Let's put to rest the idea -- if anyone still has it -- that Derrek Lee is declining. Since May 1, when he was hitting .189, he has 13 HR and 38 RBI in 46 games and is hitting .326/.408/.594 in that time frame.
D-Lee's three-run homer and grand slam -- both hit in the first four innings -- led the Cubs to a convincing 9-5 win over the Brewers, making the first "statement" that they're not going away in this tight division race. Only 2.5 games now separate the top four teams in the NL Central; the Cardinals' win over the Giants last night put them in a first-place tie with Milwaukee. The Cubs also edged back to one game behind the Brewers in the loss column, and Jake Fox and Geovany Soto also homered. Since May 12, Soto is hitting .277/.368/.515 with 8 HR and 22 RBI in 35 games started -- these numbers are very close to those he put up last year. If he can keep up this pace, he'll be just fine.
With his career-high seven RBI in the first four innings, D-Lee had a shot at the team record for RBI in a game -- nine, set by Heinie Zimmerman on June 11, 1911, and tied by Sammy Sosa on August 10, 2002, against the Rockies in Denver. Lee got only one more shot after the grand slam, and he hit a ball hard, but right to Mike Cameron. He was on deck in the last of the eighth when Ryan Theriot flew to right to end that inning.
The grand slam was Lee's second of the season and tenth of his career; that puts him in an 11th-place tie on the active player grand slam list, tied with Torii Hunter. The grand slam was caught on Waveland Avenue on the fly by Ballhawk Dave (thanks to our own ballhawk, Ken, for the tweeted info last night on this snag.)
Enough of the records. Ryan Dempster threw into the seventh inning and came a Mike Fontenot bobble away from finishing that inning; two batters later he gave up a single to Ryan Braun and Lou pulled him after 109 pitches (68 strikes) to a warm ovation. Dempster seemingly effortlessly struck out nine and only once, in the fifth inning, did his command desert him briefly. He walked Brewers reliever Chris Smith -- who had exactly one career AB before last night, what is it about these guys that makes pitchers suddenly unable to throw strikes? -- and Craig Counsell before ending the inning. Despite allowing a pair of homers, Dempster was never in trouble because of Lee's big day. Carlos Marmol was a bit shaky in the ninth inning, issuing a two-out walk to Prince Fielder (although, to be fair, it appeared Marmol wanted no part of challenging Fielder, throwing him nothing but breaking balls). He finished up by getting ex-Cub Casey McGehee (and raise your hand if you knew McGehee would be doing this well) on a called third strike, but not before Kevin Gregg had started to loosen up in the pen.
Sam Fuld continued his fine play, getting a pair of hits for the second day in a row. During his postgame remarks, Lou hedged when asked if Fuld would play again today. "We'll see," was his response. It appears Alfonso Soriano will return to the lineup today, but it's possible that Fuld will continue to play as long as he's hot (Lou often does this, riding the hot hand), perhaps spelling Kosuke Fukudome in CF for a day, and then Milton Bradley in RF for a day. Fuld is giving Lou and Jim Hendry a tough choice to make on Monday. That's the day three Cubs -- Angel Guzman, Aramis Ramirez and Reed Johnson -- will all return from the DL. Kevin Hart is the likely returnee to Iowa for Guzman, but who will go for Ramirez? Andres Blanco? He's played fine defense and is the only true backup SS. And will Fuld return to Iowa for Johnson? Stay tuned.
A final word about the booing I heard for Bradley in his first three at-bats last night, which resulted in a strikeout and two groundouts. You all know that I haven't been a big Bradley fan, but that booing is uncalled for and I did not join in. I think that sort of thing should be reserved for someone who isn't giving an honest effort. There's no doubt in my mind that Milton Bradley is absolutely, positively trying his best and giving 100% effort. He's just not succeeding right now. I truly do hope he turns it around. As long as he's wearing the blue pinstripes, we as fans, and his teammates, need him to succeed.
This morning's game preview thread will post at 11:30 am CDT.
0 recs | 276 comments
What a way to start a series.
I think it was said last night by someone, but this will probably be known from here on out as the Derrek Lee Game. I had a feeling that Wrigley might be the cure for what was apparently ailing this team, but I did not anticipate this kind of breakout. The offense looks to be waking up from its road slumber, perhaps due in part to Milwaukee’s less than stellar pitching, but also because of contagious patience. Kind of like the Dome effect from last year.
Is Sam Fuld the spark this team needed? I hesitate to say it, but having that kind of a hitter in the leadoff spot is like a breath of fresh air. I have no problem with Soriano being a mere observer for this awakening, and I just hope against hope that Lou’s stubborn insistence on batting Sori first does not continue when he returns. There are not enough superlatives to describe this game. A joy to watch…Go Cubs!
Goodie1969 - July 3, 2009
If Fuld and Soriano are both in the lineup today...
… I want Soriano hitting sixth or seventh.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
My thoughts exactly.
I can’t believe people are still using the “Soriano hits best at leadoff” argument (I heard it on the Score yesterday) when it’s quite clear that he is not hitting at all. It’s hard to imagine him slumping any worse in another spot in the order. Now is the best time to test that old saw about our streaky left fielder.
Goodie1969 - July 3, 2009
Totally agree.
I’m not necessarily saying Fuld should be the Cubs’ leadoff hitter long-term. But this team has looked very strong the last couple games with Sam at the top of the lineup, and Lou should continue to “ride the hot hand” as the cliche goes.
I don’t know whether Soriano is hurt, has a mental block of some sort or is simply trying to do too much, but he had one of the worst months of his career in June and it’s time to take the pressure off him – at least for a little while.
I guess I’d vote for benching Dome tonight – he did have a hit last night and he had a good game on Wednesday in Pittsburgh, but I think it’s more important to get Bradley’s lefthanded bat going. Milton did have a pretty solid hit from the left side last night, so maybe he can build on that against Suppan tonight.
daver - July 3, 2009
Or, this afternoon, as the case may be.
1:20 today.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
Oh, right.
Good thing I don’t have tickets to the game or I would’ve shown up late.
daver - July 3, 2009
just don't be late to the thread
tim815 - July 3, 2009
Fuld is in fact exactly what they needed
taking pitches – I think he saw over 10 pitches in his first at bat, getting on base for all three of DLee’s HR’s last two games. The hustle in the field – how about that in-betweener that he just took of charge of between Theriot, Dome.
But of course there is more to this story, is not just what Fuld has done, it is how glaring the alternative is. Soriano – not taking pitches, not setting th table, not getting to second on an obvious double, not showing any leadership in the outfield.
I would love to see the same lineup three days in row. Why change?
BatCubFan - July 3, 2009
Exactly
It makes no difference whether the guy’s name is Alfonso Soriano or Joe Wallis….he’s not producing and he should not be playing. He’s been given an extended opportunity and he has failed miserably the past 8 weeks. Let him sit there and ponder whether he wants to change his approach and start doing the things that Fuld has been doing over the past two days. And for my money, Fuld’s best effort was the running catch in the 9th. There is no way Soriano gets to that ball and even if he does, he lacks the instincts to call off the other defenders. Fuld is not Soriano…but then again, it’s very refreshing that he isn’t. Lou isn’t an idiot…Fuld will lead off today.
krummy12 - July 3, 2009
Fuld
looks very comfortable at the plate so far this year. Fuld was quoted somewhere as saying he never felt comfortable with the major league club his first time around in 2007. He looks very comfortable now. I agree with everyone above, Fuld should play and bat lead-off.
gwood - July 3, 2009
Lee's grand slam
is a reminder that at its best, there is nothing like baseball for a wonderful moment.
