It just doesn't get much better than this.
(Well, actually, it could, but let's not get too far ahead of ourselves).
Today's weather forecast was for hot, humid conditions with the wind blowing out -- not a good portent for Jason Marquis. But about an hour before gametime, low clouds blew in off the lake, cooling the temperature off 20 degrees; just before gametime the clouds lifted, the sun came out -- and the wind was blowing out of the east at 12 MPH, a good mark for Marquis, and he rose to the occasion, throwing seven outstanding shutout innings.
But the hero of the day, as he has been so many times before, was Aramis Ramirez, who came up with two on and one out in the bottom of the 8th and hit Tyler Walker's first pitch, a 92-MPH fastball up and out over the plate, just inside the LF foul pole, over our heads onto Waveland (where it appeared to have been caught by a kid -- ballhawk, perhaps you can provide details), and despite some sketchy play in the 9th inning, the Cubs had enough to hold on for a 3-1 win over the Giants.
Marquis had his sinker working early, as nine outs in the first five innings were recorded on ground balls, but even then, signs of weakening showed -- there were three or four flyouts that yesterday would have been deposited on Sheffield, but were held up by the stiff wind blowing in over the RF wall today. Marquis took full advantage before leaving for a pinch-hitter in the 7th. That was Kosuke Fukudome, who popped up and then remained in the game -- Fukudome and Jim Edmonds were both given the day off, and Fukudome didn't have a good at-bat, either. He stayed in the game to play right field and his arm was needed in the 9th.
Meanwhile, Matt Cain was matching Marquis, only with more strikeouts -- nine of them to Marquis' four, and Cain also had to be lifted after seven, due to a pitch count of 118. That was all the Cubs needed, as the Giants' bullpen, apart from closer Brian Wilson, has been a disaster area most of the year. After Ryan Theriot led off the 8th with a single to left-center, Mike Fontenot laid down a perfect sacrifice (nearly pushing it past Walker, too).
And then Bruce Bochy did something that absolutely stunned all of us -- he ordered Derrek Lee intentionally walked. In a scoreless game. To pitch to Aramis Ramirez. After having intentionally walked Ramirez two innings before. I just don't get it. Ramirez has consistently risen to such occasions; why would you do that? Yes, I know. It set up a possible double play.
And then why would you have your pitcher throw A-Ram a first-pitch fastball?
The answers to these questions are ones we like, of course, since Ramirez won the game with a homer, but this partly explains why the Giants are as bad as they are -- as bad as they looked when I saw them in spring training. They don't have a single player in double figures in home runs; their bullpen is in shambles, and their shortstop -- who some here would like to see the Cubs acquire, I have no idea why -- is hitting .153 and really ought to retire after a stellar career.
Good news today: Bob Howry threw an efficient scoreless inning. If he can build on this the Cubs will have many more options in the late innings.
Kerry Wood had a shaky 9th; it wasn't all his fault, but I'm not going to blame Mark DeRosa for having Ray Durham's fly ball go over his head for a double. The ball seemed to take off on him after he had it scoped out pretty well; what Lou might have done is to leave Edmonds, who had batted for Howry, in the game in CF, and move Reed Johnson to LF for defense. Doing this, though, would have left the bench with no one but Henry Blanco had the game gone to extra innings.
Which is one more reason not to have a 13-man pitching staff!!!
Rant over. The staff had one turnover today; Michael Wuertz was optioned to Iowa (surprising me, and others too, who assumed he had no options left) and Kevin Hart recalled. After the All-Star break, I assume either Hart or Sean Marshall will go to Iowa and a hitter will be recalled (Micah Hoffpauir seems the most likely, though BCB reader mrcubsfan, in from Des Moines for the weekend, told me Hoffpauir's been playing almost exclusively 1B there) until Alfonso Soriano returns, which is now tentatively scheduled for the Arizona series. (Soriano was in uniform today, shagging flies in the OF during BP.)
Finally, some Deep Goat rumors heard today: there were definitely scouts at the ballpark watching Jason Marquis today, and there is interest from more than one team. After this performance, which lowered his ERA to a not-unreasonable 4.44, interest might heat up. Cub scouts have been dispatched to watch at least one minor league team in order to gauge possible prospects the Cubs might want in return. (Sorry, can't tell you who at this time.) Also, the Cubs are still seeking left-handed relief help, so although there aren't any deals (that I know of) in the works right this minute, Jim Hendry may not be done dealing, and of course there are three weeks remaining.
A reminder: tomorrow's game is at noon, not the 2:55 on the original schedule. Since Fox blacks out EI broadcasts before 7 pm EDT on Saturdays, the only way you can see this game outside of the Chicago area (or SF Bay Area) will be on MLB.TV. If you voted in the Final Ballot All-Star voting, you should have received an email giving you a one-week free trial of MLB.TV, starting today.
Onward. I am, as I'm sure you are, excited to see Rich Harden's Cub debut tomorrow.
0 recs | 356 comments
First?
jbau - July 11, 2008
Yay!
jbau - July 11, 2008
Blood
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
Contact
jbau - July 11, 2008
Fail.
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
Not a Star Trek fan, I see.
neither am i, actually. just popped into my mind.
jbau - July 11, 2008
I like Star Trek...
but your link is b-woken
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
huh... works for me.
jbau - July 11, 2008
alas. bitten by the google image search cache.
jbau - July 11, 2008
first ever....
my first ever post….i now feel complete!
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
welcome!
Emelie - July 11, 2008
well thank you,...
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
So Al...
you “can’t” or “won’t” tell us?
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
Both.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
You know I think it's the Yankees.
I know you think it’s the Yankees. That’s all I’ll say…
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
It's not.
And don’t think you’re going to find out by process of elimination, either.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Wasn't even going to try.
