Now here's something that can give us hope for 2010.
Randy Wells gave up a leadoff double to Stephen Drew and then shut the Diamondbacks down. He retired the next 14 in a row and allowed only two other hits, striking out ten, and the Cubs shut out the Diamondbacks 5-0. For the Cubs it was their eighth team shutout of the year (and third in their last eight games), and their first win over Arizona since April.
Wells set a season (and career) high with the 10 K's, and the seven innings pitched qualify him for the ERA leaders list -- at 3.05, he will rank 10th in the league (unless Josh Johnson of the Marlins, who will go in the season's final game tomorrow vs. the Phillies with a 3.08 ERA, passes him). He also walked only one this afternoon, completing 2009 with 46 walks in his 165.1 innings pitched -- that ranks 12th in the NL in fewest walks for anyone who has 162 or more innings this season. Randy also registered his 12th win of the season; in all of Cubs history only seven pitchers won more games in their rookie season. The 3.05 ERA also ranks sixth among all Cubs rookie pitchers who qualified for the league ERA title. (Note: Wells doesn't appear on those lists because before today's game he didn't have enough innings to qualify for the ERA title. Now he does.)
Randy is never going to overpower anyone, although today he had the Diamondbacks flailing away at his pitches, which he mixed up well. In his 27 starts he went fewer than five innings only three times, and today was his ninth outing of seven innings or more. Earlier this year I compared him to former Cub righthander Kevin Tapani. He resembles Tapani in several ways -- stature, pitching motion, the age at which he first established himself in the major leagues. And Tapani was a good #3 or #4 starter for 13 years, and was a key contributor to three playoff teams.
If the Cubs get that out of Randy Wells before he leaves the game, we will all be very happy.
While Wells and Esmailin Caridad (a 1-2-3 eighth) and Carlos Marmol (a 1-2-3 ninth) were keeping the Diamondbacks off the bases, the Cubs were drawing walks and hitting the hapless Daniel Cabrera all over the yard. The biggest blows were a two-run triple from Reed Johnson -- this, a guy who suffered a serious foot injury two months ago -- and two hits and two RBI from Geovany Soto. With his two hits and two walks Geo got his OPS above .700 (to .710). It's a big dropoff from his .868 Rookie of the Year OPS from last year, but at least he appears to be improving in September after an awful August. Geo needs to dedicate himself to losing weight and getting in shape and reporting to Mesa in February ready to recover his production level of 2008.
I was glad that Lou gave Tyler Colvin a start in front of the home crowd; he had an RBI single, and while he's probably not in the mix for a job at Wrigley in 2010, he should be ready to produce in Triple-A next year and be ready to challenge for the major league roster in 2011.
It was also nice to see Marmol throw an efficient inning, looking like the Marmol of old, even though it wasn't a save situation. This should also give him good confidence going into next year. The three pitchers, throwing strikes (87 out of 130 total Cub pitches), allowed the game to end in two hours and eleven minutes. That was the fastest nine-inning game at Wrigley Field since Carlos Zambrano and Ryan Dempster (then the closer) dispatched the Astros in 2:05 on June 11, 2007. Just in time, too -- about five minutes after the last out, a light rain began to fall.
Speaking of rain, here's a final word I heard today about Thursday's rainout and why MLB wanted so badly to have all games played this season. Up to Thursday, no MLB games had been cancelled this year and it seemed possible that every team would play the full 162 games. Instead, with the Cubs having one fewer game than everyone except the Pirates, it's possible that the Cubs could rank ahead of the Rays and/or Mariners, whose records as of today are similar to the Cubs. MLB simply wanted to avoid that "half-game scenario", but Thursday's weather prevented that. That's the reason they waited so long.
And tomorrow, we wrap things up on the Cubs for 2009, we hope, with a win to at least send us off with a good last memory.
0 recs | 289 comments
What a year from Wells!
What if the Cubs actually had two Rookie of the Year winners in a row?
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
I think J.A. Happ is ahead of Wells in that consideration
but, had he been credited with another victory or two, I think Wells would have given him a run for his money.
Of all the unpleasantness of this season, Wells has been a pleasant surprise.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
Superb write up, Al.
Completely forgot about the early game; too concerned with the Badger victory. U RAH RAH WISCONSINNN.
