My dilema tonight.....
I went to the bar to watch every game this week except Wednesday. I have to work early tomorrow morning and am extremely tired/hung over from the week. Do I tough it out one more night? I want to go home and watch it in bed but don’t want to upset the Gods…..
Muehl - June 6, 2008
tough it out
but not for the gods. is more fun
joeschmitt - June 6, 2008
Don't know if anyone else saw this
but Rosenthal wrote a really sweet article about Soto today. Its here.
halfblindcubbiegirl - June 6, 2008
Great article
“He also had a more personal incentive to improve last season: During spring training, he learned that his wife was pregnant with their first child.”
Mystery solved on how he exploded on the scene.
californiachicagoan - June 6, 2008
That was great.
Thanks for posting it.
sue369 - June 6, 2008
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