Unrestricted View

Worst season ever

2010-07-22T17:33:00.005-05:00

So let me tell you about a professional(loose term) baseball team that crushes my soul with their ineptitude. You guessed it I am talking about the Houston Astros. The stros record entering today is 39 and 56. They trail everyone in the division excluding the pirates and they are making a strong run at the bucs for last place. Certainly a lot of people saw this coming and to say I was one of them would be true except that I also have a denial problem.

The Astros have scored 135 less runs then they have allowed this year and are near the bottom percentage of just about every meaningful statistic that exists in baseball. Armed with this information it would be safe to assume that this has been a bad year, but it goes farther. This is the "worst year ever'. Let me list just why this year for Astros baseball has hummed on balls the way it has.

1. We started the year with a feliz/blum -manzilla left side of the infield because we have no farm system. Manzilla is a 30 year old rookie

2. Carlos Lee is a fat sack of no hitting shit. Sucking at defense and offense makes you virtually worthless. Funny thing is the Astros owe him close to 40 mil for the net two years sooooooooo........yeah.

3.Our best pitcher requested a trade two weeks into the season and the worst hitting team in the major leagues waited till mid season to fire their hitting coach

4. I actually pay for mlb extra innings for the first time in my life. That means that I am paying extra to watch them lose.

5. I got dressed up in all Astros gear to watch them play the Dodgers here in LA. Expecting to be the only die hard Astro fan in the crowd. I showed up at what must have been the gang entrance to Dodger stadium. The latino gang banger heckling didnt last long before my girlfriend was detained at the entrance for trying to sneak liquor in. Let me be clear: the only people getting kicked out of the Dodgers game that day were the 2 Astros fans and some guy who was bussed there by some kind of LA homeless organization. I watched them lose from my apartment.

6. Brian Moehler going on the DL was a major loss for this team. Say that again to yourself.

7. The Los Angeles lakers won the NBA championship

8. They were no hit by a schitzo while on a nomadic homeless home-stand from a hurricane in Milwaukee. Wait, sorry that wasn't this season.

9. They traded for and now start Angel Sanchez at SS. Who the hell is angel sanchez?

10. Perhaps the most unnerving of all. They are rumored to be sending Roy Oswalt to the St. Louis Cardinals. Two things here: A. we will get owned and B. ITS THE FUCKING ST LOUIS CARDINALS!! Are you kidding me? I hate this team with the passion of a Danielle Steele novel and now we are sending them our best pitcher?

This season has blown goats and I have no choice but to look toward the NFL as a gleaming oasis upon the horizon. I hope that someday the Astros begin to draft and actually pay good players so that they have a farm system. I hope that maybe they hire a gm who studies numbers and doesnt get his ass choked in lunch hall like its prison. I hope that they find there way back to the world series before I die, Im almost thirty and I have reason to be worried on this one.

Seriously though, fuck this season.

Sweet Lou Goes Home

2010-07-21T00:06:00.007-05:00

Well, sorry Lou. I love ya man. Sorry to see you go. Lot's of folks who call themselves Cubs Fans love to blame you. But they're not really baseball fans. They don't know the game. We do, my man. And we'll miss ya.

"I don't care about feelings. Let's take feelings out of this." - So said the Manager of the Year of 95, 01 and 08.

Asking Lou Pinella to coach the Cubs and win the Series is like asking Jimmy Johnson to take a Hyundai into the winner's circle at Daytona. It just ain't gonna happen. Not while Hendry and the Ivory Tower think throwing a couple of overpaid idiots with no mind for the game (that's you Fonzie and Z) Top Five money for nothing. Well, they do get on ESPN for egregious errors and mental meltdowns. Yep, good job. Beer anyone?

Let's not even talk about Fukudome getting paid more than D Lee. Ever wonder what a $133 million dollar Hyundai looks like? The Tower knows.

Well, here's to you Lou, for giving it your best shot. Hard to make this team filled with fiscal irresponsibility into anything more than you did. Thanks for trying to bring some real baseball into Ozzie's Northside Bar. Sorry it didn't work out.

"I'm not afraid of anything," Lou said. Well, besides coaching one more year with these fools. Let's hope the new direction of the team angles more towards wins than concession sales.

I'm not holding my breath though. We know better 'round these parts.

But, back to tonight. This one's on me, Lou. Cheers.

Well, and Aramis. Glad to see him back. Where ya been Fool?! A little late ain't ya? But, hey, that's what the Cubs do best. Gotta get close enough in the race to sell plenty of $6.75 brewskies. Still, a three dinger day is a good day indeed. Especially when that W gets raised up on the pole.

Now, let's see how long it takes for Lilly to be moved.

Go Cubs!

Sunday Bloody Sunday

2010-07-18T20:26:00.012-05:00

Or, in other words, I'm watching Sunday Night Baseball on ESPN...

How can anyone, especially an alleged sports network, put these idiots on TV and give them money.

Example: Home run hit off Halladay by the Cubs Geo Soto got "caught up in the wind" and was pushed out "miraculously" (I mean, the flags aren't even moving... not a puff). But, OK, lots of idiots do the same thing in Wrigley. Everything hit is caught up in Jesus, I mean, the WIND. It's like magic man! Cue the idiot sheep-like smile.

Then, according to Joe Handicapable I Don't Believe In Stats Morgan and Orel I Believe In Ghosts Hersheiser, on the very next pitch, a ball gets hit and is foul to the first base side and the wind blew that one too... Directly right. Out beyond the first base dugout. Man, that wind sure is creepy. It just blows shit every which a way. Some one better call the Weather Channel! I think we got us one of them Chicago Hurricanes!

Well Blow ME why don't ya!?

Like the muttonhead analysts on ESPN Baseball. Full of hot air and no substance beyond mythology and Tim McCarver like I-swear-I-almost-sound-like-I-know-something-isms.

I got this novel idea. Physics. It'll help you. So will basic freaking intelligence. Are we asking too much to, I don't know, be smarter than a fifth grader?!?

Obviously, we certainly are.

Isn't some fat fuck dancing their ass off right now? Oh shit, are we missing it?!

Then, Gorzo walks Halladay in the 5th, which sucks, this is true. To lead off the inning even. And what is the infinite wisdom these mentally challenged highly paid "experts" tell us? THAT NEVER HAPPENS!! Wow! GEE THANKS DAD!! I bet Mom isn't really working late either!

Umm, let's not, ya know analyze things. Hey look, that dude's dead! Thanks Brokaw, good job with the news. Now here's Julie with the weather.

/cuethedancingbaby

This is what lack of competition breeds. Folks tellin' us piss is really light beer. Well, they may be right about that one, but still.

"Just remember how stupid the average person is and remember... Half of 'em are even stupider than that!" - Mr. George Carlin

Go Cubs! (at least .500?)

Blame Delonte West

2010-07-08T21:47:00.004-05:00

Hey Cleveland fans! Yes, yes, everyone hates you. It's so easy to wallow in self-pity instead of do something about it. I know.

But, if you're going to blame someone, sure, blame LeBratchelor. No prob. I understand. But, you really want to know when shit when down?

When Delonte West started having sex with LeBron's Mom.

Thanks Delonte!

Well, at least Miami thanks you.

Now, I want to see wtf Miami fans think Riley's going to do to sign 11 people with 10 million dollars.

Good luck!

You know who else is happy? Dwight Howard! Thanks for making sure he goes for 30 points and 20 boards 12 games a year!

Congrats LeBron. Good job going to the third best team in the East. Hope it was worth it.

Oh, and Kobe might be the happiest. No more Boozer in Utah. No more Amare in Phoenix. Oh yeah. Put the Lakers' name on the Trophy now.

Thanks LeBatchelor!

/fail

Good Sign in Early Spring

2010-03-08T15:01:00.005-06:00

Gotta love Lou Pinella. He's not screwing around with the lineup right off the bat. Here's how the top of the lineup looks today in the Spring Training game against the Oakland A's:

Ryan Theriot, SS

Kosuke Fukudome, RF

Derrek Lee, 1B

Aramis Ramirez, 3B

Marlon Byrd, CF

Alfonso Soriano, LF

All I can say is, Hell Yeah. Soriano in the six slot. It's about time. No more BS about him being a leadoff guy. No putting the worst OBP starter in the two slot. Move him down to six where he can swing his oversized bat a few times and maybe get some RBI's for once. He's not a rally starter, but he's been quite the killer, so let's hope he doesn't start off a sad 6-9 O-fer game after game.

But, for now, I am pleased :) Well, except for the lack of lefties... (but we should be used to that by now)

And, as far as that "diving catch" goes a few days ago... please. WTF. I mean, for Fonzy, it was good. Sure. And I appreciate the effort. But, it was on the freaking Top Ten plays of the day on the Mothership. /fail. Let's hope it was a slow day for highlights.

Speaking of, how about Landon Donovan's fantastic goal + assist day for Everton on Sunday morning? Yeah, I know, you prob didn't see it. :P But, it was s w e e t. He's got some subtle skills that I hadn't really taken the time to notice before. When you see him perform like that in the Barclay's Premier League, damn, that's some good shit.

But, as far as the Chicago Cubs go, let's hope they can display some subtle skills of their own. The starting pitching rotation is making me nervous. We'll have to see how it develops, but, it's definitely not what anyone (sober) would call "top tier" (see St. Louis). They need Big Z and Dempster to really come out firing to have a chance. Let's hope that happens, but I wouldn't plan that trip to Vegas just yet.

Ted Lilly is throwing off the mound. Nady is ready to swing the bat but not throw from the OF yet. More here from ESPN's Cubs Blog. Hope these two keep moving in the right direction.

Go Cubs!!

Why is Texas Number 2?

2009-09-19T23:22:00.004-05:00

Besides the obvious jokes the headline suggests, why the hell is Texas number two in the country? I mean, beating Division 2 Louisiana-Beauty School and looking shabby against Wyoming and then barely beating unranked Texas Tech at home by ten? Revenge? Fuck that. There's no revenge in beating an unranked team at home after allowing them to knock you out of the Title Picture last year. This Tech team has no resemblance to that team. TTU is NOT RANKED! They have no business keeping this a game into the fourth quarter, much less somehow justifying UT's farcical placement into the top of the college game. No one is pretending they even come close to last year's great team. STFU ESPN/ABC. Stop shoving this crap down our throats. You got lucky it was even a game. Texas allowed over 400 passing yards from a team that lost three starting Offensive Lineman, their starting quarterback, and one of the best receivers in the college game. Just who thinks we should buy this bullshit? Well, besides Disney/ABC/ESPN...

Kindly remove your preconceptions of what you thought would happen and base your thoughts on what you've actually seen this year. Texas hasn't beaten anyone worth anything. And somehow they are number two... WHY?! Alabama has beaten a tough Va Tech team that just beat Nebraska in a great game of ranked teams. Michigan has actually beaten a ranked Notre Dame. Miami has beaten TWO ranked teams. What gives?

Abolish the Preseason poll. Now. It is damaging the credibility of College Football. What's left of it (when's the last time a Heisman Trophy winner translated success into the NFL?). I mean, the fact they don't settle the actual championship with, ya know, an Actual Game, is crock enough. But, this who can we get more ratings with BS of a preseason poll is just an absolute mockery. It's all based on viewership and the number of alumni they have watching television. If you don't believe it, count how many undefeated teams will still be ranked below USC, who just lost to an unranked team for the fourth straight year, once the new polls come out. Why does Notre Dame get all it's games on national television?

And, to make things worse, the Longhorns don't play anyone this season except Oklahoma. Just like usual. Well, except last year when TTU caught lightning in a bottle. Sure, OK St, who just lost to HOUSTON... Kansas? Really? Mizzou? Not a great team this year. The Big 12 is worse than the SEC again, and probably the Pac 10 this year. There could be an argument for the Big 10 as well, but, with the weather the Big 12 teams enjoy, the better athletes, as a whole, will always come down here. So, I'd think from top to bottom, the Big 12 is better, since the bottom-feeders here could kick the pants off the bottom-feeders up there.

Back to the point, the goal of this farce is to keep the big boys up top, so their 100,000+ stadiums remain full, the conferences continue to cash in and the networks continue to enjoy ratings, no matter what the actual strengths of these teams are. It's all about money. Well, what isn't. But, if we are going to actually call this a competition, let's let the actions on the field mean something. Even though the teams are stupidly not allowed to settle things on the field at the end of the season anyway.

It's just a ridiculous Beauty Contest anyway. Should I even get into the fact that the month in between the last games and the second to the last games for these teams at their season's end changes everything as well? That and, besides the No. 1 vs. No. 2 game, all the other matchups are set up as a guaranteed win so the Big Dollar teams get to enjoy a "win" at the end of their seasons, so the "kids" and big money grads can continue to hand over their millions to the networks and the NCAA.

Nah, I'm tired. And forget College Football anyway. It's a joke. I've wasted too much time on it already.

/rantover

Tax Cheese, Not Soda

2009-09-19T20:35:00.011-05:00

If you really want to help the health of the nation, don't tax soda. Who cares. And, Coca-Cola and Pepsi have way too much money anyway. You won't win that and it doesn't make as much sense as another move that could actually help folks. Tax Cheese.

I know, I know, we all like cheese. Well, except the lactose intolerant. But, hear me out. Even the right-wingers might get on board with this one. Ya know, those dang French sure make a lot of cheese...

Seriously, though. Soda is just sugar and water and a bit of coloring. Sure, not great, but worse for your teeth than for your girth. OK, maybe not so good for either. :P Cheese, however, is pretty much just fat and calories. Sure, there's some milk proteins, but, come on, what the hell is cheese anyway? Spoiled milk? I could live without it. Well, "could" being the operative word. I do like myself some good cheese. But, I'd understand taxing it to pay for healthcare. Or maybe potato chips and/or french fries. These things really add to the unhealthiness of America. OK, soda too, but it's not as big a problem as these fried foods.

Will any food be taxed? No, of course not. It makes too much sense. Fat people pay taxes too. And buy two seats on a plane. Not like those "damn" smokers and drinkers... Maybe we should tax by the pound divided by height. lol. But really, we should do something. Why should folks who choose to be unhealthy weigh down the whole system? And there are too damn many of these bigguns. I mean, look around. See what I mean? Ya think these folks won't flip out when food is literally being taken from their mouths?

If folks would just take care of themselves and not get so fucking fat, maybe we wouldn't have so much cost in healthcare anyway. Take a page from Bill Maher and get a clue. I want to be clear here, if folks want to get fat, go ahead. Have fun. But don't expect me to be happy paying for it.

That, and let's get rid of all the paperwork bullshit. Seriously.

And forcing folks to get insurance is just wrong. If I don't want Insurance, why do I have to get it? If I get sick, I pay out of pocket or I die. Cool with me. Shouldn't I be able to choose to not go to the hospital? I haven't gone for 10 years now. And when I did that time, I used a little known thing called cash to pay for it. Why make me pay every month for something I don't use? How much would that be in wasted monthly payments? Where's that money going? Who's using it? Why make decisions for me? Am I FREE or not? Well, then again, if I'm paying taxes to cover healthcare, why am I paying taxes and monthly healthcare premiums? WTF?

And I'm what folks call a Liberal...

/rantover

The One

2009-09-11T11:04:00.005-05:00

Michael Jordan goes into the Basketball Hall of Fame today. No person on the planet is surprised. The Man, The Legend, The Greatest to Ever Play The Game.

Great pre-ceremony speech. Love what he said about Phil Jackson, Kobe Bryant and LeBron James, David Robinson and Jerry Sloan. What else can really be said? Bask in the wonderment of what has passed. We shall never see this moment again.

Thank you Michael for all the moments you brought us. I shall never forget the greatness I witnessed. Too Bad the Bulls got lucky and will never repeat as NBA Champions. At least not with present ownership/management.

But, Six Times ain't so bad ;)

Did the Cubs REALLY just lose two of three to the Mets?

2009-09-07T11:58:00.001-05:00

Yeah, They Did...

Perhaps That Word Does Not Mean What You Think It Means

2009-09-03T12:33:00.006-05:00

Pitching Coach.

Yeah, that's two words, but, anyone take the time away from bashing the National League to wonder, maybe the Red Sox don't really know what they're doing over there?

I mean, Smoltz goes on down I-55 to the Redbirds and pitches like a born-again superstar. Penny goes into San Fran and struts his stuff against the defending champs. And Beckett looks like he's wondering where the meds are. Mabye, just maybe, John Farrell ain't all that. Who is that guy anyway? Yeah, when the Baseball World is looking at your resume for these reasons, it isn't a good thing.

Unless you're the Cardinals or Giants that is.

Story is it took about a day for the Cards and Dave Duncan (a REAL pitching coach) to figure out what was wrong with John Smoltz. Seems he was tipping his pitches. Really?! Ya mean someone paid to know these things, seven figures most likely, doesn't know this kind of things? And I thought Larry Rothschild needed some help...

Yeah, he still does. I mean, how many complete games do the Cubbies have this year? ONE. Guess who that was. Lilly? Good guess, best bet, but, nope. Big Z? Yeah right. That'd mean he'd be earning his paycheck. Dempster? Hell, young man Wells has more IP/GS than ol Red. Wells is definitely one of the very bright spots of the year though (10-7, 2.90 ERA, 1.28 WHIP and a .358 Opp SLG, seventh best in the NL). So, I guess that means they'll either dump him in the offseason or really overpay him (reverse psychology?) Anyway, back to the quiz. It's Sean Freaking Marshall. Yeah, that's right. The guy in the pen with nine starts all year. Fantastic.

Well, it's Ryan Dempster up against some noob named Eddie Torres tonight. Wait, that's the alien from Cheech and Chong. I mean Carlos Torres. A guy who's only pitched 9.1 innings in two starts this year. He debuted in the Bigs at the end of July. Sounds like the Cubs are in trouble...

If only I were kidding.

But, Red just had his 2nd best month of the year in August. He's got a 3.69 ERA, almost 6.2 IP/GS, 37/12 K/BB, but a tepid 1.31 WHIP for the month. His season's WHIP is 1.37, so I'm guessing that's about what to expect from him. That'd be fourth on the starting staff though, above, you guessed it, Zambrano's paltry 1.43 runners per inning. YIKES (that's 39th in the NL, 69th in the League). Would this be the time to mention Z is the third highest paid starter in all of Baseball? Oh, I've said that before? OK, I won't say it this time then...

So, rants aside, will Dempster show up tonight against the White Sox and give us a win? Let's hope so. The Northsiders need to run off about 10 straight to get back in this thing. Chances of that? Especially with D Lee getting the night off.

Let's just say I'm folding to any raise. And I'm only getting my money in if I'm already blinded.

That's not all that good. :P But, I still have my cards in my hands.

Go Cubs!

What's That Smell?

2009-09-02T14:49:00.005-05:00

So, the Cubs are about toasted again, but still won't admit defeat. Aren't the tickets sold already? Not that I'll really care what moves they make until the headline "Soriano Sent Packing" or "Zambrano Agrees to Smaller Salary" hits the stands. Which won't ever happen.

I mean, they don't even have Newspapers anymore, do they?

So, what's a Chicago Sports fan to do? Watch the Sox at least try, and then at least be smart enough to cut payroll? Bleh. Watch Bears preseason? We talkin bout Practice?! I'm already tired of hearing about Longhorn Football in Austin, and they haven't even kicked the crap out of Louisiana Beauty School or whoever their first game's against yet. Grr..

And Maybe Next Year just ain't fun to think about. Besides, I've already done that enough. With Alfonso Soriano tied to the squad through 2014, it might just be 2015 that's our year. Maybe.

Why even torture ourselves? Let's face it. The Cubs are the Cubs. They just win enough games to sell enough beer to get enough butts in the seats to make a profit, and they dangle the shiny objects at us enough until we buy in to their devious Marketing and Lies. WHY!? Well, we're suckers, that's why.

Cub Fans love losing. If we won, wtf would we do? Well, besides most of the fans going into such a bender, they may not get out of it until 2015. Hey, at least Soriano would be gone! Who's got the next round!!

Luckily for you, I need to get to sleep, or there'd be more aimless rambling qq to go around.

Maybe the 2020's are our decade.

Watching Everyone Else Try

2009-07-26T23:45:00.005-05:00

The Chicago Cubs are in first place in the NL Central. I know I should be happy about this. And, you know, I am, somewhat. However, it feels like last year, but without the record to hide the facts about the real quality of this team. The Cubs are good, yes. But not great. They might actually make the playoffs, although they need to win the division to do so, so it won't be an easy run. However, if they get in, I do not see this team winning the National League.

And the Ivory Tower seems fine with this.

Since they seem to be happy not making any trades before the deadline, I think they'll end up watching the Cards pass them by anyway. I'm not trying to be a doom-bringer here. That's just what the Cards do. They win. As the team with the second most MLB World Championships would. If only the Cubbies weren't content simply sitting on their laurels (whatever those are - 1907-08 Back to Back! Woot!!) and watching everyone else actually try to make their clubs better.

With the third highest payroll in baseball, yeah, they've sort of burnt out this year's shot with yesteryear's bad contract decisions. Not to bring up Soriano and Fukudome again. But, to keep with the theme, Good players not worth their Great contracts. While other teams who actually win World Series games are getting their Hollidays or working on their Halladays, the Northsiders are going to say why change a good thing. I mean, they're in first place, right?! And the payroll is pretty high already. So are the Dodgers and World Champion Phillies, and they've spent plenty of cash. You don't see them saying they're good enough. And they don't have Wrigley to pad the books. The Cards had Holliday move in down I-55, and he promptly put a 4 for 5 on the board. They go out and get it done. Not with flash, but with substance. Well, most folks like to seem to get out of Oakland lately. If you need good help, see Pirates and the Athletics for good deals. Nice to have the farm system in the Bigs. The film quality's better up here.

But, I digress. You see the Redbirds, Phils and Bums trying to improve their teams. Why aren't the Cubs at least in the discussion for trades like this? Because if they make the playoffs, or at least finish over .500, the turnstiles turn every night and day. They don't need to try. Kinda sad, actually. Sure, Graham, you might say. But they don't need to try in Boston or St. Louis either. Those fans would keep on filling the stands. True. But at least they try. And succeed, I might add.

There is no try. Only do.

Out of the Cubs Front Office, I'd be pleased if I even saw a frickin' try.

NBA Referees Are A Joke

2009-04-29T19:56:00.002-05:00

So, Wade goes up to block a shot, and gets a Flagrant Foul 1 call, but Rondo smacks a guy across the face, and it's just a hard foul.

What The Fuck...

Way to be consistent. You are A JOKE.

Gratz.

Stevie Wonder could've seen that shit.

Chicago Cubs Opening Day

2009-04-06T00:00:00.000-05:00

To dream the impossible dream
To fight the unbeatable foe
To bear with unbearable sorrow
To run where the brave dare not go

OK, it's been a LONG offseason. We lost the great writings of Cub Town and all of the Baseball Toaster. The Cubs lost the playoff series with the Dodgers in less than impressive fashion. And we still seem to have Alfonso Soriano leading off (OK, at least he went 3-4 yesterday with AB's vs. Pettitte and Burnett).