Dan
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
The both of you can suck a lemon.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Did you see that receiver mimic an axe chop after he scored Minny's 1st TD?
First thing that went through my mind – it’s only the 1st quarter, kid.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
I sure did. And we thought exactly the same thing...
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Kind of a sloppy game all around
As bad as the Badgers looked at times in the 1st half, the apparent lack of poise from the Gophers gave me reason to be optimistic.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
All the while, Iowa gets to play Arkansas State...
Dagnabit…
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
And barely got past them
Still, they look like a Big 10 contender. Lots of things can happen yet.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Iowa is grossly overrated.
13th? Com’on.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
I don't know about that....
Iowa is pretty damn good, they domintated the 1st half of that game…not to mention had they not had a fumble for touchdown overturned and missed fg this game would have never even been close.
By Santo's Grace - October 3, 2009
Iowa is ranked #13.
And last week received 39 VOTES.
I don’t envision a scenario where a team that doesn’t even crack the top 30 should jump 18 spots for winning one game in week 4 of the season.
And Iowa will lose to Wisconsin in two weeks, so none of this matters.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
On this, we agree.
Iowa can [expletive deleted].
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
You'd better hope Sue doesn't see that!
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
She's busy today.
And she knows I lived in Iowa and only dislike the football program.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
I was kidding
I’m sure she wouldn’t take it to heart.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
:P
sue369 - October 3, 2009
I was wondering how long it would take for you to show up.
Seems like Iowa Hawkeyes and Wisconsin Badgers fans alike had some tests of their respective cardiac systems today.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
Certainly did.
sue369 - October 3, 2009
So, does Bucky get ranked?
I think no, unless at least 2 top-25 teams lose to unranked teams.
Georgia really should drop out, though.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
I wish, but no.
We have played crap teams until this week. 4 home games and 1 road game.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
If they had Golden Helmets and the same record against the same team,
They’d be in the top 10….
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
I usually consider Notre Dame, Michigan, and Michigan State to be overrated. They all play each other and somebody’s gonna win, somebody’s gonna lose. Just because Shanghai Badger, dtpollitt, and chilango2 play each other every year doesn’t mean we are good. Media hype.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Oh, no argument there
But Notre Dame gets the most special treatment of the bunch.
Hell, they squeaked by today – they’ll probably be ranked again. Frauds.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
It's not over.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
What the hell happened?
I turned it off after the INT. Was there a flag?
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
The INT was not.
37 YD FG
OVERTIMEEEEEE
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Excellent.
Go Huskies!
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
If Jim Hendry reads this
you’ll be expelled from Cubs fandom.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Nah, he's an LSU guy now.
Scrappy.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
hes both
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
Dear Mr. Hendry:
Notre Dame Sucks.
Signed,
Shanghai Badger.
PS Theriot has a rag-arm.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Rec'd
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
x2
well said
Allie - October 3, 2009
Hey!
How U doin’?
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
i'm good
how are ya, buddy? long time no talk.
Allie - October 3, 2009
Can't complain.
Taking a class & flying around. And Bucky won.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
good to hear
:-)
Allie - October 3, 2009
What's new and exciting?
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Not much
Ginger and I are marching toward S&R certification and she seems to be having a blast. Attending a camp this weekend for real indepth training. Should be… interesting.
Allie - October 3, 2009
Hey, cool - we're both going to be doing S&R . . .
I joined the Civil Air Patrol. Figured flying would be a cool way to do some community service.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Yeah
we’re doing a joint project with the Indiana Dept for Mental Health. Ike & Ginger are Crisis Response dogs. Well, Ike is one of the 4 dogs in the state for certified for the pilot program. Gingy and I are in training still though.
Allie - October 3, 2009
Sounds good
And note I didn’t make any blind jokes about the “S” part of S&R
;-)
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Its actually quite entertaining
Camp has some night time S&R stuff… I am NOT looking forward to it.
Ginger has a tendency to get worried when I walk into things. :-P
Allie - October 3, 2009
The flight squadron captain was talking about doing an all night exercise
I don’t know that I want to do that!
Still, it’s been interesting so far.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Yeah
its been something new.
Still now always sure if I know what I’m doing, though!
