Today, the Cubs beat the A's for the second time this spring to improve their Cactus League record to 3-1. Due to the split squad games being rained out yesterday, we got a chance to see a lot of big league pitchers work in this game. In addition, many of the Cub regular position players took the field took get some work in.
For these reasons, it's unfortunate that this game was not broadcast on TV or radio. Ryan Dempster made his first start of Spring Training today and looked sharp.
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Computers... hate 'em but you can't live without them. An error occured on Blogger and somehow I lost an hour and half worth of blogging about today's game. Usually when I.E. freezese up, I can get back in and the post is saved. However, this time only the first couple sentances were there.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Sunday Pregame Notes: Game Against the Sox Rained Out
Update 2:10 CT: The Cubs VS Dodgers game also rained out. Most of the Cactus League games today were cancelled. The Cubs play @Oakland tomorrow at 2:05 CT.
It's bad news for those of us hoping to see the Cubs and White Sox play on WGN-TV today. The game between the Cubs and Sox has been cancelled due to rain in Glendale. Today was supposed to be a split squad, and as of right now the game against the Dodgers in Mesa is still on.
Weather.com says that there is a rain shower in Mesa right now with a temp of 57.
The Cubs and Dodgers will start at 2:05 PM CT, but it will not be on Chicago TV or radio. However, you can get the game in Mesa on Gameday Audio on MLB.com if you have the package. Click here for the link. Tom Gorzelanny is the Cubs starting pitcher. He is competing with Samardzija, Silva, and Marshall for a spot in the starting rotation. Silva was hammered yesterday in a 15-3 loss at the hands of the White Sox. Carlos allowed 6 runs in his two innings of work. So far Marshall has taken the lead in the fifth starters' competition with his two scoreless frames in the Cactus League opener on Thursday against Oakland. Samardzija was scheduled to start the game in Glendale today that has been rained out.
Here is the starting lineup for the game against the Dodgers behind Gorzo:
Castro, SS
Kosuke, RF
Lee, 1B
Ramirez, 3B
Colvin, CF
Soriano, LF
Soto, DH
Hill, C
Fontenot, 2B
Just for fun, here's what would have been the starting 9 for the rained out game in Glendale:
Theriot, SS
Baker, 2B
Tracy, 3B
Millar, 1B
Hoffpauir, DH
Byrd, CF
Snyder, LF
Castillo, C
Jackson, RF
Guys that will pitch against the Dodgers today:
Thomas Diamond, Mike Parisi, Esmalin Caridad, Jay Jackson, and Brian Schlitter.
Guys that were scheduled to pitch against the Sox:
Mathes, Gaub, Stevens, and Parker
Hopefully they get the game in Mesa in. The Cubs will already are a little behind with getting guys work in because of the rain out in Glendale.
Other Cubs Notes:
It's bad news for those of us hoping to see the Cubs and White Sox play on WGN-TV today. The game between the Cubs and Sox has been cancelled due to rain in Glendale. Today was supposed to be a split squad, and as of right now the game against the Dodgers in Mesa is still on.
Weather.com says that there is a rain shower in Mesa right now with a temp of 57.
The Cubs and Dodgers will start at 2:05 PM CT, but it will not be on Chicago TV or radio. However, you can get the game in Mesa on Gameday Audio on MLB.com if you have the package. Click here for the link. Tom Gorzelanny is the Cubs starting pitcher. He is competing with Samardzija, Silva, and Marshall for a spot in the starting rotation. Silva was hammered yesterday in a 15-3 loss at the hands of the White Sox. Carlos allowed 6 runs in his two innings of work. So far Marshall has taken the lead in the fifth starters' competition with his two scoreless frames in the Cactus League opener on Thursday against Oakland. Samardzija was scheduled to start the game in Glendale today that has been rained out.
Here is the starting lineup for the game against the Dodgers behind Gorzo:
Castro, SS
Kosuke, RF
Lee, 1B
Ramirez, 3B
Colvin, CF
Soriano, LF
Soto, DH
Hill, C
Fontenot, 2B
Just for fun, here's what would have been the starting 9 for the rained out game in Glendale:
Theriot, SS
Baker, 2B
Tracy, 3B
Millar, 1B
Hoffpauir, DH
Byrd, CF
Snyder, LF
Castillo, C
Jackson, RF
Guys that will pitch against the Dodgers today:
Thomas Diamond, Mike Parisi, Esmalin Caridad, Jay Jackson, and Brian Schlitter.
