After Wrigley Field, where he's hit half (nine) of his 18 career homers, Minute Maid Park is Carlos Zambrano's favorite place to go deep. He's homered four times there in 12 career starts, including a two-run shot off his future teammate Wade Miller that tied this key game on July 25, 2003, a game the Cubs eventually won; and one on August 17, 2005, helping the Cubs to another win.
I'll settle for a well-pitched victory tonight, but you know Z will be aiming for the fences, too. He's got only five hits all told in 31 career AB in Houston -- four of them homers.
Speaking of which, here is tonight's lineup (via Twittermyer as always); in this lineup, Z should be hitting seventh:
Soriano, lf; Theriot, ss; Bradley, rf; Lee, 1b; Johnson, cf; Soto, c; Scales, 3b; Miles, 2b; Zambrano, p
Gordo also tweets that Fox will play every day -- somewhere -- at Iowa in order that he'll be ready to return to DH in the interleague games at AL parks beginning on June 23, and also, the Astros have switched starters for tomorrow's day game again. Instead of Mike Hampton, the Cubs will face Russ Ortiz.
Bruce Miles has some thoughts on Brett Jackson, the rest of the draft, and more on Jake Fox:
The Fox move makes sense for now. I speculated yesterday that the Cubs could do some roster shuffling in two weeks, when they play at Detroit and then come "home" to play the Sox at the Cell. At that point, they can, and probably should, bring Fox back and have him DH. The Cubs really didn’t miss Miles. Bobby Scales and Andres Blanco filled in capably, and that two-year deal the Cubs gave Miles after he was non-tendered by the Cardinals isn’t looking so hot.
A player sent down has to stay down for 10 days (barring injuries, which is what happened when Miles got hurt and Bobby Scales got a reprieve from an Iowa trip). The Cubs won't need a DH until June 23 at Detroit, so Fox could come back then.
And a-freakin-men on the Aaron Miles statement by Bruce Miles (no relation, right, Bruce?). That has to be one of the worst free agent signings -- ever.
I've posted a poll (which you can find either by clicking that link or on the right sidebar) where you can weigh in on the selection of Brett Jackson as the Cubs' #1 pick this year.
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Wandy Rodriguez is 4-4, 4.39 in 11 career starts vs. the Cubs, but he always seems to be the kind of guy who ties Cub hitters in knots. He got a no-decision on April 7 in a game the Cubs lost in extra innings. We all shake our heads at the demotion of Jake Fox, who might seem like the ideal guy to face the lefty Rodriguez -- but as a junkballer, he might tie Fox in knots. Jake will be back. In the meantime, Derrek Lee's the guy -- and he's hot right now -- who can pound Wandy; he's 12-for-24 (.500) lifetime against him with 3 doubles, 2 HR and 6 walks.
Z got the win on Opening Day in Houston this year, allowing only five hits in six innings on April 6. Apart from liking to hit in the Juice Box, he's 7-3, 3.42 lifetime there as a pitcher. He handles all the Astros pretty well except for Miguel Tejada (7-for-15, .467, a HR) and his lifelong nemesis, Carlos Lee (17-for-49, .347, 5 doubles, 4 HR). Stop those two, Z, and you'll win tonight.
National coverage tonight on WGN; other coverage via FSN Houston, EI and MLB.TV. For other games today 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 | 224 comments
The money might not allow for it to be considered a truly awful contract
But giving the worst player in major league baseball (IMO) 5 million dollars is downright stupid.
Also Wandy has been awful his last three starts so hopefully we can continue the trend.
nji232 - June 10, 2009
Wandy is crashing back to earth. I'm surprised it took this long.
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
Riddle yourself this...
Would you rather be paying Alfonso Friggin Soriano $136 million over 8 years or Aaron Miles $5 million over 2 years. I know my answer. I hate Miles as much as anybody, but a little perspective goes a LONG way.
BLou - June 10, 2009
Has Aaron Miles won a single game for the Cubs yet?
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
He has contributed to wins.