Allie - October 3, 2009
I have a feeling you'll do fine
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
NOOOOOOOOO, HBCG
IT’S FRIGGIN’
GREATTO HEAR!
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Huskies can't catch....
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Iowa keeps playing to the level of their opponents.
Frustrating.
AndrewJStone - October 3, 2009
I really expected
a down game from them today and they didn’t disappoint.
sue369 - October 3, 2009
To you or AndrewJStone,
Who does Iowa play next week?
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
Michigan.
Homecoming in primetime on ABC. Should be a blast.
AndrewJStone - October 3, 2009
Good luck with that.
Wisconsin probably has a tougher test than Iowa next week … we go to Ohio State.
Right now, though, I’d like to focus on chopping down the goalposts at TCF Bank Stadium with Paul Bunyan’s Axe.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
Ohio State is coming in to form.
Never good for the rest of the Big 10.
AndrewJStone - October 3, 2009
unless you're a Buckeye fan...
ballhawk - October 3, 2009
Buckeyes are hairless nuts...
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Good game for
your team today Zeke.
sue369 - October 3, 2009
No humans are Buckeye fans.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Actually I know quite a few.
We generally cut off their bravado at MSU by saying “1974”. Does the trick.
Of course, then they counter with “Probation”, which shuts us right up! ;)
Sometimes I miss Woody Hayes. He was fun to hate.
Zeke - October 4, 2009
Really looking forward
to that game.
sue369 - October 3, 2009
I'd expect Iowa to win by at least 7
UM isn’t that good. Beating ND got them ranked, but ND isn’t that good, either.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
It seems to me
That because of their reputation in college football, Michigan gets sympathy in the polls and gets ranked higher as a result.
I also think Iowa will win next week.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
They do
Not like ND, though….
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Excellent point.
I don’t think ND deserves to be ranked after their scrape past Washington (they probably should have lost today).
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
Gonna be there.
First time back to Kinnick this season. So psyched.
AndrewJStone - October 3, 2009
Have a great time!
I haven’t been to a Division I college football game since the mid-1990s (Michigan State @ Wisconsin on homecoming day at Camp Randall Stadium).
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
Have a great time
and hope you get to see a Hawkeye win.
sue369 - October 3, 2009
Feel free to kick their a**...
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Saw your guys pulled it off.
Is your heart okay? Your game must have been bad for it.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
I was ready to punch the wall. We had a 2-1 edge in time of possession
and held them to -7 yards rushing through three quarters. Then, the wheels come off and we let them right back in the game negating all the good we’d done for most of the game. Same stupid stuff. Bad penalties. Conservative play calling (aka: playing not to lose). Just maddening.
But they pulled it out in OT. I seriously doubted they had the resiliency after (sc)um scored 14 points in 4 minutes. But the corn holes blinked first (interception in the end zone) and then second & 3rd (2 missed tackles on the TD run).
So, for the first time since 1967, we won back to back games against them. God, it’s been a long 40+ years…
Zeke - October 3, 2009
We dominated the second half. Absolutely domination.
John Clay is an axe murderer.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Yeah, if Brown doesn't fumble, it's over a lot sooner.
Big test next week.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
I know.
Right before the fumble, I thought, “If Wisconsin goes in and scores a touchdown here, this game is over.”
I guess today’s game goes to show that it ain’t over ‘till it’s over.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
Even a FG if they take another 2:00 off the clock
Despite Clay’s 3 fumbles against Wofford, he’s moving back towards #1.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
184 yards rushing?
Certainly seems like it.
And Wisconsin today gouged Minnesota’s defense for 295 net rushing yards.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
They are getting better each week, it seems
Gotta get a lot better this week, though.
I think they’ve got a shot. Definitely looking forward to it – at least the start of it!
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
UUUUU RAH RAHHHH
WISC
CONNNNN
SIINNNNNNNNNN
I liked the part where we won.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Praise to thee, we sing.
WE SING!
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
I forgot about the Badgers playing today.
Go Badgers!!!
Looks like it could be a good year for Bucky.
madmf - October 3, 2009
They look like a legit contender at the moment
Still need to tighten some things up, though.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Keep on winning.
It’ll make Iowa’s win over them on the 17th (taking the Hawks to 7 – 0) in two weeks all the more impressive.