Worf - July 3, 2009
Well said
And the first inning jack stirred up memories of what should be. Great game, great start to the most important stretch of games so far this year.
Reminds me of what a friend said once when asked what was the best piece of a$$ he’d ever had. His response was …the next one. This was great, but it’s over. Looking forward to the next one, let’s get on a roll.
Southside Steve - July 3, 2009
The worst beer I ever had...
was pretty good.
Worf - July 3, 2009
It like pizza or a BJ. When it's good it's great and when it's bad it's still good.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Yes, I like blueberry jam as well.
daver - July 3, 2009
I see what you did there.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
There is such a thing as bad pizza
but I’m with you on blueberry jam, if you know what I mean.
ChipSet - July 3, 2009
Having blueberry jam WHILE eating pizza
try it. You’ll like it.
Worf - July 3, 2009
OK
I realize that part of me is still 12 years old and I cling to that, but I’ve never heard a blueberry jam reference that I’ve inferred to be lewd or juvenile. What am I missing here ? I need to know
Southside Steve - July 3, 2009
Daver...
you explain it
Worf - July 3, 2009
Um, well...it's really all about the letters.
daver - July 3, 2009
Now I have to know
Nothing in wikipedia, nothing in urban dictionary, although there is a strawberry jam reference and I now know another definition of Charleston Chew
Southside Steve - July 3, 2009
See
wmhg’s reference above.
StevenABQ - July 3, 2009
Sadly, you are way off
This should clear things up and make you go “ahh”
BigJohnAZ - July 3, 2009
If ever a link
Seemed NSFW : )
StevenABQ - July 3, 2009
Ahhhhhhhhh, D'oh !
Southside Steve - July 3, 2009
In my defense...
I was recently divorced after 28 years of marriage and blueberry jam was not something I had enjoyed often over the last 27 3/4 of those years.
Southside Steve - July 3, 2009
lol!
Emelie - July 3, 2009
THAT was awkward
Worf - July 3, 2009
I can't say the same...
Accidently picking up my friends beer bottle being used as a chaw spitoon takes the cake – of course I guess that wasn’t beer.
DisCUBbobulated - July 3, 2009
Been there done that
Wish I could still get that taste out of my mouth from 4 years ago….
ak123 - July 3, 2009
TWSS
Southside Steve - July 3, 2009
LOL
ak123 - July 3, 2009
I agree
I too have been against Milton being a Cub, However when he grounded out after Lee hit his second HR, I couldn’t get over how loud the booing was. I think that is counter productive. Cubs need to get on a roll, and that includes Milton. He is busting his tail, not like he is loafing after balls or not running out groundballs. I hope he finds it at the plate.
Ride Fuld until he cools, he provides a little spark. He caught the flyball in the 8th I believe that Dome was playing on the warning track and if Soriano is in left doesn’t get to.
Great game sounded like a good crowd, minus the booing. I like the pitching matchups rest of the series.
Cubs need Guzman back. Everytime Heilmann enters you want to duck and hide.
Lets get the second one today.
Grockcubs - July 3, 2009
david patton can go to the dl on monday
i’m not certain i believe the ‘90 day rule’ for rule 5 draftees(i still don’t know the official service time rules as there don’t seem to be any ‘mlb authorized links’), but he can certainly be shelved if we need a spot.
tim815 - July 3, 2009
Great game.
I agree 100% about Bradley. I’m not happy with him, but the booing is unnecessary (unless he throws live balls into the stands). However, I did laugh when my husband joked that Lee got almost as many RBI’s in this one game as Bradley had all year.
katie casey - July 3, 2009
What a game!
Great game by Lee, love seeing that. And Sam Fuld had an excellent game as well. 2-4 with a walk and two runs scored. Didn’t see any mention of him for some reason.
kanderber - July 3, 2009
Do you mean in Al's recap?
Read it again.
daver - July 3, 2009
There was more below the Fuld
Clutch16 - July 3, 2009
(ducks)
Clutch16 - July 3, 2009
It's a start
I’m not sure I’d call it a statement game. It’s only 1 game and they very nearly let the Brewers back in it in the 8th inning.
Why not let Marshall pitch to more than one batter? Heilman was one pitch away from bringing the tying run to the plate . . . he’s just awful right now.
Two of the next three would be a good weekend for the Cubs. Today is a good day to start.
Shanghai Badger - July 3, 2009
I really don't understand the misuse of Marshall.
His batting order slot didn’t come up, so yes, he easily could have thrown another inning, even though three RHB were due up for the Brewers.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
I'm not sure whether there is such a thing...
…as a “statement game.” Maybe there is. I do feel pretty sure, however, that there is such a thing as a “statement series.” I hope the Cubs are on their way to one of those.
About Sean Marshall, I can only guess that Lou is still locked into seeing the lefty in the bullpen as a LOOGY and nothing but. Sean looked really good last night – that big curveball is a devastating weapon against LHH.
Maybe Lou thought facing Prince in that situation was all the energy Marshall needed to expend. Or perhaps he just wanted Heilman to get some work in. He hadn’t pitched since 6/27 vs. the White Sox.
daver - July 3, 2009
I could see getting Heilman work to try to get him straightened out
But why not wait until the 9th, with (hopefully) a 9-4 lead?
Shanghai Badger - July 3, 2009
Yeah, that does make a lot of sense.
It’s becoming increasingly clear that Heilman should not enter an inning with men on base. Then again, I have a feeling that Lou thought Marshall burned so much adrenalin getting Fielder out in that key situation that he worried Sean would be a little wild after sitting in the dugout and then going back out. It seems like we’ve seen that sort of thing before.
daver - July 3, 2009
Len Kasper said something last night that I haven't checked
but I have no reason to doubt him. Sean Marshall apparently leads all of baseball in stranding inherited baserunners. That’s pretty impressive.
Goodie1969 - July 3, 2009
Sean Marshall and Randy Wells have the same type of makeup, they don't crack under pressure. It's imperative that
a big league pitcher be able to maintain his mechanics under pressure and both of those guys have that trait. You can’t teach that. Either you have it or you don’t. The Cubs are fortunate to have two guys that are relatively young and exhibit that quality.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Yet another reason Marshall should be used for more than one batter.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
lou doesnt want to overwork his “fragile” loogy
jesus christos - July 3, 2009
He leads the Cubs, not sure how to check all of baseball
Of his 20 inherited runners, only 1 has scored. Cotts is 2nd on the Cubs, allowing 1 of his 14 inherited runners to score. baseball-reference.com does say the league average is allowing 32% of inherited runners to score.
Sobenergy - July 3, 2009
Statement
I don’t like the “statement game” thing either. But this one had to be the confidence builder they were looking for. Come-from-behind wins against bad teams are nice. Hammering your division-leading rival are confidence builders. It was exactly the win this club needed. They’ve got to build on it from here.
krummy12 - July 3, 2009
Jake Fox
Are the Cubs rushing Aram back? I like seeing Jake Fox at 3rd. His defense is holding up and his bat is pure power!