Guys that were scheduled to pitch against the Sox:
Mathes, Gaub, Stevens, and Parker
Hopefully they get the game in Mesa in. The Cubs will already are a little behind with getting guys work in because of the rain out in Glendale.
Other Cubs Notes:
- Short stop Andres Blanco suffered a sprain of his right knee during a play at second base in yesterday's game. Blanco says that it's nothing too serious, and he expects to be at 100% in about two weeks. He will sit out Spring games for the next 10-14 days.
- Starlin Castro will still start the year at AAA Iowa according to the Chicago Tribune.
- Angel Guzman is considering whether or not to have surgery on his shoulder.
- Xavier Nady has been held back once again. The Cubs feel he has plenty of time to get ready for the season, so he will not be used as a DH until later in the week. They will be careful with Nady because he missed most of last year because of Tommy John surgery.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on whether or not the game against the Dodgers will be played!
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Saturday Pregame Notes
The Cubs received some very bad news today. Angel Guzman has a significant tear in a ligament in his right shoulder. Whether or not he will have surgery has yet to be determined. This injury could be career threatening. The Cubs bullpen already lacks depth, and now it would seem like Jim Hendy needs to add several solid arms to the mix before Opening Day if he wants the Cubs to have a chance. Relief pitching is always an important aspect of a ballclub. Now if Marmol were to struggle or go down, there is really no plan "B". John Grabow and Esmalin Caridad are expected to serve as primary set-up men, but beyond that it will be up to all young guys to try to win jobs, unless Hendy can make a move.
Today's game against te White Sox will be broadcast on WGN TV and Radio. Carlos Silva will be on the hill for his first outing in a Cub uniform. Here is there rest of the Cubs' lineup:
Theriot, SS
Kosuke, RF
Lee, 1B
Ramirez, 3B
Byrd, RF
Soriano, LF
Hoffpauir, DH
Soto, C
Scales, 2B
Alfonso Soriano will be making his spring debut. Xavier Nady was expected to be the DH today, but he has been pushed back a day to tomorrow's game against the Dodgers. Daniel Hudson will be the Sox starting pitcher.
Although it's only Spring Training, when it's a game against the White Sox bragging rights are always on the line. Marmol, Grabow, and Cashner are among the other pitchers that will get into today's game.
Mike Fontenot took ground balls today and could play in tomorrow's game.
"I don't care who wins, as long as it's the Cubs."
Today's game against te White Sox will be broadcast on WGN TV and Radio. Carlos Silva will be on the hill for his first outing in a Cub uniform. Here is there rest of the Cubs' lineup:
Theriot, SS
Kosuke, RF
Lee, 1B
Ramirez, 3B
Byrd, RF
Soriano, LF
Hoffpauir, DH
Soto, C
Scales, 2B
Alfonso Soriano will be making his spring debut. Xavier Nady was expected to be the DH today, but he has been pushed back a day to tomorrow's game against the Dodgers. Daniel Hudson will be the Sox starting pitcher.
Although it's only Spring Training, when it's a game against the White Sox bragging rights are always on the line. Marmol, Grabow, and Cashner are among the other pitchers that will get into today's game.
Mike Fontenot took ground balls today and could play in tomorrow's game.
"I don't care who wins, as long as it's the Cubs."
Friday, March 5, 2010
Make it 2-0: Cubs 8, Arizona 7
Game Recap
Besides Carlos Zambrano, who was the starting pitcher, the Cubs that took the field at HoHoKam Park today were essentially the "B" team. Big Z retired all six batters he faced in his two innings of work.
Starlin Castro was batting leadoff and starting at short stop. He went 2-4 with a double and a single. Early on, the game was low scoring. After Casey Coleman worked the 3rd and the 4th for the Cubs, the Cactus League battle was scoreless. Then in the bottom of the 5th, the Cubs bats came to life against former Cub Aaron Heilman. Jim Hendry sent Heilman to the D'backs in November, and so far the move looks like a good one. Aaron allowed 4 ER on 5 hits in his inning of work. A Brett Jackson triple was the highlight of the frame.
In the 6th, Arizona got the runs right back, scoring 5 against Jeff Stevens. The Cubs acquired Stevens in the Mark DeRosa trade with Cleveland. He pitched a good fifth, but after one inning of work he fell apart, and was unable to make it through the 6th. Stevens was replaced by another hurler that came over in the DeRo deal, lefty John Gaub. In 1.1 innings, Gaub allowed just two hits but one was a solo homer to make it 6-4.