:-)
I – O – W – A
AndrewJStone - October 3, 2009
I'm not ready to talk smack yet
Iowa’s been tough at Camp Randall.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
If i remember right...
… you were doubting on your team back in August. I had a feeling you weren’t giving them enough credit.
Iowa’s got three big games left… Michigan, at Wisconsin, and at Ohio State. I’m obviously most worried about OSU (their defense hasn’t allowed a TD in like nine quarters as of this typing), but Wisconsin is second IMHO. You all have a good team, a good coach, and solid home field advantage. It should be fun.
AndrewJStone - October 3, 2009
You remember correctly
Although I will say when I read the blog that Matt LePay (PXP radio) did and mentioned that they do well when they fly under the radar . . . .
If they were playing next week, I’d say that Wisconsin should win. But a lot can happen before then, and OSU is a big test on Saturday.
Yes, it should be a good game.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Ah- HEM!
IOWA plays MSU too bucko! That’ll be a big game too.
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Our coach sucks.
He sucks bad.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
They'll be fine.
It’ll be an interesting year in the BT.
Zeke - October 4, 2009
With Wells numbers this year
I find it hard to believe he can be only be a solid #3 or #4 starter. He has strong potential to do better IMO. 2010 will be his true test since batters will be much more familiar with him.
ak123 - October 3, 2009
He may very well be able to be a #2 starter or even an ace
But it will take a good manager to see that. Al compared him to Tapani, but Len and Bob were giving a little higher praise: comparisons to Greg Maddux.
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
That's very high praise indeed.
Let’s wait a little bit before we bestow that on Wells.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Agreed.
One could do a lot worse than Tapani, too.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
I wouldn't be comparing him to Maddux yet
But it will be a true test in 2010.
Many of thought Rich Hill was the future ace of the Cubs…man I miss seeing that nasty curve ball! But I think Wells has the confidence factor and hopefully a much better built team next year can get him even more run support.
Instead of saying let’s hope the league doesn’t figure him out, let’s hope Wells can stay one step ahead where he doesn’t have anything to be figured out.
ak123 - October 3, 2009
Wow, that is high praise
eths - October 3, 2009
They were comparing his preparation to Maddux's
Randy comes out early, watches the other team take BP, writes out a game plan before every start, practices his bunting, etc.
They didn’t say he pitched like Maddux. Just that he worked hard like Mad Dog.
cubzfan - October 3, 2009
didnt the cubs beat the dbacks in april?
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
You're right.
It felt like they got swept in Arizona, but they did win one game. I’ll fix the post.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Great start and season for Wells
Now hopefully he doesn’t have his success go to his head like a certain catcher did after a great rookie year. Randy will be a great 4 starter for us next season
nji232 - October 3, 2009
Wells reminds me of how Maddux started out
nothing spectacular, but quite effective, now he should get Greg to be a mentor
Ivy Walls - October 3, 2009
A nice, solid game by everyone.
I was especially glad to see the “A” lineup take on the field today.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
great game
Wish I had been in the sun. What is amazing is despite the disappointing season and the fact the game was meaningless the crowd was totally into it and when they scored the first runs you would think they were in a tight race for playoffs.
Doggie Stalker - October 3, 2009
Some of us still care.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Well I was on my feet cheering.
Doggie Stalker - October 3, 2009
If you have it on Fox, or even if you have to resort to gamecast
Zack Grienke has 5 shutout innings right now and his ERA is at 2.01. Two more shutout innings and he has an ERA below 2 for the season. Unreal.
nji232 - October 3, 2009
It's a great game.
Blackburn is matching Greinke. Twins fans are freaking out.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Sigh.
I remember when games meant something.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
If he keeps his season ERA below 2.08...
…. he will also set the Royals single season franchise record (for a pitcher who qualified for the ERA title).
And who holds this record? Bret Saberhagen? No, it was set by Roger Nelson in 1972.
The KC/Min game is a real good pitchers duel. Nick Blackburn is matching Greinke almost pitch for pitch.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Al you will love this Fox fail today
I’m in Columbia, MO which is the Royals viewing area, yet Fox has the Phillies-Marlins game on.
nji232 - October 3, 2009
Peoria also has Phils-Marlins
Ridiculous.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
So does L.A.
daily2b - October 3, 2009
Oh, that is just insane.