I recall a key walk by Miles before a home run. That was back in April and I’m fuzzy on the details of the game except that we won.
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
He had a couple big hits against the Cardinals...
…when Aramis had his walkoff this year. With that being said, I hated the Miles signing from day one.
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
I really really miss Aramis.
:-(
Allie - June 10, 2009
me too
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
Miles is on a contract that pays 3.6% of what Soriano makes
Look, I can’t stand Miles either. But for crying out loud a dose of realism needs to be interjected when contract numbers are brought up on some of these guys. How can anybody say with a straight face they are upset over Miles and his contract when we stare at Soriano and his $136 million contract everyday.
BLou - June 10, 2009
What's the point of bringing up this same old argument?
You always bring it up. It goes no where. Some people like the signing, others don’t. What more can be said that hasn’t been said already? Cue the homage to Kenny Williams…
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
after homage to Kenny WIlliams
Go pound sand :)
BLou what are you ever going to do if the Cubs win a WS?
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
Start bitching about the Indians.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Really?
Sori makes $17,000,000 this year. Miles makes $2,200,000. I’d be willing to venture Sori contributes 7.7 times more than Miles. Your disdain is misplaced.
I don’t really get all the moaning about Sori’s contract anyways… at the time, that was market rate, if not a bit over (expected from a big market team like the cubs). That is what it takes to get his caliber of player. Sure, we’d all love if he played better. Him, and everyone else on the team. Hindsight is 20/20, and lamenting the contract of a player who contributes, who isn’t going anywhere, who isn’t damaging the team… its pointless.
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
not too mention EVERYONE complained
that the Cubs never went out and signed the big name free agent. They did and this is what comes with it I guess.
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
I would think he is 7 times more valuable
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
I'll take my chances with Soriano
Soriano has been worth $36.5 million so far in his contract. So he might end up being worth it.
nji232 - June 10, 2009
Hand meet face
BLou - June 10, 2009
Do the Cubs make the playoffs either of the last two seasons without Soriano?
nji232 - June 10, 2009
We all know he is a Sori hater.. and always will be.
Let him be a Sori hater and move on with conversation
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
Want to take a bet that Sori could win WS MVP
and people would still complain about his contract.
C’mon if someone offered to overpay to do my job… would I turn them down? No. Why blame him for what he makes… it’s not his fault.
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
WHERE do I begin?!?
Have you even bothered to tune in the 2007 or 2008 post-season contests? Did you SEE Soriano in the playoffs? You mean to tell me we should all feel find and dandy paying a 30-something Alfonso Soriano THAT kind of money for EIGHT YEARS when he disappears for insanely long stretches at a time during the season?
BLou - June 10, 2009
Yeah I saw him in the playoffs
mostly b/c of those games Soriano won to get us INTO the postseason.
Allie - June 10, 2009
There wouldn't have been
a post-season for the Cubs in 2007 without Soriano’s September barrage.
Funny how you leave that info out.
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
So if your boss offered to pay you an obscene amount of money and guarteed it for 8 years
You’d turn it down so that no one would complain you aren’t earning your money?
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
Huh?
My ORIGINAL point has been lost. And that is that I don’t understand the weeping and gnashing of teeth over the Aaron Miles’ contract when we have a crapload of very large, back-loaded, downright ugly contracts on the books. To include Soriano’s contract that surely ranks as among the worst in baseball next to Barry Zito.
BLou - June 10, 2009
Aside from the fact
Soriano’s gotten us to the playoffs, won games, and made the all-star team… and Zito’s lost games and looked like garbage… You’re completely right!
Allie - June 10, 2009
+1 Allie
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
BUT....
….i think the beef most people have is that no one was bidding on Miles except for us. You can’t say that about Soriano. So you’re comparing apples and oranges, therefore people DO have a legitiment beef with the Miles deal.
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
The Miles deal, in hindsight, was terrible...
CUBSfaninYANKEEcountry - June 10, 2009
The Miles signing was terrible even in FORESIGHT.
Al Yellon - June 10, 2009
Yeah
I don’t know anyone other than Hendry who thought that was a good idea.
