First, let me take a bit of this space to thank all those who serve or have served this country in the military; it is thanks to you and your sacrifices that we have the freedoms we enjoy. We remember and give thanks.
This is only the second home night game the Cubs have ever played on a holiday; the other was on July 4, 2004, a Sunday night vs. the White Sox, when LaTroy Hawkins ruined a terrific Glendon Rusch start by allowing a game-tying homer to Carlos Lee in the top of the 9th. Todd Walker drew a bases-loaded walk off Damaso Marte in the bottom of the 9th to win it.
There is one other unique (and I use that word in its correct and literal sense: the only time) thing about this series: the Pirates have just finished an interleague series on the South Side vs. the White Sox. Thus they will spend nearly an entire week in Chicago playing both teams. In the 12 years since interleague play started in 1997, this is the only time a team has been scheduled this way in Chicago (it happened one other time due to a rainout, in June 2007 when the Astros played a series at the Cell and then stayed over on a Monday to play a makeup game vs. the Cubs). This has happened only one other time among all the other two-team markets (New York, Los Angeles, Bay Area) -- that was in 2001, when the Rockies played July 15-16-17 at Oakland, then stayed and played July 18-19 in San Francisco. It's surprising MLB doesn't do this more often, though given the way bizarre schedules are made these days, maybe it's not. In researching this, I found a wacky sequence in 2007 where Oakland played the Mets in a three-game series at Shea, then went to Cleveland for three, then immediately back to New York to play the Yankees from June 22-July 1. (Don't believe me? Look it up.)
More bizarro scheduling notes: last year the Cubs had played the Pirates 12 times by this calendar date; in 2009 this is the first meeting of the two teams. The Cubs have faced lefthanded starters only five times so far this year, fewest in the majors (with a 3-2 record); that will change in this series, as they will face two lefties (Paul Maholm tonight and Zach Duke on Wednesday afternoon), as well as the Dodgers' Randy Wolf on Thursday.
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Paul Maholm has a 4-1 career record vs. the Cubs... but with an unsightly 6.32 ERA. A lot of that is from last year, when he threw 14 innings in two starts, allowing 10 earned runs (6.43 ERA). Alfonso Soriano is 6-for-17 (.353) with three homers vs. Maholm; Reed Johnson, who homered yesterday, is 4-for-6 with a double.
Ryan Dempster threw one of the best games of his 2008 season on April 8 in Pittsburgh, allowing only one hit over seven innings. Thanks to the bullpen (sound familiar?) the Cubs needed 15 innings to win that game. Dempster handles most of the Pirates pretty well; of their current roster only Nate McLouth and Adam LaRoche have homered off him and current Pirates are hitting only .250 (21-for-84) off Dempster.
Once again, the Cubs are on WGN with national exposure. This hasn't worked out too well for the last week. Maybe today will break that jinx. For today's other games see the MLB.com Mediacenter.
Baseball-reference.com game preview
Overflow comment threads will post today at 8 pm, 9 pm and 9:45 pm CDT.
Discuss amongst yourselves.
0 recs | 396 comments
1st
Go Cubbies!!!
cubsluver22 - May 25, 2009
well what do you know
San Diego goes on the road and is getting their brains knocked out…go figure.
Cubbinstrongsince86 - May 25, 2009
7-7
despite a couple of blown calls by the umpires.
ol Pete - May 25, 2009
figures
the arizona d-bags aint good for anything.
Cubbinstrongsince86 - May 25, 2009
9-7 Padres win
ol Pete - May 25, 2009
10 in a row for them
9 runs in one game. i’m overwhelmed with jealousy. :-(
Allie - May 25, 2009
flu-ridden lineup
Sori
Riot
Milton
Cliff “Reed Johnson” Inspiron
Soto
Hoff
Freel (3b)
Miles (2b)
Demp
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Freel plays 3rd?
who knew.
Allie - May 25, 2009
did Lou
just toss names in a bag, and puill them out for who bats 4-8?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Derrek must
still have the flu. :-(
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Yeah
Twittermyer says so.
The lineup pre scratch is pretty scary:
Allie - May 25, 2009
Could a minor league team beat this lineup?
Probably. Another horrible, horrible infield to boot.