Both of those. Columbia, Missouri gets Phils/Marlins? I guess they figure the Cardinals fans want to see a potential playoff opponent, but the Phillies & Marlins game is virtually meaningless.
The KC/Min game has playoff implications. It should be a national game.
Wow, the people who make these decisions are idiots.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
It's unreal
Fox should be nimble enough to change who gets what at a moment’s notice, shouldn’t it?
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
especially for the Royals fans who get maybe one fox game a year
and this is their superstar who deserves the national stage.
nji232 - October 3, 2009
Exactly.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
We have that here in Nashvegas too
On screen guide says the Braves who we always get on Fox telecasts if they are playing. Weird.
LT - October 3, 2009
I'm only 2 hours straight west of you...
…and I have the Royals game on.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Watching that game right now
Grienke is unbelievable.
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
He just walked the leadoff batter in the sixth
Let’s see what the Twins can do. Top of the order is up.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
MVP vs. Cy Young?
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
Yah, youbetcha
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Not often you see that
especially in such a big AB
nji232 - October 3, 2009
And the MVP wins
Possible MVP
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
"Possible" MVP?
If it’s not unanimous, that’s an upset.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
I think he's MVP
but with those New York sports writers, you just never know
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
Joe Mauer is an incredible hitter.
Just amazing.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
And just think ...
The Twins could have had Mark Prior instead … :-)
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
What were they thinking!
Idiots
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
Absolutely true.
And if the Twins had taken Prior… the Cubs were going to select Mark Teixeira.
True story. That would have worked out OK.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Way to thread that needle, Cubs
I guess it’s payback to Chicago for the Sam Bowie/Michael Jordan thing.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
Those idiots...
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
I remember thinking to myself when that happened
“Why wouldn’t you take Prior”
FML
nji232 - October 3, 2009
They didn't take Prior because they couldn't afford what they knew he would ask for.
Mauer was more affordable, plus he was the hometown kid.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
The Hometown aspect sealed it
Living here in the Twin Cities, its unbelievable how beloved Mauer is
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
I know he was highly regarded even then.
He’s proved to be worth every penny they spent — and will have to spend in the future to keep him.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
I think they will resign him
Its going to be a lot, but I think Mauer will give a hometown discount. Plus with the new stadium I think they will be able to afford it.
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
I think you have it scoped out exactly right.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Mauer PROBABLY would give the Twins the hometown discount
But I wouldn’t say it’s automatic.
The impression I get is that Mauer likes playing in his hometown but doesn’t particularly care for the fishbowl aspects of it.
My guess is he stays with the Twins, but I wouldn’t be shocked if he didn’t.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
His family lives here
his brother coaches the Twins’ Gulf Coast League team. Plus there’d be a riots breaking out all over Minnesota if they didn’t resign him.
I think he’ll resign.
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
Do they riot in Minnesota?
I thought some raised voices in a city council meeting was as exciting as it got…
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
It'd be a first
Don’t get me wrong, it’d be the nicest riots we’ve ever seen, but there’d be riots. And lots of raised voices.
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
You in Minnesota, Bruce?
Y tu!
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
No, downstate Ill.
But I lived in North Dakota for a while in the late ‘80s (when the Twins won the WS) and have good friends who live in Bloomington. Plus I’ve liked the Twins ever since Rod Carew played there.
Did you see the huge story Jim Souhan had in the Star Trib in July about Mauer? I thought it was really well done, but it also made me think him staying with the Twins wasn’t exactly a fait accompli.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
I feel like we've had this conversation before, now that you mention it.
My whole family’s in Mankato/Duluth/Cities.
I loved the piece in SI, quoting Morneau as saying “If you [Joe] leave, we’ll never be friends again.”
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
We might have
I loved that Morneau quote, too.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
Stolen from Twinkietown game thread:
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
reminds me a bit of the Reggie Bush-Mario Williams thing in the NFL
Money wasn’t the issue there, but Williams ended up being the better player while Bush was the overhyped injury prone guy.
nji232 - October 3, 2009
the MVP wins
basehit gives the twins the lead and the below 2 ERA quest probably ends.
nji232 - October 3, 2009
I think we have the MVP, CY, and CoY in this game.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
i want greinke to win the cy young
but i also want the twins to win the central..