Allie - June 10, 2009
I'd like to know
what he saw in Miles.
sue369 - June 10, 2009
A small, scrappy, second-baseman!
Whats not to love!!
Allie - June 10, 2009
low light
blind sight
etc
etc
KaliCub - June 10, 2009
LOL, you're probably right about that.
CUBSfaninYANKEEcountry - June 10, 2009
There is no argument on this
But PERSPECTIVE is needed when talking about a team with the third highest payroll in baseball and that is littered with all sorts of ugly, fat back-loaded contracts. $5 million spent on Aaron Miles is a piss in the bucket when it comes to Hendry’s payroll.
BLou - June 10, 2009
You know, you should be a financial advisor. If you looked after
my money the way you do the Cubs, I’d be a very rich man right now.
willie mays hayes' gloves - June 10, 2009
or living in a sand castle
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
+1
FAVORITE. COMMENT. EVER. TIM
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
LOL
I missed this the first time around
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
ty, ty
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
Huh?
The evidence suggests that no other team was willing to remotely meet the price Jim Hendry paid for Alfonso Soriano.
BLou - June 10, 2009
But there were other teams bidding for him
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
Please provide the evidence you mention.
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
First of all what evidence?
Second of all, there were TONS of other teams bidding for him. Hendry did what he needed to do to make a splash. I don’t fault that.
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
Actually, the Angels had put in a bid for Soriano.
Seven year deal. The Cubs had to extend to eight to get him.
Al Yellon - June 10, 2009
ahHA!
I doubt we’ll see BLou saying “I’m wrong” though.
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
I'll let others chime in on this one
Show me where Soriano was considering offers between the Angels and Cubs. Show me also what the Angels were prepared to offer.
But hey, I’m not going to argue with the masses here. You boys and girls think Alfonso Soriano and his contract are A-OK.
BLou - June 10, 2009
Yes we do!
Thanks!
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
I believe I speak for a large potion of
santoswoodenlegs - June 10, 2009
BCB when I say....shut the hell up already.
santoswoodenlegs - June 10, 2009
Al makes things up pretty regularly
so I won’t trust him as source.
giggling
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
LOL
Let me see what I can find.
Al Yellon - June 10, 2009
Sorry Al
I just couldnt resist. :)
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
I think he'd argue that
the grass was blue and the sky was green just to be argumentative.
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
Let's start here...
http://baseball-fever.com/archive/index.php/t-53746.html
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
Or here
http://mvn.com/bigabaseball/2006/11/usa-today-writers-predict-soriano-to-angels.html
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
or here
http://losangeles.angels.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061122&content_id=1745455&vkey=news_ana&fext=.jsp&c_id=ana
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
heres something
Link:
Allie - June 10, 2009
Here's one.
Linky
Al Yellon - June 10, 2009
I'm guessing the next thing we'll hear from BLou is..
::: crickets :::
Al Yellon - June 10, 2009
He's busy pounding sand.
KaliCub - June 10, 2009
this is fun
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2006/writers/jon_heyman/07/31/monday.trades/index.html
reminds me of giving facts to Ol Pete and then watching him turn and run
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
correction
meant this link
http://losangeles.angels.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20061022&content_id=1720960&vkey=news_ana&fext=.jsp&c_id=ana
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
That felt...
GOOD!
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
BOOM...Roasted!
CUBSfaninYANKEEcountry - June 10, 2009
He already posted his exit strategy
“But hey, I’m not going to argue with the masses here. You boys and girls think Alfonso Soriano and his contract are A-OK.”
I think I’m just going to start posting contentious statements, and finish by giving myself an out so I don’t have to argue against logic. Wait, no I’m not, one person doing that is enough.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
I fault myself and everyone else for responding...
we should know better.
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
I tried to warn you :)
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
The Cardinals were trying to resign Miles.
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
really?
I have read a couple different times that they weren’t. Got a link so I could read that.
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
They non-tendered him, just like the year before.
The reason they non-tendered him was so they weren’t required to give him a 15% pay raise. They wanted to resign him though, at least that was my understanding at the time.