It’s enough to know that scouts were looking at Jason today. I’ve posted that I think Jason is the odd man out, (esp. if we can find someone to take on some of his money). It just lends credence to what I’ve thought already. It’s no secret that trading Marquis is really the only true option, at least not to me. That being said, Jason really threw well today. He kept the ball down, pitched to contact, and most importantly- stayed ahead in the count consistently. Good performance. Even a performance like today would look good in a big park with the wind blowing out, very attractive.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
if the elimination game isn't going to work...
...then why bother with the No’s? Seems like every time you say No on a possible DG guess, or in this case, DG-supplied team, it just teases the masses a little more and more often than not, leads to more guesses which leads to more No’s and the cycle continues.
Be happy that you have a reliable inside source and savor the fact that the rest of us are insanely jealous…. ;-)
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
He's not necessarily telling the truth when he says "No".
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
LMAO
Yes, I am.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
and he could by lying about saying he's telling the truth....
hmmmm…very clever Mr. Yellon.
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
nah... if that were the case, he'd be in politics, not media.
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
I'm betting Deep Goat is..
either Ed Hartig
or Carrie Muskat.Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
I'll never tell, one way or the other.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
ok, guess I should have kept reading for awhile before I commented.
Definitely do not believe ego is involved as someone else suggested. I just think the extended back-n-forth banter whenever DG is mentioned tends to fan the jealously [but almost always friendly] flames a bit. I’d prefer just to enjoy the tidbits that get dropped from time to time without sifting through a Woodward & Bernstein investigative thriller afterwards. And I figure that Al not responding to guesses would nip it in the bud. But then some folks would probably think Al to be rude by not responding so pay no attention to my rambling. I’m gonna go chase down a cold beer…
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
lol
hes being truthful, ive tried the process of elimination
Hammer - July 11, 2008
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
haha
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Isnt that Deep Pig?
MikeOxbyg - July 11, 2008
Al
If you can’t, why would you put that in your review? To make everyone jealous of you, and your inside knowledge? Next time you have inside information like this that you cannot share. I completely understand there are times like this and respect that you keep the news quiet. However, do not broadcast or tempt it to your website. It makes it seem like you are showing off and being egotistical. Just my humble opinion.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
Dude...
Don’t tell Al how to run the show… He runs the show for all of us, everyday, and there are things he just can’t tell us. That being said, I’m glad he tempts us. Why, you say- it gives validity to us thinking deep thoughts by Jack Handey. Read some posts about who might go, who might stay. Play the game with us… Not trying to preach to ya, but… BCB is Al’s baby.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Don't tell me how to express myself.
It is America, and people are unique. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion (within legal reason) including me and you. So deal with it.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
You still could have just said..
“I’m jealous.” and saved all that typing.
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
It's not ego at all, as anyone who has met me can tell you.
Just trying to get info to all of you without doing anything that would jeopardize what the Cubs are doing or do anything that would cause any problems for my source.
I think you all could understand that.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Don't get me wrong.
I have nothing but respect for you and your website. You have done an outstanding with this website, that I am glad to be a part of. However, I think we are going to have to agree to disagree on this one. Nonetheless another exciting game and another great win, onward to Rich tomorrow.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
He COULD tell us
but then he would have to kill all of us. Very messy
Doggie Stalker - July 11, 2008
plus
who would post pictures of a rabbit with a pancake on its head?
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
And
w/ the price of gas trying to track all of us down could get very spendy.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
I figured Al
more as a moped guy…
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
Truthful statement:
I own a Prius.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Drew....
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Jimmy...
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
Oh no, not that sappy Boston Red Sox world series movie again...
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
no, no...
someone’s supposed to say “DOCTOR SCOTT!”
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
thats a great date movie.
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
Good to see ya.
SWL’s here. One of the girls, “halfblind”, but no Sue 369. Waitin’ for Daver., Hammer is here.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
at least some of the gang is here.
:-)
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Wish you all could come to the game with me tomorrow...
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
buy me a ticket!
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
me too
i’ve only been to one game at wrigley.
but at least you’ll be w/ goodie. :-)
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
I would if I could...
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I'll need a plane AND game ticket...
so just let me know before 10pm tonight…my cell phone number is…
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
you want us to txt you w/ news on Z?
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Im pretty jealous.
What I would not give to be at wrigley tomorrow.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
Where u sitting?
Bleachers or Seats?
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
LF corner.
Section #201 right next to the bleachers. Hoping to meet Al.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Shoot me an email tomorrow and remind me.
Will try to stop by your seats before the game if I can.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Claaaarrrrk!
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
top 5 movie IMO
Hammer - July 11, 2008
Alright.
I’ll deal. Apologies. All I’m saying is that this is Al’s baby. There are things, like sources, that he has to protect. I wouldn’t want to tell you how to express yourself, I’ve got enough to deal with on my own. Not what I meant.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I think Mikey
needs another serving of Life
Emelie - July 11, 2008
Why "can't" you?
kanderber - July 11, 2008
B/c the news isn't ripe yet
he’s got his reasons.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
They dispatched cub scouts??
Haven’t they heard of child labor laws?
daeviant - July 11, 2008
LOL
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
that might be the line of the week.
well played, my friend.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
"Cub scouts have been dispatched"
I’m picturing a group of twenty neckerchief clad 8-year-olds eagerly filing into a ballpark, clutching notebooks and binoculars..
DrGalazkiewicz - July 11, 2008
Sorry daeviant
about two hours late I guess
DrGalazkiewicz - July 11, 2008
You went into more detail, though
So it’s cool
hahahah
daeviant - July 11, 2008
sixth.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Be careful what you wish for!
Anyone else think that trading Marquis could be done in order to make room for Randy Wolf?
My gut tells me “yes.”
I can’t see us going through the season with only Marshall in the rotation and no backup starter. I’m not convinced that anyone in the organization see Lieber as anything but a “Break Glass in case of Emergency” kind of guy.
Wreckard - July 11, 2008
yea, activity doesn’t equal accomplishment and that is all
....trading for Wolf would be…shuffling the deck chairs on the Titanic
JB 23 - July 11, 2008
Good point
Lou’s lefty obsession will never be satiated.