But, this is the day we put our losses behind us. This is the day we say This Is The Year. This is the day we start our long journey toward a goal not seen since 1945 and not won since 1908. this is the day, we saddle up that steed once again, and charge right at that World Series ring. This is the day, we sit and watch our Beloved Cubbies with hearts and arms open, hopes abound with joy, and smile while Big Z gets the big win and goes 2 for 4, and Derrek Lee hits one on Waveland.

Ah, this is the life. Cub Fans days have very few of these precious moments to cherish. So, grab your favorite beverage, grab your comfiest chair (or get to Wrigley if you are a lucky one!) and let's watch the beauty that is the Chicago Cub Franchise. Today, at 6:05pm CDT we watch the first pitch breeze in there for a strike, and cheer with glee. Today we stand arm and arm and sing Take Me Out to the Ballgame together. We hold our heads up high and see that unattainable dream within our grasp. Today, we beat Roy Oswalt and the Houston Astros and we high five and talk about where we were when it all began.

For one single solitary day, we, the Chicago Cubs, are the greatest team in the Universe.

"Live this day as if it will be your last. Remember that you will only find "tomorrow" on the calendar of fools. Forget yesterday's defeats and ignore the problems of tomorrow. This is it... Make it the best day of your year." - Og Mandino

Astros offseason moves bold and glamorous

2008-12-06T09:25:00.004-06:00

Retired? Not yet, bored with this years off season? Fuck Yeah! The Astros continued their whirlwind off season acquisitions yesterday with the signing of Matt Kata, a 30 year old minor league player who they hope can compete for a spot to back up Miguel Tejada.

I'm gonna kick back and let that sink in for awhile.

The Kata signing comes on the heels of Mike Hamptons return, Hampton who once finished second in the Cy Young voting while in a Houston Uniform comes home leading the "audacity of hope" mantra that the nearly flawless starting rotation will no doubt adopt as the season gets underway in 120 days.

I cant tell you how awesome it is to be an Astros fan currently, other than the two blockbusters i just mentioned, the biggest story of the off season is how the club will deal with economic woes.

That's what i want to hear about, the economy. God knows when i go to the local sports page in the morning i want to get the latest update on what my favorite baseball team WONT be doing due to the infringing economic crisis. I don't hear people talking enough about the economic crisis anyway, please molest my precious baseball rumors with fiscal doubt and uncertainty.

Well i have been a negative nelly long enough today, i hope everyone Else's off season is going well and that there are those who don't have starting rotation worries(cough cubs cough).

Merry Christmas you pitching rich bastards!!

Why The Cubs Won't Win The World Series

2008-10-05T07:54:00.005-05:00

The biggest reason? Alfonso Soriano.

Easy as that. Yeah, yeah, I know. Try and talk to me about it. Homeruns, woooo, shiny. No OBP, no team chemistry, no glove, no baseball mind, no baseball heart. OK, he's got a decent arm. Great. And he's plugging up the leadoff spot because he's a spoiled freakin' brat. And, the worst part is, the Cubs deserve it. Because they've let it happen.

The contract they signed him to was stupid. It was stupid then, and it goes all the way up to REALLY F'n STUPID in the coming years. Not only is he a major reason this season will be the best of his tenure on the Northside, the back end of the deal is so large, no one will ever take him off the Cubs hands. EVER. And it will prevent them from signing an outfielder that's, well, better than just above average.

Seriously. If you thought $13 million was a little high (little?!) for nearly the worst OBP of the starters (Edmonds was one one hundredth of a point behind, and he's a platoon player) and #2 on the team behind Soto for K/AB, just wait until next year when he costs $16 million. Hey, at least it only gets a whole lot worse when he gets $18 mil per year for the next four consecutive years after that. Do you think he's worthy of the equal money of Carlos Zambrano? That's what I thought. Oh, and he has that silly-ass hop out there. Fun times.

The baseball world (wrongly) hears about Alex Rodriguez's numbers in the postseason and how they aren't good. Well, would you rather have A-Rod's .279/.373/.483 with 9 doubles and 7 HR's or A-Sore's .213/.263/.299 with more K's (53) than Total Bases (52)?!

OK, how can this be fixed? Get rid of him. Well, that won't happen, so make him bat fifth. No questions, no bitching, no other way. You bat fifth. Period. Can the Cubs ever realize how important Leadoff is?? Ya know, for RBI's for the big bats? Maybe then he wouldn't only have 75 RBI to show for his 29 HR's. But, then again, he looks alright against the Pirates of the world, but once he goes against smart managers that know not to pitch Soriano any strikes, he gets himself out. And, if the guy won't do what's best for the team (which we know he won't), has no plate discipline, and you can't get rid of him, what do you do?

Lose. That, and only score twelve runs in the last six playoff games, all losses. Sweet. Don't forget to get your Commemorative T-Shirt on your way out!

Oh, and great job signing Fukudome and having seven digits of salary sitting on the bench as well. Hey, guess what, next year it nearly doubles!! WooHoo!!

Seriously, if the team played without Soriano or Fukudome, they wouldn't miss them a bit. That's two outfield positions, with a weak CF for every year since, ever?, that are gone baby gone... Please, get rid of one of them. Yeah right. Neither can go. They're tied into their contracts. And therein lies the problem. We Cub Fans are tied into several more years of Losing. Fantastic. Well, at least we won't get this close for a while, so maybe it won't hurt as much...

Congrats on a good season, Cubbies. Hope that's all you wanted. The Central crown again. Cause that's as good as it's going to get.

Yay! Maybe next century will be our century. Go Cubs in 2100!! Bloody Hell.

Different Dog Same Fleas

2008-07-31T21:03:00.003-05:00

Today the Sox decided to get more power in the lineup. They acquired Griffey Jr. from the Reds for next to nothing, Massett – who was just about to get sent down to the minors and Richar, who no longer had a spot to come up. With Cabrera at SS this year our 1st round draft pick on Beckham from UGA, Ramirez at 2nd with the over priced Uribe as a backup. Richar was the odd man out.
I question what Kenny is doing to get a declining player such as Jr. which the Sox are only paying for $2.4M of his salary this year. We are fine in the OF with All Star Quentin LF, MVP Dye in RF, and Mr. Lunchbox Swisher in Center.
If they plan to platoon Konerko at 1st with Swisher you loose defense in both spots. Jr. no longer can track down balls, like he used to.
How often do you really need to rest a DH, since it gets tiring only participating in half the game? Yes I understand that it is tough to stay mentally when you don’t play the field since I was a DH myself back in the day. But you should be able to go out and hit.
Maybe they are thinking that Jr. can play first. I know it sounds weird, and Jr. might not have played 1B since Tee ball or Babe Ruth. But it might be worth it. Have him invest a new round glove and put him at first.
This sure does seem like it fits on the team. This team sure is getting old and it is turning back to the South Side Hitmen, Bashing Balls, roll out the keg for Softball league. Or just prior to they won the World Series, with el Caballo Lee in RF, Ordonez in RF, Konerko at 1B, Big Hurt DH.
The Sox have proven that this doesn’t work. I believe that they should go back to fundamentals and play small ball, manufacturing runs. Chics may dig the long ball but I believe real baseball fans would rather see runs truly produced.

USA...USA...USA

2008-07-23T10:29:00.003-05:00

As 8/8/08 comes closer for the start of the summer Olympics, do people really care about the Olympics for the main stream events? I enjoy the watching the games that I don’t get to see much of or get over hyped, such as your Track and Field, swimming, wrestling, weight lifting, and other. However I really don’t give a rats butt on watching some of the main stream events. Here is a list of games that I feel that the USA fan really won’t watch.

Basketball – This is like watching the summer basketball for the rookies. Sure there is a lot of talent there but do you really care if you missed watching it
Soccer – The EURO and World Cup are the bigger venues then the Olympics
Boxing – All too often this is just a glorified Golden Gloves. If people want to watch fighting they should watch MMA or bring cage fighting to the Olympics.
Baseball – This is right in the middle of the MLB season. There are so many international players that are in MLB that are not going so that should tell you how important the players even think it is.

People should tune into the Olympics. However, I for one will want to follow the smaller sports and look for that underdog that we can grasp on to and truly lift up as a champion.

Bears Show Urlacher The Money

2008-07-22T01:49:00.003-05:00

Finally.

Brian Urlacher got what he was looking for: Contract Restructuring. He gets six million off the bat in "signing bonus" and a one million boost each year over the next four years. Good. The inept Chicago Bears Front Office finally did something smart, and assured the best player on their squad stays happy and keeps crushing guys on the other side of the ball. Unfortunately, their offense still sucks.

But, let's focus on the positives for a moment. No more singing for the man, no more, "sure, we'll get to it"/"check is in the mail" crap. They paid him what he's worth, and he'll go out there and play like he always does. It's just a bonus that it'll be in a Bears uniform.

And enough stupid stories about him having to go earn it. He's done that ever since he's first stepped on Soldier Field. So, if you read this story, remember to send some hate mail in about how stupid Haugh is. Thanks. Actually, don't even read it. What's the use.

However, there's a hilarious idea of trading Urlacher for Favre from Mike "I was bored today, so I wrote a column" Downey. Yeah. Brilliant. Let's see, what comes to mind exactly... oh yeah... STFU. Compared to Downey, Haugh is a genius. Mike Downey is the only guy I can think of that would make W the smartest man in the room.

Brewers Acquire Ray Durham

2008-07-20T17:23:00.002-05:00

The Milwaukee Brewers just made a move to up their offense (even while they're beating on TimLin 5-0) and traded for veteran second baseman Ray Durham. They gave up two Minor Leaguers, outfielder Darren Ford, and pitcher Steve Hammond.

Gotta give it to the Brew Crew Management, they're giving it all they have for the one year shot at the prize. Seems weird to count out Rickie Weeks, but perhaps the .218 BA has something to do with it. Ya think?

Well, I don't think the Cubs are going to make anymore big moves, but an addition to the bullpen is still possible.

In the meantime, let's get the right-handed swingers ready for Mr. Randy Johnson.

Go Cubs!!

Cubs Lost Offense Found in Baggage Claim

2008-07-20T15:36:00.003-05:00

Well, after two nights of No Offense Whatsoever, the guys got off their asses and supported a fantastic outing from Ryan Dempster to wipe out the Astros on getaway day to the tune of 9-0. The Cardinals are down 3-2 as I type and are looking at bases loaded of Padres with two out in the top of the eighth. On a side note, man, where'd they get these tools who broadcast Padres games? Actually, I don't want to know.

Eight strong (well, seven, the loading the bases thing and all) innings from Demp, followed up by a 1-2-3 ninth from Marmol, is exactly what the Cubs needed. Nice to see only one walk from Ryan, not until the eighth, along with the seven K's. Add that with the bats actually showing up today, and the ship's once again pointed in the right direction.

Theriot continues his hit streak, now at 12, with a multi-hit, multi-RBI game. Fontenot had a awesome day as well, with a single, double and homer. Hell, even Fukudome decided to get involved with a couple of hits. Edmonds and Lee too. Let's keep this train rolling along with Harden against the Unit tomorrow night.

Ahhh... No tranq's needed tonight. Let's hope the Giants can help the Cubs out with a W as well tonight, although the Brew Crew already but two on the board in the 2nd off of TimLin.

I'm getting another glass of Iced Tea, puttin' the feet up, and enjoying the rest of the Baseball packed day.

Go Cubs!!!

Cubs Fall Out The Gate

2008-07-19T20:38:00.008-05:00

What? Great. Cubs 0-2, Cards 3-0, Brewers 2-0 since Break. Cubs lose two to the (used to be) cellar dweller. F_ckin' Skippy. Lilly loses and the Ace, Z, loses (and gives up six walks). WTF?!?!?!?!?

If this team doesn't learn how to play on the road soon enough, especially a "offensively good", right-handed dominated team, at the Band Boxes of ALL Band Boxes, Enron/Astros/Minute Maid Park, what the hell do they have to look forward to?

I'll tell ya. 1969. Well, except that year, they had the dignity to collapse a lot later.

OK, I know. Doombringer Extraordinaire. So sue me. F_ckin' Bullsh_t watchin' these Cubs roll over for the first two out the gate in the second half.

If they aren't crushing the loser Astros by the third inning tomorrow, cue the Lou Pinella Tirade.

Bet the Ranch on it.

I only hope it works. Again.

And, if anyone even suggests the can't get on base, can't steal, strike out fool who, yes, can hit home runs, but why the f_ck is he a leadoff hitter, Fonzie, I'll...

AAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(Zoloft anyone?)

At least Ryan Theriot acts like he cares. Great 3-4 game, Kid. But, if the team can't take out the 'stros, I hate to see what the Cards and Brewers do. Especially when they keep on winnin'.

Dan Uggla: Wanna Get Away?

2008-07-16T15:33:00.007-05:00

Ding! The long, long, long, All-Star Game last night was fun at times, sad at times, but a wonder to watch overall. What did we learn? The American League still has better players and obviously had the better Manager last night, but, also, we learned this game can actually mean something.

However, one person absolutely wanted to find a hole and hide, and that was Dan Uggla. Credited with three errors, he actually made a few other questionable plays as well. He also K'd with the bases loaded once and also ended the threat in the 10th by grounding into an easy 4-6-3. So, I'm assuming y'all know that 0-4 with three strikeouts (the most on either squad), six LOB (again, the most), three errors (yep, the most) and a GIDP probably cost the game. I'm sure Dan's well aware of that too. Maybe he just wasn't used to, as a Florida Marlin, playing in front of more than 10,000 people. Perhaps he stayed up all night with one of NYC's finest ladies of the night. He certainly didn't help his value on the trade market, which we know is what the Marlins are all about. Dan's not the Man, last night for sure. Of course, he'll just hit some more slam dunks, oh, I mean home runs, and get all over ESPN again anyway. Right Corey Hart? A two-hopper to the plate from shallow right field (and not even on target)?! Way to go Jacque Jones, Jr.

He's not the only one who had a hard day at the game. What was Clint Hurdle thinking getting Brad Lidge up SIX times in the pen? Lidge was tabulated as throwing over 100 warmup pitches before he ever got into the game, sometime past 1:00 am EDT. Seriously, I'd expect this from a High School coach (just ask Kerry Wood), maybe, but a Big Leaguer? Embarrassing, stupid, foolish and just plain sad. How'd this doofus ever get to the World Series? Oh yeah, roll of all rolls and a collapse ahead of him. Great.

The NL did get lucky though, with every one and their mother stealing on Soto and Martin. The LA catcher can hit and is one of the best fielders behind the plate, but Francona pretty much showed everybody that the man just can't throw out baserunners (not that Soto got anyone either).

Finally, I think they should add another pitcher per team, perhaps two players and let them decide if they want position players or pitchers. This way, more people get on the team, more fans are happy, more players are happy (more get bonuses too), and the Managers don't have to worry as much about the late game attrition (although why Francona only got 9 pitches out of Halladay can easily be criticized after the fact).

Good News? This comes from the "sort of" department, but at least Zambrano, Dempster and Marmol all looked good. However, I'd rather they all have more time off if the NL didn't win anyway. Especially Carlos Marmol. Oh well, at least they showed the AL they can take 'em out, on the big stage, if need be. Ya gotta think Ryan felt pretty hopped up about the three K's he threw down in the ninth. And Big Z, where's that pickoff move been all year? Loved the pitch to Manny too. Fun times.

Is it Friday yet?

Go Cubs!!

The Home Run Derby is a Joke

2008-07-15T15:38:00.002-05:00

The purpose of this is not to take away from what Josh Hamilton was able to accomplish last night. The problem I have, and many others, is of what he was not allowed to accomplish: The Actual Victory.

Yes, he "won the hearts of baseball fans across America" and blah blah blah. Great that Disney Sports, oh, I'm sorry, ESPN, got to tout Christianity and Don't Do Drugs messages all night (Happy Happy Joy Joy). Fact is, the structure of the Home Run Derby is fatally flawed. It is so irritating that I will never watch another one of these again, until they change up the way it is so the guy who hits the most home runs actually wins (I'll just watch the highlights and keep those three and a half hours of my life, thank you). What a concept, eh? I mean it is (supposedly) a frickin' Home Run Derby contest, right? Then why are hitting more home runs seemingly unimportant?

Remember back in '99, when Mark McGwire won the Home Run Derby in Fenway Park? Oh yeah, he didn't win (Griffey did, but no one cares to remember that, cause he shouldn't have), even though he trounced the competition and hit some of the most memorable home runs ever in this faux "competition". They changed it in '06 (wow, in only took six more years of crap?) so that Round 1 and 2 added up together. Good idea, they got rid of the stupid Wipe The Slate Clean thing. But, they didn't. They just saved it for the last round for when the two "sluggers" (Justin Morneau? Luis Gonzalez?) are so tired they can barely lift their arms. F_cking Ridiculous.

And that's not the only year the guy with the most dingers lost. Last year, Rios hit two more that Vlad, but lost. In '05, David Ortiz got hosed when his first round of 17 got wiped and he didn't even make it out of the second round. In 2003, Garrett Anderson won even though he actually hit the third most home runs (Pujols and Giambi hit more). Wow, fun times for morons. Giambi got screwed in '01 too, when he hit 20 but "lost" to Luis Gonzales (16) and Sammy "Say It Ain't" Sosa (13). Yep, Jason didn't even make the finals that year.

If you're thinking about the strategy and how endurance is a factor, and you aren't a Twins fan, then go out back and shoot yourself now. Really, I'll wait...

OK, for the rest of us, let's work on revamping this sorry, sorry display of Suits jacking up an otherwise decent idea. We're at the point where people don't even want to be in it. Sure, some people think they'll screw up their swing, but that's garbage (sorry, Abreu, it was time on earth that caught up with you, not hacking a few BP's over the fence). It's the same problem as the Slam Dunk Contest. The best person doesn't always win (right Dwight Howard?).

What should be done? I've been thinking about this for a while. Yesterday, I suggested an inning by inning format like they did in the old TV show, but that wouldn't solve the fatigue factor, and may, actually, intensify it. My Suggestion version 2.0 is to eliminate the third round, and invite only the HR leaders at the time of the break.

Here's how'd my idea would work. Currently, there are three rounds, starting with eight, and involving 14 sets of 10 "outs" to (wrongly) determine the winner. I say, invite the top five HR hitters from each league, and going down the list to cover injuries and "no thank you"'s until you get the ten peeps.

OK, now that we have ten contestants (who can actually hit 'em), let them each take their hacks in Round One, 10 outs if ya want, although isn't nine a better baseball number? Unless we've finally moved to the Metric System or something. Anyway, that argument being rather silly, take the best four guys, move them to the final round, let them slug it out, and take the combined numbers from Round 1 and Round 2 to determine the winner. In case of a tie, you could up the drama and go swing for swing Sudden Death to establish the Champ.

Ya see? Still 14 rounds, still same TV time, still same Ad Rev (although I'd argue it'd be better). And this way, the person who hits the most home runs actually wins. Also, the contestants won't get so tired, so the final round would actually be worth watching, instead of feeling like a spotter asking for "just one more".

What a concept.

I'll take a 5% cut off the top, and may even take less if you get rid of that stupid Call the Shot thing. What gives with that anyway? How about giving $10,000 from each player to the charity of their choice, then give $50,000 to the winner's charity and $25,000 to the runner-up. Hell, have the Prez's of each charity there and get all the Smile-aren't-we-great TV time that you could ever hope for. You could even do a minute or two on each charity, and really up the ante.

Someone get on this, will ya? Thanks.

Tonight, more exhibition. Well, "it counts" for the AL home field advantage (seemingly) every year, since the inception of this Selig gem. Great. Please, please, please, No Cubs Get Hurt. That's the mission. Otherwise, maybe the only other big deal could be an Aramis Ramirez late inning HR or something, cause that'd make for a good highlight. Maybe I should wait to bitch about the ASG until tomorrow.

Better for the stress levels, ya know?

Go Cubs!!

two more days 'til Real Baseball again... (sigh)

Objects are Closer Then They Appear

2008-07-14T22:02:00.004-05:00

Any one that has been down on their luck only has to look as far as Josh Hamilton. We all have made wrong decisions in our lives but it is how we all learn and want to better ourselves. Josh could have been one of those guys that decided my life is crap and given up. But he has overcome it all, at least in this chapter in his life. I had no idea who this kid was. I didn’t know he was the first player taken and a five tool player. My first memory of Josh was on the show Flip this House, “The Real Deal” with Richard Davis and Trademark Realty on TLC. The story was, that Josh was a kid that had some problems, and he played some ball. Richard hired him to work on some of his home make overs to sell homes quickly. Richard is one that seems very straight forward and is one that will give people a break. But, they will have to work for it. If you don’t then you would be out. Josh showed that he was one that would put the time in and work hard. If my memory serves me correctly Richard helped to get Josh a chance in A-Ball then it seemed like Josh took off from there. Almost like a Disney movie script for this kid was made. The next thing, Josh is playing for the Reds. Then this year for the Rangers, making a run at the triple crown, hitting 28 in the first round of the HR Derby. However he ran out of gas and couldn’t get enough out. They need to have the derby be a total. As they stated no one will remember Justin, only Josh’s performance will be remembered for HR Derby of 2008.

I sure get to hear a lot about him being in Big D but the story is one for the books and he isn’t a flash in the pan. Watch out Angels, things in the mirror are closer then they appear.

Get in, get out, go home

Ryan Braun on Queer Eye?

2008-07-14T18:10:00.006-05:00

Has anyone else noticed how much Milwaukee Brewer Ryan Braun looks like Jai Rodriguez from Queer Eye? Not that there's anything that resembles fashion sense within 100 miles of Milwaukee, WI.

Speaking of Coming Out Parties, I'm just distracted until the "signature talent" free 2008 Home Run Derby starts tonight. Tonight, the party seems already scripted for Josh Hamilton. It's the ol' Hey, Look, He USED to Do Drugs, but Now He's Like Us and Awesome, thang. I can barely stomach the trash, but I'm looking forward to a few Yankee Stadium meteor shots tonight.

In fact, who's going to beat Josh?

That's what I thought. And thanks for the Josh Hamilton successful rehab story. We'll be waiting for the next round of stories that cut him back down. Predictable patterns of the media for the morons, and all.

They need to revamp this thing. Will anything beat McGwire's Fenway park display anyway? EVER? How about the old TV show setup with inning by inning matchups, winners move through in a head to head tourney bracket. It's simple. Get the top four HR guys from each league, seed them 1-8 (flip for AL/NL first, then go 1v8, 2v7, etc.) and go inning by inning, until the final round (only three rounds this way) and then you might get some "ninth" inning heroics people can talk about. One out per inning, nine outs total, each hitter taking turns, inning by inning scorekeeping, fans are in it, and TV drama is created (ya know it'll go down to the last "inning" often enough). And make some $ go to the winner's Fave Charity. Hell, give the runner up a charity donation plug too.