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
see I wasn't aware of that
I thought they just non-tendered him and then the Cubs offered him a contract when no one else did.
Although I could have read it wrong
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
b/c it's that actually the case can't we just give him back LOL
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
No they were not
BLou - June 10, 2009
From your keyboard....
santoswoodenlegs - June 10, 2009
Well, if you're going by the playoffs
Aramis Ramirez has pretty much vaporized when the calendar flips to October, too. Do you regret his contract?
Goodie1969 - June 10, 2009
Miles has been worth -2.2 million this season
Hopefully the Cubs get the check.
nji232 - June 10, 2009
Thank goodness for baseball on WGN
I could do with a repeat of yesterday.
Allie - June 10, 2009
+1000000
Those of us who refuse to pay for cable agree with you times one million.
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
So Lou's reaction to Milton's 0-6 game last night is to bat him 3rd...
perfectly logical.
santoswoodenlegs - June 10, 2009
Don't you know by now
that “logic” and “Lou’s lineup” rarely every go together?
Allie - June 10, 2009
not to mention giving Fonty the day off
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
there is almost 0% chance of Fontenot getting a hit off Wandy
lefty throwing off speed stuff
nji232 - June 10, 2009
Mea culpa
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
Lou playing poker would be the scariest thing
I don’t know if I could ever get a read off of him. He’d put me all in holding 2-7 off suit, and would somehow flop a boat.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
THIRD!
hiphopgamer26 - June 10, 2009
fail
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
Yes, that's where Milton is batting today.
daver - June 10, 2009
You know the post-steroid less power era has officially begun in baseball when Wandy Friggin Rodriquez has a 2.79 ERA
Crikey.
BLou - June 10, 2009
it was well under 2 a week and a half ago
nji232 - June 10, 2009
Wandy was listed as a canidate
to have a break-out season in some pre-season blog/articles/radio shows/podcasts I read/listened to before the season began.
His stats had steadily improved from year to year and the break-out season (so far) wasn’t totally unexpected.
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
OT: I was having a beer at the South Loop Bar Louie last night...
…and in walked Derrick Rose with three other people, no big entourage. He was at the table next to use, but only drinking some Fiji. He was watching the Magic/Lakers game, but didn’t seem overly interested. Fortunately while I was there, everyone left the guy alone.
That’s all, thought some of you might find it interesting.
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
I'm pretty sure there were some cubs...
… at an event this afternoon at the school across the street from my office at Wells and Goethe. Couldn’t spy any (no window at my desk) but the “DJ” was making lots of announcements and encouraging everyone to cheer for their cubs.
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
Cramming for his make-up SAT's?
davidalanu - June 10, 2009
Miles right into the starting line up
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
This lineup scares me a bit
I hope we can keep the offense going
chitownhawkeye - June 10, 2009
It doesn't get more prodigious than Soto, Scales and Miles hitting back to back to back, now does it
BLou - June 10, 2009
Thats enough to put fear into any pitcher...
Allie - June 10, 2009
even Lilly would be worried
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
Not a chance...
The Tedinator is afraid of nothing…
Endrick - June 10, 2009
From Twitter:
Nothing new from above, but good to see this confirmed.
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
Lineup.
The only thing I like about this lineup is DLee in the 4th spot. He seems to hit really well there.
CUBSfaninYANKEEcountry - June 10, 2009
In case you were wondering...
… why the stat line above shows Z with 14 games but 9 games started… the additional five games are his pinch-hitting appearances.
While this is correct, it looks weird connected with a pitching line. I’ll see if I can get the SBN people to fix this.
Al Yellon - June 10, 2009
Five bucks says Milton tweaks his thingamajig and spends another 10 days glued to the bench and not going on the DL
It’s been like three straight days where he has sorta been in the lineup. That streak is tempting fate.
BLou - June 10, 2009
What charity will you be making your contribution to?
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
Do you ever think happy thoughts?
I wish i could come give you a hug. Seriously.