I’m putting myself on a short leash tonight, if we get behind I’m outta here. I watch the Cubs to reduce stress and enjoy myself, not scream at the TV and freak my beagle out.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Yes
that lineup is brutal. A lot of outs.
Grockcubs - May 25, 2009
Are the Cubs going to wear the red hats tonight?
cubswgnrocks - May 25, 2009
Probably
Every other team has worn them so far today. Those things are ugly, but I assume they are doing it for Memorial day? In any event, thanks to all who serve our country. We couldn’t enjoy this game without you.
LT - May 25, 2009
I like
blue ones they had last year…which I am currently rockin.
Cubbinstrongsince86 - May 25, 2009
the blue ones were really cool
Allie - May 25, 2009
I wish they'd have given teams the option of the blue one.
The Rays in red hats don’t work. It’s like their moms should be forced to dress them for tomorrow’s game.
+infinity to all of those who serve our country, regardless.
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
They're alternating
Read about it here at UniWatch.
Allie - May 25, 2009
+1
Thank You to those who serve
cubswgnrocks - May 25, 2009
+1
Madison Cub Fan - May 25, 2009
Um, me no likey...
carmen_fanzone - May 25, 2009
ick
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
tacky merchandizing looks like a NASCAR cap for goodness sake!
Emelie - May 25, 2009
No reason we shouldn't win
Of course the way things have been going we will score 15 runs and give up 16.
nji232 - May 25, 2009
Guaranteeing a win
I broke down and replanted my cubs garden today. Blue flowers on outside, red flowered C and white flowers inside. It’s below my cubs flag. I’ve blamed myself for this losing streak so I replanted the whole thing and thus, we’ll win tonight. Sit back and relax everyone.
mrcubsfan - May 25, 2009
Imwamura is out for the season
We have a surplus of secondbasemen… think we could get something from the Rays?
Allie - May 25, 2009
I hear David Price is good
Miles for Price, lets do it
nji232 - May 25, 2009
Can he hit in the clutch?
Allie - May 25, 2009
Better than most of the current Cubs im sure
Not that I’m setting a high bar.
nji232 - May 25, 2009
I wish.
Problem is that they have multiple middle IFs better than any of ours not named Fontenot.
DGU - May 25, 2009
Reed Johnson batting cleanup.
What’s wrong with you, Lou?
kanderber - May 25, 2009
Why not switch him and Hoff?
CubsBullsBears - May 25, 2009
LHP probably
Allie - May 25, 2009
Reed turns into superman v. LHP
DGU - May 25, 2009
Let's get a win tonight...
My W flag is starting to collect dust in the garage.
CubsBullsBears - May 25, 2009
For the love of all that's good
just win…Please…
Craig in South Bend - May 25, 2009
A victory
would alleviate a lot of things around here and elsewhere.
And as far as the lineup goes, I don’t know what you want Lou to do. Let’s see the alternatives.
Not Bruce Froemming - May 25, 2009
Agree on the lineup...
we’re facing a LHP, and Fontenot has struggled against LHP. Thus, Miles or Scales should be playing in his place at 2B. That means Freel or Scales has to play 3B, by default. And since we’re facing a LHP, Reed Johnson is a better fit than Fukudome (because Johnson can really hit LHP).
If Lee were not sick, he’d be in instead of Hoffpauir, but that’s about it. As long as Ramirez and Lee aren’t available, our lineup versus LHP is going to look somewhat anemic. It’ll look better against RHP, when Fontenot and Fukudome play. But when we’re missing two of our best bats, the options run thin.
Hopefully Soto and Bradley get their bats going tonight.
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
Let's hope
they left those empty bats in CA.
Lee and Scales (but Scales can pinch hit) have the flu and Marmol is out for two days as his wife is having their baby.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
awww Do you know if it's their first?
Madison Cub Fan - May 25, 2009
No and I
didn’t even know he was married.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Should be
no I don’t know if it’s their first.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
me either
Madison Cub Fan - May 25, 2009
Aww!
A baby marble!
Hope she gets her mama’s ears. :-)
Allie - May 25, 2009
hahaha
that’s mean but soooo funny!
ambrosiadreams - May 25, 2009
LOL!!!
You made juice come out my nose.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
I try. :-P
Allie - May 25, 2009
LMAO
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
So even if we get a lead
It will be blown.