And, come to think of it, get rid of the "wipe the slate clean" idiocy. For instance, McGwire didn't even with that year ('99 in Fenway), cause lil' Griffey "won" it later. Why wipe 'em clean? Those homers didn't count? This isn't a frickin' Home Run Derby? Why watch a Home Run Derby where the person who hits the most home run doesn't win? STUPID is quite the understatement.

Someone should stop thinking "spectacle" and start going with "exciting", "fun" or even "at least peeps didn't get ripped off" as HRD ideas (now that I think about it, where does all this ASG cash go anyway? To the Account de Selig? MLB coffers? Hank Steinbrenner's Future Fines Fund?).

Go Cubs!!

(Well, no Cubs tonight, but that's a good thing, if ya ask me. Do ya want Aramis taking 100 uppercut, all-out swings tonight? Me either)

Back In The Saddle

2008-07-12T21:57:00.011-05:00

The Chicago Cubs had themselves a good day. It started off good at least. Rich Harden comes in and pitches a great game. Got that first start under his belt, and it was a quality one. Check it off the to-do list. "It's an awesome feeling," Harden said in his ESPN Hotline (cellphone) interview. Peachy Keen.

Later, Carlos Marmol comes in and does his best version of the Ninth Inning Meltdown yet this season, giving up five runs (yes, FIVE) in the ninth inning, and surrendering the 7-2 lead. Are you serious?!? Just frickin' skippy.

Luckily, in the bottom of the eleventh, our man Reed Johnson poked a single through through the infield to right that (barely) scored Mark DeRosa from second base. Cubs win 8-7. Calls of scrappy hit were heard across the land. And loved by many. Cue the music and raise that W.

Harden went 5.1 IP, without surrendering a run, allowing five hits, walking three and striking out a whopping ten. He outshined the CC outing, and made a great statement for the new ballclub. Something like "how's that?" with confident, knowing overtones. So far, so good. Let's revisit this a few more starts from now.

What's up with Carlos? Maybe he's just a tired, tired young man. Aren't you glad he's not on the All Star squad now?! Let's hope he gets his head out of his ass sooner than later, because I'd rather put the looking in the rearview mirror burner on low. I think the break is just what we're looking for. It'd better be or I'll need to refill the Valium scrip. Again.

Of course, ya always gotta dig the Cards and Brewers losing, which they were kind enough to do today. Jason Michaels: Cubs Hero of the Day. Thanks, buddy. I knew you could do it. Way to finish up that comeback victory. That man better not have a tab tonight. Meanwhile, the Cubs are up five and a half on the Redbirds and six on the Crew. Back with the best record in Baseball and the biggest lead as well. Lovin' it. Let's do this again tomorrow, shall we? Cool.

Well, like the Cubs Fans aren't worn out enough, here comes the final chapter with BC Red vs. TimLin. I think Dempster can hang, of course, but no one in '08 wants to break out the measuring tape vs. Lincecum. Get your popcorn ready.

Go Cubs!!

Another Giant Performance From Marquis

2008-07-11T16:29:00.007-05:00

We now know Jason Marquis likes to pitch against the San Francisco Giants. Either that, or he's a brand new man. Let's hope it's more the latter, but I'm sure the Chicago Cubs will take it nonetheless. Marquis went out there and threw a gem of a 7.0 IP shutout, giving up only three hits, walking two, and striking out four in the 3-1 win. His ERA vs. San Fran this year is now 1.29. Maybe he knows his job is on the line. Maybe he just likes throwing against the Giants. Maybe July is his month. Whatever it is, can we please keep this JM Version 2.0-SF in play for a while?

Thanks.

How about Aramis Ramirez sending that three run, eighth inning bomb onto Waveland? Yeah, suckers, intentionally walk D Lee again. Take that shit. Loved it (almost as much as he did). Nice interview after the game too, A-Ram. Instead of talking smack and going the "me, me, Me" route, he simply stated that Bruce Bochy was obviously trying to induce a double play, and "it just didn't work out this time". I'd say.

Let's also congratulate Ryan Theriot for another 2-4 day, and starting off the three run inning with a single to left (nice sac by Fontenot to push him over and cause the IBB). And throw a 'grat in there for Howry for actually not giving up a hit, much less a run, today. Thanks for showing up today, Bobby, and keeping that ERA below five for the guys. Here's a win for ya.

Some guy named Rich Harden is throwing in a early start tomorrow. Alright, J.R., daytime game in the Friendly Confines. Baseball in the sunshine in Wrigley Field in front of 41,160 Cub Fans. You're on a first place team looking to end a 63 year old curse, and a century from the winners circle. This is what dreams are made of.

Alright, calm down, it's just the regular season. Have fun out there and do what you do. And hope the Cubs score runs before the eighth this time.

Let's go up 2-0, and then see what Ryan Dempster can do against the Ace of the National League on Sunday afternoon.

Go Cubs!!

Two Out of Three Ain't Bad

2008-07-10T17:23:00.008-05:00

Hey, ya can't win everyday. Just ask the Patriots. Ya had to figure that after the great couple of days there, something might happen, probability and all. Although I could've done without giving up seven long balls, including Dunn's meteor shot onto or perhaps over Sheffield Ave. (and what gives giving their catcher Ross his second and third on the year?!). Yesterday Milwaukee and St. Louis lost while the Cubs won big and all the Cubs Minor League teams won as well, although the Iowa Cubs lost the first game of their doubleheader (Jason Dubois, however, did hit three homers in the game two win, and Jeff Samardzija had a great outing, 7 K, zero BB, 7 IP complete game). And the Cards got beat again today, so all is certainly not lost (as I conveniently don't mention Milwaukee's ten run win).

The Cubs lost today 12-7, but still won the series in Chicago over Dusty's Reds two games to one. I'll take that. Last I checked .667's a decent WP. Although the manner of which Lilly was booted makes me anxious to see how he rebounds from this. I figure he'll turn it around. He's got the chops. Plus, he's been around the block a few times.

The guys looked decent at the plate. The LSU Connection and Soto all got two hits. Hell, Fontenot's two were a jack and a two-bagger, and he accounted for three runs and two RBI. Nice.

I'm worried about the way Fukudome's been looking. He seems to be bailing too much and too soon. The opposing pitchers are picking on him tailing low and away. I figure he'll adapt, but it's a bit painful to watch right now. Maybe not as painful as seeing Lieber and Gaudin and Cotts all give up dingers to the first batter they saw, but I'm trying to let go...

Now it's three with San Fran and the long break, well, for all but seven Northsiders. All three games are day games. First we get a little Marquis. Yikes, but let's see if he can put another start like the last one together and get some mojo workin'. Can't be any worse than Lilly's 6 ER in 2.2 IP today. Not what the doctor ordered. And if so, someone take the doc out back for a few. Take your time.

So, Z good (ya think?). Lilly, oops. Marquis? We'll find out tomorrow afternoon. Harden on Saturday. I think a few people might be paying attention to that one. If they don't show this game on Fox Saturday Baseball, I think there might be some assassinations of top Fox Sports personnel by sundown. Maybe by two-thirty. The Finale on Sunday showcases Dempster and Lincecum. That's Must See TV, in the sun, at Wrigley Field. Can it get any better than that?

In July, at least?

Go Cubs!!

Double Down Loss

2008-07-09T16:27:00.006-05:00

I use to like Elton Brand, but now he has abandoned his second team. I guess he wanted to go to a conference where any team can make the playoffs compared to the West. Even the Knicks might be able to get in this coming season. Brand did the same thing with the Bulls. You can say that the Bulls traded him, but if my memory servers me correctly he wanted out of Chicago for more money. Just like this time. He is going to be known as a 20/20 guy with no rings, with his face pressed against the glass of the HOF looking like a starving person outside the Chicago Chop House selling Street Wise.

I feel for B Davis. Yes he is getting paid by the Clippers, but I would have thought he wanted to play with someone like Brand, and now he will get several more years of lottery bound. Watch in the upcoming weeks The Clippers will lose even more of their free agent players that want out of Dodge and play for someone out East.

Sixers are doubling down with a 13 showing for this 20/20 guy, and I hope they bust and they will see what he will do for that city. Just like all the promise that he had in LA and Chi-Town.

Which Way Did He Go?

2008-07-09T14:54:00.004-05:00

The Sox don’t have the best talent in the league, but when Konerko came off the DL, my beloved Sox designated Pablo Ozuna for assignment. The player that they should have sent out is Uribe. He has been a player that hasn’t seen much time since the Cuban missile Ramirez has blew up. At the beginning of the year they were going to dump him since they traded for Cabrera (a rent a player that will not be resigned). Ozuna is more valuable to the team. His utility player status allows him to play 2nd, 3rd, and OF while hitting .281. Compared to buster Uribe who really plays 2nd and SS hitting a meager .206
How does this kid stay on the team? He must have good pictures of someone in the organization to keep his job. Not to mention that he also have a larger salary. The only real difference between the two is that Uribe has more pop in his bat. I would have kept the quicker player that can put down bunts and play small ball since you have enough of the other types of players that can ‘Put it on the Board…YES’

Today we placed Jenks on the DL. Again if you are going to let someone go wouldn’t you have made placed Jenks on the DL on the same day that you bring Konerko back? No roster space would have had to been made at that point. Jenks has been hurt ever since the last series with the Cubs on June 29th. He is such a big part of the team and they should have shelved him earlier, let him not worry, and get healthy, since we need him after the break.

Harden at Home

2008-07-09T14:44:00.003-05:00

"I don't think I could be going to any better situation than with the Chicago Cubs." - Rich Harden.

That's the kind of thing you like to hear when players come in. Not like he's going to say "Shit, where am I going?" or "Do they know I'm allergic to ivy?". But, point being, I like to hear people come here with the intention of staying and having the reverence expected for a first place ballclub who asks for your services.

Dan Haren, Harden's teammate in Oakland for a few seasons, says Rich is going to like coming here and essentially just wants to be in a place where he is wanted. He wants a home. So, I say, let's go out and find this man a home!

Why would you want to play anywhere else but Wrigley Field? (someone tell Rich the wind blows in half the time. you did already? cool.)

Harden's ESPN interview reiterated his desire to belong. He states he's excited to get out there and get it started. OK, Rich, you've said the right things, you've acted the right way. Now, can you go out there and perform on the Big Stage?

Tune in this weekend to find out. Get the edge of your seat ready now.

Carlos Zambrano will take the hill tonight with every intention to show the world who the Alpha Male is on the Northside. Will he shine or meltdown? I vote Shine. How about eight innings of one run ball? (Cheers!)

And will we see Gaudin in there soon? Nice bullpen pitcher for the Cubs and great backup plan in case another starter becomes necessary. I'm ready for some baseball.

Go Cubs!!

Dusty the Destroyer

2008-07-09T02:03:00.004-05:00

Dusty Baker is still up to his old tricks. Mike D. at Hire Jim Essian has a great post about it here.

Seriously, go check it out.

Scary how he was on the Northside just a few years ago. I mean, I knew Lou was good and all, but by comparison, it's like swapping out Rex Grossman for Brett Favre.

Big Z's going to shut the Reds down for the second day in a row. It's not a good day to be a Redlegger.

Go Cubs!!

Cubs Acquire Rich Harden

2008-07-08T17:39:00.017-05:00

Well, here comes the other foot. The Cubs picked up top-dollar arm Rich Harden, as reported by ESPN. The Network reports it's for Gallagher, Murton and little Patterson (and minor league catcher Josh Donaldson). Let's see what the deal is like before I comment further that this:

Sweet.

And, please don't get hurt.

So now the rotation is:

Zambrano
Dempster
Harden
Lilly
Marshall
some guy in the RF bleachers
Marquis

Not too shabby, I'd say. And long reliever/spot starter Chad Gaudin is coming to Chicago with Mr. Harden. Two MLB ready guys for three guys the Cubs didn't use in the "starting" capacity (although, I believe all three will slide right into the A's starting lineups). Nice for the Ivory Tower to tell us that "We're For Real" or they're trying really hard, or something. Essentially, the word is: Don't worry Cub Fans, we're goin' for it.

And I like it. However, I'll like it a lot more if/when they sign Harden to a deal.

Ya know, I'm happy for Matt Murton too. Oakland and Beane's love for OBP was made for the redhead. The fans are going to love him there. EP? We have enough of that type of guy already, maybe not lefties, but hey, we're talking Top Tier pitcher here, so, thanks, Eric. Enjoy the weather! Besides, he's going to start for the A's, it seems. Sean Gallagher? He's the biggest loss of the deal for the Cubs, and will likely jump into Oakland's starting rotation, but Harden for Gallagher is a win for the Chicago Cubs, that's for sure.

Wonder when the first start is pencilled in? (no pressure)

Go Cubs!!

You Harang?

2008-07-08T17:04:00.006-05:00

With the Cubs-Reds game about an hour away, what's a guy to do? Well, besides being happy the Bro came in with a post (what up, kid. Yeah, he bashed Soriano a little hard, but hey, so do I sometimes. Those South Side fans are so sensitive), I was trying to kill some time on the Cubs website and came across Carrie's Mailbag, or whatever. I started thinking, what if I were answering the questions?

Do you think Alfonso Soriano will be back before the All-Star break, because that's what people are saying. Or do you think he'll be out the whole six weeks?
-- Beth G., St. Louis, Mo.

Uh, yeah, I don't answer questions from St. Louis. Next!

With the All-Star Game being played at Yankee Stadium, will the National League team have a DH? If so, will it be Aramis Ramirez or somebody else?
-- Jeremy Z., Davenport, Iowa

Yeah... JZ, they sure will, partner. Ya see, in the American League (yes, it's American, like cheese), they have this thing called a Designated Hitter and... [slap!]

And to answer part two, I'm not a Fortune Teller, so I can't tell you who it will be, but I think it should start off being Albert Pujols (so that'd be "or somebody else").

Is it just me, or does anybody else think Kosuke Fukudome has scuffled in the leadoff role? I could be wrong, but he doesn't seem to be his normal self ever since he was put in that role. Maybe it's just bad timing or a coincidence.
-- Jake R., Springfield, Ill.

Is it just me, or is everyone using this word scuffle for struggle? Whatever. Try him "not being his normal self" away from Wrigley Field. See this post, read it, take two of these, and relax. Don't you know by now Kosuke (for now) struggles at the plate on the road? It doesn't matter what place in the order he is.

The Fonz cries and stomps his feet if he doesn't get to lead off, so you won't have to worry in a little less than two weeks. Until then, the guy with the best OBP on the team is going to be just fine breaking up the righthanded swingers in the two-slot. And never use excuses like bad timing or coincidences. Those are for wussies. And railbirds.

There is no Try. Only Do. ~

Do you think Jim Hendry will pull the trigger and acquire a starting pitcher like [C.C.] Sabathia, [Freddy] Garcia or even Greg Maddux? Rich Hill is going through the Rick Ankiel situation, and the Cubs could use some help.
-- Jack E., Iowa City, Iowa

Do you ever watch the f_cking news? How did you get on the internet? Did you steal your uncle's library card or are you taking a little time off in between self pleasure episodes while your Mom's at work (again)?

If I even start to comment on your Rich Hill/Rick Ankiel thing, I'm going to... hold on... brb...

And then, the addition of another Rich Hill question that caused thoughts of violence so evil and wicked that I had to chain myself to the radiator myself this time. I'd better skip anymore questions.

C'mon, Cubbies. Beat on this fool Harang (3-10, 4.47 ERA, 1.35 WHIP, .484 Opp.SLG, please, Mum, can I have some more?) for the third time this season, and let's start the homestand off on the right note. Ryan Dempster's going to show 'em what he's got tonight. Derrek Lee's going to keep up his hot streak, and the Cubs aren't even going to need the closer tonight, baby!

(swigs the rest of the pint glass of the tasty Blue stuff)

Go Cubs!!

Backdoor Open?

2008-07-07T12:46:00.004-05:00

The Sox have one of the best records in Baseball and again in the small market of the Southside, we get snubbed. Jermaine Dye should be in the American League Squad. With a down year for Ichiro, and with Manny putting up less numbers then Jermaine, why isn’t he there.

.308/19hr/52rbi

He is a much fielder then Manny. Boy at times I really hate the vote. If the All Star game really means something the vote should no longer be on the fans and it should be on the players and sports reporters. At least you wouldn’t get a bum like Soriano, who it seems hasn’t finished a game in this year without getting hurt. Which the Cubs really miss (yeah right) in the field.

This is going to be hypercritical but in order to get Dye at the game we need people to vote.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/events/all_star/y2008/fv/ballot.html

Vote often

Kevin

Derrek Lee in ASG?

2008-07-06T18:01:00.008-05:00

With the eye injury to Lance Berkman, will Derrek Lee get a his deserved nod on the National League All Star roster? Or, will Berkman still start? I know the Chicago Cubs already have seven players on the team, but who would jump Derrek Lee? Mark Teixeira? Prince Fielder? I just don't see it. Well, I see it, but I don't agree with it.

As I posted with my choices for starters for the All-Star Game, I see Lee as ahead of Tex and Prince, but will MLB pick one of those guys to validate their team's season? With the C.C. hype centering around Milwaukee, and Selig's ties there, have any effect on the choice to be made to replace Lancelot? Truth be told, it'll be hard for Pinella to pass up on his prize 1B if the chance is to be made, and if he has any say in the matter with the Colorado staff. And, it counts, right? Best to get the guys you know in there to try and win it for the underdog NL.

We'll see what happens. If Sweet Lou does make the call for Lee, will people freak out that the NL Coaches picked another Cub? I say, Who Cares. Do what's right. It's not his fault the stupid fans voted in Soriano over Pat Burrell (who didn't make the squad, yet) and Matt Holliday anyway.

Go Cubs!!

Cubs Win On the Road

2008-07-06T17:10:00.005-05:00

Not only to the Cubs win on the road, but they beat their I-55 rivals the Cardinals. How sweet it is. Great outing by Marshall to close out a trio of good efforts by Sean, Z and Marquis. If it weren't for the Kerry Wood meltdown in the ninth last night, the Cubbies would be singing about The Sweep.

Let's not get too greedy here. Two out of three to send the Cards to third place in the Division is beautiful. Take that, Buschies!! Maybe that will answer the press a bit about their game away from Wrigley. Ya gotta think the Cubs players are tired of hearing about the road woes as well. Now, they can sit back, enjoy the interviews, enjoy the day off, and get ready for six at home before the break.

Derrek Lee had a fantastic series. He posted an 8-14, showing up when team leaders are supposed to show up. Ryan Theriot had a great series too, putting up a 6 for 14 and just getting on base for the big bats behind him. This is what Big Teams do. Aramis Ramirez had himself something to talk about too, knocking in five runs and scoring a couple himself, including a homer. How about the youngster Geovany Soto, going 5 for 11 with a dinger? And let's not forget our man The Rose, Mark DeRosa, who posted up four hits, two RBI and two runs scored.

How about Carlos Zambrano getting right back out there and shutting the Redbirds down? And Carlos (E-Ticket) Marmol got his groove back, shutting the Cards down in Game 2 and 3. Wood? Well, let's not go there. His teammates picked him up. Save a couple the next few, and it'll be all hugs and kisses, I'm sure.

Alright, time to check out some Baseball news and get ready for tonight's BoSox and Yanks game. How will A-Rod perform while his marriage is going down the tubes? I'm sure a lot of ladies will say he's doing just fine (paging Ms. Ciccone). Let the Back Page talk about that stuff, though. We'll focus on the Northsiders winnin' ballgames.

Go Cubs!!!

Cub Fan Blahs

2008-07-04T17:44:00.005-05:00

With the Cubs losing seven of their last ten, and coming off another tough toss where Carlos Marmol gives up a big dinger to essentially turn out the lights, the view from the Cub Fan has been rather depressing of late. If that isn't enough of a kick in the pants for us Cub Fans, Kosuke Fukudome has been in a funk, posting a pedestrian .238/.319/.333 over that stretch with a staggering 12 K's.

That many strikeouts for a guy like Kosuke has "readjustment time" written all over it. Maybe the low and outside target is having an effect, considering his bailing out/running towards first approach. Or, it could be that Kosuke just doesn't have the hittin' mojo when he's on the road (the last seven games have been bag-packers). He's knockin' for an impressive .373/.476/.563 within Wrigley Field, but on the road he's barely registering a .213/.319/.284. Does this man need his personal chef to travel with him or something? I mean, who's not making the trip? He isn't feeling "at home" on the road, as stupid as that sounds. He still needs to transition into the new country, new language, etc., and it's affecting his play. I suppose that makes him a normal human being after all. Well, I hope he can break out of it and get some good vibe going. It'd sure be nice to see the road performance come closer to matching his Friendly Confines output. Not that we're unhappy with Fukudome by any stretch, but you have to figure it'll come around eventually.

I've been watching MLB.tv Mosaic the last few days, and it's been scarily dragging me in, watching baseball all day and feeling dreary-eyed and bewildered around midnight when the West Coast games come to an end. Sweet.

Anyway, who's hot and who's not on the Cubs? We know the Cubs are not, considering losing seven of ten, but how about...

Hot (over last 10 games)?

Geovany Soto - .343/.425/.514, a HR, 7 RBI.
Mike Fontenot - .321/.367/.750(!!!), with 3 2B, 3 HR, 4 RBI. Move him to cleanup!
Daryle Ward - .368/.429/.444. 'bout time we see some out of Mr. Ward.
and some guy named Derrek Lee - .308/.386/.436 with 4 RBI.

Not (over last 10, duh)?

Carlos Marmol - 11.74 ERA, 1.70 WHIP, two losses, and three HR allowed the last three outings. Ouch. Nervous yet? I'm there. But I'm often there. Ya know, the Cub Fan in me.
Ronny Cedeno - .214/.290/.250. Nice Web Gem in the ChiSox series, but the bat is ice cold.
Kosuke Fukudome - Yikes. .213/.319/.333, 12 K's. Umm, yeah, not good. Got to get back to Wrigley to resuscitate our Homey.

Guess I could have mentioned Aramis and Jimmy each have 4 HR over the last ten games as well, but their other stats just weren't Hot worthy. Hey, deal with it.

Tonight. The Return of Big Z. In the Cardinals Opener. Did someone say "does it get any bigger than this?" Well, maybe not in the MLB on the Fourth of July. This is a statement game. I hope Carlos keeps it reeled in tonight. Don't want to see that Zambrano Meltdown Four or Five run inning thing happen tonight. Well, that's actually on the list of "Things I'd Rather Never See" in between Aunt Nelly naked and A.J. hittin' a homer.

Go Cubs!!

Jason, Are You Worthy?

2008-07-01T17:33:00.006-05:00

Jason Marquis takes the hill tonight at SBC/PacBell/AT&T/Candlestick/The House That Barry Juiced Park tonight and a question instantly pops in my groggy little mind: Is Jason Marquis worthy of being a #3 starter on a MLB playoff team? And, quickly, as I attempt to comb through the cobwebs, an answer swims to the surface: No.