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
He's probably spit on you.
cowsarecool220 - June 10, 2009
I am still wondeng if he tells people in his real life to go pound sand
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
I'm still unclear as to what that even MEANS...
… oh, wow… google!
http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/go-pound-sand.html
I guess i can’t say he never taught me anything…
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
Wandy
WIGHT ’IM UP!!!!
daver - June 10, 2009
Completely OT: But, Is there a computer nerd here?
I need someone to explain the difference between Core 2 duo and Duel Core chipsets to me… and everything I google makes zero sense…
Allie - June 10, 2009
Are you going to be running photoshop, video editing software, and intense video games on it?
If the answer is no….you shouldn’t really care.
santoswoodenlegs - June 10, 2009
The answer is yes
Otherwise I wouldn’t care.
Allie - June 10, 2009
Ok
Core 2 Duo is going to be the best from you if budget is a concern. That, or a AMD Phenom II X3 720 tri-core processor. AMD will be even more budget friendly if you ever want to use Window 7’s virtualization mode, because the cheaper Core 2 Duo’s don’t support the XP virtualization. If you don’t care about that, Core 2 Duo is the way to go…I’ll post more too.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Alright
Thanks!
Allie - June 10, 2009
AMD X2 Dual Cores shouldn't be an option
Nor should an Intel dual core. Dual core and Core 2 Duo aren’t necessarily the same. The main difference lies in the Front Side Bus and L2 cache. To make it simple, Core 2 Duo chips run a faster FSB and more L2 cache. What this means for you is that video encodes, using filters, etc. takes less time to do than it would with a dual core. Dual Core chips are going by the wayside, and eventually, so will Core 2 Duo chips, but that’s the nature of the beast.
If you going to buy a computer already made, if I were you, and if budget weren’t an issue, aim for Intel quad core computers or AMD Phenom II X4 quad core computers. If budget is an issue, Core 2 Quad is probably the way to go.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
I am assuming she is looking into a laptop
Since the majority of people buying computers these days are.
If that’s the case, its probably best to stick with the dual-core processors, unless you want to break the bank.
Allie?
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
Do they build laptops using the E8400?
If they do, that’s probably the best option as far as price and performance in a laptop goes.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
I'm looking at a laptop
The HP i’m looking at has AMD Dual-Core.
Allie - June 10, 2009
Can you post a link for what you are looking at?
I bet I could probably for something better for cheaper.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
http://www.shopping.hp.com/webapp/shopping/computer_can_series.do?storeName=computer_store&category=notebooks&a1=Category&v1=Everyday+computing&series_name=dv6z_series
Allie - June 10, 2009
I can beat this
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
I'm still in the "look for a baseline" price mode
I haven’t finalized my budget yet (other than I know its going to be cheap, lol)… I’m just trying to figure out what I want/need.
Allie - June 10, 2009
The one madcow posted is really good.
Still looking for others.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Only thing is
that deal will probably only last for a day or so, maybe more. You have to be able to pull the trigger quickly when it comes to good internet deals – if it’s truly a good deal, enough people will buy it and it will go out of stock.
On the plus side, wait a day and you’ll probably run across another deal that has you thinking about pulling the trigger.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
Its a damn good deal
but I want a bigger screen. :-P
Allie - June 10, 2009
15.4" work for you?
http://slickdeals.net/permadeal/21531/Lenovo-Thinkpad-SL500-Laptop-Core-2-Duo-2-1-Ghz—3GB-DDR2—320GB-HDD—DVDRW—WiFi—15-4-WXGA-LED-Antiglare-LCD—Vista-Basic-479
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
woah
you’re good at this!
Allie - June 10, 2009
TWSS
santoswoodenlegs - June 10, 2009
My job has me waiting for scripts to complete often
the plus side is that I’m generally very in tune with what’s going on in my regular sites.
Oh look, one got done. Back to work (for a few).