Congrats to Marmol, I’m sure its awesome to have your first kid.
nji232 - May 25, 2009
Weather updated in Chicagoland please?
Does it look like they’re going to be able to get the game in incident free?
ambrosiadreams - May 25, 2009
LMGTFY
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
haha clever dan
and yes, I did look. but radars and webcams can’t look up at the sky for me!
ambrosiadreams - May 25, 2009
Muhahahaha.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
your a dork
rolling my eyes
Madison Cub Fan - May 25, 2009
isnt that exactly what radars do??:)
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
haha yes yes
ok, that was my dumb question for the day. :)
ambrosiadreams - May 25, 2009
I always just use the CubWorld cam.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
yeah I do too
and it looked kind of gray. What can I say, I sense a W tonight and am worried about the game getting washed out.
ambrosiadreams - May 25, 2009
love to hear that and certainly hope you are correct!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Chance of rain
but looks like they should get the game in.
Allie - May 25, 2009
i was thinking you had taken a picture of the sky
and linked it to bbe funny
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Nah
I’m not that close to the park.
And that would require me both finding my camera AND the usb cable.
Allie - May 25, 2009
now that would be some first class service!! :)
ambrosiadreams - May 25, 2009
I don't any idea where my camera is
And even if I could find it, I’m sure the batteries are dead.
IOW, don’t count on it. :-P
Allie - May 25, 2009
Hi girl
how ya doing?
Madison Cub Fan - May 25, 2009
Other than the Cubs?
I’m good. :-)
How are you?
Allie - May 25, 2009
Yep other than the Cubs
Doing good. Got lots of sleep this weekend.
Madison Cub Fan - May 25, 2009
That fat bastard swilling beer in the stands looks like he can swing a bat? Whaddya think boss - one day contract?
DMCub - May 25, 2009
Anyone need play by play tonight?
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
I feel much better
knowing all of our games against the Pirates are yet to come.
Poloplaya14 - May 25, 2009
and Nationals
nji232 - May 25, 2009
I feel much better knowing we have 3/4 of a season left.
And we get Aramis back, but Rickie Weeks ain’t no comin’ back.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Casey McGehee has been a really good fill in
Good glove, strong accurate arm, can play 2nd, 3rd, 1st and even caught some in the minors so the backup catcher can pinch hit. He had a diving catch and throw in today’s game. He’s got some big hits as well.
Counsell can play 2nd as well. The irony is that Weeks was one of the reasons they would lose when he was there and he’s one of the reasons they will lose when he isn’t.
ol Pete - May 25, 2009
I know, sigh.
We didn’t really have a need for him last year, but then again, we didn’t really give the guy much of a chance either, did we?
Weeks is a career
7 UZR/150 2B, but this year he was actually ridiculously good-over 25. I’d rather have Weeks’ great offense—especially coming from a middle infielder—than Casey any day, but you do have some replacements that might help.dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Don't use two of "-" in a row or your posts are screwed up
Note to Dan.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Where can I watch the game for free online?
Mr.Cub - May 25, 2009
you really think Major League baseball would let you watch it for free? LOL
Madison Cub Fan - May 25, 2009
we don't give out stream links here
google. or find a tv with ch 9.
Allie - May 25, 2009
aren't quite a few of those links bogus?
Madison Cub Fan - May 25, 2009
Go watch WGN
Buy an iPhone and get the MLB application
Spend some dough and get the MLB.TV package online
Or search Google for illegal shit. Al gets a bit ticked when we talked about illegal stuff here, otherwise I’d do so more often.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Doesn't MLB have a special DL type deal
for people who are going to have a baby, see a sick parent, etc? Couldn’t we put marmol on that for two days and call up another player? We have like 20 players on the roster tonight.
nji232 - May 25, 2009
the berevement list?
i have no idea on the rules needed for that.
Allie - May 25, 2009
Yeah thats it
I’m gonna look up the rules now.
nji232 - May 25, 2009
Looks like Marmol wouldn't qualify anyway
nji232 - May 25, 2009
Interesting.
thanks for digging that up.
Allie - May 25, 2009
What would happen if this guy was in MLB and pregnant? Would he fall under the bereavement list??