Of course, we could just look Marquis' '08 stats vs. that of the #3 starters of the Cardinals (Looper), Brewers (Parra), Phillies (Moyer), Marlins (Olsen) and Diamondbacks (Davis). But that'd be too easy. OK, what the hell. I'll even throw in John Maine from the Mets.

	W-L	ERA	WHIP	K/BB	K/9	BB/9	GO/AO	IP	IP/GS	P/IP
Olsen	4-4	3.47	1.25	1.45	4.91	3.39	0.73	106.1	6.0	15.05
Maine	8-6	3.86	1.36	1.90	7.35	3.86	0.76	98.0	5.2	17.92
Parra	8-2	3.95	1.55	1.48	7.06	4.78	1.38	86.2	5.1	17.49
Moyer	7-6	4.13	1.40	2.14	5.56	2.60	1.34	100.1	5.2	16.29
Looper	9-5	4.26	1.40	1.69	3.99	2.36	1.37	99.1	5.2	16.45
Marquis	6-4	4.96	1.52	1.29	4.64	3.59	1.26	85.1	5.2	15.89

Parra's BB/9 is going to catch up with him eventually, but that won't change what he's put up before July 1st. Good thing Manny walks so many, because then Marquis would have the worst ERA and WHIP of the bunch. (Oooo, do I get a trophy for that? No, Jason, go away). And that high near 18 P/IP for Maine can't be good for the Mets bullpen. That's 90 pitches after five innings. Every Time. Of course having the stalwart arms of Johan and Pedro ahead of him could help jut a bit. Although Pedro is pretty tender lately. Alas, I digress...

Serious bummer that it ended up being in order of ERA, but that's how I see'em, in order.

Florida Marlins (Scott Olsen)
NY Mets (John Maine)
Milwaukee Brewers (Manny Parra)
Philadelphia Phillies (Jamie Moyer)
St. Louis Cardinals (Braden Looper)
Chicago Cubs (Jason Marquis)

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm pretty sure that going into the 2nd half of the season with the this low a #3, as compared to the rest of your competition, is not a winning philosophy. You won't find the idea on p. 187 of Sun Tzu's "The Art of War".

So, Peter Gammons rumor of the Cubs looking for another arm may just be the understatement of the League so far. Well, that, and ol' "the Cardinals and Brewers ain't going away" thing.

With the impending sale hanging over the heads of the team, can the Cubs make any moves that will matter? Seems worrisome to me. OK, seems more like "Oh Shit". Especially when you think about Big Z on the DL, and the question of how good will he be when he comes back.

Oy. Let's just hope the Northsiders roll over the Giants again tonight and Marquis puts up and shuts me up.

Good luck with that. Road Warrior? Sheeesh! OK, just make it six with two ER or less, and maybe I'll be nicer next time. Hell, if he only gave up three in six, it'd be better than his season and career average. Great. Better score some runs tonight, boys.

Go Cubs!!

2008 NL All Star Team

2008-06-30T23:58:00.024-05:00

Well, in lieu of the Sweepers becoming the Sweepees over the weekend, I choose instead to focus on my picks for the 2008 National League All Star Team. Who wants to talk about Aramis getting pitched inside all series, going 0 for 14 (oops) and then going off to the DR to take care of serious family issues. He'll miss the San Fran series. Now Big Z, The Reedster, A-Ram and (the DL VIP) Scott Eyre are off the Cubbies squad. Yeah, let's just talk NLAS instead. At least until Cubs-Giants tonight.

Here's the 2008 Unrestricted View NL All Star Starting Lineup:

Brandon Webb ~P~ (Sheets, Volquez, Lincecum, Haren), Brad Lidge, (Wagner, Wood, Capps, Roush)
Geovany Soto ~C~ (McCann, Martin)
Lance Berkman ~1B~ (Pujols, A.Gonzalez, D.Lee, Teixeira, Fielder)
Chase Utley ~2B~ (Uggla, DeRosa)
Chipper Jones ~3B~ (A.Ramirez, Wright)
Hanley Ramirez ~SS~ (Reyes, Theriot, Guzman, Escobar)
Pat Burrell ~LF~ (Holliday, Ludwick, Bay, Soriano, Braun, C.Lee)
Nate McLouth ~CF~ (Beltran, Ankiel, Rowand)
Kosuke Fukudome ~RF~ (Nady, Giles, Schumaker)
~DH~?? Take the 1B and LF list, make 1/2 play the field, and 1/2 just swing away. Start with Albert.

Pitcher, Starter

Brandon Webb. Any questions? Good. But, a lot of other guys are in the mix. Let's look at the ol' chart:

	W-L	ERA	WHIP	K/BB	K/9	BB/9	GO/AO	IP	IP/GS	P/IP
Webb	12-4	3.21	1.13	3.24	7.55	2.33	3.45	112.0	7.0	14.86
Sheets	9-2	2.83	1.07	3.96	7.76	1.86	1.26	111.1	7.0	14.95
Volquez	10-3	2.08	1.21	2.29	9.97	4.35	1.42	99.1	6.0	16.93
Lincecum	9-1	2.38	1.24	2.65	9.36	3.53	1.36	109.2	6.2	16.09
Haren	8-4	2.85	0.97	5.05	7.81	1.55	0.98	110.2	6.1	15.27
Hamels	8-5	3.38	1.03	3.32	7.73	2.33	0.98	120.0	7.0	14.80
Santana	7-7	3.01	1.22	3.22	8.16	2.53	1.19	113.2	6.2	15.70
Dempster	9-3	3.26	1.18	2.10	7.37	3.51	1.50	105.0	6.0	16.39
Zambrano	8-3	3.13	1.33	1.89	5.76	3.05	1.44	106.1	6.2	15.57

What can I say about the numbers? Look at the freeaakin' 3.45 Webby puts out there in ground ball to fly ball ratio. Wow. That'll get ya out of a jam now and again, eh?! Let's look at Volquez of Cincinatti and Lincecum of San Francisco. Yes, great numbers, but they lack the ability to go deep in games. Lots of pitches per inning, especially for Edinson, which can pretty much be linked directly to their BB/9 numbers. Why not Ryan Dempster and Carlos Zambrano? As much as I want to put 'em in there, they just don't match up with those other guys. What happened to the strikeouts for Big Z? Demp walks too many. and doesn't strikeout as many as Lincecum, so he just isn't in the top tier yet. Comeback Player of the Year? Sure. And, while the Arizona Diamondbacks have Webb and Haren, the Chicago Cubs don't look so bad with Zambrano and Dempster.

Pitcher, Relief

A change of scenery will do you good. Never has that meant more than to Mr. Brad Lidge, the Albert Pujols Launching Pad. He got run out of Houston by 99.9% of the town, and he ends up in Philly, and shines on. Maybe even deserves Comeback Player of the Year more than our man Dempster. Did you see the smile on his face in his Philly Bio? You'd be smilin' too. And reminding the Astros how many games out of First they are. Everyday. On the hour.

How about Kerry Wood turning out the second best NL Closer line on the season so far? He and Dempster's body-switch thang is turning out quite well. While 0.86 WHIP is righteous, but it's hard to knock down a 19 for 19, as hard as some may try.

	SV/SVO	WHIP	ERA	K/BB	K/9	BB/9	GO/AO	P/IP
Lidge	19/19	1.06	0.84	2.80	11.81	4.22	1.00	16.03
Wood	20/24	0.86	2.43	5.67	11.29	1.99	0.84	14.73
Wagner	18/23	0.94	1.91	4.75	10.36	2.18	0.71	15.15
Rauch	16/21	0.92	2.55	6.50	8.29	1.28	0.61	15.05
Capps	17/21	1.04	2.97	5.60	6.41	1.14	0.64	13.93
Valverde	22/26	1.39	4.24	3.33	11.16	3.35	1.00	17.13
Wilson	22/24	1.42	4.26	2.31	10.52	4.55	1.35	19.17

Just want to point out how the Save stat is inflated without the other data. The Save Leaders in the NL are Valverde and Wilson, but they are inferior in comparison to the others when you look at their actual game effectiveness. Look at their ERA, BB/9 and P/IP, and you'll see why they probably won't be on top of the silly "Save" stat anyway.

On a side note: How does the Save stat take into effect the difference between a one-, two-, and three-run lead, and the outcome henceforth? Save. It's a nice little indicator when taken in reference to the save opportunities, but it can, obviously, be misleading when taken by itself.

Catcher

Looks like Geovany Soto got what he deserved and landed behind the plate to start his first All Star Game in his rookie year. The man's had a good year. Well, half a year, but here's to the second half! (Cheers!) Nice half to McCann and Russell Martin too. Nice half. wtf... Anyway, that's what the ASG is all about! That, and the home field advantage for some little thing called the World Series. OK, back on track, could you argue for Brian McCann instead? Sure. But this Cub Fan will point out Soto's 39.4% caught stealing rate and suggest that's enough of a difference.

	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI	K/BB	CS/SB
Soto	.284	.371	.517	13	47	1.79	39.4%
McCann	.295	.365	.536	14	45	1.36	32.7%
Martin	.307	.405	.443	8	37	0.87	26.8%
B.Molina	.308	.333	.440	6	49	1.64	45.2%
Y.Molina	.295	.352	.384	4	26	0.57	47.8%

First Base

Sorry Derrek, but this year it's either Berkman or Pujols, and it's got to be The Puma this time around (and D.Lee is presently in fourth, in my calculation). Can you even argue with .364/.444/.690, 21 HR and 67 RBI ?!?! In a word? No. Nyet. Nao. Nein. Not even Albert and his .356/.483/.640, 17 HR and 45 RBI can. OK, maybe just him. But, it takes a lot for this Cub Fan to put a Redbird on top, and I'm giving this one to Lancealot. Ya know, tie goes to the switch-hitter. But if we look at the top six, would you be sad with Adrian Gonzalez, Derrek Lee, Mark Teixeira or Prince Fielder? This is seriously the deepest category of the list (e.g. Votto, Howard, C.Jackson), but in '08, it's a two horse race, and Berkman gets the prize at the halfway point. Hopefully he can keep his shoes on.

	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI	K/BB	RF	FPCT
Berkman	.364	.444	.690	21	67	1.21	9.65	.997
Pujols	.356	.483	.640	17	45	0.45	10.85	.998
A.Gonzalez	.287	.358	.534	21	67	2.06	9.43	.996
D.Lee	.295	.358	.505	15	51	1.65	9.03	.990
Teixeira	.276	.379	.495	16	62	1.15	10.17	.997
Fielder	.271	.358	.488	16	42	1.54	9.85	.988

Can you believe Pujols and his 0.45 K/BB?!?!

Second Base

This should really be a bumper sticker: "Uggla or Utley?". Even though in the voting, some guy named Mark DeRosa is between Chase Utley and Dan Uggla. Now, I love me some Mark DeRosa. Seriously, the man is probably the Cubs MVP right now. But his stats aren't even in the same league with Chase and Dan, and (as impressive as it is at the MLB level) Mark plays five positions. These other two guys are fixed, super-glue like, at the two-bag (OK, Utley played two games at first, but it was an emergency, not a tendency). Let's look at the comparison:

	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI	K/BB	RF	FPCT
Utley	.297	.384	.610	23	65	1.42	5.20	.981
Uggla	.289	.375	.620	23	58	2.46	4.96	.984
DeRosa	.295	.386	.462	10	45	1.57	4.64	.974

So, yes, DeRosa is out (although his numbers are great, although obviously lacking some pop). And, you can't really lose with Utley or Uggla. But ya gotta pick someone, so this year, it's Chase Utley and his far superior 1.42 K/BB ratio (i.e. 40 less K's on the year).

Third Base

Yeah, we Cub Fans want to scream Aramis Ramirez and tell the Baseball World how great his year has been, but it's Chipper Jones all the way. If you have to ask, ya just don't know.

	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI	K/BB	RF	FPCT
Chipper	.394	.485	.630	16	46	0.70	2.74	.954
A-Ram	.289	.390	.502	14	55	1.26	1.99	.955

Is there anything else needed to be said? Yeah, Aramis has more RBI!! And David Wright deserved mention too (.285/.378/.497, 15 HR, 64 RBI). Umm, OK then, on to...

Shortstop

Hanley Ramirez is the man. Yeah, Boston could still have him, but they got some guys named Beckett and Lowell, so they're doing just fine. His power puts him head and shoulders above the rest of the shortstops (heheh). His D is good, his play is good, his team is doing amazingly well. Just show the man out to Derek's spot in Yankee Stadium already. Kudos to Reyes and our own man The Riot for showing a decent #2 and #3. Here's the evidence:

	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI	K/BB	RF	FPCT	SB
H.Ramirez	.294	.384	.528	18	35	1.74	4.27	.965	20
Reyes	.296	.358	.485	9	34	1.29	4.04	.966	28
Theriot	.314	.390	.372	1	22	0.72	4.18	.968	13
Guzman	.313	.341	.435	5	26	1.86	4.21	.980	3
Escobar	.296	.372	.398	6	30	1.11	4.92	.980	2
Tejada	.287	.343	.448	10	43	2.67	4.22	.979	6

Lookin' at a 40/40 season pace for H.R. Now that's a Leadoff Hitter (paging the Fonz...).

Left Field

Ahh, remember way up there when I said First Base was the deepest category? Well, perhaps I just pissed off a lot of Left Fielders, because this field is deep. And they Go Deep. Pat Burrell gets the nod from me this season, over Holliday, Ludwick and Bay. Let's check out the graph:

	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI	K/BB	RF	FPCT	SB
Burrell	.271	.410	.571	19	49	1.05	1.70	1.000	0
Holliday	.333	.415	.543	10	39	1.47	1.72	.991	8
Ludwick	.285	.362	.574	16	56	2.06	2.34	.993	4
Bay	.284	.387	.531	16	43	1.30	1.81	.993	6
Soriano	.283	.332	.547	15	40	2.67	1.90	.978	7
Braun	.287	.322	.552	20	58	4.25	1.95	1.000	8
C.Lee	.278	.324	.528	18	62	1.59	1.83	.992	4

Burrell's SLG is the best, OBP and HR's second on this list. Add in the lowest K/BB and the zero errors, and you see why Burrell edges out Holliday and Ludwick in a tough race.

What about Alfonso Soriano, you ask? Well, he's at the top of the second tier, in my opinion. His low BA to OBP differential, the high 2.67 K/BB, and being the poorest fielder (by far) on the list makes that so. Sorry Fonzy, you're Fifth, at best. At least you probably make more than all of them combined.

Center Field

Well, now were we're definitely not talkin' Cubs here, although Jimmy's been back in stride since getting picked up by the Boys in Blue. And here's a new name for lot's of y'all: Nate McLouth. We Cub fans know him, cause he's a Cub Killer Extraordinaire. Nate, welcome to the ASG, my man (Damnit). Here's the rest of the field:

	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI	K/BB	RF	FPCT	SB
McLouth	.280	.359	.522	15	52	1.41	2.60	1.000	9
Beltran	.271	.374	.479	12	54	1.04	2.71	.995	11
Rowand	.297	.360	.463	8	44	2.81	3.04	.991	1
Ankiel	.259	.334	.506	15	38	2.03	2.41	.975	1

I think you could pay McLouth 50 times for what they're payin' Carlos.

Right Field

Fu-Ku-Do-Me!!!! Even though he's on a slide lately, Kosuke is the best in National League in Right. The RF power is significantly lower out of this group, with Dunn's BA keeping him off the list. Nice first MLB season for Fukudome, but it'd be nice if he had a little more Jack in his swing. One thing for sure, it sure beats Jacque Jones... But so does any random outfielder from the CWS.

OK, now that I've got the Blue Kool-Aid out of the system, Xavier Nady deserves lots of attention. Would I hold my breath and stomp my feet if you said Nady should get the start? No, but I might give you the silent treatment for a bit.

	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI	K/BB	RF	FPCT	SB
Fukudome	.297	.405	.434	6	33	1.04	2.15	.994	7
Nady	.315	.378	.514	10	49	2.00	2.62	.988	1
Giles	.300	.399	.438	5	28	0.67	2.09	.982	1
Schumaker	.300	.364	.439	6	30	1.25	2.56	.988	6

How about Giles 0.67 K/BB? And where'd this Schumaker come from and why did he have to end up in St. Louis?!

As far as the DH, after Pujols, really, just grab a 1B or LF.

Wow, that was a lot of work. I'm off to watch the rest of The Ted Lilly - Mark DeRosa Show!!!!

Go Cubs!!

Inner City Sweep

2008-06-22T23:46:00.002-05:00

Aramis Ramirez took the handle of the broom himself and swept the White Sox out of Wrigley Field with their tails properly positioned between their little legs. I know this inner city series is pretty much even. All the better to see the '05 Champs leave the North Side without a win. Aramis was MVP of this three game series (with an undercard of Jimmy Edmonds), knocking the ol' horsehide around 6 for 13, including 4 HR and 8 RBI (yeah, he knocked in 36.4% of the Cubbies runs). I'd say he's on a tear, and it's a helluva time to show it.

Although, within the Friendly Confines, Aramis has been hot all year. He's rippin' it for a .336/.479/.603 in Wrigley, with 8 HR and 28 RBI, while "only" strokin' it for .263/.320/.460 on the road, with 6 HR and 25 RBI. Guess that means he's getting timely ribbies away from Chicago. He's so much more patient at home (159 pt. diff. in OBP!!), it leans toward not concentrating enough until he gets an runner in scoring position when he's on the road.

You can see the different approach at the plate for A-Ram in '08. He swings heavy until he gets two strikes, and then he chokes up (mentally) and makes sure to put that ball in the right place. It might not always be for a hit, but it'll at least be a productive out (hear that from the DL, Fonz?!). Which accounts for the RBI totals. Deeper analysis though, shows that at home he is A LOT more patient, with a 25/32 K/BB at home and a 24/9 on the road. That's 32 BB in 131 homies and 9 BB in 137 roadies (ya know, AB's). I'd say that's statistically significant (for those that didn't get it at +159 OBP). And then some.

Can ya bottle some of that and take it on the road? Might even want to carry that on, ya know what I mean? Cool.

Go Go Ryan Dempster. Wow. The man has quietly become the best starter on the staff. At least the most consistent. I mean, Big Z is still The Man, but the DempTruck is backing up to a mound near you. Although, like Ramirez, he's a homebody. And everybody knows it. Well, except for Ryan himself.

Yeah, yeah, at home he's an undefeated 9-0 in ten starts (and 0-2 in six starts on the road). Awesome, but we know that already. What ya may not know is that his ERA on the road is a stellar 2.48 (a very respectable 2.71 at home) and six of the runs scored against him on the road are unearned. Even the other stats look better on the road:

	Home	Road
WHIP	1.15	1.05
K/BB	2.15	2.42
GO/AO	1.66	1.26
Opp BA	.294	.260

Looks like it just might be easier to pitch on the road after all (depending on the wind at 1060 W. Addison). So, Graham, you might ask, why the no wins on the road? Well, the obvious "boys ain't hittin' on the road" comments aside, perhaps the Opp SLG of .343 on the road (.295 at home) might show the higher percentage of dingers he's giving up away from the Ivy.

Hey, pobody's nerfect.

Bring on the Orioles!!

Go Cubs!!

Oh, on a side note I hear Murton is trade bait, with aim at a Starting Pitcher or a CF. Easier said than done, but I hear Coco Crisp's name an awful lot. I'd say I like Murton+Edmonds+The Reedster, but the future idea of the young man Crisp in Cubbie Blue is nice (especially being that lefty thang Sweet Lou likes so much). I doubt the Red Sox would part with him without a big time deal involving one of our young arms, so we'll just see about that. Until then, Jimmy don't look so bad out there as far as I'm concerned. Neither does that spark plug Reed Johnson. Great, I just wasted a whole frickin' paragraph. At least I shrunk the type.

Murton Gets The Call

2008-06-17T20:13:00.003-05:00

Finally. 'Nuff Said.

(back to the game. nice to hear so many Cub fans in Tampa)

Go Cubs!!

Hit For The Sweep

2008-06-12T16:56:00.005-05:00

Reed Johnson, of our beloved Chicago Cubs, gets the classic of all classics today, the walk-off HBP, and tops off the sweep of the Atlanta Braves to the tune of 3-2. Add this one to the comeback file, with the Cubs coming back from a 2-0 deficit created by a bleacher blast in the 2nd by Jeff Francoeur. Oh yeah, also put it in the sub-file "Extra-Innings", cause this baby happened in the bottom of the 11th. The Cubs are now 6-4 in extra frames.

Oh yeah, man. This one feels good. Let us not forget that with one out, in the bottom of the ninth, Jim Edmonds helped further the (evil, evil) post-Redbirds thoughts in many fans noggins this afternoon as well, tying up the game at two apiece with a solo shot in the left field basket. Len Kasper had a great call on this homer as well, giving a well placed "Hey Hey" tribute to the legendary Jack Brickhouse, as the cameraman quickly panned in and out, in true WGN Turn Back The Clocks fashion.

Jimmy has raised his numbers up to .268/.311/.482 with 11 RBI in 19 games as a Cub. Against righthanders, he's poppin' for a .306/.352/.551. Guess that's why the Reedster plays when the southpaws show up on the hill.

When I noticed the Cubbies pulled up EP and Hoffpauir instead of my man Matt Murton, I wondered quietly, or perhaps aloud (it gets confusing sometimes), WTF?! Then, realizing it's Sweet Lou we're talkin' about here I did a Woody Paige and checked the schedule. TBJ pitchers Burnett, Halladay and Litsch are all righties, so Lou, being, well, Lou, brought up two lefties replace Soriano and Hart. It's so nice to have an actual manager on the North Side.

I'm seriously unconvinced that Patterson can hit at the Major League level, but, it could be much, much worse, as bobbyd at Fire Dusty Baker stated.

Now it's on to that other country to the north, well, to the east of Detroit at least, to see how Sean Gallagher can do for openers. Don't forget your passports! (hear that Eric?)

Go Cubs!!

Soriano Out Six Weeks

2008-06-11T21:36:00.010-05:00

(umm, obviously not an actual picture of Soriano's left hand)

Alfonso Soriano was hit by a pitch from Atlanta Braves pitcher Jeff Bennett in the bottom of the second, today in Wrigley. A few hours later, the trip to the hospital revealed a broken left ring finger. Ouch. Six weeks or more on the DL. And how will he be when he does pick the bat up again?

Well, I've bitched my share about Soriano and the whole "their ain't no 'D' in Alfonso Soriano" thing and/or the Captain Free-Swinger thing, but to see him out of the lineup for six or so weeks, and I'm a bit nervous of what to expect. I mean, besides DeRosa in left and maybe some more Reed Johnson. And less jacks into the seats. Also the Louisiana Twins get to play up the middle again. We'll see if Fontenot can produce or not over the next month and a half.

Channel some of that good LSU Championship magic.