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
This is a good build too
The Intel graphics are kinda poopy, but that’s not going to matter for what she’ll be doing.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Graeme got a 15 inch monitor & loves it
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
Anything bigger than 15" is almost too big
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
TWSS
santoswoodenlegs - June 10, 2009
Wow...
cough
I meant…Well, what I was trying to say was…Yeah…
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
i thought size didnt matter
:=)
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
depends on what you are using the monitor for also
He doesn’t have a tv. So it’s nice to have a monitor that big to watch things online.
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
For a laptop
that could be hauled around, that’s probably the best size. The 17" screens on laptops might as well make the thing a desktop system because the laptop ends up being so heavy at that point.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
he has a travel laptop
so the one with the 15 inch screen doesn’t get hauled around.
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
If you're still figuring out a budget
What I would suggest is to work on that, and keep going to pricewatch, gotapex, and slickdeals. If you have questions on any build, feel free to email me (craighudak at gmail dot com), or I’m sure madcow could help too.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Thank you
You’ve been really really helpful.
Allie - June 10, 2009
Without doing a ton of research
http://slickdeals.net/permadeal/21555/Lenovo-Thinkpad-T400-Laptop-Core-2-Duo-2-26GHz—2GB-DDR3—160GB-HDD—CDRWDVD—WiFi—14-1-LED-WXGA-Screen-564
Slickdeals.net is my friend. Lenovo’s are built like a tank (although not very pretty usually).
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
Slickdeals is great
GotApex is good too.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
also pricewatch.com
santoswoodenlegs - June 10, 2009
FYI
Refurbs are not bad to look at
in Texas, state law is taht if the box was shipped, and returned, even if it was never opened, it has to be marked as Refurb.
Dell, HP, Compaq are all based in Texas FYI
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
I'll keep that in mind
thanks tim!
Allie - June 10, 2009
Core 2 Duo is a Dual-Core processor
Is that a start?
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
So are they the same thing?
Or is one better/newer?
I’m computer shopping (my current HP is nearly 8 years old and starting to chug a bit… well a lot.)
Allie - June 10, 2009
Not quite. I'm still posting though :)
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
See below.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
More info
In the past few years Intel (and AMD) have started creating chips that actually have 2 or more processors on it together. The advantage this gives you is that certain software can take advantage of using more than one at a time, and as a result, these programs will run faster. SWLs list of software in particular will find a 2, 3, or 4 core processor useful. Additionally, systems with multiple processors will often be more responsive (the computer wont lock up or studder) when doing difficult work.
Dual core means that there are 2 of these processors on the same chip. Quad core means 4, and so on. Higher is generally better, but you’ll usually pay for more. 2-cores is probably the best combination of price/performance for what you’re looking for.
Core 2 Duo is Intel’s line of dual-core processors. They are generally quite fast, and offer an incredible amount of power for a low price compared to what you were able to buy in the past. AMD also makes chips that have multiple cores, which are generally not quite as fast but often good enough.
Dual-core can mean a lot of different processors (including the Core 2 Duo), so it’s not the same thing exactly. There are definitely worse dual-core processors you can buy (Pentium Dual Core comes to mind).
Does that help at all? What else might you want to know?
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
Reply fail.
Meant for Allie.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
That is so helpful
Thank you.
Which is more important for performance? Going for a bigger cache or higher RPM?
Allie - June 10, 2009
See above :)
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Depends on the task
For most people I would say the higher RPM hard drive would give you a more noticeable speed bump. For people who are involved heavily in photo and video editing, the bigger cache would help with those tasks.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
Beware of higher RPM hard drives...
… if you’ll be using your laptop on your lap. Those 7200 rpm drives create HEAT.
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
i've heard that
but it’s mostly going to be a desktop replacement… and i’ve got a cooling mat from my old laptop that’ll do in a pinch.