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
If they didn't let him
I’m sure he would Terminate them.
nji232 - May 25, 2009
Oh, fun fact, nji232, "Junior" went to Mizzou.
Okay, I just made that up. But Mizzou still sucks.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Isn't that actress the one who was killed in that skiing accident
a few months ago? Or am I crazy?
nji232 - May 25, 2009
No Emma Thompson
is still alive and badass. I love her.
Allie - May 25, 2009
Okay
So I am crazy
nji232 - May 25, 2009
But she does kinda look like
the actress you’re thinking of.
But for the life of me I cannot remember her name.
Allie - May 25, 2009
Natasha Richardson.
Liam Neeson’s wife.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Also
Mizzou made another Elite 8 yesterday, this time in softball. We also played in our fifth Big 12 championship game, but lost.
nji232 - May 25, 2009
Enjoy 'em while you can!
2009-2010 will be ours!!
That is, if we can stop Zach Robinson, Colt McCoy, and Sam Bradford. Basketball, that’s ours.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Colt is going to win the Heisman
my prediction
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
That's fine.
I’ll take the Men’s Basketball NCAA 2010 National Championship.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
I'm calling Tebow
His team will win the MNC or the BCS or whatever it’s called
LT - May 25, 2009
All I care to add to that is
OU SUCKS!
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tLsw79LJZN0
www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7_OGWACKbA
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
best of luck with ASU
at least thats who I think they play.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
he would be using Manny's drugs
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
I am so ready for a Cub drubbing of the Buccos.
The lineup is due to break out. Maholm is due to get his ERA rocked back to his career levels.
DGU - May 25, 2009
But this line up??:)
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Miles actually hits LHs.
Even this lineup can do it.
DGU - May 25, 2009
Mr T.
is the 7th inning stretch singer today?
o.0
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Maybe he will bring some runs with him
LT - May 25, 2009
seriously?
nothing like a B A Baracus sighting to spice up the bats.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Marmol's out til Wed.
Some BS about his first born. Bush league.
Reddevil - May 25, 2009
Oops.
Late. But true
Reddevil - May 25, 2009
He shouldn't be
allowed to be with his wife when she is having their child?
sue369 - May 25, 2009
I hope that Reddevil
was being sarcastic when he said
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
I hope so too.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Easy guys...
I do honestly think that the birth of one’s child is a legit excuse.
Reddevil - May 25, 2009
I figured as much
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Im not sure if ive got mental problems or not.....
but I laugh my hiney off everytime I see the SNY commercial with Keith Hernandez and his moustache.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
My eyes.. my eyes.....
Are those hats ugly or what?
LT - May 25, 2009
its one day, get over it.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Yes
yes they are
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
if we score 12
and throw a perfect game, do we keep the hats?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
It's what
they represent that we can live with it for one game.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Absolutely!
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
I hate to disagree...
Have teams wear hats in honor of a specific Army or Marine unit. Air Force squadron. or Navy ship, something related to the team’s city, not terribly done cookie cutter hats.
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
This is also something that could be used...
to honor forgotten veterans and teach kids something important. Make the meaning of national holidays real to them.
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
+1
Good point.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
I can live
with what they represent. If you feel differently send your suggestion to MLB. They may like it.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Happy 400th night game Wrigley Field!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Morgan(not Joe) K's
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Morgan fans. 1 out.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
Sanchez doubles to right center
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Mclouth pops out to freel on the first pitch
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Where the heck is the game thread??
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
This is it
until 8 pm.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Since when does that happen??
What is this, BCB circa 2007?
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
I dunno but that's
what Al has posted in the pregame thread.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Ok, I thought I missed something
Glad I’m not the only one
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
Laroche singles
1-0
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
ROLL CALL! WHO'S ALL HERE??
I feel wrong doing this in the pre-game thread…but any-whoooooo
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
I'm here for the next hour or so
Emelie - May 25, 2009
me
sue369 - May 25, 2009
I'm here
may not be able to stay though
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
Here
Mapmaker - May 25, 2009
g'day all
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
g'day mate! how ya' doin'?
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
not bad
need a Cubs win today though.. need it bad..
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
Here!
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
Umm...here, I guess
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
cmon now, Im gonna need a bit more than that from you tonight!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
I'm on my phone, and not nearly drunk enough to be confident yet
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
well then, have a few for me please!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
yo
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
What up dood.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
with tha
d to the o to the o to the d!