Back to the issues "at hand", it just occurred to me that this might mean the return of Matt Murton! Sweet. Could be a lot worse. We'll miss the dingers, but at least we'll get someone who can actually hit the other way to move runners up, takes a pitch now and then, and can play a little (perhaps stressing the word "little") D, which is much more than we can say about the Fonz. Insert your favorite Staying Positive, Believe, or Blue Kool-Aid comment here_____.

As Good News goes, Ryan Dempster is the man. Especially at Wrigley. He improves his record in the Friendly Confines to 8-0 with a gem of an outing. We're talking Complete Game, kid. Eleven K's and ZERO walks. Seriously, En Fuego. He was pretty much one pitch away from a Shutout, but Corky Miller, part-time Kiddie Clown and part-time Braves backup catcher, came off the bench and ripped one into the bleachers in the seventh. Hey, the complete game and overall performance of Dempster may make it the best to date for the Northsiders so far this season. Sorry fact is it's the first complete game for the Cubs this season. Better Nate than Lever.

Fukudome went deep in the top of the first today with 2 on and 2 out, his fifth of the year for the Chicago National League Ballclub. DeRosa and Aramis went 2-4, and Theriot went 2-5. A good day for anyone who doesn't hop before he catches a lazy fly ball.

OK, Zambrano, can you top Dempster and go for the shutout? How 'bout a no-hitter? OK, OK, let's not get greedy here. Let's just hope Big Z rebounds from his Gatorade Cooler performance and closes out the sweep for the Cubbies.

Go Cubs!!

Mark DeRosa Day

2008-06-08T22:15:00.002-05:00

Mark DeRosa took to the two spot really well today. But, then again, who wouldn't like the luxury of batting between Alfonso Soriano and Derrek Lee? Mark went 3 for 5, including a solo shot (line shot to left in the top of the first) and a RBI single. Those two RBI's put him only eight back of Aramis Ramirez, who had a RBI double today in the two run top of the fifth. He also scored two of the runs in the 3-1 defeat of the Dodgers by the Cubs to avoid the sweep and to avoid their first three game losing streak of the season.

The even more amazing part was the 6.1 IP, 3 H, ZERO ER, 1 BB outing from Jason Marquis. It does make this his fifth consecutive start giving up three ER or less. Nice to see when Jason gets strike one across the plate early, that he can hold a team to one (unearned, Soto throwing error in the first) and last well into the game. Yep, he made it to the seventh. Whoa.

Carlos Marmol looked a little shaky for a sec, but he reeled it in just in time for Kerry Wood to come in for a no hit, two strikeout bottom of the ninth. Nice. Woody leads the NL with 18 saves.

Brad Penny looked pretty good, but the Cubbies got to him for 3 ER, 3 BB, 6 H (one HR) over 6.0 IP. Park and Saito only gave up a hit a piece, with Saito striking out three of the four he faced.

So, back home again on the Northside. Ahhh... Let's hope it translates into some W's, cause the road games this month are interesting (3 @ Toronto, 3 @ Tampa, 3 on the Southside), and the Cubs could use all the room from those boys down I-55 they can get.

But first, it's three in Chicago with Hotlanta. Let's do it. First game, 7:05p CDT on 'GN, Tuesday Night. Tommy Glavine (2-2, 4.47 ERA, 1.17 K/BB) up against the Tedster (5-5, 5.23 ERA, 3.0 K/BB).

Go Cubs!!

Zambrano Doesn't Like Gatorade

2008-06-07T18:32:00.004-05:00

Score: Dodgers 7, Cubs 3, Carlos Zambrano 2 (Gatorade Buckets). Sure, Matt Kemp put the game away with two out in the seventh with a three run shot that triggered the Big Z Rampage, but the real winner were those coolers, still working after all that abuse. Gatorade needs to buy that footage for commercials on how tough their products are. Sign Carlos too. "We don't put our name on it, unless it's tough." -- Next Gatorade Ad (you heard it here first).

Great, Ludwick just put the Redbirds up 7-0 with a three run shot in the top of the second in Houston. Hmmm...

And now we get to ponder the wonders of Jason Marquis (3-3, 5.02 ERA, 1.66 WHIP, 34/27 (1.26) K/BB, 1.26 GO/AO) going up against Brad Penny (5-7, 5.45 ERA, 1.57 WHIP, 41/32 (1.28) KK/BB, 1.74 GO/AO) tomorrow, 7:05p CDT. Maybe it'll be a slugfest, and the Cubs can come out on top. Lefties can get to Penny (6.61 ERA, 2.14 WHIP, 3.11 GO/AO!!), so it's all about Fukudome and Edmonds. Too bad that's all the lefties the Cubbies have. Screw it, the Cubs aren't getting swept tomorrow night!! I mean, righties are clipping 1cent to the tune of 4.57 ERA, but only a 1.13 WHIP, and 1.22 GO/AO.

At least three in Wrigley are on the horizon, even if Mr. 400's coming to town.

Go Cubs!!

Kuroda'd

2008-06-07T00:20:00.002-05:00

Hiroki Kuroda went to the mound for the Dodgers in LA and wore out the Cubs for a complete game, 4 hit, 11 K, ZERO walk, absolute gem of a performance. Wow. Ummm..., yeah. Someone turn out the lights, will ya?

Nuff Said.

C'mon Big Z!! (2:55 CST, Sat @LA).

Go Cubs!

Are We Watching The Same Game?

2008-06-06T22:42:00.006-05:00

Kosuke Fukudome was just robbed at first so badly Vin Scully went to the commercial break laughing his ass off. Nice. Great job, Blue.

More like, Blew.

Back to the game.

Ok, Ok, I know, it was on the tail end of a double play call, but get the call right. It wasn't even close to being close.

Go Cubs!!

crap... Bases Loaded with SoCal's.

2-0, Bums...

Aramis' New Approach

2008-06-05T19:04:00.005-05:00

It's called Patience (yes, Dusty, look it up. No, not by not pulling out the starting pitcher, and, no, not by leading off Juan Pierre come Hell, the Mendoza Line or high water, and, no, not by... well, you get it). Some say he picked it up from Kosuke. I, for one, don't buy it (he had Derrek Lee's patience to watch all this time, for one, and I'd bet the ranch that Gerald Perry and Sweet Lou are the real reason), but I don't care either. It's just nice to say that Aramis Ramirez, yes, the Chicago Cubs Third Baseman, is a Disciplined Hitter. Wow...

Hear that Alfonso?!!?!! (yes, I realize he's on an AMAZING tear right now, but it sure isn't because reason has suddenly possessed one of the free-swinginest swingers of all swingers. I think he's even got a cameo on that new show on CBS).

Speaking of Swinging, A-Ram is hangin' it all out with a fat line of .312/.423/.532. As of 7:22pm CST, that's the #18 Batting Average in Major League Baseball, the # 4, yes, FOUR, On Base %, and the #22 Slugging %. He's also tied for 17th with 40 RBI. Nice.

It this the same Aramis that's a career .284/.340/.501? I know, the BA and SLG aren't far off, but the whole point of this post (wait, there's a point?) is to highlight the whole .340 versus .423 part of that equation. He already has 34 walks in 205 AB's. His career high in walks was 50 in '06, in a whopping 594 AB's. And, since Fukudome is still working on English, let's give Gerald Perry some props. And congrats to Aramis to listening to someone.

OK, Kosuke has 37 walks and we all know about his pitch count per AB ratio, so maybe there's some combination of factors there. Whatever it is, don't change a thing.

Random Thought: What about putting The Flyball Adventurer Soriano back to 2B and let DeRosa flag a few in LF for a while? I guess maybe the whole don't fuck with the best record in MLB thing applies here, but still, why not? Oh, the record thing. And the "Can Fonzy still hack it at the two-bag?" thing. And the "He's So Sensitive" thing. Great. Let's just act like I didn't mention it.

And that, folks, is how I treat a guy that hit for .345/.386/.672 in the month of May, with 10 HR and 29 RBI. I am, truly, a pissed-off, rockin' chair on the porch rollin', yellin' the car window drivin', crusty old Cub Fan.

OK, I don't own a rocking chair. Yet.

See, I didn't even mention Alfonso's 23/8, K/BB ratio that month either!

Time to watch the rest of the Rays-Red Sox and Astros-Pirates games. With a few peeks at the Nationals-Cardinals to boot (even though it looks like a sure doubleheader split).

Go Cubs!!

2008-05-05T19:21:00.001-05:00

Losing two of three to the Brewers, two of three to the Cardinals and two of three to the Reds is not the way to start off May 2008. Seriously, what gives?

Maybe the Friendly Confines can brighten spirits up a bit on the Northside. I think a ten game homestand is just what the doctor ordered...

Go Cubs!!

Chicago Cubs Week One Recap

2008-04-08T17:00:00.004-05:00

Or, Who's Hot, and Who's Not.

First, the good news:

Kosuke Fukodome - .458/.581/.708, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 2 SB, and needs to sit down and explain to Alfonso Soriano what "Situational Hitting" is.
Derrek Lee - .400/.455/.833, 3 HR, 4 RBI. Basically, what we've come to expect from MVLee.
Carlos Zambrano - 1-0, 1.32 ERA, 0.80 WHIP, 12 K and only one walk. Big Z showed up ready to go.
Ryan Dempster - 1-0, 1.50 ERA, 5 K, 2 BB, and a good 6.0 IP in his first start since '05.
Mark DeRosa - .320/.414/.560, 1 HR, 4 RBI. Working his way towards stopping the Brian Roberts (.333/.484/.542) talk.
Reed Johnson - .308/.400/.385, and has shown Felix Pie that, in Sweet Lou's World, if you hit, you play. And, promptly goes to the bench in the ninth for Pie's D.
Mark Fontenot - .429/.429/,571, 1 SB. I know, only 7 AB, but, hey, he's made those seven count.

And then, there's these guys...

Ted Lilly - 0-1, 9.72 ERA, and only 8.1 IP in two starts (i.e. has yet to see the end of the fifth inning).
Alfonso Soriano - .094/.147/.188, team leading 6 K, and no doubles or triples.
Felix Pie - .188/.235/.188, 4 K, no extra base hits.
Carmen Pignatello - 13.50 ERA in two horrible outings, 0 K, 2 BB.
Bob Howry - 12.27 ERA in 3.2 IP. Second most team ER (5) to Lilly (9).

Well, there's week one for ya. Nice to see the guys respond with three straight. Fukudome shows that Spring Training doesn't translate into Japanese. MVLee shows he's always got it. Sean Marshall maybe feels he should be on the squad over Piggy. And Ryan Dempster looks like he was right about being rotation-worthy. At least in Start #1.

Nice to see Kerry Wood respond so well after that Opening Day debacle.

Two more games with the Bucs in Pittsburgh, and let's hope the Cubs keep moving up in the Oh So Early Standings.

Well, I'm off to watch a little Yanks-Royals. Prob post again later tonight. Good to be back.

Go Cubs!!

Cubs In Vegas!!!

2008-03-27T23:31:00.001-05:00

WooHoo!! Can ya bet on Blue?

Will Kosuke Fukudome work out? Will he be worth the cash? I think yes, he's got the tools, for sure. I'd take him over Alfonso Soriano. His approach is more patient, he's much less temperamental, and he's got the D to go with it.

How about Hoffpauir's two dingers today?

I'm getting warmed up for Cubs Baseball!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wish I could be there in Vegas tomorrow, catchin' the ballgame. Ahhh, daydreams. Yeah, yeah, nightdreams, whatever.

Go Cubs!!

Matsui signs with stros, i immediatly go out for sushi

2007-12-03T14:13:00.000-06:00

Everyone now knows that Kaz Matsui has decided to sign with the Houston Astros at a 3 year 16.5 million dollar contract.

Shunning the likes of the Nl pennant winning Rockies and a team that plays on the northside of Chicago that won the Nl central.

What happens now is really the important thing because the Astros STILL DONT HAVE A ROTATION or a closer.

Talks of trades involving(but not limited to) Burke,Scott,Everett and Bourn are rampant, and the names being dangled out there are nuttier than the late Grizzly Man.

Brain Fuentes, Miguel tejada, Joe Blanton, Dontrelle Willis, etc.

It makes the offseason exciting and yet tiring because you pay attention to any jackass with a computer who circulates rumors of a Luke Scott for Dan Haren trade straight up.

Bottom Line is that the Astros need another starting picher and it would be nice to grab a closer also. We will see how all this works out in the end but i heard that The Orioles a looking to trade Bedard and Tejada For Wandy Rodriguez and Adam Everett.

Fuckin sweet action!!

By the way Dennis Miller has a New Sports Talk Show on Versus, If you havent checked it out yet here is a clip.

Im a Dennis Miller Guy so I check it out whenever i get a chance

Matt's Suicide Watch Begins

2007-11-26T12:51:00.000-06:00

Ummm, Matt, I know you're concerned. I know you are upset. I know you've probably tore out most of your hair by now, but please, step away from the ledge. Maybe it'll work in College Station? Maybe Mike Sherman won't implode Texas A&M worse than Franchione. I'm sure the Aggies won't be looking back with fondness at the man, Fran, who last got the team to two consecutive seven win seasons, beating the stinkin' Texas University 'Horns twice in a row, ending the pompous Austinites season on the ultimate down note (glory be). The Sherm will certainly take the Aggs to new heights, right?

OK, it's bad, Matt. Really bad. But, c'mon, let's get down off the roof and have a beer and blast the fools instead? Cool?

No? How about Cold. The mountains are turning blue as we speak. OK, OK, a couple of shots too. Speaking of cold, let's get down from here. BBQ and Brewtime. And let's not talk about the Aggies.

Oops.

This is probably the wrong time to mention Radmanovic took the last shot last night as well...

Hey, the Bears still need to win every game here on out to have a handi-capable's chance in hell in the Playoffs this year. Feel Better?

Glavine back to Hotlanta?

Favre over the Cowgirls?

There we go. Come on, my man. I'll buy the first round. Now,keep your eyes out for a dish, we gotta find a place with the NFL Network...

17 Unanswered Points

2007-11-25T18:52:00.000-06:00

Before the game, a certain kicker, let's call him Todd Sauerbrun, stated how he was not worried at all about kicking to Devin Hester. Well, let me be one of the first to say, Hey, Thanks!!

Could you go ahead and call Jeff Feagles and Lawrence Tynes and let them know to do that next week as well? Thanks, man!

Bwaahahahahahahahahah!!!!! Bears win in OT, 37-34. Suh-Wheeet.

Nice Catch by Bernard Berrian on fourth down at the end of the game. Wow. Seriously. Even Dan "I Obviously Hate The Bears" Dierdork said it was as fine a TD catch as you would ever see.

Cue the music, folks. Only five more consecutive wins to go to make it to the playoffs! OK, maybe don't buy those postseason tix just yet. But tonight, somebody by Hester a drink!!! Hell, it should be Grossman and he should cover his whole tab.

Go Bears!!

Cedric Benson Out

2007-11-25T16:11:00.000-06:00

Cedric Benson went down a few minutes ago, with a Denver Broncos tackler landing hard on his left ankle. The Chicago Bears brought the truck out to get him, as he could not put any weight on the injury at all. But, I'm far from sad.

Why? Well, as many of you out there agree, Cedric Benson, and the premature departure of Thomas Jones, are perhaps the biggest two mistakes the Bears made in the offseason. Cedric is far from being able to run a team. Sure, they didn't know at the time, but now they do. He's not a #1 back. Well, he is, if you want to have the worst starting running back in the NFL.

Rofl. Jay Cutler just tackled Ogunleye after he picked up a fumble and AO landed right on poor little head, knocking his helmet a few feet away. That's why he plays offense.

Anyway, Cedric and his inability to break even one tackle 90% of the time has been a sore spot of mine and I'm sure many of the Bears. Adrian Peterson is not THAT Adrian Peterson, but at least he plays with heart. And he can pass block. I know, he's not a first round draft pick, but that's not the other Bears players fault, who want to, I don't know, win a game or two. That fault lands directly on the head of the idiotic Chicago Bears management. Great job. Matt Millen wants you around in Detroit so he can look better by comparison. Hell, he's just glad you fools are in the same division.

Anyway, let's see what the Bears can muster down the remainder of the season without the 1200# Pink Elephant sitting in the middle of the huddle. Best of luck to them.

They're going to need it.

Is it too late to just lose the rest of the games and, hmmm, maybe get a NFL quality quarterback? Just asking.

Screw that, just get out there and hit someone. Let's play some Football (we all know they won't draft a good QB anyway).

Go Bears!!

Barry Bonds Indicted- Federal Style

2007-11-15T17:13:00.000-06:00

Barry Bonds got indicted on federal charges yesterday, what were those charges you may ask? Perjury and Obstruction of justice.

Perjury? Get the fuck outta dodge, Barry Bonds has been publishing other peoples writings and claiming them to be his own?

No, thats plagiarism. And although im sure he has been guilty of that in his life it turns out Perjury is an act of lying or making verifiably false statements on a material matter under oath or affirmation in a court of law.

As for the obstruction of justice, that probably has to do with the fact he was given immunity to tell the truth, and instead chose PERJURY.

Just get ready to be bombarded by non stop news coverage for god knows how long.

Thank god Pedro Gomez has been taking law school classes at the University of Phoenix online, he and Roger Cossack are about to own this thing.

Ed Wade: 0 for 1

2007-11-08T12:07:00.000-06:00

Ed Wade, new GM for the beleaguered Houston Astros, makes his first move of the offseason, and it's not a pretty one. OK, many 'stros fans wanted him out of town, but I'm thinking most of them wanted to get something in return for him. Brad Lidge and Eric Bruntlett for outfielder Michael Bourn, right-hander Geoff Geary and minor league third baseman Mike Costanzo doesn't really scream "Success"!!

To get rid of pitching, good middle relief pitching, for a "I hope he can lead off" guy in Bourn, and a (much) lesser arm in Geary and a roll of the dice in Costanzo, who's a ok AA guy currently hitting a less-than-stellar .172 in the Arizona Winter League. Yikes.

Well, at least they got rid of Lidge, right? Ugh. The Phillies sure thank you Mr. Wade. Great job there. What's next? Roy Oswalt for Kip Wells?

Yee-Haa! Sure is fun playing with other people's money! Seriously, I sure hope, for those Astros fans out there, that Wade's second trade is better than this one. Kinda hard to get worse (umm, that's not a challenge, Ed).

Hey, anytime you want to send Hunter Pence over for Jacque Jones, I'm sure the Ivory Tower is all ears... On second thought, they'd probably blow that opp.

Don't Kick a Sleeping Dog

2007-09-26T22:22:00.000-05:00

After much time off, I'm motivated to write again. I'm deeply engrossed into the NL MLB Playoff scene, of course, since the Cubs are actually close, and we all know that doesn't happen that often. Trust me, it's sort of like seeing Hailey's Comet.

So, after the Cubs do their best attempt at imploding, losing the first two of a three gamer with the Marlins (who they haven't beat in the last nine tries), the Brewers go and do a really, really, really stupid thing. They act on a situation that started brewing (pun intended) last game when Pujols got buzzed, but not hit, late in a laugher. And we know Tony LaRussa doesn't forget that sort of thing. When your season's over, emotional situations tend to take on less consequences, and it becomes Man Time.

With all that being said, the Cards are up late (8th inning) over the Brewers, but only by one run. The scoreboard folks in Milwaukee post the Cubs loss, and the peeps go crazy. Here we go, it's our time. Or something like that, I guess. But, what does Ned Yost do? He responds to a beaning of Fielder in the second, and hits Pujols square in the back, getting himself and the pitcher tossed in the process. And, it was easy to read his lips as he said, "That's a Manager". Essentially taking his dick out and challenging anyone not to call him a Man. That's cute and all, but y'all are in a pennant race. If by showing off your manhood you meant to over-emotionalize a trivial situation and instead letting your macho perhaps cost your team a chance at the postseason, then congratulations. Mission Accomplished. You just lost 7-2. Very Impressive.

And, as a Cub Fan, THANKS.

I double-dare you to do it again.

Too bad I know nothing is done with the Cubs until the Fat Lady sings, and when I think about that concerning the North Siders, a scary picture of Rosanne comes to mind. I'm not counting chickens, ya dig? But, I certainly appreciate Ned and the boys handing us one.

The blue flowers are from me.

Later.

D Lee Back, Cubs Promptly Win

2007-07-25T16:37:00.000-05:00

(AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)

Derrek Lee comes back from his five game suspension he incurred sometime way back in the Mesozoic era and promptly goes 2-4, and knocks in a big run in the 3-2 Cubs victory over the frickin' Redbirds. Zambrano had a good outing and Ramirez drove in the go-ahead as well. Nice to see the team hitting on all cylinders. Tonight, hopefully the Cubs continue their winning ways (of late) and support Ted Lilly on towards his 11th win. Any win over the Cardinals is a good win, but sitting only 3.0 games back, every win seems that much bigger. Especially with the Brew Crew playing the Reds. Trust me Redlegger, I'm rooting for the Reds this series. Obviously. Just get your wins now before the weekend.

But I just love that shot of a dejected Pujols after making the final out. Maybe I'm a sadist. Nah, I'm just a Cub Fan.

Directly from the Uh-Oh category, free-swingin' Ronny Cedeno is back in town. I know, I know, he hit .350-something in AAA and had 10 HR's, but we've seen this story before. And it wasn't pretty. The Fontenot/Theriot combo is doing just fine for me. As long as Cedeno stays behind these two and behind DeRosa (when he comes back), then I'm down with that. With trepidation. Sweet Lou won't stupidly, stubbornly, stand behind these guys if they don't produce, so I shouldn't worry.

But I do lot's of things I shouldn't.

Anyone remember we traded Greg Maddux away for Cesar Izturis (essentially)??? So, let me get this straight, after we sent Izzy packing for the ol' PTBNL, we traded first ballot HOF, one of the greatest pitchers ever to grace this earth, for a PTBNL?! WTF????!!!!

OK, deep breaths...

Still, that just doesn't sit well with me. They kind of quietly let that thing happen so there wasn't a riot in the middle of Wrigley. Trust me, let that sit in for a sec and there just might be a riot going on.

If the Cubs weren't 3.0 games out of first.

I'm off to watch the rest of the A's/LAA of A game. See y'all soon.

Maybe Redlegger will actually post soon. Or perhaps Styles or Galt will come back from their Antarctic Fishing Trip. Or maybe we should check guest ledger at Guantanamo Bay.

Go Cubs!

All-Star Weekend

2007-07-09T16:38:00.000-05:00

Here we are, at the halfway point. Umm... Sort of. 89 games, 88, 82, who's counting? And, it's not really a weekend, but hey, I've got the day off, so it is for me. So there. Tonight the shindig gets off the ground with the Barroid Bonds-less Home Run Derby. He dissed his own crowd and passed on the Derby for Jay-Z's party down the road. Not that it might not be more fun, but the park that Barry built gets its All-Star game, and Barry says "thanks but no thanks". Actually it's more like "whatever, have fun".