Allie - June 10, 2009
this is why
when I shop for a PC, I have a friend tell me which to buy. I know basics about computers, but they are Engineers with 20+ years at AMD, and know a little more than i do lol
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
We're good to have around
I always suspect when my friends invite me over for a beer . . . not long before the "can you take a look at my computer . . . " comes out.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
i am not that friend
I see him more often for Bears, Cubs, hawks, and other sports evernt. He is originally from Rockford and we met watching the Bears at a local bar
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
I love that stuff
Been building my own computers for about 10 or 11 years now. In the process of building a new one now.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
I always find
that getting a new computer is suddenly not very fun for me after I’m done building it (and getting it to run properly). 75% of the fun is picking out the parts and waiting for them to arrive.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
Definitely
I think at least a few times a week I’m on NewEgg putting systems together, trying to figure out the best configuration.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
thats where my boyfriend got his travel laptop from
New egg. He got a super deal.
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
They're the best for everything
The only thing better is when Amazon does their golden deals or whatever they are, where at intervals through the day they have ridiculous deals on all sorts of items.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Not to mention chicks dig not having to pay for computer repairs :)
Madison Cub Fan - June 10, 2009
how does a guy learn to do that?
And why? Is it cheaper?
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
Cheaper and better
You know what parts are going into the system, they’re going to be cheaper than if you would buy one from BestBuy or something, and the parts will be of better quality.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Agree on the better
Since you’re not shopping for bottom of the barrel parts.
But I disagree with cheaper, at least over the past few years. And you have to consider that your labor is free for it to even be close.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
I should clarify
It’s possible to build it cheaper if you are collecting the parts over the course of months, following the deal websites and whatnot. But that takes time (and there’s often the chance something better will come out in the meantime).
And if you’re paying for a copy of Windows, you’re going to have to be an amazing shopper to compensate for that.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
Or a "student"
;)
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
Windows 7 is free right now
There’s also Ubuntu or other variations of Linux.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Usually not, if you're paying for the operating system
But it’s fun to build it exactly to your specs, rather than whatever Dell has decided to put in the system.
If your time is worth anything to you and you don’t find the prospect of learning about computer parts fun, then its probably best to let a company do it for you.
madcow256 - June 10, 2009
Yeah
I enjoyed putting together my current one, but as someone who isn’t particularly computer or electronically inclined, figuring out what I wanted and making it go was frustrating at the time. I don’t know if I’ll do it again.
It’s nice feeling like I could do it again if needed though.
chitownhawkeye - June 10, 2009
I put my first system together with the help of a friend
2 years later I tried it by myself and I felt like I was disarming a warhead. When my system POSTed though, that was all I needed, and I’ve had enough confidence since then to keep building systems for myself and others.
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
The yearly trip home for christmas is a beast...
… i’ve got a year’s worth of spyware and whateve else to fix on 4 computers.
AndrewJStone - June 10, 2009
It is my one day this week I am home
and a Cubs game is on TV down here. Hopefully it isn’t as disastrous as last week.
williamzabka42 - June 10, 2009
Kick some ass tonight, Big Z
meanwhile, I have to study for a Latin Final and Pre Calculus Final in the same day. Hurray!
Chanman25 - June 10, 2009
yuck
latin.
i failed that class hard. my first D. Ever.
Good luck, Chan.
Allie - June 10, 2009
haha thank you thank you
Chanman25 - June 10, 2009
Good luck
chitownhawkeye - June 10, 2009
rasmus a 3 run jack
stl 3 marlins 0 in the first
tim815 - June 10, 2009
Damn.
CUBSfaninYANKEEcountry - June 10, 2009
3-1
ramirez an rbi single
tim815 - June 10, 2009
Is this last night all over again for them?
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
let's hope so.
williamzabka42 - June 10, 2009
We still can root for the Rockies. Keep up the streak guys!
KaliCub - June 10, 2009
Speaking of Miles and useless infielders...
What happens to Freel when he comes off the DL? DFA?
CubsBullsBears - June 10, 2009
The Aaron Miles signing was pretty bad.
But one of the worst free agent signings ever? 2 years for 4 million? That’s really not terrible. How about Andruw Jones for 2 years, $36.2 million? Juan Pierre for 5 years, $44 million? Darren Dreifort for 5 years, $55 million? Barry Zito for 7 years, $126 million? Those are some of the worst free agent signings ever because they involve incredibly large amounts of money for players who haven’t performed to the value of their contract. $4 million may be too much for Aaron Miles, but it’s certainly not the WORST. SIGNING. EVER.