Cub Fan Mike - July 3, 2009
Yup!
Fox will make a wonderful DH for someone and hopefully, WE get some good players in return.
Worf - July 3, 2009
I dunno...
…Jake looks awfully smooth at third base. I didn’t detect any hesitation to field anything – he even cut in front of Theriot on one play – and his arm looks strong as well. The Baker trade is looking a little bit confusing, though I suppose it can’t hurt to have too much depth at any position.
daver - July 3, 2009
Hendry
really likes Swiss Army knife-type players. Baker can play multiple positions.
Worf - July 3, 2009
I don't know if Jake is one of those players that plays well on the
big stage or just never got a real shot at third but he looks really comfortable there. I really want A-Ram back, but I really hate to see that big bat sit on the bench when Sori and Milton are struggling. Lou has a lot more faith in him because he is essentially starting every day and that makes the team much more potent. You really hate to see your best bats sitting while other players are struggling in the field.
I also would like to see Blanco at second a lot more. I know Lou wants Fontenot’s bat in the lineup every day, but he can really pick it second. That error Fontenot made last night looked bad. BB made a good point about Fontenot’s lazy defense and having Blanco behind him makes it look that much worse. If the Cubs didn’t have so many guys struggling now, they could afford to carry Blanco’s weak bat.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Easy
Baker is better than MIles. That is why he’s here. They gave up nothing to get him. It was a no-brainer.
krummy12 - July 3, 2009
Problem is, Miles is still here.
daver - July 3, 2009
At least he's on the DL.
Maybe he can stay there the rest of the year.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
That's true.
Maybe I’m just too focused on the third base thing.
daver - July 3, 2009
The Cubs have some tough decisions to make on Monday. Blanco is clearly the best
glove on that infield and sending him down would be a big risk. I know who I would like to get rid of, but I don’t know if Hendry is prepared to admit that he was really that wrong about Miles.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Yeah, I won't be happy if Andy White is sent down.
daver - July 3, 2009
If Hendry makes that decision....
(Miles over Blanco), I’ll be extremely pissed. Because that’s thinking “money/pride” and not “good baseball”.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
or rather....
“what’s going to benefit this team the most”.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
Not for long
Hendry is beyond foolish if Miles sniffs another inning as a Cub. I would be very surprised if that happens…unless injury absolutely requires it.
krummy12 - July 3, 2009
Better put Al,
is 3 games separate the top 5 teams. Houston has joined the chase and could jump over us today…..but I don’t want to throw cold water on the game when it was fun being a cubsfan again. I hope this is a stepping stone for the month. With the Cards-Reds series going on this weekend there could be some real changes in the central standings. I was not hoping for a statement game, rather a statement series.
Fuld about has to be in the lineup and I would have a hard time not having him at leadoff. DLee’s RBI shots would not have been possible without the runners on ahead of him. Lou has some real thinking to do.
Not sure what to think about Z thisafternoon. I’ve quit predicting what will happen with him. He could throw it by them all afternoon or throw a fit. I hope he’s up for the challenge.
mrcubsfan - July 3, 2009
There are 23 teams within six games of a playoff spot right now.
This season hasn’t really sorted itself out yet. Apart from the Dodgers, Red Sox and maybe the Yankees, no team has asserted itself.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
And it's going to be awesome when the Dodgers crash and burn in the playoffs
if they make it and continue this pace. I’d rather be the team that just makes it in, than the team that cruises to the playoffs.
Craig in South Bend - July 3, 2009
Well, we tried that in 2007, didn't work so well.
Maybe 2009 will turn out better.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
My prediction
I said recently that Hendry was waiting to put Soriano on the DL until they could acquire another hitter. They just got Baker.
Now, decision day is Monday, with the three guys coming off the DL. Here’s the sequence: Sunday, it is announced that Soriano was not voted into the all-star game. Monday, the Cubs put him on the DL. He will not miss that many games because of the all-star break. In the meantime, Fox, Hoffpauir, and Fuld man left field.
cubzfan - July 3, 2009
That's not bad
Hoff also spells Bradley from time to time and Fox plays 3rd when Ramirez needs a break. And he WILL need a break.
Worf - July 3, 2009
nice call
tim815 - July 3, 2009
Interesting theory
If Sori is hurting and is a leader, he goes to Lou and says leave Fuld in, the rest would do me good. I really think Lou wants to win now especially with the big homestand. He knows what Soriano is capable of and may roll the dice that he bounces back after two days off. Will be interested to see how this plays out.
mrcubsfan - July 3, 2009
and they can
make it retroactive to his last game played, so he’s eligible in less than 15
tim815 - July 3, 2009
Yeah, but with our luck....
Fonzie will hit 2 homers today and Lou won’t want to put him on the DL at all. :)
But I like the idea. Hard to send either Fox or Fuld down with their hot hands.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
Soriano hitting two homers against a division leading rival?
Oh the shame! What bad luck!
AndrewJStone - July 3, 2009
Well, you know what I mean....
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
Not trying to start a fight, but no... not really.
We need wins vs the teams leading our division. Two sori homers would help with that this afternoon. If such a thing prevents a stint on the DL, that might be ok. 2 HR’s might indicate that he doesn’t NEED time on the DL.
Sure, there is the chance it’d be a fluke game, but i’d take it none the less. The remaining games between now and the ASG set the tone for this season i believe. We can remain in the thick of it while regaining Rami, or we can drop out of it entirely. Sori putting up 2 homeruns would help the team remain in the thick of it. I’d consider that anything other than bad luck.
AndrewJStone - July 3, 2009
Plus, when Sori is on, he's unparalleled.
If he hit two, it’d be worth the risk of not DLing him just to see if he was coming out of his slump at this imperative time in the season. We have other expendable players to send down / DL if Sori shows signs of life at any point in time.
AndrewJStone - July 3, 2009
Um, let me expand my off the cuff comment...
“Just our luck, Fonzie will hit 2 HR’s today to keep him from Lou putting him on the DL, then revert back to his general suckiness…..”
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
and you can....
..throw a little sarcasm icon in there as well.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
it's amazing
isn’t it?
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
That does make a certain amount of sense.
daver - July 3, 2009
Which is exactly why they won't do it.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
exactly right about the booing Al
Free agents talk to one another, and at some point, no matter how much $$ is dangled, if enough players talk about how they are incessantly booed less than halfway into their first season as a Cub, players will stop coming here. Bradley knows full well he is stinking up the joint, the booing after EVERY at bat is pointless. Boo when he tosses the ball into the bleachers when there are only two outs, I get that. Not when a guy is trying.
It is not only that Fuld is ripping the ball, but his at bats from a quality perspective (his first AB was what, 9 pitches) are the type of at bats good teams get from their leadoff hitter and so dramatically different than that crap at bats Soriano has been providing. I don’t even care about Soriano’s low average or power outage, but his at bats are of such a low quality that it reverberates in other ways.
If I were Pinella Soriano would not see the leadoff spot the rest of the year. In the lineup yes, leadoff, no.
BeltwayCubsFan - July 3, 2009
If enough money is dangled
they will always come here.
New York fans are among the worst and Boston fans aren’t far behind. I don’t see them having any trouble.
It’s about $$$$. Never forget that.
Worf - July 3, 2009
+1
I’ve seen people at Wrigley booing vehemently. Where do people get so much anger and rage from over a bad play or a low batting average?
dr stabbingworth - July 3, 2009
And last night....