True, it's a grind on the body, and with the three rounds of 10 outs is just too much. But, the Giants are far from competing for the pennant, and he should have got out there on the stage in front of "his" people who've supported him for years and years when nobody else has. Not that Barry is or ever has been a spokesperson for the game, but I think it would have helped for him to embrace the fans and try and go out with some class and positivity.

Back to the 10 out thing, it's just too many. How about 7? That'd be nine less outs over the course of the contest. And, let's add 'em all up and let the highest total win. Nothing was more deflating then seeing Mark McGwire hit all those mammoth shots over the Green Monster in Boston and still lose the event. The crowd got what they wanted for sure, but the results didn't add up in the end (even though Griffey won it with the same total of 16 HR's. But, think of the sudden death possibilities after that. Go swing for swing, first one who doesn't match the other is out). How about when Jason Giambi hit 20 in '01, in the first two rounds, and didn't even make the final round, losing out to two people who hit 10 ("winner" Luis Gonzalez) and 11 (Sammy "Corkman" Sosa) in the first two rounds.

I know, I know, after that they made sure round one carries over to round two to eliminate that possibility. But why wipe the slate in the end? Make 'em all count. Whoever hits the most wins. Nuff Said. Someone get me Bud "I'm The Greatest, Just Ask My Mother" Selig's phone number.

Two hours 'til home run bliss. I'm pickin' the rook, Prince Fielder, to hit more than a few into the Bay and taking this year's Derby. Although it is tough for lefties to hit 'em in Candlestick/Pac Bell/AT&T Park, I think he's got the swing to take it. He puts it all in there, and there's a lot of all in there. Watch Pujols too, like anyone ever has to say that when it comes to dingers.

Time for a beverage run.

Oh, except for one last thing. I've wanted to answer Matt's post question, Who's In Your 5, for a bit, but haven't had the time to get to it. Today I actually got a full day off, so, drum roll please (or maybe just a frickin' get on with it scream from the back), here we go:

1. Jake Peavy
2. Alex Rodriguez
3. Johan Santana
4. Ryan Howard
5. Justin Verlander

When asked the people I would build my franchise around, today, and for the future, I have to take into account young players who will be around for a while. This heavily influenced my decisions here. Every one of these type of things motivates discussion and perhaps even a few beer-fueled arguments, but I'd just say, hey, let's lace 'em up and see what happens.

Sure, Pujols' glove is better that Howard's, but I think the kid's still got a lot more to show us. And I wanted to balance my right-handed slugger (A-Rod) with a left-handed bomber to anchor the lineup. Get some OBP guys in front of Howard and A-Rod, and that's a lot of runs waiting to happen. With Peavy, Santana and Verlander taking the hill, I wouldn't even need that many runs, but I'd surely take 'em. I'm no fool. (hey, you shut up).

Maybe I just couldn't put a frickin' Redbird on the roster.

Go Cubs!

Graham, Could You Please Explain This

2007-06-30T19:47:00.000-05:00

"Something odd" might have been an understatement.

Who's In Your 5?

2007-06-28T18:48:00.000-05:00

Jon Heyman of SI.com recently wrote an article in which he asked 14 baseball experts (GM, Assistant GM, scouts, etc.) to list the five players they would select to build a championship team around now and in the future. Since I know more about baseball than these experts (whoever selected Yadier Molina should be fired), I'll give you my five, in no particular order.

Johan Santana

At 28, he's not a youngster anymore, but he's still got 6-7 good years in front of him. He also happens to be the best pitcher on the planet, and it's not all that close. Every team needs an ace and a lefty. In Santana, I get both.

Jake Peavy

Here's my second and final starter. In my opinion, Peavy is the second best pitcher in baseball, and he just turned 26. His park and his league inflate his numbers a bit, but you can't argue with 3 of 4 sub-3.00 ERA years. Last year's numbers were more a result of injury than anything. Now I have two horses to ride throughout the regular season, and 1-2 punch that makes you the favorite in any playoff series.

Albert Pujols

It kills me to take a first baseman, because that's generally one of the easiest positions to fill, but I just can't pass on the best player in the game. Pujols is a near lock for an 1.050+ OPS and will anchor the middle of the lineup day in day out.

Joe Mauer

Here's where I go for the up-the-middle positions that are so difficult to get good offense from. Even with the recent influx of good catchers in the game, there's still only about 10 teams that have hitters with any kind of stick to speak of. In Mauer, I get a 24 year old catcher with an above .400 OBP and an amazing ability to control opposing teams' running games. He's simply one of hte most valuable players in today's game, and while his knee worries me a little, he can still be moved to 2nd base and provide nearly the same value. Having a catcher like Mauer definitely gives me a leg up on the rest of the league.

Jose Reyes

It pains me to leave Grady Sizemore off this list, but center field is an easier position to fill than short stop. Reyes give me a quintessential lead off hitter, speed on the base paths, and above average defense for a premium position.

Honorable Mention

Grady Sizemore
Miguel Cabrera
Justin Verlander
Jonathan Papelbon
Alex Rodriguez

Who's in your Top 5? Leave them in the comment section.

Four In A Row

2007-06-25T23:10:00.000-05:00

(AP Photo/Jerry Lai)

Nice. Just when you thought the Cubs blew another game with one more shoddy performance from the bullpen, the O pulls is out, and the Cubs come away with a much needed come from behind win. Not only that, but it's Alfonso Soriano who provides the game winning hit. Nice way to put the wrap on the ol' Player of the Week chops. He only got one hit on the day, but he definitely made it count.

As I was watching the game on MLB.tv, I thought, as many Cubs fans most likely did, that the game was over. Up 8-3 in the ninth inning, I was wondering what game to watch next. Then, as only the Cubs can do, they proceeded to give up six runs in the top of the ninth without registering an out. Once again, it was Scott Eyre and Bob Howry who allowed the runs. Now, to their defense, Eyre was trying to last 2 1/3 and Howry just got the save last night, but it still broadcasts from the top of the mountain what the Cubs need desperately, and that's another bullpen arm. Now, the pitch Bob threw for the final three run homer was not a bad pitch, but it was a good thing nothing throw-worthy was close to me as the ball landed a few rows deep in the Wrigley Field bleachers.

But, somehow, someway, the Cubbies actually made it up in their half of the ninth this time. Thanks to a botched play by Matsui at 2nd, the Cubs stayed alive, and Soriano came through with a little single to shallow right to score Jones and Hill to win the game for the Good Guys. Oh, there's joy in Wrigley tonight. Might be a few people late for work in Chi-Town tomorrow morning.

With D Lee about to hit the pine with his suspension, the Cubs need to win as many games as possible right now. To win game one vs. an extremely hot Rockies team sure starts off the series with a bang. Especially considering they came back from the dead to do it. Whew. Let's try and save the heart-attacks from happening next time, OK?

How about the 5-5 night by Fontenot? A rookie hasn't done that since, hmmm... Oh yeah, Theriot last year. I'm liking this Bayou Connection. Aramis made a few good plays on D as well, which is a nice way to play his first game back at the corner. I'm liking it. If the Cubs can win this series, and sit just two below .500 with signs seemingly pointing in the right direction, I'm liking their chances to make something after this season after all.

Then again, maybe that's enough Kool-Aid for one night.

Go Cubs!

Elijah Dukes Is Sane, Logical

2007-06-20T17:37:00.001-05:00

Why do I love talk radio? Because it gives Elijah Dukes a medium to spread his infinite wisdom. Some highlights from the transcript:

"I know if I stayed with her I'd physically be in prison because she provoked me by hitting me, " Dukes said. "She done hit me across the head with a picture frame and everything. I hate that because I told my kids I would never go back to jail for no domestic violence."

My dad told me the same thing when I was 7, but then my bitch of a mother had to go and overcook the meatloaf. What choice did my pops have but to beat her senseless with a scolding hot iron? It's been a tradition of my sister's and mine to take a slice of perfectly cooked meatloaf to Thanksgiving visitations ever since.

"How many times have I ever shot someone?" Dukes said. "How many times have I ever stabbed someone? How many times have I gone to jail for brutally beating someone? Never..."

I've done some really bad things to some really good people in my life, but in my defense, I have never--NEVER--forced a little old lady to perform oral sex on a puppy before throwing both of them into a wood chipper. (Or at least the statute of limitations has long since expired.)

Dukes also admits that he "did something one time" with the 17 year old foster child in his step-grandmother's house. Call me naive, but I don't see any harm in playing a little game called Just The Tip. And for all we know, "did something" could mean "baked cookies for homeless children," and "one time" could mean "every other Thursday." Now, in that context, is Elijah Dukes such a bad man?

His mother, Phyllis, called the station after Dukes spoke, defending her son from accusations of fathering more children by pointing out: "I can say I'm pregnant from Carl Crawford, okay? ~~And you know that's hearsay."~~

I have never claimed to be a responsible journalist, so, in as much, I stopped reading after after the word, "okay."

So, HOLY SHIT!!!!

Carl Crawford knocked up Elijah Dukes' mom.* This story just keeps on giving.

*may or may not be true, but most likely is

Bye Bye Barrett

2007-06-20T12:31:00.000-05:00

The worst kept secret in Chicago, Michael Barrett has been traded. The destination, however, was a question, and the answer is San Diego. The frickin' Pads. Great. Funny how the comments are he's reunited with his ex-Cub pitcher Greg Maddux. Ummm... Yeah, you mean the Greg Maddux he didn't catch for? Greg had his own "personal" catcher, our boy Hank, meaning, Mike, you can't call a game.

Good luck in San Diego. He's on pace for a career high in home runs. Maybe he'll slap one or two right away and get some support, but who cares. What's important is Lou and Jim got rid of a clubhouse problem, did it quickly, and got a decent return for him.

Who's Rob Bowen (besides a guy with a really goofy bio pic)? He's about five years younger than Barrett to start with. This year, Bowen's hitting .268/.371/.439 with 2 HR, 11 RBI, 13 BB, 28 K in 82 AB. Michael hit .256/.307/.427 with 9 HR, 29 RBI, 17 BB, 36 K in 211 AB. I'd call that even. If fact, I'd lean toward advantage Cubs, considering the recent clubhouse problems surrounding Mr. Barrett, and that the Cubs also landed a 19 year old Minor Leaguer, Kyler Burke. Who is Burke? He's hitting just above .200, is a lefty who can't yet hit lefties, so don't expect to hear his name again for a few years (if ever).

But, the point being, they didn't do what the Old Idiot Cubs would have done and bury their head in the sand, act like there isn't a freakin' pink elephant in the room. And, to make things worse, they then would have let Michael walk into free agency without getting a damn thing for him. This time around, they actually got some goods for him, and I think they did a good job, especially considering the whole league knew they had to deal the guy.

Bye Bye Barrett. Adieu, Adieu, parting is such sweet sorrow.

You don't have to go home, but you can't stay here.

Go Cubs!

Monday Madness

2007-06-18T12:14:00.000-05:00

With the Cubs losing 2 of three from the dreaded Padres, and about to lose Derrek Lee for five games or so (it's official: Five Large), my Cub Joy rating is at about 0.32, which may or may not have been the BAC of many Cub fans the last two days. The outlook of the Cubbies scoring runs is mighty bleak with D Lee and E-Ramis out of the lineup. When your cleanup hitter is Barrett with his .252/.305/.427, you know things just aren't right.

How about the U.S. Open? Oakmont is downright crazy. I couldn't finish that course with three cases of balls in my bag. Who is that smoking fool Cabrera? As I heard on The Dan Patrick Show this morning, Cabrera had the week of his life and won vs. Tiger, who had a mediocre week, by only one stroke.

US Soccer (yes, US Soccer) is in the semifinals of the CONCAFF Gold Cup. The US beat a tough Panama team 2-1, raising their record to 3-0-0 and getting them into the Semifinals on Thursday, when they'll take on Canada in ChiTown at 6pm CST. Mexico takes on Guadeloupe in the other Semi at 9pm. If US plays Mexico in the finals on Sunday, my place of work will be out of it's mind that night. U-S-A.

The Astros get their first sweep of the season. Where did that offense come from? Mike Lamb and his .733/.867/1.333 over the last four games surely spikes the punch a bit. He has more RBI's over that span (10) than he did the 50 games before that (7). A Grand Salami sort of helps that stat along. The 'Stros scored 24 runs during the sweep of the Mariners, four more runs than they managed during their recent 10 game slide.

Sam Perlozzo is already out as the Baltimore Orioles manager. Seems he finished his brief tenure with the O's with an eight game losing streak. At home. Nice way to go out. Rumors have Joe Girardi taking the job, with Andy MacPhail being the new GM in B-town. Figures, a couple more ex-Cubs sent to a division in which they have no chance of winning. Good Luck.

In NHL news, bwaaaahaaaaahaaaahaaaa. Just kidding.

Tommie Harris made some waves by saying he'd like the Bears to have Donovan McNabb as his QB. Ummm.... What's the problem? Duh?! First, nearly every NFL team wouldn't mind having Donovan on their team. Secondly, anyone see the implosion of one Rex Grossman in the little thing called the Super Bowl? Get over it Rex. Prove us all wrong. 'Nuff Said.

Can Marshall, Marquis and Lilly get it done in Texas? I say yes. Well, yes as in two out of three and taking the series. We'll find out starting tomorrow.

Go Cubs!

Fight at Wrigley

2007-06-16T13:23:00.000-05:00

The Confines weren't so friendly today, as both benches cleared after Padres starter Chris Young hit Derrek Lee up near the head in the bottom of the fourth inning this afternoon. While the home plate ump was chatting with the Padres catcher for some reason, the aforementioned players decided to get it on about 45 feet up the first base line. D Lee seemed to be saying something to Young, Young said he didn't mean to do it, Derrek said, "yeah, right" and then the punches were flying. Or something like that. In the ensuing brawl, Jake Peavy did enough sucker-punching to get tossed as well as the two combatants. Guess Peave meant what he said in the paper about hitting someone. Thought he meant with the ball, but whatever.

Here's the rub: Derrek is now going to be suspended for a while. With the Cubs already without Aramis Ramirez, the prospect of losing their best hitter, one of the best hitters in MLB, does not paint a rosy picture. Great. Now who plays first? DeRosa? Do the Cubs then recall Ronny Cedeno? Cedeno for Lee doesn't scream "Offense". More like "Offensive". Maybe Ward will be ready to come of the DL after the weekend.

Zambrano almost got thrown out with his involvement in the fight, but he never got to a Padre. He got tackled by four or five of his teammates, trying to keep him in the game. Those guys saved a couple of Pad's from a trip to the ER. Right Mike?

But, if there is a silver lining, hopefully Peavy gets tagged for a couple of games. Young and Peavy going down seems almost even with Lee plus hitting coach Gerald "Gladiator" Perry. GP sure likes to throw down, doesn't he?

Alright, back to the game. Carlos just got his second inning-saving DP in a row, so I'm off to watch the remainder.

Go Cubs!

2007-06-15T12:10:00.000-05:00

These two men are the reason we traded for Jason Jennings. I hate them and i hate Tim Pupurra! That is all.

Ichiro Is Into Self-Mutilation

2007-06-11T12:57:00.001-05:00

This may be one of my favorite athlete quotes of all-time.

The Mariners were clearly not thrilled with the detour before opening a three-game series against the Chicago Cubs on Tuesday.

“To tell the truth, I’m not excited to go to Cleveland, but we have to,” Ichiro said through an interpreter. “If I ever saw myself saying I’m excited going to Cleveland, I’d punch myself in the face, because I’m lying.”

Ichiro went on to add, "And tell that fat fuck Drew Carey that if he even tries to get fresh with me, I'll kung-fu chop his ass right in the jugular."

Keep a look out for the Lil' Bow Wow diss track of Ichiro. Special Guest: Bizzy Bone.

Chad Johnson Is, In Fact, Hung Larger Than A Horse

2007-06-10T14:51:00.000-05:00

(courtesy of USA Today) I hope that covers my legal obligations.

It's a well known fact here at Unrestricted View that ~~Chad Johnson~~ Ocho Cinco is the most awesomest man in the world. It's a lesser known fact that I have a Chad Johnson Fathead plastered to the wall of every room in my house. (Are you judging me?)

Noting that Joe Mauer was rapidly becoming my Number One Man-Squeeze, Johnson took it upon himself to regain the title by racing a horse.

And, of course, he won. To be fair, CJ was given a 100m head start in the 1/8 mile race, but anyone who discredits his accomplishment because of that is probably a racist. I don't play the race card often, but if you bash Chad Johnson, I'll toss it around all willy-nilly.

Johnson's ego is well documented, so it should come as no surprise that he's not willing to stop at equestrian racing.

"Floyd Mayweather, you're next," Johnson said. "I want to fight you. I'd like to take Kobe and LeBron one-on-one. Jeff Gordon, we can take a couple laps."

Yeah, yeah. But can you out-eat Kobayashi?

Or how about a game of Beer Pong with Billy Marks?

Bench Jacque Jones

2007-06-08T13:47:00.000-05:00

(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Just asking, which of these guys would you want playing right field for you?

Player A: .306/.364/.423, 4 doubles, 3 HR, 23 RBI, 9/19 BB/K in 111 AB
Player B: .236/.298/.333, 9 doubles, 2 HR, 18 RBI, 14/26 BB/K in 174 AB

Add the fact that Player B throws like my grandpa after a few glasses of Beefeater, and you understand the title of this post. Why the hell is Lou Pinella playing Jacque Jones over Cliff Floyd? They're both lefties, one with power, one who sucks eggs, and only one has a chance in hell to hit a lefty, who, coincidentally, the Cubs are only 5-10 against.

Here's the numbers on that little stat: In JJ's nine years in the Bigs, he's only hitting .227/.275/.348 against the southpaws. For the mathematically challenged, that's about as good as Shaq's free-throw percentage. OK, his career free-throw percentage is actually .525. Whatever. As Matt told me the day the Cubs greatly overpaid for that hack, Jock looks plain stupid vs. da lefties. Ugh.

In comparison, Cliff's numbers against left-handers are .273/.331/.465. Hmmm... Wonder who'd I'd rather be playing on a regular basis. Please look back up at this year's stats for further discouragement. Isn't Sweet Lou's philosophy that if you hit, you play? Jock must be quite the personality then, because his stats don't scream out playing time to me. Neither does his -2.7 VORP. I know, I know, the Cubs are actually trying to trade Jones, and Cliffy has some cartilage problems in his ribcage, but I'm just pissed the team is at this position to begin with. Matt Murton is a better alternative than the Jockster. Would you rather have a threat hitting after Lee and Ramirez? Or Barrett's .239 or JJ's woe-is-me? Seems simple enough. At least when the baseball mind is actually kickin'.

(Did I just say that? What a dork.)

Speaking of Michael "Nobody Loves Me" Barrett, this is a terrible time to go through his worst plate discipline of his career. To say he's pressing is like saying Paris Hilton has had a few boyfriends. If he doesn't get his head out of his ass, his days at the Friendly Confines are certainly numbered. This season (.239/.293/.400) is so far below his career numbers (.266/.324/.430) you'd think he'd turn it on, but with the extenuating circumstances, he could be going to another squad by Aug 1st. Wait, no they're not. He's done. Especially when you add in Carlos Zambrano would rather have Koyie Hill (.083/.214/.083) in there than Barrett. Maybe Big Z figures he's hitting better than them both (.296/.296/.444), so what the hell. Think the Indians would part with Shoppach? Too young for the Cubs to go after. Or for the Indians to give up. The Northside Brass is much better at wasting $5.33 mil per like they are on JJ. Or the $4 mil per they are on Barrett. Michael's contract is up after this year, so I hope they at least get something for him in lieu of the ol' Cub Fave of letting the man walk for nothing.

On the positive side, how about Rich Hill's last start? Dig it. Matt was probably torn between watching him school the Braves for eight innings and being glad his fantasy team was on it. Knowing Matt "John Galt" Resell, I'd put money on the fantasy team. Gotta love that nine pitch (eight for strikes) ninth inning by Ryan Dempster as well. Someone buy those guys a cold one.

As a Cub fan, I'm happy as a pig in shit that the Cubs won the series with the Brew Crew and then started off the four game trek through Hotlanta with a W. Oh yeah. They might even sniff .500 again sometime soon.

Or, maybe not.

Let's just start by putting that Cub flag over the frickin' Redbirds.

Weee're Waaiiting!

Random Musings

2007-06-08T03:07:00.000-05:00

Did anyone watch the MLB Draft today? Talk about a snooze fest. I kept praying for a testing of the Emergency Broadcast System. I know that Selig is jealous of how big of an event the NFL Draft is, and he'd like to duplicate, but it's just not gonna happen. With the NFL, you know quite a few of the players, and all the players drafted you'll see the next year. Not so with baseball. Half the kids are high schoolers. Nobody watches enough college baseball to be familiar with even the best of those guys. And to top it off, most of the draftees will never set foot in the big leagues. For the ones that do, you get to wait half a decade. Sorry Bud, this ain't gon'work!

The NBA Finals may prove to be the only thing more boring than the MLB Draft. Even LeBron's mom put $20 on the Spurs. I don't even watch much basketball anymore and I still knew the "real" Finals took place 3 weeks ago when San Antonio beat Phoenix.

Hand me my plate of crow. It looks like Hunter Pence was ready for the bigs this year. I knew he'd be a good player eventually, but I thought he still needed a year at AAA. Looks like the NL ROY race is between him and Lincecum. Chris Young could sneak into the picture though.

Miami is going to trade or release Daunte Culpepper before the weekend is over. Oakland seems like a good fit, and they've expressed interest in him before. Jamarcus Russell could sit for a year and learn from Daunte. Just two years ago he was an elite quarterback. If that knee is right, I don't see why he couldn't be a quality starter again.

Astros fans continue to talk about trading for Jarrod Saltalamacchia, but I just don't see it. First, I don't think the Braves are going to move him. I know McCann is blocking him behind the plate, but they can stick him at first to help provide some of the offense the team will lose when Andruw Jones leaves. I've heard whispers of trying him in left also. But even if they are going to deal him, the Astros don't have the pieces. They could swap Pence for Salty, but that still leaves a hole in center. They probably wouldn't move Pence anyhow.

Maybe the Cubs could put together a deal. Would Felix Pie be enough? It would solve Atlanta's center field need and allow the Cubs to let Michael Barrett walk. Barrett will probably get $8 million per year on the market.

Well, off to bed. It's getting late.

Hey, Who Wants To Look At Chicks?

2007-06-08T01:37:00.000-05:00

You know what doesn't get enough props around the blogosphere?

College Softball.

Well, I've got you covered. Your 2007 NCAA Softball Champions are the Arizona Wildcats. You may be wondering why the hell I know this, and, furthermore, why the hell I'd choose to blog about it. The answer to the first question is that, since I'm currently unemployed, and since I have what some may view as an alcohol problem, I've spent the past few weeknights hanging out at bars and watching sports. The answer to the second question is that the Lady Wildcats are a striking group of young women. Much more pleasing to the eye than those--dare I say--nappy headed ho's from Tennessee.