Keith - June 10, 2009
I don't think anyone was saying worst signing ever.
Just a really really dumb one…
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
BLou was saying that Sori's
was the 2nd worst signing ever. Everyone agrees Miles was bad, but don’t think anyone made a worst about Miles.
KaliCub - June 10, 2009
Right.
That’s what I said isn’t it?
cubswynn - June 10, 2009
Yes, just trying to illuminate Keith.
misfired on the reply.
KaliCub - June 10, 2009
Uh
“That has to be one of the worst free agent signings — ever.”
Keith - June 10, 2009
I'm watching Wang melt down against the Sox
He’s really fallen apart fast. Plus: Suttcliff!
Allie - June 10, 2009
I have a man crush on Sutty.
zevkalman - June 10, 2009
Bring your "A" stuff tonight Z.
I hate seeing in Miles in the lineup.
sue369 - June 10, 2009
+1
Chanman25 - June 10, 2009
I think you speak for 99% of BCB when you say that lol.
CUBSfaninYANKEEcountry - June 10, 2009
yay! the game is on WGN
I could actually stay at home and watch it instead of spending all my money at the bar.
Big Z needs to keep the mindset he had last start, he had his “A” stuff and hes going to need to do it again with the lineup we have set. Aaron Miles is no good. Big Z should be hitting 7-8, oh well.
SouthsideCUBSfan - June 10, 2009
Cubs game or study for two finals tomorrow........
bloggers?
Chanman25 - June 10, 2009
Study, young one.
Cubs will be there tomorrow. :-)
Allie - June 10, 2009
haha
Chanman25 - June 10, 2009
can you do both
translate the game into latin and use Cal to explain the game stats
Cubbie-Tim - June 10, 2009
hmm hmmm
a worthy experiment
Chanman25 - June 10, 2009
Get faced and watch the game
Fail your final, learn from your mistakes, and then be a better person. :)
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
I really thought Wandy was better against us than the numbers in the post
He always seems to throw a gem against us. Hopefully his cold streak will continue tonight.
KaliCub - June 10, 2009
Alright
I’m off to rustle up some dinner and watch the game.
I may come back for the game threads at some point. Thanks again, SWL, Craig & madcow!! You’re awesome!
Allie - June 10, 2009
take it easy
wait, I should be the one off too! i’m out as well
Chanman25 - June 10, 2009
Wow Pujols just got his 8th SB this year.
I know it’s hard to stop him at the dish, but c’mon can we stop him from stealing?
KaliCub - June 10, 2009
guess we could put up security cameras and add extra police officers
Chanman25 - June 10, 2009
lol, he's the winona ryder of baseball.
KaliCub - June 10, 2009
Have Ted on the mound
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
Z and Houston
A lesser talked about major turning point in 03 was Zambrano’s 2 run homer in the 7th with the Cubs down 3-1 in Houston.
puckishcubsfan - June 10, 2009
No first-pitch thread?
n/t
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - June 10, 2009
First pitch thread: Soriano is up first. Soriano K's.
zevkalman - June 10, 2009
Gameday
shows strike 3 as too high… but was too close to take.. :(
CubFanInCanberra (9387milesfromWrigley) - June 10, 2009
Good evening all...
GO CUBS GO
Chris Dobbertean - June 10, 2009
Hello
sue369 - June 10, 2009
*grumble* *mutter* Stupid lefty junkballers *grumble*
Clutch16 - June 10, 2009
http://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/2009/6/10/904724/first-pitch-thread-cubs-vs-astros
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
2nd try
http://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/2009/6/10/904724/first-pitch-thread-cubs-vs-astros
Craig in South Bend - June 10, 2009
I LOL'd Al,
when I saw your statement about Miles being the worst free agent signing ever.
As I was watching the game…and right when I fired up the CPU, I said to myself ‘Aaron Miles might be the worst FA signing ever’.
Then I read your post and about cracked a rib!
DMCub - June 10, 2009
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