JohnM - July 11, 2008
It won't be Wolf.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Hmmm
JohnM - July 11, 2008
Fuentes
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
Nope.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Gossage!
EXHUME HIM! HE’S ALIVE!!!!
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
As a Cub fan living in Denver....
I get to see Fuentes a lot. He’s had some good moments, but I think he’s extremely inconsistent. I would prefer we pass on him, so Al’s comment of “Nope” makes me feel better.
Cubfansince1957 - July 11, 2008
As do I.
But I though it was possible his name could be part of a package.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
Feuntes
If we leave him alone he might end up in Milwaukee, which would help us more than if he were a Cub.
MikeOxbyg - July 11, 2008
+1
I like him too.
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
he is nasty when he's on
his breaking ball… is flithy.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
The DeRosa miscue.............
..................should have never happened. Edmonds should have remained in the game and played CF with Johnson moving over to LF.
Let’s face it: It cost the Cubs a run and could have been much worse.
We’ve covered some of these seemingly insignificant gaffes by Lou and given him the hall pass; another “senior moment”. But in reality, the manager must execute each time and Lou missed another one today.
tville - July 11, 2008
As I said...
... the problem with doing that defensive switch (which does make sense) would have left no one on the bench except Blanco had the game gone into extra innings.
GET RID OF THE 13TH PITCHER!
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
But
all those guys were already in the game by that point. Edmonds pinch hit for Howry.
JohnM - July 11, 2008
Edmonds could have remained in the game after he pinch hit.
That’s what I meant.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Ah
Making sure there were outfielders in each outfield position for the ninth. True, but the bench still only had Blanco on it, whether DeRosa was taken out or not.
JohnM - July 11, 2008
Which was my point.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Times Have Changed
I remember the 10-man pitching staff. You had 4 true starters, 1 swingman (starter/long reliever), and 5 true relievers. Back then, two catchers were on the bench. I can’t stand the lack of flexibility on the benches of today’s major league teams. I want the Cubs to have more good relief pitchers, not extra mediocre relievers to make up for lack of quality. Give me 5 good arms on a 5-man relief staff in the pen over a combination of 2 good arms, 3 average arms, and 3 bad arms on an 8-man relief staff any day of the week.
memphiscub - July 11, 2008
If we eliminate the 13th pitcher, what postion player
...comes up?
JB 23 - July 11, 2008
Probably Hoffpauir, until Soriano is ready.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
You really think it'll be Hoff.
I think it might be Pie, (because of his speed and versatility). How’s he doing down on the farm?
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
he's doing pretty well
and wouldn’t it be nice to have, oh, an OUTFIELDER to play outfield???
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
you mean a guy play his natural position?
who DOES that!
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Ivy Walls does.
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
Sure enough.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Cubs going to 12 after all star break
cubbierc - July 11, 2008
It is because they have 13 pitchers.
I do not understand the roster move today, however I like that Wuertz got sent to Iowa albeit shocked he accepted.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
Hendrey or Lou?
Whose final decision is it on roster moves from the big league club and minors? And on the 13 man pitching staff? Is it possible this is Hendry’s decision? Especially hearing Lou’s pre-game comments how he does not want to have pitchers pinch hitting but his hands are tied with 13 pitchers.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
It's both deciding.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
I know its both deliberating.
But say they disagree who has final authority. I know that they meet and figure things out. But their two different humans with two different opinions on many things including their same ball club I am sure they disagree.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
I think Lou might have the final say...
Being that Lou is, well, he’s Lou Piniella. He’s the one of the best there is, even with his senior moments.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Thats what I assume.
But you know what they say about assumptions.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
Even so...
I think our assumption is correct. I wouldn’t want to be Jim Hendry, (as good as he is), and try to tell Lou how to manage his players or the team. You saw my above apology, right? We’re cool?
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Never even had an issue to begin with no worries.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
Excellent.
Al will never tell us… but I’m almost sure that it’s the Yankees. They need pitching. They can afford him. We can do without him. He’s right handed, when we know Lou wants two lefties in the rotation. It all adds up.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
who do we get
from the Yanks?
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
I'm still trying to figure that out.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Hey thanks for the nicknames
on my roster talk post. We need to get nicknames for all of the boys.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
sure.
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
Dunno about nicknames
but I saw a classic movie about Ryan Theriot last night: “Singles.”
Goodie1969 - July 11, 2008
burn
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
Caught stealing
isn’t a movie title?
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
double burn
Goodie1969 - July 11, 2008
Buddy of mine calls Riot
CS Singles.
I think it works…
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
No..but Little Big Man is.
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
Stealing Home.
Jodie Foster, Mark Harmon.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I think I saw a porn movie once called
Pasta Diving…:)
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
LMAO
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
I saw an AO once called...
oh wait I can’t say that here…
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Excellent.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Goodie....
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Jimmy...
Goodie1969 - July 11, 2008
Can't wait for tomorrow brougham...
It’s gonna be a blast. Everybody here wants to go with us. We got to put a great post next week.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
We should hold up a sign
“Blue Mike’s Wet Dream”
Goodie1969 - July 11, 2008
I told Al.
We’d be the ones with the “BLUE MIKE WAS RIGHT” sign. Ha.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Other possibility
“STARTING PITCHER BROUGHT TO YOU BY BLUE MIKE’S LEFT NUT”
Goodie1969 - July 11, 2008
I like.
We need to do something of the sort. Use it for the fanpost with pics. Everybody here will love it.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I'm off to Walgreen's
to pick up the supplies. He he he!
Goodie1969 - July 11, 2008
Excellent...
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I can't claim this one, but a fellow Cub fan told me today that seeing as how...
we already have a Woody, a Harden, and a Johnson on this team, it would seem logical that we are targeting Wang from the Yankees.
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
LMAO
Literally. Hilarious!
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
New Name?