Is there anything sexier than an attractive co-ed with a sub-zero WHIP?

Well, actually yes. Yes there is.

That is Allison Stokke. Allison, 18, and headed off to UCLA is known by teenagers and young men around the internet for her exceptional pole vaulting abilities. I shit you not - she holds records and stuff. The problem lies in the fact that many of these teenagers and young men have taken notice of this young athlete for her looks rather than her talents. I mean, really creepy guys like this one.

Tired of all this unwanted attention, her dad even gave an interview to The Washington Post. Go figure.

Well, I'm certainly not going to pile that voyeur filth on this poor girl. If anyone can relate to being treated like a piece of meat while having obvious talents overlooked, it's me. Girls calling me over to their dorm rooms under the guise of studying. Feeling up my biceps at the bar while I try to explain the really interesting implications of String Theory. If it's happened once, it's happened a thousand times.

So for once can you just try to look past the superficial and instead focus on the beauty within. Oh, who am I kidding? You jackals don't care about anything but T & A. Who am I to deny a man of what he wants?

At World's End

2007-06-02T19:04:00.000-05:00

How did you guy's like Hunter Pence's unofficial coming out party on national TV today? I loved it, Why you ask? Well, because he is on my fantasy team, I'm a huge Astros fan and I'm beginning to develop a man crush. Now that's the positive, let me delve into the negative for while.

Arrrrr, the negative be a deep and harsh mistress.

Don't I know it, The Astros have just got done losing ten games in a row and have overall lost eleven out of thirteen. The amount of runs they have scored in the ten loses has been enough to assist my hairline's rescission towards the top of my head. In contrast the amount of runs they have allowed their respective opponents to score has resulted in a spike in ticket sales for the Giant's and Diamondback's, however brief.

aye, but there be a light over the watery horizon.

True, as I and my fellow "Sadly Devoted to a Horrible Baseball Team Brother" Grahm well know, the NL Central is still not out of reach, the division is just that bad. Now Jason Jennings finally came back last week and pitched a pretty good game, Chris Sampson looks to be the legit 3rd starter and Matt Albers is back in the minors where he can rebuild his fragile frat boy ego from getting lit up like a Christmas Tree his last four outings in the Majors. Woody William's struck out nine in his last appearance and Carlos Lee is leading the Majors in RBI's. So the lining has a hint of silver to it.

Arrrrr, i fancy me silver, what be the course for such hopeless ship?

Well, glad you asked. Ya see the Astros play 16 outta 25 games on the road this month, the majority of those games are against the AL, Mariners, Angels, A's, White Sox and Ranger's. Bad News! If the Astros are going to pick it up their time is now, problem is it is not going to be easy. Not that it was easy before, you know what? Its gonna be hard as shit! This is it for the Astros, they have their rotation in order and its time to define themselves against the rest of the League

The Astros are now at Worlds End, just on the edge of falling off the NL's Oceanic Table. What resolve does such a team hold, to keep themselves afloat. Its seems time will be the deciding goddess when it come's to the Astros fate. That and scoring some fucking runs! Drink up me hardy's YOHO!

Fried Day

2007-06-01T13:19:00.000-05:00

(AP Photo/Duane Burleson)

Well, after stopping at Plucker's last night, I am quite glad it was the first day this week I got to sleep past 7:00am. Oh yeah. Quite the Drama Central last night on South Lamar last night, but I'll leave that crap untouched and move on to Lebron, Wie, and the losers of 15 of the last 22, the sorry-ass Cubs.

Lebron James. 48 points in 50 minutes, 9 boards, 7 dimes and 2 steals. Not a bad day at the office. But, much more impressive (or disturbing, depending upon your reference point) is that King James dropped 25 in a row to end the game, 29 of the last 30, hauling his Cavs up on his broad shoulders for the third straight game and kicking the once "guaranteed" Finals-bound Pistons back 109-107 in double-OT. Now it's up 3-2 and back home to Cleveland (cue Drew Carey) to try and wrap up an improbable comeback.

Does this NBA Playoff performance rank up there with the best of all time? Definitely. Does this mean the Cavs are going to roll on into the Finals? Absolutely not. Everyone keeps bringing up how this type of thing compares to Michael Jordan, and sure, it does. But, for those of us old enough to actually remember, Mike didn't win Championships when he was throwin' down like that with regularity. He won when the rest of the team came through. The Bulls finally won when others made those big shots (think Paxson and Kerr). The team came through together.

Now, I know Izzy and Gib are doing what they can to sort of chip in (like throwing five in on the $100 tab), the Cavs are far from team. In fact, this team is exactly like those pre-Championship Bulls teams. One man show, below average coach, dreams of glory but not quite getting there. When this is all said and done, and people realize the Cavs skated by a Wizards team minus Agent Zero and Caron, an overrated Nets team, and only won three games against the Pistons, then it'll settle in just as it is. A nice little story that adds up to a card or two short of a full house.

Not that three of a kind isn't a big time betting hand. Two pair on the other hand...

OK, let's say the Cavs somehow get by the Pistons. Then they're looking up (way up) at a true NBA team: The San Antonio Spurs. I don't think I need to say anything more about that. If I only had two words, how about Royal Flush.

On to other things. Did I just see that Michelle Wie, the "future" or whatever, just quit after going 14-over after 16 holes? I know "wrist injury". Yeah, yeah. Phil Mickelswithdrew as well, after 11 holes, but happened to be 1-under at the time. It was also only the second time in his 15 year professional career that he's withdrawn in the middle of a tournament, the other time being a 2004 bout with food poisoning. [Insert working brain cells here].

Donovan takes the money and runs to Orlando. Usually, I'd say something like, yeah, great job. See you back in College in a couple of years. Ya know, those "adults" in the pros don't like to listen to coaches. Just watch the Cavs when Davis speaks. But, for $27.5 mil, I just can't even rationalize what the hell that means. Besides desperation. At least they're in the East, and he's got a chance to make the playoffs. And it's a young team without "superstars". What the hell, give it a shot.

Now, on to the Cubs. As I watch Alfonso Soriano and his hundreds of millions of dollars take a week swing on a 2-2 count on a pitch about two inches off the ground, two inches outside, I think, Oh Yeah, these are the Cubs. Fuck. And I consult my list of self-help groups.

Texas' running back turned defensive end Henry Melton was arrested and charged with DWI last night. He's a junior. Wouldn't that make him a minor? Just checking. So here in Austin, we've got players with guns in their lap when the cops approach the car. When the cops approach the frickin' car! We've got players wandering around in an "unexplained stupor" up in the northern suburbs at 5 am. We've got weed charges, domestic assault charges, and one of the lowest graduation rates in the country. Nice. Welcome to SW Miami.

Hey, but they win, right? Business is Business.

I need a shower.

Later.

Go Cubs?

Thirteen

2007-05-30T01:07:00.000-05:00

The Cubs loss to the Fish today was not to be blamed on the bullpen, but the Chicago Cubs bullpen has lost 13 games for the team so far this year.

THIRTEEN.

Nearly half of the teams losses can be attributed to the bullpen.

In case you have less than 10 brain cells currently working in that empty head of yours, that's really fucking sad. (and that's still three less cells than the... well, you get the point).

I'm heading for the fridge.

I'll grab you one too.

A Few More Thoughts

2007-05-22T13:22:00.000-05:00

Three shots in the fourth quarter? No free throws the entire game? Lebron, what gives? Tell me you stayed up late. Tell me you got poked in the eye. Tell me you forgot to wear your lucky jock. But please don't tell me you were afraid to drive the lane because you can't hit free throws. Don't tell me you only took three shots in the fourth quarter because you thought Izzy was hotter than you at the time. If I was a Cavs fan, I'd be thinking about the one that got away. I'd be thinking that the Pistons aren't going to play that poorly again. I'd be thinking about what to do while the Pistons and someone else are in the Finals.

I think the NBA lottery should be weighted heavier in the worst team in the NBA's favor. The Grizz only have a 25% chance at the top pick. A 45% chance to have on or two. That means (for those who aren't mathematically inclined) that they have a 55% chance of not getting the top two picks. Ouch.

The Cubs face Jake Peavy tonight and his 5-1, 1.64 ERA, 0.99 WHIP, .241 Opp. SLG., 18BB/71K. Wow. He's good for at least 100 pitches a game. Hear that Guzman?! Rich Hill tries to match up with the Peavy at the Friendly Confines. Good Luck with that. Will D-Lee be back? Will it matter?

Speaking of the NBA Draft, do you think Kevin Durant would be passing up any shots?

Can Mike Mussina man up tonight and show the Yankee faithful he's actually worth the jack? It's definitely time to show up when the BoSox are in town.

The Brew Crew beat the Dodgers and held off a late rally with their bullpen. I think Styles and I might be in for a long haul here. If either one of our fave teams can get their heads above water. The Cubs and the 'Stros are both on a West Coast trip, so we'll know soon enough. Neither of these teams wants to be two games below .500 nor 6.5 back of the Brewers (although the Twins wish they were playing that well). At least Houston has the Roy Oswalt to fight behind tonight. although there's been lot's of talk about Tim Lincecum. If only Phil Garner had a clue who to play at third base (i.e. there ain't no "D" in Mike Lamb).

The Cowboys new stadium will host the 2011 Super Bowl. Maybe the Cowboys will be back in the playoffs by then.

Michelle Wie said a few weeks ago she's going to forgoe Men's events and focus on winning a Women's event sometime (or even getting close to the leaderboard in one). Oops, I guess she meant after she accepts a sponsor's exemption for the John Deere Classic in July. At least it's a few weeks after she plays in her first LPGA event of the year (next week's Ginn Tribute). Nice. Maybe she'll break 70 one of these days, something she hasn't done in her last 16 rounds. Maybe she won't choke this time like she did two years ago when she was a shot above the cut, only to double bogey 15 and bogey 16 to miss the cut by two strokes. OK, that's pretty harsh on someone who is going to graduate from high school this weekend, but I'm not sure when, if ever, all this attention was placed on a golfer just trying to make the frickin' cut.

And finally, Ernie Banks will be honored with a statue at Wrigley Field. It'll go up by Opening Day 2008. Kinda figures he has to Wait 'Til Next Year to see it, eh? Strange that Harry Caray got one first, but Harry's did come with a can-holder.

Graham's Random Rants

2007-05-21T23:26:00.000-05:00

Let this be a lesson to you on the Northside. If you give up a game winning grand slam to AJ Pierzinski, you get a one way ticket to Iowa. Maybe we'll see you in August, Neal.

So, let me get this straight. With less than a minute to go, Lebron James gets the ball into the paint, five feet from the hoop, no less than two times, and he doesn't take a shot. Hmmm... That doesn't sound like money to me. Except on those close up shots of his shoes.

Where's the "Hunter Pence, NL Player of the Week" post, Styles?!

I find it curious that the Yankees get Giambi right about the same time he "admits" the first time he used steroids, and they say and do nothing. Oh yeah, he was ripping the cover off the ball then. But, when the back-loaded deal gets to the loaded part, and he says "we" shouldn't have done "that stuff", they want to void his deal. Business is business. Produce, and they'll put their heads in the sand. Slump, and it's Hasta La Vista. Nice homerun today though, JG. And, with the Yanks beating the Sawx 6-2 to start the three game series, the talk of voiding will have to wait another day.

Ditto for Alex. Those HR's in the win over the Mets and then today in the W over Boston quickly cools the "we know you're a perennial MVP and all, but we still think you suck" talk. Hey, bring him to ChiTown. Sweet Lou will take him anyday, and A-Rod will play for Pinella anytime.

I'm sick of these "Click It or Ticket" bullshit commercials. It's not to "save lives". Anyone with half a brain knows that. It's to save the Big Insurance Companies big cash. Why do you think they lobbied for the laws so hard?

Speaking of commercials that piss me off, can we ditch the "VW's are cheap, so don't kill yourself" garbage? Seriously. Yeah, I can sleep better now... Commercialism/Consumerism at it's finest. Or worst.

Is it going to be San Antonio v. Detroit again in the NBA Finals? Does anyone outside of Mowtown and the Riverwalk really care? Hey NBA, how's it feel that NASCAR really kicks your ass?

Why is there still the WNBA? Gives young ladies something to shoot for. Role models and all that. Sure. If playing for crowds one-third of the size of the average Women's Tennessee NCAA game makes you feel special, then by all means, go for it. I'm pretty sure Arena Football is going to outdraw/outview ya, if it already hasn't done so.

Not that I give two shits about that stupid indoor "football" crap.

Chris Henry's agent says his client did not fail the test. What else would you say when you're losing a big chunk of your meal ticket? OK, insert "allegedly" as many times as necessary in yesterday's post. Happy now? I'm sure parents of young teenage girls across the country feel safer already.

Tim Wakefield allows the 2nd most stolen bases amongst active MLB pitchers. Not unusual, considering he's a knuckler and all. But what is odd is that Greg Maddux is #1. Of course, that's just because he could care less about anyone not holding a bat. Or maybe he's just slow to the plate.

Clinton Portis says people should mind their own business and let Mike Vick kill, fight, and mame dogs (allegedly). Thanks for letting us know you do it too, CP. You idiot. Oh, and when told it's a felony to do such a thing, the genius Portis responded, "it can't be that bad of a crime". Ahhh, the sound of stupidity is so... infuriating.

Houston fires Jeff VanGundy and hires Rick Adelman. Guess that means Skip To My Lou will get to push the ball. Finally.

Alright, I'm done for now. Later.

Four Strikes and You're Out

2007-05-21T12:16:00.000-05:00

Chris Henry failed a court-ordered drug test today, with opiates showing up in his system. Let that settle in for a sec. He knew he was going to be tested, the date and time of the test, and he still failed. For Opiates. Seriously. He's looking at 88 days in a Kentucky jail, and he's violated his probation in Florida.

Now, as Dan Patrick said on his ESPN Radio show today, Henry has hit for the cycle. He's been hit with a DUI, possession of marijuana, contributing to the delinquency of minors, and now this. Also, on March 25th, he got pulled over for failing to use a turn signal and failure to wear a seatbelt, and was hit with a Driving While Suspended charge. All these incidents happened since Dec. '05. That's some year and a half, eh?

In addition, the delinquency of minors charge involved an 18 year old girl who alleged Henry raped her (he was since cleared), and two other girls, aged 15 and 16!!! WTF????? This guy needs a brain transplant. Hey, Cincinnati, let this cat go. Now. Drop him.

Which brings to mind the title of this little rant. When would you decide to drop a mulit-million dollar investment that seemed to work for Satan himself? Err, OK, that's a little bit overly dramatic, but you get my drift. How many strikes does it take before you say, "hmm..., maybe this guy's a little wacked out"? What's next? Crack? Domestic Violence? Murder?

You know Roger Goodell is going to drop the axe on this kid now. I say kid since he just turned 24 this past Thursday. And he's obviously not acting like a Man. A man on the brink of being a millionaire. Hell, he's already a frickin' millionaire.

Back to the Commish. Here's the quote he made concerning Chris Henry after his suspension for eight games stemming from his prior misbehavior, "I must emphasize to you that this is your last opportunity to salvage your NFL career. I urge you to take full advantage of the resources available to support you in that effort."

In other words, nice knowing ya.

Catch This

2007-05-20T23:42:00.000-05:00

Do I have to say anything besides grand slam home run by A.J. Frickin' Pierzinski?

I didn't think so.

Except, *%@#%!!!!

Ex-Cub Aardsma gets rolled by the Cubs yesterday, and ex-ChiSox Cotts gets stomped by the Southsiders today. Guess that's poetic or something.

Or just painfull to watch for a Cub fan.

Cue the Meatloaf for this one...

(ya know, 2 out of 3 and all that)

Bring on the Daddies on 2sday.

Maybe the Cubs will get to .500 by June.

3oth.

Oh Yeah!

2007-05-20T00:37:00.000-05:00

(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Do I even have to say anything besides Derrek Lee, pitch-hit, grand slam home run?

I didn't think so.

OK, how about Jason Marquis with a two-run shot, Ryan Theriot and Aramis Ramirez with triples, Daryle Ward with another double, Michael Barrett with his second homer in as many days, and the Chicago Cubs win the home series against the Chicago White Sox by winning the first two games in Wrigley. Nice. If Big Z can win game 3 tomorrow afternoon, it's back to .500 for the Cubbies.

Damn, I hope I'm not talking about frickin' .500 for very much longer this season. Unless it's D Lee's BA or Theriot's OBP. Or how many beers are sold in the rightfield bleachers by the middle of the second inning.

Hey, Howry and Eyre, can you fucks stop giving up so many runs this year for a change? Seriously. Try keeping people off base for a change. Not like you are two of the highest paid Cubs or anything...

And speaking of highly paid Cubs, Soriano, what's with the 4 for the last 29? 0 HR and 1 RBI in that stretch as well, "hitting" in the 3 slot. Maybe he needs to breathe through his eyeballs or something.

I was just talking with my buddy, and fellow Cub fan, Joe on Thursday about how the Cubs need to send Angel Guzman back to the pen, and bring up Sean Marshall to start games. Ya know, someone that can last longer than 75-80 pitches. And, I also said it'd be nice to have Carlos Marmol up in the pen and send some of the non-performers off to Iowa to think about things. And guess what Sweet Lou does?

MAN, it's nice to have a real baseball man in the dugout for a change.

Go Cubs!

Matt Resell's First Post

2007-05-17T20:01:00.000-05:00

This is Matt's first post, blogspot.com is currently blocking him for some reason . My guess would his little known aggravated assault case against Chris Hovan.

A few weeks ago Graham and I decided to revive this here blog, as it had just lay in the wasteland of cyberspace, only receiving hits because you voyeurs are constantly searching the web for pictures of Joe Mauer’s girlfriend.

Oh my, what’s this!

Anyways, Graham and I met at a super secret think tank somewhere south of The Andes to discuss where to go from there.

Matt: Ya wanna start the blog up again?

Graham: I guess so.

Matt: Sweet!

Graham: Totally!

Matt: My buddy Pat wants in.

Graham: Right on! You hungry!

Matt: How about tacos?

Graham: Nah, burritos!

Matt: Score! (awkward hi-five)

After that we went through an excruciating deliberation process of trying to figure out how to best bring Unrestricted View back to the halcyon days of the Vote For Neifi and Juan Campaign that eventually landed us on an Orlando radio station.

Graham decided to bring his posts from Behind The Ivy over here, so he could have more writing freedom to post about a team nobody cares about. I mean, Go Cubbies!

Pat, err…Rick Styles (gay) promptly began posting about all things lame Houston, complete with improper grammar and a courageous disregard for the SHIFT key.

Me? Well, I’ve done nothing. I’d like to say that I’ve been totally busy with really cool stuff like banging Scarlett Johansson, and banging Penelope Cruz, and banging Jessica Alba, and……well, you get the idea. Truth be told, I’m actually just lazy and am easily distracted by seemingly trivial things.

Oh, look, a puppy!

Wait. Where was I?

That’s right – why I haven’t been posting. I suppose it doesn’t really matter why I haven’t been posting. And although this is technically my first post, you’re not getting any sports information in this one. The thing is, I don’t really know what I want to post about. I’ve got a few different ideas, so I’ll let you vote on them in the comment section.*

A) The Twins and Braves

B) The NL Central teams not covered by Rick Styles and Graham

C) Funny sports related material (think Deadspin)

D) In-depth statistical analysis of teams and/or players

E) I’m just here to fuck Matt

*voting results will have very little—if anything at all—to do with what I actually decide to post about. But don’t let that stop you from expressing your opinion.

Matt

Don't Want To Talk About It

2007-05-17T14:58:00.000-05:00

Cubs blew ANOTHER game in the ninth today, allowing five runs in the bottom of the ninth to the hated Mets to lose the game 6-5. Ryan Dempster and Scott Eyre were the victims today. Dempster walked the bases loaded, then walked in a run, then a RBI single, then was pulled for Eyre. Scott allowed two straight hits to David Wright and Carlos Delgado, and there went the game.

Can Carlos Marmol or Sean Marshall help out? I don't care who the hell it is, but something must be done. Someone's going to get hurt. Besides people within throwing distance of my TV.

Oh, the joys of being a Cub Fan...

one pence, sooooo the richer!

2007-05-17T14:54:00.000-05:00

Okay so everybody knows the theme from shaft right? Well sing that Issac Hayes classic in your head for a second but when you get to the part where the backup singer's chime in with the chorus line that just so happens to be the name of the song/movie, insert the word:"PENCE" yeahhh, now i can dig that!

You know who else can dig it? The Astros Fans, pence absolutely tore it up in spring training and you can ask Matt Resell, I told him that Pence was going to get called up before the all star break. This one really was a no-brainer. Chris Burke is not an outfielder, especially a center fielder. It was inevitable that he was going to have trouble at that position and to make it worse for Chris he has not fully recovered from shoulder surgery in the off season so his batting couldn't even save his job in the lineup. Chris Burke will be back, once Mark Loretta moves on and Biggio retires. Chris will be playing his true position at second and he will get the Chance he deserves.

No where was I? Oh yeah Hunter Pence, i know it is early but as an Astro enthusiast I am really excited about this kid. We haven't had a real hitting star come out of our farm system since Lance Berkman, I'm not calling Pence a star yet but i am willing to say that he has the tangibles to be one. If Pence continues to develop as a Major League player the way he has in this short time up, he could be (GASP) a Five Tool Player! (Knock on Wood)

Regardless of all my Hunter man crushing, his emergence in the lineup has sparked a vastly better team in May than the one we endured in April. Its not all Hunter Pence though. Berkman has been hitting much better and Lee is swinging the bat like he is "El Cabong", the cartoon Spanish horse that would wail his guitar into a purse snatcher. Bottom line, the Astros are better, bullpen is holding up and the starters are giving good outing's the majority of the time. Its not all him, but who better to serve as a scapegoat for the teams success than the fresh faced 24 year old who should probably pay more attention to the game going on, than hand signaling his age to a hottie on the Home Run Porch. I heard she's a lesbian Hunter, one out buddy....throw's going to second!

Bounce Back

2007-05-16T16:03:00.000-05:00

Well, the Cubs and the Bulls bounced back to make this Chicago Sports fan happy, at least for a few more days. The Cubbies came to play in game two of the four game series in Shea Stadium 10-1. Nice. The Bulls, stunningly, suprisingly, mysteriously, came back to win Game 5 of the Second Round of the Eastern Conference NBA Playoffs. How the hell did that happen? I'm not sure, but it's great to see the Bulls, at the very least, go out like Men and with Pride. Gotta like it. Unless you're a Pistons fan. It helps when the Bulls shoot 57.3% from the field, including 62.5% from the arc. When P.J. Brown (8) out rebounds Big Ben Wallace (5) and the Bulls still win 108-92, it's good news for Scotty Skiles and the guys.