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
here?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
there?
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
everywhere
Emelie - May 25, 2009
nowhere
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
I was channeling Beatles... :-D
Emelie - May 25, 2009
What is real? How do you define it?
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
with hangovers?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
From THE MATRIX...
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Go Cubs
LT - May 25, 2009
I'm late
but here
ScottieG33 - May 25, 2009
HERE!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
hehehehehehehehehe
Pat said “strokes it foul”
Emelie - May 25, 2009
cmon now, get your mind out of the gutter!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Don't we all get a little excited over the word "stroke"? It's just normal :-)
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
I'm 12 at heart
Emelie - May 25, 2009
lol
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Down 1-0...
and 5 guys in the lineup hitting under .210.
I’m hopeful.
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
Ha ha.
Pirates seem to be hitting Demp pretty well.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
I'm hoping Lou
“asked” them to step up, as we have to send somebody down or away soon, right?
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Hi Drew!!!!
sue369 - May 25, 2009
hi, Sue!
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Well look who's here
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
couldn't stay away
I’ve changed my avatar and built a brand-new computer. No where to go but up.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Is that a Brewer? : P
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
that
is Max, pitching his first K. :D
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
as a Brewer
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
yes, yes
a WESTDALE Brewer.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
i thought he was a Brewer
to work on his 007 skills as a spy while playing baseball
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
it's not exactly difficult
to sneak up on Prince Fielder. Just don’t disguise yourself as a donut.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
TRAITOR!
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
he was drafted!
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Welcome back Drew!
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
Thankee, Sai.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
bout frickin time Drew
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
it's only
twenty after 7.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
and three loses later?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Great to see you Drew!
Emelie - May 25, 2009
hiya, Emelie!
had any utility guys… visit lately?
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
lol... yep about to schedule computer geeks ;-D
Emelie - May 25, 2009
oh-HO!
I can tell you a thing or two about computer geeks.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
I have appliance
guy coming in tomorrow. ;-)
sue369 - May 25, 2009
he'll crack you up
Emelie - May 25, 2009
He better bring
my new fridge. My husband wants the new TV.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
is the TV
inside the fridge?
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
I've seen those at Best Buy
they have them in the door… Cool
LT - May 25, 2009
No, it's (the TV)
for our new addition and the fridge is for my kitchen.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Moss K's
inning over.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
They just showed a kid...
holding a “Hit It Here” sign in foul territory. Hope your wrong kid…
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
good long AB by Sori here
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
and draws the walk!
12 pitches… me likey
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
Nice AB by Sori...
very leadoff hittet like…
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
10 pitches already
nice at bat. If nothing else, let’s try to get into the bullpen
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
How many pitches for Maholm?
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
12 in that AB
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
good at bat Sori
sue369 - May 25, 2009
And the walk.
Nice start
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
Sori walks after 12 pitches already for Maholm.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
And *red* hats?!?
What are we, Commies?
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
Phillies?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Close enough
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
sounds like I'm glad
…I can’t see the game for once.. lol
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
just scroll up
you can see the hat. Bleah.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
It's only for
one game.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
yeah
I can live with it. But still.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
that's just..
wrong!
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
Scales got ill from Lee?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
They need...
to stop making out!
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
i know that team chemistry is important
but how close is too close?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
yes I think so
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Very nice!
yajohn - May 25, 2009
Soriano
scores on Theriot’s double!
A HIT AND RUN!
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
in the 1st!
Mapmaker - May 25, 2009
they scoring that as a double?
or an error?
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
I believe a hit
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Any word on this?
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
it was ruled a three pitch walk
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
And a Technical Balk?
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
SORI!!!!!
Emelie - May 25, 2009
Great ABs!
Mapmaker - May 25, 2009
1-1!!!
Were keeping the red hats!!!!!!!!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Change can be good. :D
sue369 - May 25, 2009
TIE GAME!!!!
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
Riot double!
1-1!
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
two good Abs
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
wow a rally!
Chanman25 - May 25, 2009
The Riot
comes through!
yes yes… wakey wakey Cub bats!
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
As much as I despise Milton Bradley...
…I was just perusing his stats on FanGraphs and two items really stick out during this 2009 campaign.