..moments after DLee’s GS, Milton grounds out and the crowd’s booing. That’s just plain embarrassing.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
I don't like the booing either, but I think fans are booing the "apparent" lack of effort by MB.
And effort is physical, but more so MENTAL. Milt’s head hasn’t been in the game on the field for quite some time. Fans can understand players being frustrated and even “trying too hard”, but that isn’t how MB comes off to many fans.
Personally, I’m not crazy about him, but he is a Cub and I want him to succeed. When he succeeds, the Cubs do too.
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Booing's just going to make him worse
Watching him out there he seems like the kind of player that will pay too much attention to the negatives already. Booing will make him try even harder which isn’t the problem.
vt3stick - July 3, 2009
Quickest way to stop the booing is to start hitting AND
play HARD on every pitch – with your head IN the game. Fans WILL notice (well, except for the drunk ones…). It’s up to MB.
If booing is really going to destroy him, then he picked the wrong profession. Or at least the wrong city to play in. Sorry…
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Agreed
I’m with you I just don’t see us being able to trade him so we’re stuck with him.
vt3stick - July 3, 2009
Yep. So anytime you want to start Milty, Cubs Nation is ready.
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Yeah....
…..I’m trying to think of another athlete that is/was so affected by booing and I’ve come up blank.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
Well, some athletes actually are motivated by the booing...
Kirk Gibson was one. Reggie Jackson another. There’s written material that indicates Ty Cobb thrived on it.
But they are certainly the exceptions to the rule.
And don’t get me wrong. I can certainly understand how that COULD beat you down and defeat you.
But then, if that’s the case, choosing a profession in major league baseball seem to be an unwise decision- considering most good to great hitters FAIL 70% of the time…
Just saying, it seems like an odd thing to WANT to go into is you are the “sensitive” type…
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Well
Are any players really boo-ed until the pros? I’ve never heard booing at a high school or minor league game. I doubt there is in college. Generally these crowds are pretty supportive, or at least apathetic.
TC Cubby - July 3, 2009
True, but they aren't paying the $ it takes to attend a MLB game either...
More is expected of a major league player. There is some booing in the minors, but not much.
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Hey Al, were you anywhere near the first DLee homer?
The replay showed an old guy with a Cubs jersey reaching down a row or two to try to grab it, and I immediately thought it might be you. :)
We’ve definately got some BIG roster decisions to make. Hard to send Fuld back down when he’s been such a sparkplug the last couple of games, but I’m afraid we don’t have any other option. And Fox continues to impress. Should be interesting.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
What's that "old guy" talk?
No, none of last night’s HR were anywhere near us.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
Oh, I'm right there with ya....LOL
You’re deep and more towards the line in LF bleachers? Or more where the “well” starts?
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
Down the line.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
"Old Guy"? Man now I feel old.
Al’s younger than I am! Not by much, but still, ouch.
50 is the new 30.
…not…;)
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Haha. Well....
…I didn’t mean the guy threw his walker and an oxygen tank to the side to get at the ball. The guy had a head full of gray and a Cubs jersey on, that’s all.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
Maybe he was "prematurely" gray and is in fact, a robust 29!
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Well, there's your problem
Al has a head full of wit and wisdom, but hair?…not so much
cubzfan - July 3, 2009
Which homer was it
where the ball bounced off a few people’s hands and made it to the back row of the bleachers where two surprised fans played a little game of hot potato only to watch it fall over the railing to the street below? That was a “D’oh!” moment if I ever saw one.
Goodie1969 - July 3, 2009
I think the hot potato one was Geo's?
Yeah, I thought that same thing. LOL.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
The ball actually fell down to the walkway behind the bleachers.
From @Ballhawk_Ken:
daver - July 3, 2009
Ha Ha. That's cool.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
i think you could send
fuld back down, shruggingly. he should lead off through sunday’s game. if he goes 1-12, you can send him back. if he scores two more first inning runs, fonzie gets to hit seventh or go to the dl.
tim815 - July 3, 2009
Let's not get too carried away with the Sam Fuld talk.
Yes, he’s had two very nice games. But, it’s two games. Bobby Scales had a nice little run, and now he’s back in AAA.
That said, I would like to see Fuld playing and leading off again today. Ideally with Soriano out again, but Lou has said previously that Sori would be in the lineup today.
kanderber - July 3, 2009
Doesn't mean Fuld won't be playing.
They could rest Fukudome or Bradley.
You’re right about Scales, too, though I think Fuld is a better player. Ride the hot streak as long as it lasts.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
True, but...
if Soriano is playing, he’ll be leading off. Which I would guess would push Fuld down to the bottom of the order.
kanderber - July 3, 2009
soriano said hell play in any spot in the lineup but prefers to leadoff. id be surprised if lou plays fuld but still has soriano leadoff
jesus christos - July 3, 2009
Dome is actually starting to hit the ball better...
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
Crash Davis said it best.
Respect the streak. Don’t change for today’s game…
Zeke - July 3, 2009
why is Fuld a "better player" now
but 2 weeks ago when I recommended his callup you called it a joke? Am I missing something?
ambrosiadreams - July 3, 2009
we were
what’s that word????five letters, starts with ‘w’. ends with ‘rong’.
tim815 - July 3, 2009
I called it a joke? I don't remember saying that...
Zeke - July 3, 2009
that was directed towards Al
ambrosiadreams - July 3, 2009
Hey, I already admitted I was wrong.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
my apologies
I hadn’t read that. but seriously, my big argument for bringing him up was the spark I really felt he would bring to this team. of course it’s only been 3 games, but he has really done that.
ambrosiadreams - July 3, 2009
Ah. OK. Sorry...
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Well, it goes to show how badly Soriano's production from lead-off has hurt the team
dr stabbingworth - July 3, 2009
Jack Brickhouse: "Kessinger and Beckert are on base...
…with Williams, Santo and Banks due up…"
Now THAT put the fear of Wrigley into an opposing pitcher…
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Difference
Scales and Fuld are different players. Fuld is a true leadoff hitter, something this club sorely lacks. He has plate disclipline and is a very good defensive OF, also something this club lacks in LF. Scales is a journeyman with marginal skills. Yes it’s two games….two wins….and two games where the offense looked much different than the one headed at the top by a declining Soriano.
krummy12 - July 3, 2009
2005 Derrek Lee?
Not quite, but he is really squaring the ball up and driving it. His swing is a thing of beauty.
No doubt 2005 would have been a better year if Lee had this supporting cast.
dr stabbingworth - July 3, 2009
I'd settle for the 2004 version of Derrek Lee.
.278/.356/.504 with 32 HR and 98 RBI.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
Me too, but I think he'll actually do better
Maybe in between the two. As soon as Aramis comes back and Milton either starts hitting left-handed or the just make him hit right-handed all the time, there’ll be no choice but to keep pitching to him.
dr stabbingworth - July 3, 2009
Having Fox hit behind DLee is a good decision by Lou. Jake is almost as hot as Derek now
and it’s tough to pitch around DLee when another hot bad is waiting in the on deck circle. I guess Lou is still in the game.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
It feels like a long time since a player had some type of protection
Almost forgot what that’s like.