The Cubs then put a rally together to tie in up, but in the top of inning number 9 the D'backs untied it with a run against Justin Berg to take the 7-6 lead. Brad Snyder came through for the Cubs, cracking a double in the bottom of the 9th to bring Scales and Fuld home to win the game 8-7.
The Cubs have started off the Cactus League with a 2-0 record and have played fairly well in both games. Marcos Mateo, an underrated pitching prospect, also looked good in his one inning on the hill. Josh Vitters was the starting third baseman. The former first round pick had 2 hits and scored twice.
Tyler Colvin has really impressed Cubs brass early on in camp. He has three things going for him:
1. Last year he played great defense when he was called up in September, and the Cubs are hoping to improve their outfield defensively.
2. He put on 20+ pounds of muscle this offseason, and Piniella took notice.
3. He's played great in the Cactus League's first two games, going 2-3 with 2 RBIs today.
Koyie Hill was the starting catcher today. He drove home a run with an RBI single. The Cubs top pick from the 2009 draft, Brett Jackson, reached base all three times. Jeff Baker got the start at second base and went 0-2.
Bullpen Health Update
Carlos Marmol has the closers' duty locked up, but beyond that everything is up for grabs in the Cubs' bullpen. Now, Angel Guzman will most likely not be ready to go on Opening Day. He still has discomfort in his shoulder, and he was going to undergo an MRI today. Jeff Gray is also still sidelined, and he may not be ready to go for the start of the season either. Hendry is working the phone lines, but if he does not bring in any help this bullpen could be in trouble. However, that would give guys like Jeff Stevens, David Patton, Mike Parisi, Mitch Atkins, Andrew Cashner, Thomas Diamond, and John Gaub a chance to make the 25 man roster. Hopefully somebody can step up and become a dependable relief option for Piniella.
Looking Ahead
Tomorrow the Cubs take on the White Sox at 2:05 CT on WGN TV and Radio. Carlos Silva, who reported to camp out of shape, will take the mound for the Cubs. Carlos is trying to prove that he's worthy of a spot in the rotation after coming over for Milton Bradley this winter.
Alfonso Soriano will get into game action tomorrow for the first time since being shut down because of a knee injury late last year. Sori is expected to start in left field, with Xavier Nady serving as the Cubs' DH. Both the Cubs and Sox have agreed to use the DH despite the fact that the game will be played at HoHoKam Park.
Bruce Miles has posted the list of all the pitchers that will go this weekend. Tomorrow afternoon Silva will be followed by Carlos Marmol, James Russell, Andrew Cashner, Jeff Kennard, and John Grabow.
On Sunday the Cubs will play a split squad, with Jeff Samardzija pitching against the White Sox on WGN-TV and Tom Gorzelanny going against the Dodgers. Both games get underway at 2:05.
Other Notes:
Besides Carlos Zambrano, who was the starting pitcher, the Cubs that took the field at HoHoKam Park today were essentially the "B" team. Big Z retired all six batters he faced in his two innings of work.
Starlin Castro was batting leadoff and starting at short stop. He went 2-4 with a double and a single. Early on, the game was low scoring. After Casey Coleman worked the 3rd and the 4th for the Cubs, the Cactus League battle was scoreless. Then in the bottom of the 5th, the Cubs bats came to life against former Cub Aaron Heilman. Jim Hendry sent Heilman to the D'backs in November, and so far the move looks like a good one. Aaron allowed 4 ER on 5 hits in his inning of work. A Brett Jackson triple was the highlight of the frame.
In the 6th, Arizona got the runs right back, scoring 5 against Jeff Stevens. The Cubs acquired Stevens in the Mark DeRosa trade with Cleveland. He pitched a good fifth, but after one inning of work he fell apart, and was unable to make it through the 6th. Stevens was replaced by another hurler that came over in the DeRo deal, lefty John Gaub. In 1.1 innings, Gaub allowed just two hits but one was a solo homer to make it 6-4.
The Cubs then put a rally together to tie in up, but in the top of inning number 9 the D'backs untied it with a run against Justin Berg to take the 7-6 lead. Brad Snyder came through for the Cubs, cracking a double in the bottom of the 9th to bring Scales and Fuld home to win the game 8-7.
The Cubs have started off the Cactus League with a 2-0 record and have played fairly well in both games. Marcos Mateo, an underrated pitching prospect, also looked good in his one inning on the hill. Josh Vitters was the starting third baseman. The former first round pick had 2 hits and scored twice.