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
I think both will happen.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Man on 3rd, 2 out
And Mauer strokes a single! Twins lead 1-0 in the bottom of the 6th!
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
And now a bases-clearing double
Makes it 4-0
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Bases clearing double for Young.
4-0 Twins.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Too bad
still shouldn’t matter in the Cy Young race
nji232 - October 3, 2009
Agreed.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
I can't imagine it will matter much
Who else would get it?
The NL Cy Young is an entirely different situation.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
My Cy Young vote goes to Wainwright.
But it’s very, very close.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
I think if the Cards had hung on last night
Wainwright winning 20 probably would have made the difference.
Without that, I think it’s either him, Carpenter or Lincecum. I’d lean toward Carp, but I can’t really pick one.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
...
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Twins vs. Sharks?
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
I was hoping the old-timey pic would give away that it was a circus freak...
And that’s not a shark :P
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Is that a Carp?
Twins vs. Carps?
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
It's a carp
Sheesh. NL Cy Young: Carp vs. Freak
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
what about wainwright
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
Find me a clever pic :P
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Here ya go.
Per Wikipedia:
Goodie1969 - October 3, 2009
Very clever!
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Then the pic's close
That’s a wheelwright, tho :P
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Hey, what do I look like?
SWL? :-p
Goodie1969 - October 3, 2009
If you have to explain it . . .
:)
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Yeah, yeah...
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
LOL
We’ve been talking about the Twins in this thread, so I thought…
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
This implosion is on the Royals defense,
and I hope the Cy Young voters actually consider this.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Boy, that double should have been caught.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Well, it's Willie Bloomquist in left field.
There’s a reason the Royals have 95 losses. He’s part of that reason.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
I think the bases-clearing one could have been, too
But I was only 1/2 watching.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Teahen took a bad route in RF for that one
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
That was Teahen, actually
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
you could say the same for Wells in RoY consideration.
Wells did not give up an earned run in his first 3 starts but got no victories due to lack of hitting by the Cubs. We don’t have to venture far from home to look for a pitcher who will be screwed by voters who just look at "W"s
LAcarl519 - October 3, 2009
Poor Zeke
He’s probably out celebrating the Spartans beating the Wolverines, anyway.
I’m enjoying the race – even if it is vicariously.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Yeah. My celebration was dinner at home and then grocery shopping at Meijers.
What an exciting Saturday night…
Plus we did our best to blow that game. I cannot believe how we simply refuse to close teams out, year after year. (sc)um should never have tied the game. We let them.
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Bucky let Goldie back in, too.
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
I suppose the final score is all that matters.
The first back to back wins against (sc)um since 1967. Really.
It’s been a long, dark 40+ years against these guys…
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Do you really have to use "(sc)um" every time you refer to Michigan?
We get it – you don’t like Michigan. One or two scum references might be considered creative or funny. But the constant use is a bit much, don’t you think?
Can’t you be happy with just calling them “Corn”? (I thought that was pretty funny, btw). How would you like it if others started calling your team “msu(cks)” all the time?
And this is coming from an Ohio State fan so don’t think I have any love for “that school up north” as Woody used to call them.
ballhawk - October 3, 2009
Fair enough. You're right. That's the end of that reference.
And feel free to have your way with them when you play them.
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Thanks
now about that “hairless nuts” reference… ;-)
ballhawk - October 3, 2009
Sorry! ;)
I’m sorry we don’t get to play each other for the next couple of years. I really wish all the BT teams played each other every year. I never have liked the opt out rotation.
Zeke - October 4, 2009
Then you'd have no big non-conf. matchups, though
OSU-USC, etc.
Shanghai Badger - October 4, 2009
Just play 16 games a year!
Oh, right. The students have to go to class and stuff.
Zeke - October 4, 2009
Surrrrre they do . . . .
Shanghai Badger - October 4, 2009
I had noticed the reference, too.
But even last week, when Michigan State and Wisconsin played each other, I didn’t say anything derogatory about MSU, with the end result that Zeke and I turned the Cubs game threads into a college football game thread.
Also, Ken, the Badgers play at Ohio State next week. Good luck to your guys, should be a great game. I’m going to miss it as I will have work and GRE tutoring at game time.