Craig in South Bend - July 3, 2009
It makes a huge diffence in how a pitcher approaches the inning. When Prince
and Braun come up you always worry that you will give up something. You have to kind of pick your poison. It makes for some real vervousness on the pitcher’s part.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
It has only been two games
but am I alone in liking this version of the Cubs more than any other version we’ve seen this year, or even last year? My fiancee put it best when she said that this team needs Fuld, Fox, etc. on the everyday roster because they’re young, hungry, and don’t know anything about curses, expectations, etc. They’re there to play ball, they hustle, and they do a damn good job at it. Forget all the runs this team put up, and look at everything else this team has done since Fuld starting leading off. Aside from Fontenot not barehanding the ball, it all feels like, offensively and defensively, each player is saying, “I got this.” Fuld has been a spark plug in more ways than one, and this is coming from someone who thought he’d fall right on his face.
Dare I say it, a couple players not included, this iteration feels a lot like the 2004 Red Sox, or even that Red Birds team that won a WS. This team, they now don’t know any better. They’re out there to play some good baseball, and I’d rather see young, hungry players do that, than a bunch of overpriced ones. I have a hunch we’re all going to be pretty sad when we have all of our expensive players playing again.
Craig in South Bend - July 3, 2009
Not if they start producing like we know they can
Then we have hungry guys on a super deep bench
dr stabbingworth - July 3, 2009
I think there's more of a benefit to getting those kids out there starting
than having them in one and done roles off the bench. Look, the season is nearly halfway done, and the word “if” has been said too much. I’m tired of “if”, and I don’t want to keep saying, “Well, if Ramirez can get to 100% we’ll be fine” or “If Soriano finds his swing we’ll be fine” or “If Bradley can get comfortable out there we’ll win some games”. I really want to see these kids be elevated, but I know how baseball works and this won’t last. I completely understand that you can’t sit high priced talent while the guys you promoted from AAA start.
Craig in South Bend - July 3, 2009
I like Fuld...
For the simple fact that he’s seen a lot of pitches out of that leadoff spot and works the count, makes the pitcher work.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
I would think Soriano doesn't really
think about “curses,” either. Only Cubs fans and media types bring that crap up.
San Diego Smooth Jazz Man - July 3, 2009
What a great win last night
I saw very few balls last night hit by the Cubs that were not solid strikes. Many balls that were outs were solidly struck.
cubswgnrocks - July 3, 2009
you ride Sam Fuld
until scouting reports get out on him…he could be huge this weekend and parts of next week. After that I would fully expect the scouts to pick up on flaws and him to come back down a little/lot.
cozmotaylor123 - July 3, 2009
Like Roy MacAvoy says "You ride her until she buck you off." If Fuld stays hot through these
four games, the Cubs could sweep this series and flip the season completely over. I think Lou know that as well. He was really non-committal in his post game PC yesterday. Before the game he said that Sori would be back in the lead-off spot today, but after the game he was real hesitant to say what he would do.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
you think that Sam Fuld
will singlehandedly sweep the Brewers?
I like the boy too. But cmon.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
I never said anything about Fuld single-handedly doing anything. The only
point made was staying with the hot hand. Fuld may flame out and be gone by Monday, but his performance is making Lou at least think about keeping him in the lineup. This team hasn’t hit consistently all year and if he gives them a spark for a single series, it’s at least worth keeping him in the lineup for one more day.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
you said
“If Fuld stays hot through these four games, the Cubs could sweep this series.”
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
How is saying he would single-handedly do it? If DLee stays hot we could sweep the series too. This
is a team and it takes contributions for everyone. Fuld has provided a temporary spark that has helped the team win two games. I am certainly not advocating making wholesale changes. My point was that if he is hot, you may want to ride it for a couple of more games. I think Lou should put Sori back in the lineup today and maybe put Fuld in center or right. If Fuld stays hot, there will be less pressure on Sori and he can relax and hit like we know he can.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Sort of
You’re giving too much credit to the scouts here. Fuld has been scouted enough in the minors that his flaws are already evident. What will really happen is that pitchers will adjust to what he’s doing up here and if he doesn’t adjust, he’ll struggle. It’s not different than what has happened to Soriano….the league doesn’t throw him strikes and until he adjusts and lays off, he’ll keep getting himself out.
Believe me, scouting reports are indeed out on Sam Fuld. But patient approaches at the plate have a way of overcoming scouting reports with at least a reasonable chance of success. Impatience and stubborness…not so much.
krummy12 - July 3, 2009
It's possible that we caught him in a hot streak and the pitcher's won't be able to adjust for a few games. He
has a short quick swing that doesn’t have a lot of moving parts. If he keeps hitting the ball where it’s pitched and doesn’t try to muscle up, he could stay hot for a week or two. If Lou would keep him in the line up, that could be enough to win the majority of the games in this homestand and turn the season around.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
they are not as detailed as
they will be with him against major league pitching.
Brenly will even mention things like waiting till the scouts catch up and they find that hole.
cozmotaylor123 - July 3, 2009
TICKETS AVAILABLE FOR THIS WEEKEND'S GAMES
I just checked on cubs.com, and was able to select two seats together for Saturday in the UD infield boxes. Too bad I can’t go!
There are apparently single seats in LOTS of sections available. Just FYI.
cubzfan - July 3, 2009
yesterday was the opening of the
international free agent signing season. any word what prezzies steve wilson is sending us from korea?
tim815 - July 3, 2009
Fuld is the lead off hitter i have always wanted
lexmarklover - July 3, 2009
I'd like to see...
Fuld in CF today leading off, and Sori down in the order. You have to keep playing the kid until he gives you a reason not to.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
If he doesn't lead off (if Lou is stubborn and keeps Sori in the leadoff spot)
then where will he bat? I could see him in the 2 hole (although I love him in the leadoff spot).
cubswgnrocks - July 3, 2009
Well
Why re-open the gaping hole in LF? Leave the lineup as it has been. Let Soriano continue to wach others produce and leave Fuld in LF and in the leadoff spot. There is no reason to change that.
krummy12 - July 3, 2009
True...
But Lou already said Soriano is playing today, so I guess that’s a moot point. I think it’d be sending a bad message to throw Sori back in the leadoff spot and either bench Fuld or put him 8th.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
Well
I guess it’s his prerogative to change his mind since he’s the manager. He’d be a wise one too to change his mind today.
krummy12 - July 3, 2009
the reason to change that
is your all-star left fielder.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
Did we acquire Ryan Braun overnight?
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
no, we did not.
nevertheless. You don’t sit your all-star left fielder to ride the Sam Fuld train, unless the aforementioned left-fielder still needs the rest.
IF Fuld starts in left today, it will be because Lou and Sori both think that Sori is not ready to go back into the lineup.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
I dont give a hop what Soriano thinks
Lou needs to put who he thinks is the best lineup out there. If he thinks it’s Sori, so be it. If he thinks it’s Fuld, that’s fine too.
ambrosiadreams - July 3, 2009
When they all return....
I think Fontenot will have some use until the All Star Break to help spell Ramirez in late inning/possible extra innings/or just to give him a day off.
But I think he’s going to be made available on the trade markets for a low level prospect. He just isn’t getting the job done. Plus, Jake Fox has proven he can play at 3B as well. I’m sure if he continued at 3B there will be an error or two or a bobble but he’s doing serviceable.