Tyler Colvin has really impressed Cubs brass early on in camp. He has three things going for him:
1. Last year he played great defense when he was called up in September, and the Cubs are hoping to improve their outfield defensively.
2. He put on 20+ pounds of muscle this offseason, and Piniella took notice.
3. He's played great in the Cactus League's first two games, going 2-3 with 2 RBIs today.
Koyie Hill was the starting catcher today. He drove home a run with an RBI single. The Cubs top pick from the 2009 draft, Brett Jackson, reached base all three times. Jeff Baker got the start at second base and went 0-2.
Bullpen Health Update
Carlos Marmol has the closers' duty locked up, but beyond that everything is up for grabs in the Cubs' bullpen. Now, Angel Guzman will most likely not be ready to go on Opening Day. He still has discomfort in his shoulder, and he was going to undergo an MRI today. Jeff Gray is also still sidelined, and he may not be ready to go for the start of the season either. Hendry is working the phone lines, but if he does not bring in any help this bullpen could be in trouble. However, that would give guys like Jeff Stevens, David Patton, Mike Parisi, Mitch Atkins, Andrew Cashner, Thomas Diamond, and John Gaub a chance to make the 25 man roster. Hopefully somebody can step up and become a dependable relief option for Piniella.
Looking Ahead
Tomorrow the Cubs take on the White Sox at 2:05 CT on WGN TV and Radio. Carlos Silva, who reported to camp out of shape, will take the mound for the Cubs. Carlos is trying to prove that he's worthy of a spot in the rotation after coming over for Milton Bradley this winter.
Alfonso Soriano will get into game action tomorrow for the first time since being shut down because of a knee injury late last year. Sori is expected to start in left field, with Xavier Nady serving as the Cubs' DH. Both the Cubs and Sox have agreed to use the DH despite the fact that the game will be played at HoHoKam Park.
Bruce Miles has posted the list of all the pitchers that will go this weekend. Tomorrow afternoon Silva will be followed by Carlos Marmol, James Russell, Andrew Cashner, Jeff Kennard, and John Grabow.
On Sunday the Cubs will play a split squad, with Jeff Samardzija pitching against the White Sox on WGN-TV and Tom Gorzelanny going against the Dodgers. Both games get underway at 2:05.
Other Notes:
- Lou Piniella will not go to Vegas when the Cubs travel there for two games against the White Sox March 12-13. Instead, Piniella will stay with the half of the split squad team that will play in Arizona both of those day. Alan Trammell will manage the team that is Las Vegas.
- Mike Fontenot has a minor shoulder injury suffered while running the bases on Thursday. He will not play again until Sunday.
- Sam Fuld's homer on Thursday landed near his wife Sarah and his young son Charlie. A women picked up the ball, and the Fulds tried to bargain with her for it, offering photos and autographs. However, the lady wanted no part of that and kept the ball.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on everything Cubs as always!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Cubs Win! Cubs Win!
The Cubs are in the win column to start the 2010 exhibition season! Just the fact that they Boys in Blue were in action on WGN Radio made today a great day, but a 9-3 win against the Oakland A's made today even sweeter.
Although there's still snow on the ground here, the sound of Pat and Ron makes it feel like summer. Spring is officially on the way... let's check out some of the game highlights:
Randy Wells
After a great rookie season, Wells is expected to perform at a high level this year. Today, Randy was handed the ball to kick off the Cactus League schedule. Randy had great stuff today, going 2 shutout innings. He did not allow any men to reach base and sent two down on strikes. Two inning outings are typical of early spring games because manager want the avoid injury risk by building their pitchers' stamina up start by start. By the end of the spring, each guy will be going 5-6 innings.
Marlon Byrd
After signing as a free agent last winter, Marlon swooped into his first game in Cubbie Blue today. He wasted no time in making Cub fans happy by knocking a solo homer to lead off the fourth for his second hit of the game. Byrd went 2-2 with a pair of runs scored before departing.
Sean Marshall
Let the competition for the spots in the back end of the rotation begin! Sean got off to a great start today by throwing 2 scoreless frames in relief of Wells. Marshall did not allow a hit and walked one. Carlos Silva will start against the White Sox on Saturday, with Gorzelanny and Samardzija pitching in Sunday's split squad.