First, his BAbip, which for a typical player should hover around .290, is at .203 this year. Milton is not a typical player; his BAbip should be higher. Batting average on balls in play (minus home runs) helps account for how “lucky” or “unlucky” a player is when getting up to bat: Maybe the defense is making great plays, or a real fast player (like Ichiro) can beat out hard choppers, or, as I may suggest with Milton, he’s got a great “batter’s eye”, and is able to drive to ball to greener pastures, where defensive players are not.
In 2009, like I said, Milton is hitting a .203; his career BAbip is .322, and last year it was a ridiculously high .396. According to an article by THT, the most unlucky player in 2008 was Brandon Inge, and his BAbip versus xBAbip was .063. By comparison, Milton is over .100 points lower than his career average. Needless to say, Milton Bradley’s BAbip will start to rise!
Second, and less cool, Milton isn’t hitting line drives. He’s hitting a hellva more ground balls and infield fly balls.
Career vs. 2009:
Line drives: 21.0% vs. 13.9%
Ground balls: 45.5% vs. 51.4%
Infield fly balls: 11.6% vs. 24.0%
Obviously he needs to drive the ball more.
That is all, I’m done like Milton Bradley for the month.
Dan
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
He just hit a ground ball, btw.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
I timed my post during his AB...hoping it would spark him.
Apparently not.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
Bradley
broken bat. Thrown out at first. Riot doesn’t run.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
well...at least Bradley made contact..
Chanman25 - May 25, 2009
Dirty Sanchez keeps Riot close to the bag
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
are there more broken bats this season
and can that be a problem to our “big boppers” and why their stats are not where we expect them? Is it plausible, that some broken bat weak grounder might have been a double in the gap if the bat didnt snap?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Is the dog ate my homework next on the excuse list for some of you?!?
BLou - May 25, 2009
WTF Blou
get a life please. I asked a simple question, not making an excuse. You really have issues, and maybe slamming your head in a steel door for a few hours will help you.
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
I'm not the one who said broken bats might explain why the Cubs aren't hitting
BLou - May 25, 2009
i am not saying its an excuse
but, for the blind (like you) the amount of broken bats does seem up this year (so i asked) and I was not saying that is why they are not producing, but it could have an affect. Not that I expect you to ever use common sense, that would be asking a lot.
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Ref's caused that ground out
Reddevil - May 25, 2009
Oh, Ryan.
I see some things never change.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
awww geeeeze
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
My friend who's visiting is an LSU fan...
He just said the same thing.
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
TWSS
What?
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
Theriot thrown out. And now for more news...
Emelie - May 25, 2009
How the F do you get thrown out at third there, moron!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
WTF RIOT
IDIOT
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
I can't believe that. The ball was in front of him, and he was on 2nd base.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
No excuse
for that. Just not thinking. Unless he thought there were two outs.
In which case…just not thinking.
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
Little league...
baserunning right there…
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
Now GEO will get a single...
and the Theriot mistake will bite us…
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
I beg to differ
Max knows when to stay at second and when to run!
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Very true...
I apologize to all Little Leauguers I might have offended…
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
Fonty
accepts your apology.. :P
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
Looks like
more than a few empty seats tonight.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Lots of rain in the area tonight
BLou - May 25, 2009
Doesn't look
like it’s raining at the game.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Cardinal sin...
Don’t make the second out at 3B. And if the ball is in front of you, stay put. If it’s behind you, go for it. That ball was well hit and in front of him. No business going to 3B there.
Hopefully Soto gets a 2B (or better) and makes it irrelevant.
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
Or I guess Soto getting out would do the same thing...
but that’s less fun. Let’s get an extra base hit here, Soto!
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
You're wrong
It was obviously a mistake, but the “cardinal sin” is making the first/third out at 3rd
Poloplaya14 - May 25, 2009
i thougt
cardinal rule was to always hit the cut off man
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
there's a lot of em
Poloplaya14 - May 25, 2009
Never
get into a land war in Asia.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Cardinal sin vs cardinal rule
Two different things.
But I did goof on the cardinal sin.
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
You're right... my bad. Scratch that title
And focus instead on the baserunning blunder.
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
Yeah, but SouthernCub was 100% correct in saying that if the ball is hit in front of you, don't run.