Plus, I’d rather see Andres Blanco play 2B. I don’t know his numbers right now but I think he’s batter better than Fontenot
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Fontenot vs. Blanco
In June:
Fontenot: 71AB, .211BA, .296OBP, 7RBI, 2 2B, 1HR, 9BB, 20 SO
Blanco: 66AB, .258BA, .310OBP, 5RBI, 3 2B, 0HR, 5BB, 5 SO.
For similar OBP and better defense I’d take Blanco and have hit #8 in the lineup over Fontenot..
ak123 - July 3, 2009
The difference here
is that we know Fontenot is capable of more. All players’ seasons stats are like a wave, with ebb and flow. You’re comparing what is almost certainly Blanco’s flow with what is almost certainly Fontenot’s ebb.
Sure that analysis could be wrong. Few, though should say it is likely to be wrong.
DGU - July 3, 2009
If he were capable of more this year
I think it would have shown up by now. I’d rather take defense and lower production at 2B personally. I like Fontenot a lot but I don’t think he’s an every day player but I’d take him over Miles. The problem is I think Cubs are set on Aaron Miles for the next year once he returns.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Fontenot's not a defensive liability.
Let Mike settle in to playing one position and only against RHP and see what happens. He’s been on really bad stretches before. I’m not opposed to giving him a vacation, but I am opposed to giving up on him. He was too good last year to give up on this year.
DGU - July 3, 2009
But then where's his value...
If he only plays one position and only against RHP? We have guys who can give you his production and play multiple positions.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
we do?
no we don’t. Unless you mean Baker, and Baker isn’t really that much of a 2b.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
My opinion is that Baker and Blanco...
Are more valuable to this team then Fontenot right now, given his current production and with the premise of only playing him at 2nd.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
You still keep him up
to provide depth, assuming you can find room on the roster. I’d send Hoffpauir down in a second; Jake Fox does his job, and better.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
yabbut
fox isn’t a lefty
CyberCyclist - July 3, 2009
well
I don’t really care. :P I think Lou has moved away from his left obsession.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
I don't disagree with this...
But to DGU’s point, I think Fontenot still needs to play 3rd when needed or his value to this team is too limited to be worth keeping up.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
Why would Fontenot play 3B with any regularity
when we will have Ramirez and Baker to play it? If you don’t think he’s valuable, that’s your opinion on him, but Mike’s not good enough at 3B, in my view, to play over those two guys (except in double-switch situations, I guess).
DGU - July 3, 2009
That's true...
So then it basically comes down to him and Blanco at 2nd, and since Blanco can also play SS, I think Fontenot is the odd man out. Actually, Miles should be gone but that’s not going to happen.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
Fontenot hit .900 OPS last year.
Blanco will never approach that and even with his defense included in overall value he won’t approach that.
DGU - July 3, 2009
key words there being "last year".
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
A lot of stuff happened last year...
That isn’t this year. It’s not like Fonty is a proven vet and you can just pencil him in for those numbers this year. I just think Blanco is more valuable to us right now.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
Mike Fontenot has talent.
Last year showed us that. Whether he can continue to translate that talent into production in the months and years ahead is open to question. But I am of the opinion that you play the most talented players for several months before you give up on them.
DGU - July 3, 2009
We're more than 3 months in
This was Fontenots position to lose and I think he’s going to lose it to Blanco.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
I don't want to give up on the guy...
But if it comes down to that last roster spot, I would think he’d be the odd man out. Like I said above, ideally, you’d have Miles out of here.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
You are seeing the same thing that everyone else is seeing. Fox and Blanco are playing a lot
better than Fontenot. When Lou moved Fontenot to third late in the game last night I was thinking “You move the guy to third who made a bad error and is barely hitting his weight, good move Lou.”
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
I'm getting monthly .BA right now for everyone and I'll post below
Some interesting numbers.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
I do think it's odd...
…that Lou seems to look at Fontenot as a defensive replacement at third base. Again, this is just my eyes – but Fox and LBR don’t seem all that much differently defensively.
daver - July 3, 2009
In Fontenot defense
He has had some great plays there in the last couple months.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
I think Lou recognizes that LBR just has more ML games under his belt
and is less likely to tighten up in the late innings (defensively).
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Fox has taken to third much better than I thought he would. Based on the reports I thought
he would walk out there with the glove on his right hand. He has been really good at fielding grounders and making good solid throws. He hasn’t had a lot of tough plays, but I haven’t seen many errors out of him.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Alan Trammell's tutelage has a LOT to do with that.
If Alan says Jake can handle the “hot corner”, that’s good enough for me.
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Yabbut fielding 1.000 after 10 games at 3B? I didn't expect that at all.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Good point. I don't think ANYONE would have.
So Alan Trammell is GOD…
Well, maybe just GOD Jr.
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Fontenot to spell Rami....
….I thought that’s why we got Jeff Baker?
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
Right...
So would there be a use to keep both? If Blanco is your SS/2B defensive sub, why do you need two 3B backups?
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
Exactly...
…and if you count Fox, it would be 3. But I’m afraid Blanco isn’t going to be considered, and we’ll be right back where we were on opening day…..not having a legitimate back up SS.
You have to think that Baker’s acquisition is going to have a direct affect on a decision with either Miles or Fontenot.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
But isn't Baker on DL still?
There will be a bunch of roster moves soon and I think in general we’re not going to like a bunch of them.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Baker was activated yesterday when Freel was DFA'd.
Al Yellon - July 3, 2009
Oh ok
I thought he was just DFA’d to make room on the 40 man roster. But we actually have 1 or 2 open spots on there don’t we?
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Baker
was on the DL when he was traded. It’s possible he needs a few more days. Plus, wasn’t he coming in during the game? Maybe his plane was delayed or something.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
What about Sori at 2B?
Wouldn’t the outfield of Fuld in LF, Fukudome in CF, and MB in right work for today?
vt3stick - July 3, 2009
Worth a try
But I doubt that will happen. Lou can get MB have the day off perhaps and play Fuld in RF or let Hoffpauer play (who is seriously struggling lately it seems).
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Trust me, you don't want Sori at 2B. That would be train wreck.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
would he hop
on infield pops?
tim815 - July 3, 2009
30,000 people would simultaneously do spit takes at Wrigley
…with the other 10,000 on their cell phones not paying attention (or in lines for the bathroom…)
Zeke - July 3, 2009
Sorry, not worth a try.
And I will continue to rally against this. Soriano was an awful second baseman – this would hurt the team far more than simply sitting Dome and putting Fuld in center.
daver - July 3, 2009
+1, and he'd almost certainly be even worse after three years of no play there
dr stabbingworth - July 3, 2009
no no no
unless all you want to do is give the Sori bashers more material to work with.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
Welcome to the Sam Fuld Fan Club
enjoy it while you can. I have spent the last three years following Fuld VERY closely. I have been mocked A LOT
around here including as recently as last week for thinking Fuld should be on the team. I will wait for my " I told you so moment " because the odds of Fuld staying in the line up through the weekend are less than 50/50 and the odds of him staying on the team after Monday less than that. Assuming Rami & RJ are activated Monday it is very likekly Blanco & Fuld go down. There are not a lot of options other than sending down Fonty & Hoff. Sadly doing a really good job is not enough to keep you on the team when their are contracts and baseball “seniority”. Right now I would argue Fuld is much more valuable than Hoff and Blanco than Fontenot but defense is sadly underated to power. I hope someone considers the whole make up of the team rather than who can hit a ball farther.