Other Pitchers
After Marshall and Wells each went two innings, three younger guys got a chance to take the hill against the A's. Mike Parisi, who was the Cubs' Rule V Draft pick in June, went two innings. He pitched pretty well but made one mistake, which resulted in an Adam Rosales solo homer. Parisi allowed just the one run on one hit and one walk. Lefty J.R. Mathes pitched the 7th and 8th, surrendering 2 runs on 2 hits and a walk. Esmalin Caridad worked a one, two, three 9th.
The Star
Top prospect Starlin Castro has received tons of sudden praise and attention from the media this offseason. We got our first look at him in a big league setting today. He showed impressive speed as he was able to leg out a triple, which was his only hit of the day (1-3).
Power Surge
After a 2009 season where runs were hard to come by, the Cubs brought the bats today. Perhaps new hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo has already made in impact on this club. As a team, they pounded out 9 runs on 16 hits, 5 of them home runs. In addition to Byrd; Derrek Lee, Sam Fuld, Tyler Colvin, and Brad Snyder all went deep. Lee got the scoring started with his first inning blast. Former first round draft pick Tyler Colvin homered in the 6th to cap off a 3 for 3 day. Colvin bulked up over the offseason, putting on 25 pounds of muscle. Snyder and Fuld both hit long balls in the 7th inning. Fuld's two run shot was the only multi-run bomb of the day. Brad Snyder is a long time minor leaguer who played good in Mexico over the winter. He hit a LONG ball according to the call of Pat Hughes. Little Sammy Fuld getting into one very well could have been the biggest surprise of the day.
Other Hitters
Kosuke batted second and put together a 2-3 day behind Ryan Theriot, who was 0-2. Alfonso Soriano was the only regular who did not start the game. Aramis Ramirez went 0-2, D-Lee was 2-3, Geo drove in a run, and Mike Fontenot hit a sac fly and walked. Today we got brief looks at a few guys competing for spots on the bench. Micah Hoffpauir played first base after Lee's departure and was retired in his only plate appearance. Non roster invitee Chad Tracy went 1-2 with a run scored. Brian LaHair, Bobby Scales and Kevin Millar each got pinch hit at bats. Millar singled while LaHair ground into a double play and Scales struck out. Outfielders Fuld and Snyder were impressive coming off the Cub bench. Andres Blanco went 1-2 when he took over at second base for Mike Fontenot. Farm guys James Adduci (OF) and Robinson Chirinos (C)both went hitless.
Former Cubs
Utility man Jake Fox was sent to Oakland this winter in a swap that brought pitcher Jeff Gray to the Northside. Gray has been sidelined with a groin injury, so he did not pitch against his former team today, but Fox started at third base for Oakland in his first pro game outside of the Cubs organization. He went 0-2. Eric Patterson, a former Cubs farm hand, was 1-2 off the A's bench. Patterson is the only player who is still with the A's or Cubs that was part of the five player deal between to two clubs at the 2008 trade deadline. The Cubs with play the Athletics in interleague play this season.
Sunny at HoHoKam
Everyone in attendance, with the possible exception of second base umpire Mike Winters, was please with the 66 degree and sunny day. There were 7,496 fans at the ballpark.
Upcoming Games
Tomorrow: VS Arizona 2:05 CT- no broadcast (Zambrano)
Saturday: VS Chicago White Sox 2:05 CT- WGN TV, WGN Radio (Silva)
Sunday: (ss) VS CWS 2:05 WGN
VS LAD 2:05- no broadcast (Gorzelanny/Samardzija)
Injury Updates
Angel Guzman and Ted Lilly were both spotted on the field today before the game according to Chicago Cubs Online. Xavier Nady is expected to make his spring debut on Saturday against the White Sox as the DH. Nady is recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Not Him Again
I guess it wouldn't be a Chicago Cubs blog post without Milton Bradley. The outspoken former Cub told ESPNChicago.com today that the city of Chicago was at fault for his 2009 struggles. "Two years ago, I played, and I was good. I go to Chicago, not good. I've been good my whole career. So obviously it was something with Chicago, not me." Oh, Milton. The Cubs travel to Seattle this summer for interleague action. To bad the M's don't visit Wrigley.
Baseball is back! I'll keep you posted.
Although there's still snow on the ground here, the sound of Pat and Ron makes it feel like summer. Spring is officially on the way... let's check out some of the game highlights:
Randy Wells
After a great rookie season, Wells is expected to perform at a high level this year. Today, Randy was handed the ball to kick off the Cactus League schedule. Randy had great stuff today, going 2 shutout innings. He did not allow any men to reach base and sent two down on strikes. Two inning outings are typical of early spring games because manager want the avoid injury risk by building their pitchers' stamina up start by start. By the end of the spring, each guy will be going 5-6 innings.