Would we have to change our name to the “Chubbies” then?
McRipper - July 12, 2008
Shocked
I’d be surprised to see the Yanks wanting Marquis. I don’t see that solving any problems for their pitching staff. I know they need arms, but they could get a Burnett easily or any of the other names we were looking at. Just my .02.
Les Lancaster's Mullet - July 12, 2008
Lou Piniella can't make a transaction.
Technically, Hendry and the other front office types are the ones that have the authority to tell the league that a player has been added to or removed from rosters. (Remember – Lou wasn’t even told about the Harden trade, according to Lou himself, until after it had occured.)
That said, there’s no reason to think that Piniella isn’t consulted about these matters, and there’s no point in giving Lou a player he doesn’t want, because he simply won’t play him. (Remember when Scott Moore got called up during Dusty’s last season?)
cwyers - July 11, 2008
well...
wouldnt a trade and a roster move be totally different things?
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
A trade is one type of roster move.
cwyers - July 11, 2008
oh man... I feel a Venn diagram coming on...
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
And coming back to DeRosa...........
.............it nearly cost the team dearly today. Even without the extra pitcher, I say you have to put your best team on the field when you’re looking to close out with just three outs left.
Yes, the 13th pitcher did handcuff Lou a bit, but he should have lifted DeRosa regardless.
Further, with Wood throwing over 20 pitches, will he be available tomorrow?
tville - July 11, 2008
No...Lou will have DeRosa pitch the 9th.
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
LOL
Marmol was warming up. He might have to close tomorrow.
A 10-0 win would solve that problem.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
I'd love him to have a good outing or two before the break to get his head back in order.
slcathena - July 11, 2008
I dunno about "dearly".
It was a misplayed ball, there’s no guarantee Soriano or Johnson or Edmonds ABSOLUTELY gets it.
Yes, DeRo’s playing out of position there. But we won.
I don’t think Woody’s available tomorrow, but Marmol is.
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
I was in the bleachers 20 feet behind this play
He BADLY misplayed this ball, he was frozen for a full second or two before he started backpedaling. Granted it was a line drive and, as Al said, it took off on him. But a more experienced outfielder would have caught it easily IMO.
cubsonWGN4ever - July 11, 2008
Agreed.
It accounted for the only run and could have been the tip of a disasterous iceberg.
To the point: A manager should not put players in a position to fail, and having a 2B in his SECOND DIFFERENT OUTFIELD POSITION IN THE SAME DAY, is, well, putting a player in a position to fail.
tville - July 11, 2008
As I said before....
... Lou could have sent Edmonds to CF and Johnson to LF for the 9th. But that would have left the bench depleted in case of extra innings.
Which is, again, why a 13-man pitching staff is a STUPID idea.
Al Yellon - July 11, 2008
Fielders make mistakes
Yes, DeRo is an infielder playing the outfield. And yes, DeRo had just moved to LF (with its different wind patterns.) But, fielders commit errors. Would anyone here have felt better if DLee were the culprit?
Part of a pitcher’s job is to bail out a fielder, just like part of a fielder’s job is to chase down a pitcher’s mistakes. That’s what makes baseball a team game.
After the “double”, Wood walked a weak hitter, and found himself in deeper trouble. Had he struck the next three guys out, none of us would be talking about DeRo. Had Marquis sucked, we wouldn’t be talking about DeRo, and had the Cubs scored 10 runs, Wood wouldn’t have been in the game.
Circumstances coming together is what makes baseball the game it is.
DeRoMyHero - July 11, 2008
Don't get me wrong
Dero is HUGELY valuable to this team for the exact reason that he can play so many positions. Even he’s allowed a few mistakes.
He’s a huge fan favorite for a very very good reason.
cubsonWGN4ever - July 12, 2008
sometimes fielders make bad judgements. I play the outfield in softball, and it’s hard not to “cheat up” when you know the batter doesn’t have power. Plus, DeRosa had been playing right field the whole game where he had to play up instead of back. SO he takes the field, tracks the ball, but forgets he’s in left and the wind is carrying the ball instead of knocking it down. Now it’s still a error and a mistake on DeRosa’s part, but not a manager mistake. at least not to me
nmcubsfan - July 12, 2008
Since Marquis was the equal of Cain today,..
how about we switch them? Think SF will mind?
jbau - July 11, 2008
Rami
What a player he is, not a bad way to start the weekend.
Pretty damn excited to watch Harden tomorrow, be nice to win 1 of the last two or get greedy and get a sweep heading into the break.
ENJOY!
slocs55 - July 11, 2008
Glad Cain Didn't Lose Game
I got what I wanted today. I wanted Cain to pitch a great game and still have the Cubs win. Cain went to Houston High in Shelby County, TN. I was glad ARam was able to take Walker deep in the 8th.
memphiscub - July 11, 2008
Frickin' Fox
I got all excited when I heard the game was moved up, since I would be consigned to the AZ game otherwise (I’m in New Mexico right now). Oh well, mlb radio it is
berselius - July 11, 2008
I know.
I’m LIVID that I can’t watch this game. :(
slcathena - July 11, 2008
I wish he would have pitched today
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
Wait, explain to me how this works
Fox isn’t carrying the cubs game, but they still manage to black out EI? Will I be able to watch this game if I go to a bar down the street?
berselius - July 11, 2008
Further investigation reveals
Per wikipedia:
I guess I’ll cross my fingers and hope that the noon start will save me here
berselius - July 11, 2008
Berselius,
Where at in NM are you?
nmcubsfan - July 12, 2008
I'm at Los Alamos for the next few weeks
berselius - July 12, 2008
do you think...
marquis raised his value today?
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
2 or more starts
If he shows that type of start in a couple of more starts, then yes. If he goes out and gives up a “typical” JM outing, then no.
FSArkCubsFan - July 11, 2008
Ramirez
is our MVP.
Clark Addison - July 11, 2008
yes
i agree
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
I feel partially responsible for Michael Wuertz.