Doggie Stalker - July 3, 2009
Hoff hasn't hit well all month
But it doesn’t seem as bad because his key HR’s and hits have been go ahead RBI’s in a couple games. That masks that he has struggled.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
"Struggled"
is a generous way to put it.
DGU - July 3, 2009
Ok he flat out sucked
He hasn’t cost us anything defensively for the most part (he had a good play that outweighed a bad one) but he hasn’t hit well. The difference between his bad hitting and everyone else is that hit hits have been key ones.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Trust me Jessica, you deserve a big "I told you so" moment for Fuld. You have stuck
by him more than anyone and even if he goes away after this he contributed in a big way. God, knows there have been enough “I told you so” moments about Milton to last a lifetime.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
How in the world does someone get a "Told you so" moment after two games.
Fuld has done well. Yay Fuld and yay Jessica!
But two games is nothing to predict 81 more games off of. Her original post is rec’d for it’s restraint and baseball wisdom.
DGU - July 3, 2009
I think in this case it was warranted. Most people, myself included, didn't think that Fuld
belonged on a big league roster. His immediate impact has caused me to think that I was wrong about how he would fare here. No one is clearing a spot for him in Cooperstown, but his impact has been a pleasant surprise. He may flame out today and disappear on Monday, but he has breathed some much needed fresh air into this lineup. For that I think Jessica deserves at least one “I told you so”.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
I suppose if the question is "Does he belong on a ML roster at all" and anyone said, "No"
then yes, she deserves an “I told you so.” I’m surprised, though, to hear there were people arguing he would have no use for this club. Well, maybe I shouldn’t be surprised given how many people are throwing that phrase around for so many of our players.
I’m reacting to this sudden idea that Fuld should play over Soriano and/or Dome and/or Bradley on a regular basis.
DGU - July 3, 2009
There is now way you play anyone on a regular basis based on two games. Fuld is just hot right
now and you might catch lightning in a bottle by keeping him in the lineup for a couple of more games. He certainly is not a long-term answer for what ails this team. If this team is going to make the post-season, Sori, Dome and Milton have to hit and hit well. Fuld is a pleasant surprise that may provide a temporary boost, but to think he could permanantly replace one of our starting outfielders is folly.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
He should get in 2-3 games a week if he continues to hit
He should spell Dome and Soriano once a week.
Bradley doesn’t need to sit. He hit well in June. Let him do what he’s doing. If Fuld can get on base more than Soriano and Fukudome, then Bradley will actually get RBI opportunities if he’s batting third.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
+OPS
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
We do have a guy named Reed on the team still
Once he gets off the DL, I don’t think we should give away all his starts to Fuld based on 2 games this weekend.
madcow256 - July 3, 2009
Agreed
But if nothing more, Fuld can be a late inning replacement for Bradley to avoid anymore “Louis Castillo 9th inning moments”.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
very well said Jessica
I, too, got lambasted last week for suggesting Fuld be called up. But alas, we can’t say “I told you so” just yet, though my whole argument was because of his intensity and I felt he’d bring a real spark to the team. So far, 2-0 when he starts and 3-0 when he makes an appearance. Just saying. :)
ambrosiadreams - July 3, 2009
If they're considering the whole make up....
….Blanco should definately stay with the club. I’m afraid that’s not going to happen though, unless someone else goes on the DL.
And remember, they sent down Hoff last year when he was hitting .400 and DWard was in a year long struggle. You’re right, decisions we’ve made haven’t been necessarily who has the hot hand.
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
Font needs to go back down. he's really struggling.
lexmarklover - July 3, 2009
You were right
In our defense though, he didn’t hit in 2007 and if it wasn’t for the memorable catch he made 90% of the people on here wouldn’t remember his call up very much either.
You were 100% so far and I hope he continues to succeed.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Just so you know
I did stand in line at 2008 Cubs Convention for his autograph on Sunday. Had him sign the ball “Best catch of 2007”. So I did think he’d eventually be back but for nothing more than defensive replacement.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
I would love to have gotten an autograph
but on Sunday I was in the Down on the Farm session asking Flieta why the Cubs didn’t trade or release Fuld if they were not
going to give him a shot at the bigs so he could get a chance with another team. I know I mentioned this before but he responded that the Cubs loved Fuld and how hard he had worked and that he was basically one injury on the 25 man roster away from being on the team and he was right. Love to see that autograph some day. Fuld has actually been enjoying his big moment and tossing balls in the stands between innings but none near me ( TOP OF THE FURTHEST LEFT CORNER SAM) and Al, Mike and I have been thinking of ways to get his attention such as learning the Stanford Univ. fight song ( they must have one).Finding a Phillips Exeter T shirt or shouting LIVE FREE OR DIE ( Mike’s suggetion). Whatever works.
Doggie Stalker - July 3, 2009
I still like
the tree costume suggestion the best.
Hilary Lee - July 3, 2009
Meant to tell you this before
I have to eat my words too – I still think he’ll make a hell of an Actuary – But he certainly has impressed me the last few days, you have to get credit for being a defender of his all this time.
StevenABQ - July 3, 2009
Wow looking at people's June batting averages
Hoffpauer: 188BA ouch….
Soto: .257BA – Not very good but still an improvement plus 6HR’s for the month is solid.
Soriano: .198BA (he also had 106PA for the month)
Fukudome: .169BA, .266OBP.
Milton Bradley: .273BA, .377OBP. He walked one less time than Fukudome for the month with 10.
Theriot: .265BA, 6BB, 21SO.
DLee: .333BA, 6HR, 15BB, 21SO. I think he leads team with walks as well for the month.
Jake Fox: .304BA, 10RBI (which is more than many players on the team) in 46PA.
Fontenot: 71AB, .211BA
Blanco: 66AB, .258BA
Based on these numbers for the month Soriano has the second best batting average in the outfield but not by much. I know we’re arguing Fuld should replace Soriano every day in LF…I think he can replace Fukudome as well!
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Based on those numbers we should be 20 games out.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Solid pitching
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Crappy opposition.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
True
Remember when we said June was going to be the “easy schedule”?
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Sorry, that crappy division.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
Thankfully
Because any other year, playing like this would have meant being out of the division by now.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Yeah, way out.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
And the player's OPS's for June...
Lee – .992
Fox – .939
Soto – .879
Bradley – .707
Theriot – .658
Johnson – .653
Hoffpauir – .645
Blanco – .613
Soriano – .595
Fontenot – .582
Fukudome – .531
Miles – .440
Hill – .178
kanderber - July 3, 2009
That's jaw-dropping.
DGU - July 3, 2009
June Pitching ERA
Dempster – 3.25 in 30.2 innings
Harden – 4.24 in 23.1 innings. He allowed 14 runs but only 11 were earned….
Lilly – 3.12 in 40.1 innings. Well he was the workhorse of June but only recorded one win for the month.
Zambrano – 2.91 in 34 innings. Only got one win for the month as well.
Wells – 3.19 in 31 innings.
Gregg – 2.77 in 13 innings – only allowed runs in 2 of his 13 appearances.
Marmol – 5.40 in 13 innings and 17 walks!