(Unless you’re forced).
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
I still can't believe we scored a run in the first inning.
This is incredible. At this rate…
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
and when its all said and done maholm should be around 40 pitches in the first.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
If we can stay this patient
we’ll get him out of here in the third. Good to see a little patience again.
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
Geo BB
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
MR. T!
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
Good Baserunning
It is not just about avoiding outs. TheRiot missed a perfect chance to get to third on the grounder up the middle by Bradley. It was a bit or a liner but right at him so there was no need to freeze.
Wow, just wow. While I was writing this, TheRiot decided to go on a bad opportunity to get there. I have not been convinced he is a bad baserunner although the evidence is mounting. I think he is getting scared in his decision making.
WhistlerWilliams - May 25, 2009
I think the bloop shot by Bradley caught him off guard...
looked better hit coming off the bat and Theriot didn’t want to risk getting doubled off.
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
Luckily for Theriot, the blunder became irrelevant.
still dumb.
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
Good first inning.
Hope they keep it up and score more runs!
Cubbiegoon - May 25, 2009
where is Dome?
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
LHP means Reed Johnson plays
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
sitting
Uncle Cliff is playing instead.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
most likely getting the night off with the lefty on the hill
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Hoff FO7
Personally, I blame everyone here who has the ability to copy-n-paste
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
34 pitches...
for Maholm. Hope we keep the pressure on…
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
Got to say, those red caps are disconcerting. I keep thinking I'm watching a Cardinals or Phils game.
yajohn - May 25, 2009
Not really working with the blue undershirt sleeves, are they?
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
If they keep turning DP's like that, I don't care what it looks like.
yajohn - May 25, 2009
+1
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
I am actually here
Only for a little while. Haven’t been on much this year because it stinks in threads on my iPhone. I turned my Internet off, kinds regretting it now. Haven’t missed a game though!!
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
Perfect timing 6-4-3
Welcome!
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
hi preacher! great to see you.
Emelie - May 25, 2009
I get on here and read ALS previews and recaps
Read most fanposts…the mobile bcb is real friendly for iPhone, if you just want to read. Just terrible for posting.
At any rate, good to talk to you all also!!
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
On the blackberry the mobile BCB has not posting capability at all.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
mobile bcb has no posting ability as yet
Emelie - May 25, 2009
Right
But there is a link to the full verson of BCB, but it is very awkward to use. I was glad when they came out with BCB mobile, at least you can easily read everything.
LT - May 25, 2009
I know...
Killed me during the NCAAs when I was at games or at bars to watch games. But the capability is coming.
Chris Dobbertean - May 25, 2009
That's what I thought.
I’d rather have an iPhone, but work gives me a free blackberry.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
ill never be able to go back to any other phone after getting an iphone. Cant wait for the update in June.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Glad you could
be here tonight. I’ve wondered where you have been.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
I didn't jump
Just a promotion at work, school, and no Internet lol
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
woohoo double play
Emelie - May 25, 2009
Hi everyone
I decided to take a much needed 24 hour break from all things cubs for 24 hours and it was a good thing. Went to see Angels and Demons, wrote some Bones fanfiction and spent time with family. I said if anyone said Cubs to me they were dead. It was a good thing.
puckishcubsfan - May 25, 2009
Took Sunday off
Well, I listened until the Pads scored. Then I sighed and read.
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
somehow I think Mr T singing TMOTTBG will not be a good thing
Emelie - May 25, 2009
and thats a good thing!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
awwww.. lol
But did you hear Pat saying he was gonna start lifting weights so HE could make $3000/day working as a bodyguard?
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
Shorn Miles looks weird
Same result, tho
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
He came in with a .204 BA. Just sayin'
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
I'm not saying I expect much
I’d say something witty about Miles here, but I just can’t. Pepe LePew, was it?
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
I know..
didn’t you see MB and Freel watching him enviously??
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
LMAO. Best joke I've heard tonight.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
Can we trade Aaron Miles to Hollywood for Mr. T?
I think Mr. T. might have a better BA, and he’d just yell at the grounders to stay in the infield.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
a better BA
lol
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
Puns always appreciated
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
Insert pity the fool joke here
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
that commits another TOOTBLAN
put some fear into TheRiot…
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
seeing as Mr T lives in Chicago
dont see why Miles goes to Hollywood.