I’ll check in on the score once I get home that evening.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 3, 2009
Sorry. I get a little worked up about um. There is a LONG history of animosity between the two schools
dating back to um voting to bar MSU’s admission to the Big Ten back in the 50s- and even prior to that.
We lost a game (when we were Michigan Agricultural College) back in the early 1900s by the score of 119-0, which some the Detroit media loved to bring up every year (it seemed). The “Cow College” references got very old and when um hired Bo Schembechler as their football coach in the late 1960s, the Detroit print and broadcast media basically adopted um and their city’s college team. They were great and everyone else was crap. And it seemed like EVERYONE was a um fan- whether they attended the school or not.
Of course, the fact they beat the crap out of us every year didn’t help. Oh well. Time to let it go.
Again, sorry if I offended anyone. Time to turn this BACK into the Cubs blog we know and love.
Zeke - October 4, 2009
It's okay.
To be honest, I enjoy talking college football with you.
Gets me a perspective on a team in the Big Ten (Michigan State) that I wouldn’t have otherwise. I’m going to miss chatting next week with you, but I’ll be back the following week for Wisconsin’s game against Iowa (that’s the Heartland Trophy border battle I told you about yesterday).
Next week might be ugly anyway, Wisconsin visits Ohio State.
Vermont Cubs Fan - October 4, 2009
the royals defense finds new ways to lose games for greinke
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
Blackburn's shutout is over
Leadoff solo shot in the top of the 7th. 4-1 Twins
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Sry
1 out solo shot
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Thing I'm going to miss the most about the Metrodome:
The giant SUCKING vacuum feeling you get when you walk through the revolving doors.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
lol, yeah, that is fun
but its perhaps the worst baseball venue in all of baseball. I hate the Dome and can’t wait for the new stadium.
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
Hardy-har-har
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Only venue to host the Super Bowl, World Series, and Final Four!
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
Only because the Braves never thought to play their games in the Georgia Dome :P
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
aw crap
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
Alex Gordon 2 run HR
Top 9, 4-3 Twins. Twins bullpen looking to give another one away
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
It's the top of the 8th, not 9th
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Even worse :(
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Who ever this guy is they put in
is throwing straight fastballs right down the middle of the plate
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
Motherlover... Jose "The Bean Machine" Mijares hangs one up
and it’s 4-3 with no outs. Boos rain down, a la [name redacted].
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Mijares seems like Minnesota's version of Aaron Heilman.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
He is, but he has very decent numbers actually.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
i bet hes a really nice guy in real life..
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
According to the now-ex-Mrs. Miles,
Aaron ain’t that nice.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Alex Gordon.
Man I love his game. I hope he can stay healthy and produce next year.
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
He's been a bust so far
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
First and third with no one out
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
bullpen is giving it up
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
I. Am. SHOCKED!
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
I'm assuming the two "umpires"
sitting in the front row behind home plate today were not real umpires, but how and where do you get legit MLB ump gear like that? I thought that was pretty funny.
Goodie1969 - October 3, 2009
Len and Bob
said they’re stock brokers from Toronto. Anybody else who paid attention want to chime in? Because that’s all I heard.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
http://www.ump-attire.com/baseball.html
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
But these guys had what looked like the real thing.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
I don't know where the link is (im lazy)
But what happened was they ran into a group of umpires one day and were able to get some of their gear, so it is legit MLB umpire gear. They wear masks when the Blue Jays pitch.
nji232 - October 3, 2009
Twin-killing
Bases empty, 2 outs, 4-4
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
What a play
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
game tied
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
not anymore
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Cuddyer HR
5-4 Twinkies
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
YES!!
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
CUDDYER!!
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
YES!!
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Cuddyer with the go ahead solo shot!
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
YES!!
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
wooo
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
MC HR!
Twins lead 5-4!
Goodie1969 - October 3, 2009
YES!!
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
A Twins fan friend told me
she thought Cuddyer would be trade bait this offseason. I had thought he, Mauer, Morneau and Nathan were the Twins’ core, that they would try to lock them up and mix and match elsewhere.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
Wow, I'd love for the Cubs to get Cuddyer.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Same here
I’m just surprised they’d part with him. I suspect the Twins would want starting pitching in return.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
They can still have Harden...