Two of my fantasy teams are named “From Bad to Wuertz” this year. Those teams are doing much better than their namesake this year.
KatoRx - July 11, 2008
Ramirez is rapidly starting to climb up the ranks
of all-time Cub greats. I absolutely love the guy, and for the Giants to walk Derrek Lee in front of Ramirez had to be one of the dumbest moves I’ve seen all year. Derrek Lee is a leader of this team and is a all-star caliber player - but Aramis Ramirez is clutch - our David Ortiz—our Derek Jeter.
I’m sooo excited for Harden’s debut tomorrow. I wish I could go to the game.
Unique - July 11, 2008
You're soooo right about Rami.
I’ll take some pics tomorrow and do a post next week.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I saw that and just laughed.
Hard.
A Lot.
slcathena - July 11, 2008
I'm so tired.
I don’t get it. Why you laugh?
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Walking DLee
To pitch to Rami, even though Rami had struggled a bit for a couple series, is absolutely silly. It was funny that he made them pay.
slcathena - July 11, 2008
I was so stunned
and then i laughed. I mean. Really? Do you NOT know Aramis is spanish for clutch?
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Wasn't Aramis also the name of a really bad men's cologne from the 80s?
right
updown there with Stetson and Polo…ballhawk - July 11, 2008
I don't know
I do know Aramis is the brand name of fine mens shirts. Dragon showed pictures of them when Rami hit his walk off against the Sox.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
You're thinking of Adidas...
I wore the hell out of that in Junior High.
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
Still popular I guess...
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
I've thought that
Since the Grand Slam he hit in the NLCS in 2003.
The blast he hit against the Crew last year in the bottom of the ninth cemented that feeling for me.
Kornchex - July 11, 2008
i was watching at work...
when Ramirez hit the walkoff on the mediacenter…i was so happy my eyes started watering. i worked in retail and customers were wondering why i was crying and running around, lol
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
I've followed Rami since he came to the big leagues...
with Pitt. He put up bigger numbers every year. Even when he was hurt. The Pirates kept trotting him out, and his defense suffered. He received, unfairly, a tag as a bad defender. I think he’s proven that false over the last three years. Some also complain that he doesn’t hustle. His legs are still weak, and you don’t want to lose a hitter like Ramirez. It infuriates me when people say he doesn’t hustle, and that he doesn’t care. This guy is one of the best hitters in the game, and I almost had an baseball orgasm when Hendry was able to get him as a “added value product” in the ‘03 deal for Lofton. What a steal. Hendry knew his history. He knew how good of a hitter he is, and would become. Ramirez is definitely the Cubs MVP. He’s the heart and soul of the Cubs along with D. Lee.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I know there has been a lot of Marquis hate
but i think all things considered he has done ok. He is not our favorite but if we can parlay him into trade bait for another piece to the puzzle that would be ok with me. I don’t hate him as some others here do. He is frustrating at times but he is a #5 and has done ok in that role. Again, if Hendry can pull another rabbit out of his hat and turn Marquis into another gem of a trade for the 2nd half of the season that would be great.
Go CUBS !!!
Basman - July 11, 2008
Last post of the day for me:
Chicago Cubs: most wins in all of MLB (as of 5:59pm CDT).
JohnM - July 11, 2008
YAY!!!!
slcathena - July 11, 2008
Where's the gang?
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
time for the ballhawk on-the-street report
unfortunately the streets I roam these days are in the Loop, not Waveland & Sheffield.
Yep, idiot that I am, I went and got myself a job. So my days of ballhawking are decidedly fewer than in the past, but at least I still got nights and weekends. Don’t get me wrong – money coming in is a good thing. A very good thing. But I can’t begin to tell you how much it sucks to get a text message in the middle of the day “Dunn – long gone!!!!”
So, no idea about the ARam homer today. If I had to guess, I’d say it was one of the ballhawks-in-training. Dave is always telling the kids to play down the line – maybe one of them finally listened.
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
Next you tell us you got a hair cut and sold your camero!
The gang is breaking up! NOOOOOOO!
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
ha - wish I had enough hair to cut...
and if I had a camero, I would have sold it long long time ago. Nope, the car for me would have been a ‘66 mustang convertible…
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
Congrats on the new gig
unfortunately it is for the best…...but for the worst:)
Good luck man
Hammer - July 11, 2008
9th inning question for those who saw the game
on that fly ball to right, if it’s anyone but Dome out there, would the runner have gone? Pat & Ron said it was a short fly and I forget who the runner was, but in a close game, I gotta think he’d be going if it was a different arm out there.
ballhawk - July 11, 2008
Maybe.
It wasn’t too deep though. I said out loud when it came off the bat, “that’s not deep enough, it won’t get the runner in.” With that said, you definitely don’t test Fukudome’s arm.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
The runner might have gone on most RF'ers...
and would have DEFINITELY gone on Ward or DeRosa. Dome saved at least 1 run.
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
I really didn't think it was deep enough...
Calculated risk, they couldn’t afford to lose a runner at third with one out.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
twss
tootle - July 11, 2008
agree
Emelie - July 11, 2008
disagree
Hammer - July 11, 2008
Hammer,
what you talkin’ ‘bout Willis? You disagree, yet say below “No way”.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I disagreed with SWL....not you..
my bad….guess I replied wrong…..STORY OF MY LIFE.
Huh?
Hammer - July 11, 2008
no question....Dome played it well...
..the throw was bad, but it didnt matter as his quick approach and release kept the guy on third
JB 23 - July 11, 2008
No way
I just finished watching it 5 mins ago…...it was a shallow fly ball….Only if JJ was out there and it was an elimination game would he have went.
Hammer - July 11, 2008
im excited....
good game today…and ALF is on WGN tonight!!! YES!! lol
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
The Animal Liberation Front has a TV show on WGN?
santoswoodenlegs - July 11, 2008
4-0 Cards
cubs ftw - July 11, 2008
Booo..