So, the day when Carlos Zambrano changes his mechanics a bit, he comes out like a superstar, holding the big bats of the New York Mets to one run on six hits and three walks over 8.0 innings. By far his best outing on the season to this point. Green's leadoff homer in the bottom of the fifth was the only blunder on the day for Big Z. Not too shabby at all. Endy Chavez helped out with his 3 LOB, of course, but the Cubs will take the win, for sure.

Being such a blowout, they got to rest Mark DeRosa for a game. Can't really feel good about the 0-5 night Alfonso Soriano had, but Ryan Theriot continues to impress with a three walk and one hit day from the leadoff spot, scoring two runs. He's up to .313 BA and .383 OBP in the season. Dig it. How about Cliff Floyd going 3-5 from the 2-slot. Not sure how this guy is doing it or why he's batting second, but hell, I'll take it. Daryle Ward went 2-4 with 2 RBI, a run scored and a double. He's got a .348/.516/.478 going. With Derrek Lee maybe out until the weekend showdown with the ChiSox, it's nice to see Ward contributing while the Northsiders need him. Jacque Jones went 2-4 and I really like seeing him in the seven slot. Hear that Dusty? Sweet Lou showing the Cub Fans on a daily basis why they're much better off with a REAL baseball guy steering the ship.

Hey, I haven't even mentioned Aramis Ramirez' Grand Slam yet. Top of the sixth with two out. Gotta like that. Well, unless you're Scott Schoeneweis. Or John Maine, since it put the game out of reach and notched his first "L" of the season.

Can Rich Hill keep up the good work tonight? I hope so. Maybe they can make it back to .500 again.

Go Cubs!

Go Bulls? Can they really win Game 6 at home and force Game 7 out of this one? We'll find out tomorrow night.

Barry Beefroid on the bayou

2007-05-15T09:49:00.000-05:00

He just landed a short while ago, the man who is 10 home runs away from tying Hank Aaron for the all time home run record. All though he still takes the chartered flight with the rest of the team (something Roger Clemens does not do) Barry Bonds knows in his silver spoon heart that it is all about him. The attention is all paid to him. This is exactly the way he wanted it, this was why he started using more than half a decade ago, he craves attention. Just ask Jim Leyland.

He comes into Houston today with a little less fanfare than in past years. He is not about to hit 70 on the season, he is not about to pass Babe Ruth for second all time and Russ Springer isn't waiting with a fastball and a vendetta.

No, Beefroid Barry comes into to Minute Maid Park today as just the left fielder for The Giants, a ball club that has OWNED the Astros over the past four years, especially at the juice box. With the day off yesterday and all right handed opposing pitchers you can rest assure that Barry will not be on the pine for any of these games.

Even though Bonds is a circus unto himself, it just doesn't seem the same without all the media attention that this dude has brought in the past years. Even Pedro Gomez (espn's all Bonds all the time correspondent) is taking the series off.

Bottom line is that the Astros have to show up for these games, when they woke up this morning they found themselves 2nd in the division and there is only one way up and that's to start beating the teams you have to beat. Even though its early in the season, The Giants are one of those teams. Not because of the urgency of the situation but because of the colossal ass whoopin the giants layed on the Astros last year in a three game set at Minute Maid Park.

No San Fran fairies get to come in and disrespect this house like that 2 years in a row, i don't care if they do have the greatest asshole who ever abused steroid's, disrespected his teammates, cursed out the media, and painted himself as a racial scapegoat that ever lived.

I have a feeling Matt Albers is going to get raped.

Holy Cow

2007-05-14T22:12:00.000-05:00

What word can be used to describe the Cubs walking in the winning run (fifth, after being ahead 4-0) in the bottom of the ninth to lose the opener to the hated Mets, with bases loaded (how else do you walk in a run you freak?), two outs and a full count? (the second consecutive walk, third allowed by the Cubs in the inning)...

FUCK!!!!!

Lilly Shows Us How It's Done

2007-05-14T15:03:00.000-05:00

(AP Photo/George Widman)

Ted Lilly comes in and throws a gem against the Philadelphia Phillies, just what the Chicago Cubs needed to stop the three game skid. Not only does he come out and hold down the Phil's to just one run and three hits, but he hangs in there for 8.0 innings, allowing a much needed rest for the boys in the pen. Then, the reincarnation of a true stopper, Ryan Dempster, comes in and shuts 'em down once again with a shutout, one-hit ninth to shut the door and keep the Cubbies in the second slot in the NL Central.

Matt Murton comes in and throws down a 3-5 day with the pink bat, raising his average to .301 and his OBP to .354 on the young season. He did get hosed at home by the suddenly resurgent Pat Burrell, but the Cubs will take the 4-1 win anytime. How about Cesar Izturis? Where'd he find the stick at? Maybe Sweet Lou was threatening to put it somewhere he'd rather not like it and he figured he'd start slapping the ball around. He went 3-4 with a run scored and a RBI, raising his BA to .269 and OBP to .337, his best numbers since his career year in '04. In May, he's chiming in with a .393/.452/.464 with only one K. What? Hey, whatever he's doing, keep doing it. Gotta like that kind of unexpected production out of the SS, especially on the Northside. I know, I know, he'll come down to earth soon enough, but I'm enjoying it while it lasts.

So, tonight, it's Jason Marquis (5-1, 1.70 ERA, 0.90 WHIP, 24K/13BB) up against Tom Glavine (4-1, 2.98 ERA, 1.16 WHIP, 27K/14BB). It's so hot, it's going to be the Monday Night Baseball game tonight on ESPN HD. Sweet. I'm ready. Let's hope the Cubs come out hitting and run over the hated Mets. I'd hate to see 'em get stomped on National TV. Not like it'd be the first time. Or the last. Come on, boys, Let's Get Some Runs!! Southpaw Glavine on the hill means Murton will get another start. Make it count, Red.

Go Cubs!

Tough Few Days

2007-05-13T14:23:00.000-05:00

The Bulls go down 3-0 to the Pistons. The Cubs lose 2 of 3 to the Pirates and the first 2 to the Phillies, both of which are under .500, as are the Cubs after the beating by those two squads. Even if they save face this afternoon, they'll still be a game underwater and 7 or 8 games back of the Brew Crew. And Cap's on the hill for them, so let's call it 8 at best. Ouch.

I need a hug. The game's about to start, so I'm off to see if the Northside Moms are going to be happy today or not. Speaking of, I'd better call my Mom.

Later.

Go Cubs!

Ricky, Ricky, Ricky, Can't You See

2007-05-11T15:04:00.000-05:00

Tested: April 6th, 2007.

Result: Positive

Story: Lied to Dan Patrick Show on ESPN Radio "two minutes" after the test, saying the last time he smoked was "about three years ago". Ummm, yeah right. Puff Puff Give, mother fucker.

Hahahahahahahahahahahahahaha!

Maybe the Argonauts will take him back.

OK, seriously, WTF was Ricky Williams thinking? You are finally getting a chance to play in the NFL again and pay back the $8 MILLION you owe to the Miami Dolphins. We're not talking crack cocaine here. It's weed. Ya know, WEED. When's the last time you heard about someone offering to suck dick for weed? Well, besides Paris and Lindsay. Can't decide if it's Too Funny or Too Sad.

Oh, and did you hear that the day before PacMan Jones said he was going to change his life and get on to bigger and better things, he was in a strip club doin his thang again. Nice.

There's a new sheriff in town, and his name is Roger Goodell. Nice knowing you guys.

Later.

At Least They Only Got Beat By 21?

2007-05-08T16:49:00.000-05:00

(thanks to www.fazed.net)

The Chicago Bulls are in the midst of a Beatdown of all Beatdowns. Ugly doesn't do it justice. Sad, embarrassing, disgusting, humiliating... perhaps those are more accurate, but just add pinch of wtf?! and we're almost there. The Detroit Pistons are B-B-B-B-Beating on the young Bulls like Tiger on steroids. But, at least they didn't get stomped by 26 this time. And, they actually scored more than 69 points. Still, it feels like some D-League team snuck into the Palace and threw on some red uni's and faked it in front of millions of fans.

This isn't going to last long. At all. Can the Bulls save face with at least one win at the UC? I wouldn't bet on it, but we'll see what Scott Skiles can muster up. Maybe they'll only get beat by 13 this time. How did this team sweep the Pistons in the regular season? Like the regular season means anything (ask Dirk). Maybe Kirk Hinrich can score more than 2 points this time around. He can't go 0-fer again, can he? Ugh. P.J. put up a goose egg yesterday as well (if you call 0-0 from the field putting anything up). Why is this tired old man starting anyway? So he can hack 'em a few times early and then sit the rest out? Whatever.

Getting outrebounded 97-68 in the two games isn't going to lead to many wins either. Maybe it's time to start some other peeps, like Noc or Tyrus. Can't hurt more than the last two games have. But, who the hell is Sefolosha? I know, a Rookie from Switzerland, but again, What?! Not to even talk about Khryapa (Russia) and Andriuskevicius (Lithuania) sitting on the end of the Bulls bench. Who's picking these guys? Pax, you trying to up your frequent flyer miles or something? Seriously, something is rotten in Denmark (Paxson will be there soon to check it out).

Alright, at least I can get through the next two nights until the next lamb goes out to the wolves. Not that Cavs v. Nets really makes the heartrate go up or anything. The late game, just like last night, is going to be the real game once again. Phoenix trying to even up against the Spurs. Can anyone stop the Pistons train from rolling into the NBA Finals? Shit, I'm not sure they're going to lose a game until then. OK, of course they'll drop one somewhere, but pencil in Detroit Basketball into the Round of Two. Use ink if ya want. It's going to happen. As for the Bulls, it's Wait 'til Next Year. Just borrow the signs from the Cubs and give 'em back next week. Ya know, recycle and all that.

I think it's Beer Thirty. Later.

A letter to roger

2007-05-07T13:00:00.000-05:00

(Thanks to Daniel Lackey for this Awesome Pic of rogers inner monologue)

Dear Roger,

Hey buddy, hows it going? I know i have not written in awhile, i have just been so busy, but it looks like you have been busy too huh? Busy pretending to make a decision that you had all ready made from the outset of the season. Busy keeping the hendrick's brothers in check until the drama was just right, like a babyface wrestler running into the ring to rescue a maiden in distress. You like that analogy dont you? Of course you do, its all about you buddy.

Ya see rodge the problem with that analogy is that you are no babyface, you are a heel. The Yankees are no maiden , they are the most disliked franchise in sports today with the highest overall salary in the history of this sport. The Yankees are not even in distress, they may have had a bad April by their standards but nothing that wont work itself out by pounding on the smaller market teams for the reminder of the season.

So they came and got you outta Texas huh? Like you were just roping some cattle one day and suddenly a jet with the Yankees logo touched down and whisked you away to land with running water and high rise apartments. You decide to address the New York crowd in the seventh inning from George Steinbrenner's personal box and begin with "Hey Yall"? What the fuck is wrong with you?

Is it not enough that this city embraced you like some sort of athletic Deity? Is it too much to ask that when you decide to go somewhere else you at least respect the city, organization and State the has fostered you like precious gem every second of your existence? HEY YALL? You did that on purpose, you know how to speak, you know how to address large crowds, you have done it a thousand times. You did this to play to The New Yorkers and they ate it up. "Country bumpkin comes back to pitch for the pinstripes", i am surprised the daily news didn't run that as their cover.

I cannot blame you for this, if any human in this world could get paid 227,000 dollars just to throw one pitch, no one out there would turn that down. I guess im just hurt roger, i thought we had a good thing going down here. Turns out, you were just not satisfied with what we had to offer. Not enough flash? Too many puff pieces in the chronicle? Too many adoring fans that explode at the mere mention of you steroid abuse? The other side is going to be rough rodge, The Red Sox are alot better since you saw them last, so are the Blue Jays. Devil Rays and Orioles.

This is about the money, isn't it? The Astros wouldn't have given you that money, The Rangers wouldn't have given you that money. The Red Sox might have just to keep you from going to New York. You have left us for the same reason Andy did, the money. This hurts so bad, not that the Astros truly needed you like everyone thinks, their starter's are actually doing quite well. Its just for awhile there our little baseball team was big time and you helped build that. I have seen more Astros gear in the last 3 years on people than ever before in my life. I have walked into bars with an Astro shirt and received high fives just for merely representing the team. That kind of excitement you helped build, its something that The Yankee's will never be able to duplicate because their stature as an organization.

Damn Roger, this is a hard letter to write. I love you and i hate you. I'm thankful for all you have done for this team but I'm upset at this recent turn of events. I'm sorry we couldn't satisfy you rodge, i hope that people will not hold a grudge against you for going to New York for a shitload of money when everyone in Houston would have had a fundraiser just to pay you. I hope that you don't hold a grudge when we cut you talentless hack of a kid in single A. I hope you don't hold a grudge when we cancel your ten year service contract with the club. I hope you don't hold a grudge when we stop defending you for the the steroid's that you did. Good luck in New York, Thanks for leaving without finishing the job, I hope that somehow The Astros do finish the job someday and you have nothing to do with it.

Cubs Sweep Past .500

2007-05-06T21:42:00.000-05:00

(AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Not only did the Chicago Cubs actually win a game in extra-innings, for the first time this season, but they swept the Washington Nationals out of Wrigley Field and put themselves a game over .500 and solidly in the two slot in the NL Central (for now). Watching Sweet Lou make the moves he did to first tie the game up to get it to extras, and then see those moves pay off once again in the 10th for the win, brings a smile to my face, and makes me laugh to think of the fool we had steering the ship for the last few years.

Angel Guzman looked good at times, and completely lost at others, but I'm sure he'll take the ND this time around since the Cubbies still came out on top. It was much better than the last three atrocious outings he had with the Iowa club. Funny how that happens from time to time. Len and Bob seemed to think AAA hitters swing at everything and therefore roughed him up worse than the big leaguers did, but I find that to be just a bit of a stretch. OK, a lot of a stretch. Whatever the case may be, I'm glad he hung in there long enough to eat up a few innings. Bob Howry has been scaring me of late, but let's hope he figures out whatever the hell he's doing wrong sooner than later. If not, I'm sure Pinella will keep him out of harm's way for a while. Speaking of, I don't think I'll be missing Ronny Cedeno and his .091 BA anytime soon. Or his .121 OBP. Or his 1 BB vs. 8 K. Someone help RC find a house in Des Moines, will ya?

Nice to see Matt Murton get back in there with his 10th inning double and scoring the winning run when Daryle Ward popped one out to the track. Hell, even Henry Blanco got a base knock in the extra frame. Too bad the Northsiders don't get to play every other series against the Nats.

Now, it's three games hosting the Pirates served up on the tee. I feel good about this series as well. I know, the Cubs are on a five game winning streak, and the Bucs are on a three game skid, so the law of averages would suggest the Cubs could drop two of the three. I've never been a great one at paying attention to the laws. Especially when it'll be Lilly, Marquis and Zambrano taking the hill. Edge: Chi-Town.

And how about Ryan Theriot coming through with the game-tying knock as well? This kid can hit, and can do it in the clutch. Gotta like it. Keep him in the lineup, Lou. Sit Izzy and let the young man play if/when Derosa gets the start at the 4. And, whatever JJ has been eating lately, keep it up, my man. Not that I have to even point it out, but D Lee and his .414/.496/.612 with 21 RBI and 22 R is just what the doctor ordered as well. A couple more knocks into the bleacher seats would be nice, but who am I to be unsatisfied with that kind of performance to this point.

Let's stay above .500 for a while, shall we? Keep that RA # down, and things should keep on the up.

Go Cubs!

Judgement Day

2007-05-05T09:49:00.000-05:00

GOOD MORNING UNRESTRICTED VIEW!! Long time reader, first time poster and gosh im happy to be here!

Well kids, today is the day. The day that every hardcore NBA fan dreams of, no im not talking about free skull cap night at the palace. Of course im referring to a game 7 day, so as the spaniards say "el juego feliz siete día".

Whom you may ask will be squaring off in this winner take all battle for the right to stomp the bay area warriors. Glad you asked. In one corner: The Two Time Champion Rockets, hailing from the the great southern metropolis, known as Houston Texas. The Rockets are an organization built on character and class, also the rockets do not openly support the cult known as mormonism.

In the other corner: The two time NBA finals loser Jazz, hailing from the caucasion cult capitol of the world known as Salt Lake City Utah. The Jazz are a detestable organization, specializing in tactics such as flopping and moving picks for the better part of two decades.

Now despite the Jazz's shortcomings in the class column they have a very good team, tough defense and a high shooting percentage from the floor. With that being said it would seem like a tough road for the good guys (Rockets) to walk down but they have just the pathfinder they need to lead the way. Tracy McGrady did his best Kobe Bryant impression in game 6 (Putting up countless long range shots while being closely guarded) and watched Mehmet Okur drop treys like a diplegic waiter. At the begining of the year Tracy set some goals for himself: 1: to get out of the first round, 2: to up his average assists per game by about 3 1/2, and 3: to intercept Angus Mcloud in the sheep hurling event at the Scotland games.

Now Two of his goals have been met but he has yet to break through the plateau of playoff close out games in this, his now tenth year in the league. Yao Ming is going to get his 20 and 10, he has blossumed into the best center in the league and will continue to improve throughout the years barring no futher injuries(knock on wood). The key is tracy making good decisions with the basketball when it really matters, when you have amased a staggering 3 point lead and on the fast break decide to put up a dowtown bomb, with ak 47 draped on you, leaving 22 seconds on the shot clock, that my friends is a bad decision with the basketball. For a player so good going to the basket, Tracy does not do it enough.

Tonight you can be sure that T-Mac is going to get his shots, whether or not he makes them will absolutly define his carreer. The Rockets have found themselves right where they want to be, homecourt in the seventh and deciding game plus home court in the conference semi finals waiting for them should they choose the much more attractive destiny lane. Tonight will be a battle of attrition through bruising fouls and vicious picks. In this game it will truly be the team that wants it more who walks away with a extended stay in the hotel known as the NBA playoffs. This man can only hope that T-mac's card isnt declined at the front desk.

Let's Win Two

2007-05-03T13:47:00.000-05:00

(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Hey, Hey! The Chicago Cubs win two in a row. On the same day. Nice. Alfonso Soriano hits a dinger in each game. It's about time, but better late than never. If he only wouldn't have gotten picked off second and caught stealing third in the second game, but the Cubs will take those gaffs in a 7-1 beatdown over a one run ballgame anytime. Especially since they have yet to win a one run affair (0 for 6). Ouch.

But, I'm trying to stay positive here. Third place, 5.5 games back of the Milwaukee Brewers, wh are holders of the best record in the Majors, hell, it's better than the cellar (right Cardinals?!). Derrek Lee is leading the Majors in BA as well with a stellar start of .415, and the 1.092 OPS ain't exactly sub-par either(#6 in MLB). Rich Hill and Jason Marquis are currently #5 (1.77) and #7 (2.09) in the NL in ERA. Sweet. But what's up with Carlos Zambrano? Big Z is behind Ted Lilly (#16 in the NL with a 2.82) sitting way back at #51 (5.77!!). Yikes. Hill is also starting off like a stud with a 0.87 WHIP, #3 in MLB. Lilly is #7 (0.94) and Marquis is #12 (1.03). Basically, when the Wizard of the Internet comes back to form, the Cubs are going to be four deep. #5 is weak though, with Wade Miller and possibly Angel Guzman fighting for who can get smacked around harder. Ugh.

How about Ryan Theriot? .333/.385/.403 is just what the doctor ordered. I mean, .385 OBP? And he's leading the team with 5 stolen bases. Go get 'em, kid. Aramis actually had a good April (what?) with a .284/.360/.511, 5 HR, 17 RBI and 11BB vs. 12 K. Looks like Lou Pinella actually woke this guy up this offseason. Nice to see someone can get the guy out the gates ready to go.

Speaking of Sweet Lou, he's been pushing all the right buttons so far. He's putting who he wants, where he wants, when he wants, and I Love It. Can anyone be further from The Dude, Dusty "Freakin" Baker? No, and good riddance to the "Old School" (or, as I put it, "No School") DB. Have fun in the booth trying to say as many moronic things as Joe Morgan. I'd say it's head to head so far.

Three afternoon games with the Washington Nationals. I smell a per game wager with my bud Manoli. Zambrano, Hill and Guzman, eh? Well, two out of three ain't bad.

.500 here we come (yeah, yeah, try and contain your excitement).

Go Cubs!

Vacation's Over

2007-02-09T05:50:00.000-06:00

OK, it's been quite a while since I've posted. Too many reasons to post here. Just wanted to drop a tiny post to say that I still live.

Barely.

So, both of you that still give a ____ (choose your own fave here), thanks.

As a Bears fan, I don't want to talk about the Super Bowl. Except to say congrats Peyton. And that Grossman sucks. (duh).

Alright, I've got to get ready for work, but I'll get on here soon enough to write something actually worth reading.

For now, it's time to start the coffee maker.

Later.

Kobe Fires Away

2006-12-01T05:09:00.000-06:00

Kobe Bryant goes for 52 points in a big game vs. the hot Utah Jazz. In the third quarter he went 9-9 from the floor and 10-10 from the line, including 2-2 from the three-point line, scoring 30. That's en fuego. He said it felt like playing playstation or something. I'd say.

He finished up going 19-26, 12-15 from the charity stripe. That's a good night.

Now, if he could only record a steal or two in the book. Not that many teams will score more than the 132 points the Lakers scored tonight. And they held the Jazz to "only" 102. Who wouldn't like a 30 point margin of victory now and again.

Cards Up 2-1

2006-10-25T13:56:00.000-05:00

Who'd have thought it? Seriously, who'd have thought that, a month ago, while the St. Louis Cardinals almost had the biggest collapse this side of the 1969 Cubs, that they'd be up two games to one in the 2006 World Series. Not the Detroit Tigers, that's for sure.

After Chris Carpenter shut down the Tigers last night, the Cardinals put their hottest pitcher on the mound tonight in Jeff Suppan, the MVP of the NLCS. With the 3-4-5 hitters of the Tigers all going 0-fer right now, someone's going to have to snap out if it in order to even up the Series. Will it happen?

You'd think that you could only hold down a team so long, but if you look at last year's NLCS, Rolen and Edmonds both were nearly 0-fer as well, much of the reason the Houston Astros found themselves in the World Series. And then were promptly swept by Ozzie and the Southsiders.

As far as prognostications go, I think the Cards will win 2 of 3 in St. Louis and go back to Detroit up 3 to 2, forcing the Tigers to sweep the last two at home to have a chance at their fifth World Series Championship.

As a Cub Fan, it's tough to root for the Cardinals at all, and the Tigers were the team that beat the Cubs the last time they ever saw the Series, way back in '45. My mother is a Cardinals fan, growing up in St. Louis and all, and living there once again, so I'll be happy for her if they win. It's been 22 years since the Tigers have won it, so I'll be alright with that too. In other words, I'm rooting for a Game Seven.

On Kenny Rogers, let the guy be. He wiped off the "substance" (prob pine tar) and still shut down the Cards for seven more innings. Probably helped him mentally more than physically. We'll see him in Game Six and see how that goes.

Later.