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
To get him away from our team!!! LOL
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
Mr. T lives in Chicago, not out here in LA LA land...
Jimmyeatworld - May 25, 2009
JIMMY!!
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
TIMMY!
Jimmyeatworld - May 25, 2009
so the IMMY's
know Mr T is not in California…scary
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Yeah, Jimmy. It's Barrington, right? I have a friend whose family lives in Barrington.
They didn’t like the “tree” thing…when Mr. T. nuked all the trees around him.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
everytime i see someone cutting down a tree
I say that they are playing Mr T, and it is funny how few people remember (or know about) that
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
yo, Jimmay!
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
C'mon Demp
find the strike zone
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
Not a fan
of the 1-0 pitchout
Poloplaya14 - May 25, 2009
Another video review coming up in the Mets game....
Reviews coming fast and furious now.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
no Gameday audio
anyone still have it or is it just me??
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
did anyone else's MLB radio go out?
Emelie - May 25, 2009
yeah
but back on for me now
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
That's a nice one
sue369 - May 25, 2009
ummm....
fail
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
er?
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
I enjoyed it...
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
Think the fail is on my computer being so slow
“K” didn’t show up until a guy was on base, then the hit
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
er?
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
you should get that for the misses
Chanman25 - May 25, 2009
Too soon.
Or my phone is righteously slow
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
I kind of like those Red Caps..
Chanman25 - May 25, 2009
ugh no!
cubswgnrocks - May 25, 2009
Me too, but I think we are the only 2
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
Me three
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
For one
night they don’t bother me.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
McClouth
hit in the foot.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
or knee.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
somewhere between the hip and the toe
on the leg
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
ugh
sue369 - May 25, 2009
AUGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
what is going on with this team?
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
feh fwh fAIHFBGIIK
Emelie - May 25, 2009
my thoughts exactly
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
A dp would be
great here.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
TWSS
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
Not even gonna bother with it
Clutch16 - May 25, 2009
cmon demp
get under control
cubswgnrocks - May 25, 2009
Isn't there a rule...
where the batter at least has to TRY to get out of the way of a pitch? Thought I heard that somewhere…
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
Need to get out of a jam here..
getting behind big early probably isn’t the best thing for the team’s psyche.
A K or a DP would be nice here.
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
Oh god
feel a BB comin
Poloplaya14 - May 25, 2009
imagine that
cubswgnrocks - May 25, 2009
Dempster lacking command early
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
Sometimes he does that.
zevkalman - May 25, 2009
Hope he
settles in soon.
sue369 - May 25, 2009
walk
2-1 Pirates
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
Yup
Poloplaya14 - May 25, 2009
F&*K!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
well shitburger...
Chanman25 - May 25, 2009
ohgh
Emelie - May 25, 2009
shoot
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Just great
He can’t find anything
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
he can find the ball zone
now just needs to locate the strike zone
Cubbie-Tim - May 25, 2009
normally I'd say one out of two ain't bad
But not so much
chitownhawkeye - May 25, 2009
ryan, darlin'
Emelie - May 25, 2009
Did someone tell Dempster...
this was a Playoff game?
mutleyil - May 25, 2009
I laughed.
dtpollitt - May 25, 2009
I agree with Len, when the hell is this offense going to give our starters some wiggle room.
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
darlin' darlin' darlin' GETITTOGETHER
Emelie - May 25, 2009
oh boy
sue369 - May 25, 2009
and another one.
drewishdrewid - May 25, 2009
c'mon Demp
throw strikes!!!!!!!!
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - May 25, 2009
Old school Dempster here so far...
No control. He’s got to find his command soon, or it is going to be a really short night for him.
SouthernCub - May 25, 2009
I'm out...
Might be back later
preachermancubsfan - May 25, 2009
bye
sue369 - May 25, 2009
Thanks for swinging at the first pitch
AzCubfan24 - May 25, 2009
He's overthrowing
95mph is out of his comfort zone
Poloplaya14 - May 25, 2009
pull him Lou
Emelie - May 25, 2009
new thread
http://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/2009/5/25/885068/overflow-thread-1-cubs-vs-pirates
kanderber - May 25, 2009
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