Still early tho..
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Eh. Our boys already won
the pressure’s on them.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
True that...
have the brewers started yet?
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Yeah
1-1 bot 1st
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
It would be oh so sweet if..
the cards and brewers both lost and gallagher wins his game.
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Someone tell me seriously
how good are my chances of getting two tickets together for tomorrow’s game if I’m downtown when the box-office opens?
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
I would venture to guess
not good
gwood - July 11, 2008
I've never tried it myself...
but friends of mine have gotten lucky that way.
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
TWSS
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Haha...
I set em up you knock em down..
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Good question.
I would think you could get SRO. Someone from Wrigleyville… help!
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
You can find SRO.
Pretty easily down there from the brokers or vendors for face value just before the game if you wish to go SRO route.
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
SRO isn't bad either
if you’re willing to wander you can find a good spot. We ended up along 3B side with a great view of everything except the main scoreboard.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
I'd like to get actual seats
my wife would be along, and she’s having minor surgery in less than a week.
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
How much can you spend buddy?
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
well,
I see upper-deck seats on Stub-Hub for $150 for two seats together. To me, that’s not too much, but she thinks it’s too much.
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
Talk her into it...
If you can afford it of course.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I'm pretty sure we can.
I’d love to go.
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
So, whadaya going to do?
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
she doesn't want to spend the $$$
before it was Rich Harden’s first Wrigley start, we were going to sleep in, go out to dinner, see a movie. She says I can go by myself, but I don’t really want to do that…
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
Wish you could.
Oh well. Look for Goodie and I.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Hope everything goes well with your wife Drew
My wife just had kidney stones surgically removed this week or she would be with me at the game. I’ll keep you in my thoughts, man.
Goodie1969 - July 11, 2008
Oh. I hope everything goes well!
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Why aren't you going tomorrow, my halfblind friend?
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
well. no one wants to go w/ me and riding
the train into the city makes me nervous. And I’m a lil broke at the moment.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
I'm taking the train into the city. If I had extra scratch.
I’d buy ya a ticket.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
aww. aren't you sweet!
:-) but don’t worry about it. I’ll be here w/ the radio.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Dude...
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Dude?
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Just saying I'm not that sweet...
And “dude” works in all types of situations. Like the Bud Lite commercials.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
I know. I was responding with the questioning version of dude
Like you say. Dude. and i ask Dude?
sigh stupid text. :-P
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
Nah. Not stupid.
I’m tired… I’m going to get a drink soon. Then feed the girls and get some sleep for tomorrow.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Good plan.
I’m going to scrounge up some dinner and throw a movie in I think. :-)
Night Jimmy. Have a great time at the game tomorrow!
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
What ya gonna watch?
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Dude.
Goodie1969 - July 11, 2008
That is so like Dude...
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Ha..
The Dude Abides..
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Night girl.
See ya back here soon.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
what train?
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
South Shore.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
Southshore into Millenium Station than the Red line
up to Wrigley. Its not hard… I just don’t particularly like going by myself.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
I'm coming from the other direction
or I’d ride with you. Do you actually HAVE a ticket?
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
to tomorrows game?
no.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
1-0 Reds
cubs ftw - July 11, 2008
Volquez goes tomorrow in Brew Crew Land, correct?
Mikey06 - July 11, 2008
yes
1-1 now
cubs ftw - July 11, 2008
Is it just me or does it seem like the Brewers have
played all their games at home?
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
N/M
i looked up the numbers. They’ve played 2 less at home than the Cubs.
It just seems like more.
halfblindcubbiegirl - July 11, 2008
OT: MLB.TV
MLB.COM was offering free MLB.TV to anyone who voted in the final vote. Did anyone do that? I did, but when I tried to redeem it, it told me that my redemption code had already been used.
I’m wondering if anyone else has encountered this. It’s so MLB.COM…..
DeRoMyHero - July 11, 2008
i shelled out the 129.95...
two years in a row…we get NOTHING for cubs games unless we are playing the dirty birds or houston…
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
Where do you live?
DeRoMyHero - July 11, 2008
I voted too...
I’ll go check it now..
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Ha..
same thing happened to me….why am I not surprised?
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Same thing happened to me
but I am now watching Gallagher pitch for the A’s, so that little message meant nothing to me.
He’s pitching a good game too BTW
gwood - July 11, 2008
MLBTV free trial?
I voted the max in the original voting and 20 or so times in the last man ballot, but I unchecked the two boxes on all the votes regarding getting emails and such. Either that, or the school email address has a strong spam filter.
Is it an offer that can be passed around like a cup full of dollers? I’d love to check it out this week.
Thanks.
section229beer - July 11, 2008
It's a one-week trial (actually 4 days) July 11-18
I received the e-mail this morning (I voted on Wed.). The e-mail had a “click here to redeem” link. I clicked it, and it said that my redemption code had already been used.
I would guess that you should have gotten it by now. (I unclicked their “would you like our spam” check boxes and still got it.)
I don’t think I can share it with you since I can’t even share it with myself. I’m on hold with MLB tech support right now. After my GDA problems, I’m an expert at such things…
DeRoMyHero - July 11, 2008
Just got off the phone with Tech Support
She told me to ignore the redemption code, add the NextDef plug-in, and go for it…
I’m up and running, though it’s extremely show right now. (I’m not sure whether their servers are overloaded, or Comcast has lowered my priority.)
DeRoMyHero - July 11, 2008
Thanks a lot DeRo...
It’s working for me now. They blacked me out of the Brewers game, but I’m getting to see Gallagher pitch for the A’s though.
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Alright ya'll.
I’m going home. Time to get ready for tomorrow. See ya’ll here soon.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
God,
I just watched Rami’s HR from today again on replay. I couldn’t go before I said this, I got goose bumps watching him hit that. He murdered that pitch! Ramirez is such a great hitter.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
God knows...
He was watching too!