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
aaron heilman for cuddyer
GETITDONE JIM
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
What is Cuddyer's contract status?
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
He's up for arb, if I'm not mistaken.
I’ll look it up…
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
But he...
…throws and bats right. Unless he’s willing to learn how to be left-handed, I dunno.
LeSaboteur - October 3, 2009
I think even Lou has given up that canard.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Finally?
LeSaboteur - October 3, 2009
I would hope so, anyway.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Now the other...
…hypothetical question is, where do you install Cuddyer? RF? Or, do we put Dome back in right, and learn Cuddyer CF?
LeSaboteur - October 3, 2009
Squarely at RF
nji posted his UZR below, so moving him to center would only make him lower that number.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Agreed.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Just saw that. Sounds good to me.
LeSaboteur - October 3, 2009
I looked it up.
He’s under contract through next year, at $8.5 million, with a $10.5m club option for 2011 ($1 m buyout).
The Cubs could do that, if they cleared off some other contracts first.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Yeah, I was wrong.
Here it is if anyone’s curious.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
He has two years left
of a three year 23 million dollar contract. There’s a 4th year option.
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
+∞
I haven’t heard or read anything that may indicate Cuddyer leaving, though.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Looks like he is a horrid outfielder
-15.5 UZR in RF this season. His bat is nice though
nji232 - October 3, 2009
They have lots of OF depth
They wouldn’t get the same return with Young or Gomez. I think Span is more valuable for the Twins.
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
That's a really good point
I really like Span.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
Nathan in
And the all in the Twin Cities hold their breath…
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
As do those of us here who are rooting for the Twins.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
:P
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Sign held up in the crowd:
“Time for some more Dome Magic!”
Curiously, this sign was not seen at Wrigley.
Goodie1969 - October 3, 2009
ISWYDT
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Well, I had a similar...
…sign, but left it on the damn ferry to SF.
LeSaboteur - October 3, 2009
Jacobs K
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Callaspo FO9
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Span with a great catch!
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
AAAAAAAA what a catch!!!!
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Either the Twins or Tigers is fine with me
What I want is a game 163. Watching that is so much fun, and much more fun when the Cubs aren’t involved.
A Rockies win tonight gives us a sort-of game 163 because their game on Sunday determines the NL West champ.
nji232 - October 3, 2009
Not quite as important because both LA and Col get in anyway.
But it does make a difference for seeding.
I agree with you, a tiebreaker game is lots of fun to watch.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Teahen K
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Twins win!
.5 games back. Go Sox!
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Cubs win!, I mean, Twins win!
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
LOL
Very happy for Twins fans. I think they’re going to take the Central. Good for them.
Al Yellon - October 3, 2009
Verlander at home, and vs. the Sox has been lights-out.
Let’s hope they buck the trend and let’s root for the South Siders for once.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
Damn it.
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Right on both counts :D
Clutch16 - October 3, 2009
Wow, what a game for the Twins!
Lets get a loss Detroit!
DTJchris - October 3, 2009
Grrrr.....
Zeke - October 3, 2009
i havent had this feeling in my stomach since july..
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
HAHAHAHAHAHA.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
no
not that feeling..
jesus christos - October 3, 2009
Now, I cheer for the White Sox
Boy, I never thought I’d say that. And I hope I never have to again.
Not Bruce Froemming - October 3, 2009
Did y'all catch that interview with Cuddyer?
Wouldn’t he be awesome in Cubbie Blue? He is what this club needs.
chilango2 - October 3, 2009
MUSTTTT
CHEEERRR
FOR
WHITE SOX
ARGH!!!!!!
dtpollitt - October 3, 2009
No.
You.
Don’t.
Zeke - October 3, 2009
Really
I hope the Twins win but no way I will pull for those losers…
LT - October 3, 2009
I missed this evening's game, which is a real shame...
I’m sure I’ll be able to post this much more often in 2010
Looking forward to a really good season next year – Eamus Catuli
eths - October 3, 2009
Nice!
Shanghai Badger - October 3, 2009
Give hendry credit on Wells.
I am sure there are others that were confident in Wells, but it was Hendry that dipped down and got him in May. He deserves credit there.
Nibbles - October 3, 2009
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