Marshall – 2.79 in 9.2 innings
Guzman – 1.86 in 9.2 innings
Hart – 2.45 in 3.2 innings
Patton – 2.60 in 6.2 innings (Lou let him pitch that much??)
Heliman – 2.08 in 13 innings and 7 walks. Not sure how many inherited runners he gave up.
Make your judgments now on the pitching for the month.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Pitching's not the problem
Other than Marmol walking everybody. They should start letting Marshall pitch longer than one hitter though.
vt3stick - July 3, 2009
Right
I just got the batting average and felt I’d provide ERA as well. I think Zambrano’s numbers are interesting. I thought he would have had an ERA over 4 with all the negative writing he’s had in the papers and on here.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
The Gregg Stat
really surprises me. I have zero confidence in him when he goes out there but that doesn’t seem as bad as I figured.
vt3stick - July 3, 2009
I think that's how most closers are
I mean they’re in for tight games and we have had 0 confidence that the team can score runs if we were to go back to extra innings.
Unless your name is K-Rod or Rivera I think most fans get nervous when their closer is out. I did whenever Dempster or Wood ever did.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
It's Happening!?!?!?!?!?!?!?
lexmarklover - July 3, 2009
From the mlb.com recap of last night's game:
Proofreading is a lost art.
Goodie1969 - July 3, 2009
It happens
On an thing I had to write on wwe.com once I was talking about a program from 1986 called “The Bobby Heenan Show” but I wrote “The Booby Heenan Show”.
Thankfully we got some laughs from that one and not a future endeavor :)
ak123 - July 3, 2009
That's a fairly apropos typo for Heenan. :-)
The funniest thing about the mlb.com misprint was that these words appear directly beneath a video highlight montage where the words “Derrek Lee” are uttered several times.
Goodie1969 - July 3, 2009
Reminds me of a report on The Score...
A few weeks ago when the whole Derrick Rose “scandal” came out. “Memphis has found no evidence that Derrek Lee cheated on his SAT”.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
not bad
two jacks and seven ribbies from out of state.
tim815 - July 3, 2009
Those must have been mammoth shots.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
lee
anyone still want to get rid of d.lee??? the only guy on the team hitting.
NOMAR - July 3, 2009
I don't think that's quite accurate. Fox and Soto have made slight contributions over the past
couple of weeks.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
This guy does....
http://www.mlbdailydish.com/2009/7/3/936781/derrek-lee-as-trade-bait
WTF?
carmen_fanzone - July 3, 2009
BLou?
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
It's story
Of someone who doesn’t know what he’s talking about. Anyone who did their research would know Aramis is back Monday.
But hey, if they’re going to throw in the towel and get a prized prospect, let us atleast be 8 games out.
ak123 - July 3, 2009
somebody tell Eli
what NTC means.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
Blou
Seasons over so trade him while he is hot.
Doggie Stalker - July 3, 2009
Maybe we can package him with Big Z and get a bag of balls.
willie mays hayes' gloves - July 3, 2009
yeah
let somebody else have the guess hitting hack
CyberCyclist - July 3, 2009
Bradley
Like any Cub, shouldn’t be booed. Stay classy, Chicago.
cubbybear - July 3, 2009
+ 1 million
zevkalman - July 3, 2009
Recced - Thanks. Booing people who are supposed to be on your own team..
So a lot more about the person booing than the person being booed.
DisCUBbobulated - July 3, 2009
What if that person is Manny Ramirez?
Would you boo then?
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
no
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
Not saying I would either...
Just playing devil’s advocate.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
He's not on my team, but I still probably wouldn't boo him...
As a rule I don’t boo the sterioids guys, because for all I know half of the Cubs just haven’t been caught yet (I HATE the “steroids era”). But I boo opposing pitchers, hitters, etc. There is “classy booing” and I’m all for it.
DisCUBbobulated - July 3, 2009
You just could tell...
How badly MB wants to do well and help this team. It’s to the point where I just feel bad for the guy.
CubsBullsBears - July 3, 2009
I know its a stretch, but...
Would anyone object to Soriano moving back to 2B, with the way Fuld has been playing? Could he play any worse than Fontenot has? I also like the idea of moving Soriano lower in the lineup.
backtocali - July 3, 2009
I would object
strenuously, he could play MUCH worse then Fonty, and he’s not going to be moved lower in the lineup.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
I want Sori to get his freakin' head back in the games, and to play ball like it should be played.
zevkalman - July 3, 2009
we all do
except for those who want him replaced by a minor-leaguer.
drewishdrewid - July 3, 2009
Yes, I'm adamantly opposed to moving him back
He was absolutely horrible.
Pre - July 3, 2009
That 9 RBI game by Sammy in Coor's Field...
I was at that game!! He hit consecutive 3-run homeruns in the 3, 4, and 5 innings (or maybe inning 4-6), and then took himself out of the game, or probably would have had more. For those of you at the game yesterday, I’m still jealous – being a part of Lee’s carreer day would have been a great experience.
DisCUBbobulated - July 3, 2009
Milton Bradley and booing
If Bradley goes 0-3 he’ll get booed. If his 4th at-bat he hits a grand slam they’ll want a curtain call.
Honestly, I don’t think he should do it.
Oh and if that sort of circumstance ever happens, expect 3 diary posts in 2 hours about it on here :)
ak123 - July 3, 2009
Comcast post-game showed a split screen of the..
foul ball and the GS DLee hit just after. The difference in the bat position, ball position, and his body position was so small yet the results were so dramatically different. The bat was making contact with the ball just slightly lower on the foul and you could tell the bat was just a tiny bit behind. It is amazing how fractions of an inch meant the difference between a loud foul down the RF line and a GS onto Waveland. Anyone who does not think hitting a baseball consistently is the hardest job in sports is confused.
CubSteve - July 3, 2009
What a fun game!
It’s the first game this season I caught that I truly enjoyed — especially with old man Lee having a career day of it. I dearly hope today’s game is a repeat. We need our mojo back.
Emelie - July 3, 2009
Nothing like the Brewers pitchers to get us there!
DisCUBbobulated - July 3, 2009
I agree with Al that when Soriano is back he shouldn't leadoff.
Because regardless of what Soriano has done in that or other spots in the lineup in the past, Fuld is doing better than him right now. We’ll see if and when that changes, but for now I hope that Lou continues to ride the hot hand.
As for booing Bradley, I don’t promote it and I understand those who are turned off by it, but I’ve always seen booing as the opposite of cheering. So, if a player is applauded when he is doing well it’s natural that he’ll be booed when he is struggling, especially when he has done nothing good to endear himself to the Cubs’ fans. That’s Bradley’s case and the boooing will probably stop if he starts to perform like he has in the past for other teams, when he’s been healthy.
Fraggin Judge - July 3, 2009
i'm disappointed with this lineup
Soriano LF
Theriot SS
Lee 1B
Bradley RF
Fox 3B
Fukudome CF
Fontenot 2B
Hill C
Zambrano P
lexmarklover - July 3, 2009
I though that might happen..
Lou REALLY avoided the question yesterday about Fuld being in there. I think he wants to see if Soriano responds to the competition. Hill is not hitting at all – otherwise, this is the Cubs lineup that is supposed to produce. We’ll see.
DisCUBbobulated - July 3, 2009
You must Login with your SB Nation account and be a member of Bleed Cubbie Blue to post a comment.