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
Yes, he was.
If the Cubs win the World Series this year, it will be a spiritual event. It will change people’s lives. Every member of the team from the President to the batboys will become instant legends.
Jimmyeatworld - July 11, 2008
i will...
take a couiple weeks off work when we do…altough i dont drink anymore, what shall i do?
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
preacherman - who is that quoted on your signature?
JB 23 - July 11, 2008
mr alvin dark
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
However...
... Eric Karros said virtually the same thing (except about all day games) when he was here.
Al Yellon - July 12, 2008
Cincy just tied the Suds 5-5
LAcarl519 - July 11, 2008
BTW, the Suds had just scored 4 in the 6th
to take the lead 5-2. CC must be asking, “what did I get myself into?” I better throw complete games with this bullpen!!
LAcarl519 - July 11, 2008
Got to see the
first 6 innings at a relatives and then listened to the last innings on the radio. Lived and died with Ron’s “oh jeeze” and “why’d he do that” comments. Couldn’t help but chuckle hearing him. Have the game recorded but haven’t had the chance to see Aramis’s homerun yet but I will before I go to sleep tonight (which will be soon).
Aramis is the man. Not much else you can say. Have to give Marquis a thumbs up today too. Very nice job Jason.
Let’s hope Cubbie blue is a good color for Rich tomorrow and he pitches a great game.
sue369 - July 11, 2008
Missed you today!
Nice game thread…no trolls.
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
true dat!
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
im new to posting.
whats a troll? it sounds like someone i dont wanna be, lol
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
Troll...Per Wikipedia..
An Internet troll, or simply troll in Internet slang, is someone who posts controversial and usually irrelevant or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum or chat room, with the intention of baiting other users into an emotional response1 or to generally disrupt normal on-topic discussion.
We get them here sometimes during games when the Cubs are losing.
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
ok thanks
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
I missed all of you too.
sue369 - July 12, 2008
Reds up 6-5
on a wild pitch
ChipSet - July 11, 2008
Go Reds..
In Dusty we trusty….lol…
j/k
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
they are still up 6-5
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
Final
Cards move back into the wild card lead
ChipSet - July 11, 2008
good
let ‘em tire each-other out.
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
Soriano
Trib is reporting that Soriano might not be back till the Florida Series (7/24). He is still not taking full swings.
If that is the case, it would be right around 6 weeks…
TheRiot Police - July 11, 2008
well...
i wouldnt wanna rush it if we dont have to
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
I believe Lou said
in yesterday’s postgame, “the doctors said it would be about 6 weeks and they were right.”
Emelie - July 12, 2008
JIMMY!
I just scored some tickets! Section 216, Row 14, seats 108-109! And WAY cheaper than Stub-hub, too!
YAY! We’re goin to the game!!!!
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
I'll be the guy wearing the Cubs hat
with the hot wife. :D
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
awwww
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
Congrats.
Those are decent seats—IF they’re not obstructed view… you’ll need to check that out quickly when you get there.
Al Yellon - July 12, 2008
I'm
more worried about the rain!
drewishdrewid - July 12, 2008
it's not looking good at all, is it?
Emelie - July 12, 2008
no, and I don't want to pay $150 for rain vouchers
but they haven’t called a game yet this season. I’m so conflicted!
drewishdrewid - July 12, 2008
At this moment... 7:30 am CDT...
... it looks like the overnight storms should be pulling out in the next couple of hours, and there should be many dry hours. They’ll get this one in.
Al Yellon - July 12, 2008
Grats Drew!
we’ll miss you in the thread but how exciting. You’ll be representing all of us unfortunately homebound BCBers.
Emelie - July 12, 2008
Murton is batting
cubs ftw - July 11, 2008
he IS playing in the bigs!
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
thats cool Im happy for him
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
Ryan Sweeney dislocated his pinkie in last night's game...
.....so Matt got the call. Cue the white horse!
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
2 groundouts tonight so far....
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
love your tag line
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
ha..i like that one too..
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
so true
im reading the glory of their times… and I saw yours today. I knew I had seen it somewhere before just couldnt remember who had it
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
One if my favorite baseball books!
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Im about 100 pages into it...
and I just picked it up @ the library this morning. Excellent book so far.
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
lol
thanks. It beats sending a reply with the same message every time someone brings their fantasy team up.
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
Murton batting w/ bases loaded and 2 out
base hit on 0-2 count, 2 RBIs. Nice job Red Man!!
gwood - July 11, 2008
Yay Matt!!!!
sue369 - July 12, 2008
I just started watching the game..
to see how Gallagher was doing, and to my surprise there’s Matt…lol..
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Reds Win! 6-5
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
Kapler strikes out
Brew Crew LOSES!!!!
BWWAAAAA….HAAAAAAAAA
mmancubfan - July 11, 2008
Awsome!
Good news!
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
A's leading 4-2
Go Ginger and Easy Gas!
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Cameron totally misplayed a ball tonight that enabled the Reds to come back...
line drive headed right to his glove and he missed it by a foot. I’m sure it will be on all the highlights.
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
Surprising..
Cameron is usually pretty solid.
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Cameron's a true OF...
...and we were complaining about DeRo?
It happens to everybody.
DeRoMyHero - July 11, 2008
Good weekend to watch baseball...
I have FSN Ohio and Chicago Sports Net, so I’ll see both the Cubs series and the Reds-Brewers. Really nice comeback by the Reds tonight.
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
i live in wisconsin
so I get cub and brewer games on the radio
Madison Cub Fan - July 11, 2008
Murton uniform #26 for the A's, Gallagher #36
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
Murton singles with bases loaded for A's
2 RBI’s
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
A's up now 7-1 in the 3rd, Gallagher cruising for his first win...
carmen_fanzone - July 11, 2008
Gallagher
is pitching well. Both him and Murton are looking good. Notice that in the AL that you don’t get the call to the pen until you give up 5 runs in an inning.
Will Gallagher plunk an Angel after 3 A’s have been hit. Should be an interesting 5th inning.
FSArkCubsFan - July 11, 2008
good for Gallagher
i wish him well…...
Hammer - July 11, 2008
BREWERS LOSE!
DrGalazkiewicz - July 11, 2008
one of the funniest posts in awhile now...
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
LOL
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Damn
Murton can play some defense, NICE CATCH!!
gwood - July 11, 2008
Saw that...
He was probably our best left fielder. He was just a bad match for the Cubs. Hope he does well and prospers with the A’s.
Bump Bailey - July 11, 2008
Agreed
its good to see him getting to play
gwood - July 11, 2008
I just noticed this but...
did anyone else notice our run diffrential is +107 and the brewers and cards are only +17 and +18…is their run diff a norm for their record? then you got teams like the indians that are 14 games below .500…and their run dif is +1…odd, methinks!
preachermancubsfan - July 11, 2008
just remember the Dbacks from last year...
....so it means nothing
Hammer - July 11, 2008
Look at the D-backs THIS year.
Last year’s run differential came a lot closer to predicting this year’s level of play than last year’s win-loss record. Same with the Mariners.
To translate run differential into expected win percentage, use the Pythagorean theorum:
RunsScored1.8 / (RunsScored1.8 + RunsAllowed^1.8)
There are more technical versions of the formula that are more accurate.
cwyers - July 11, 2008
Bah!
That should be:
RunsScored1.8 / (RunsScored1.8 + RunsAllowed^1.8)
cwyers - July 11, 2008
We'll try this one more time:
RunsScored ^ 1.8 / (RunsScored ^ 1.8 + RunsAllowed ^ 1.8)
Don’t know why BCB didn’t like the carats before.
cwyers - July 11, 2008
nasty orange vegetables!
drewishdrewid - July 11, 2008
This is why I predicted Arizona to regress this year.
I got flamed for that when they started out 21-9.
But my prediction looks pretty good now, doesn’t it? Oddly, their run differential THIS year is almost exactly predictive of their record (407 runs scored, 406 allowed, 46-47 record).
Al Yellon - July 12, 2008
Just don't talk about that White Sox prediction...
(a distinct rumbling begins somewhere in the distance, seeming to come from the south …. getting closer …)
northsider - July 12, 2008
what are you doing up?
It’s 3 am out there!
Emelie - July 12, 2008
What are you doing up? It's 4:58 there!
northsider - July 12, 2008
I'm an early bird :D
Emelie - July 12, 2008
: )
Good morning!
northsider - July 12, 2008
Here's to two of "our" favorite "whippin boys"....
Mr. Marquis picked a great day to have a great performance….....(are we all sure we want him gone?)
And, Mr. Baker handled his bullpen admirably to defeat the suds…...
kcjones - July 12, 2008
Mr Baker did a LOUSY job of managing
I was there.
Fogg hit the first batter in the 7th after going 1-2, then walked the next one and no one came out to talk to him. After Fogg struck out Braun, a lefty came in to strike out Fielder. However, I noted while Braun was up that there was a lefty warming and no righty to face Hart—who promptly hit a two-out double to start a four-run rally.
Fortunately, Mr. Yost left Parra in two batters too long, and the Brewers defense failed.
Shanghai Badger - July 12, 2008
* the Brewer rally was in the 6th
The Reds scored 3 in the 7th
Shanghai Badger - July 12, 2008
Congrats to Sean Gallagher, nice game. Murton with a couple rbi's and 2 nice catches in left.
carmen_fanzone - July 12, 2008
Happy for both of them.
sue369 - July 12, 2008
argh...
it’s raining. Should I get my tickets?
drewishdrewid - July 12, 2008
I think my answer is
no. That will do two things:
1) Save $150 in my pocket
2) Guarantee that the game will actually go on, so we can watch it happen.
Sorry, Jimmy. Maybe next time.
drewishdrewid - July 12, 2008
I think you made the right decision
Emelie - July 12, 2008
I think it's going to stop raining.
Al Yellon - July 12, 2008
not helping!
should I call him back and get the tickets???
It’s completely stopped raining here. But it’s supposed to rain again at noon… argh argh argh…
drewishdrewid - July 12, 2008
It's up to you.
Just know that today’s game has the possibility of being the largest crowd of the year. That, combined with this being SF’s only visit this year, means they will do everything they can to get it in.
Al Yellon - July 12, 2008
Al, can you advise
what you think the best time to get there today considering the rain (for bleachers)? If it rains, do most people stay in their seats so as to not lose them? How does that work? I’d hate to be stuck standing in right field behind the handicapped section again.
tony412 - July 12, 2008
Rain usually holds the early bleacher crowd down.
But if it’s stopped by around 9 am, lines will start forming. Yes, most people stay in their seats in the bleachers. If you leave, you do risk losing them.
Try to get there by 10 and you should be fine.
Al Yellon - July 12, 2008
Thanks Al
Packing the ponchos now. There’s nowhere else in the world to get this type of interaction with other Cubs fans. Apprecite it!
tony412 - July 12, 2008
It's going to be a tough call
as you know, the forecast is for thunderstorms throughout the day… but I’ve been wrong about the weather and the game every single time. It’s going to be a gamble either way you decide.
Emelie - July 12, 2008
hour by hour says
80% chance of rain at noon
70% chance of rain at 1
60% chance of rain at 2
drewishdrewid - July 12, 2008
I hope they play, I finally got to stream the game here in kuwait last night, first game all year I’ve gotten to watch. This early start means I can watch the game at a reasonable time. Noon your time would be 7pm my time.
nmcubsfan - July 12, 2008
trades
im torn on the marquis trade.he,ll pitch great one game and get hammered the next.i,ll let the pros decide on this one.good luck murton and gallagher.i really would have loved murton here in tampa.hopefully he,s found a team not obsessed with him hitting 30 hr,s.
NOMAR - July 12, 2008
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