Marlon Byrd
After signing as a free agent last winter, Marlon swooped into his first game in Cubbie Blue today. He wasted no time in making Cub fans happy by knocking a solo homer to lead off the fourth for his second hit of the game. Byrd went 2-2 with a pair of runs scored before departing.
Sean Marshall
Let the competition for the spots in the back end of the rotation begin! Sean got off to a great start today by throwing 2 scoreless frames in relief of Wells. Marshall did not allow a hit and walked one. Carlos Silva will start against the White Sox on Saturday, with Gorzelanny and Samardzija pitching in Sunday's split squad.
Other Pitchers
After Marshall and Wells each went two innings, three younger guys got a chance to take the hill against the A's. Mike Parisi, who was the Cubs' Rule V Draft pick in June, went two innings. He pitched pretty well but made one mistake, which resulted in an Adam Rosales solo homer. Parisi allowed just the one run on one hit and one walk. Lefty J.R. Mathes pitched the 7th and 8th, surrendering 2 runs on 2 hits and a walk. Esmalin Caridad worked a one, two, three 9th.
The Star
Top prospect Starlin Castro has received tons of sudden praise and attention from the media this offseason. We got our first look at him in a big league setting today. He showed impressive speed as he was able to leg out a triple, which was his only hit of the day (1-3).
Power Surge
After a 2009 season where runs were hard to come by, the Cubs brought the bats today. Perhaps new hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo has already made in impact on this club. As a team, they pounded out 9 runs on 16 hits, 5 of them home runs. In addition to Byrd; Derrek Lee, Sam Fuld, Tyler Colvin, and Brad Snyder all went deep. Lee got the scoring started with his first inning blast. Former first round draft pick Tyler Colvin homered in the 6th to cap off a 3 for 3 day. Colvin bulked up over the offseason, putting on 25 pounds of muscle. Snyder and Fuld both hit long balls in the 7th inning. Fuld's two run shot was the only multi-run bomb of the day. Brad Snyder is a long time minor leaguer who played good in Mexico over the winter. He hit a LONG ball according to the call of Pat Hughes. Little Sammy Fuld getting into one very well could have been the biggest surprise of the day.
Other Hitters
Kosuke batted second and put together a 2-3 day behind Ryan Theriot, who was 0-2. Alfonso Soriano was the only regular who did not start the game. Aramis Ramirez went 0-2, D-Lee was 2-3, Geo drove in a run, and Mike Fontenot hit a sac fly and walked. Today we got brief looks at a few guys competing for spots on the bench. Micah Hoffpauir played first base after Lee's departure and was retired in his only plate appearance. Non roster invitee Chad Tracy went 1-2 with a run scored. Brian LaHair, Bobby Scales and Kevin Millar each got pinch hit at bats. Millar singled while LaHair ground into a double play and Scales struck out. Outfielders Fuld and Snyder were impressive coming off the Cub bench. Andres Blanco went 1-2 when he took over at second base for Mike Fontenot. Farm guys James Adduci (OF) and Robinson Chirinos (C)both went hitless.
Former Cubs
Utility man Jake Fox was sent to Oakland this winter in a swap that brought pitcher Jeff Gray to the Northside. Gray has been sidelined with a groin injury, so he did not pitch against his former team today, but Fox started at third base for Oakland in his first pro game outside of the Cubs organization. He went 0-2. Eric Patterson, a former Cubs farm hand, was 1-2 off the A's bench. Patterson is the only player who is still with the A's or Cubs that was part of the five player deal between to two clubs at the 2008 trade deadline. The Cubs with play the Athletics in interleague play this season.
Sunny at HoHoKam
Everyone in attendance, with the possible exception of second base umpire Mike Winters, was please with the 66 degree and sunny day. There were 7,496 fans at the ballpark.
Upcoming Games
Tomorrow: VS Arizona 2:05 CT- no broadcast (Zambrano)
Saturday: VS Chicago White Sox 2:05 CT- WGN TV, WGN Radio (Silva)
Sunday: (ss) VS CWS 2:05 WGN
VS LAD 2:05- no broadcast (Gorzelanny/Samardzija)
Injury Updates
Angel Guzman and Ted Lilly were both spotted on the field today before the game according to Chicago Cubs Online. Xavier Nady is expected to make his spring debut on Saturday against the White Sox as the DH. Nady is recovering from Tommy John surgery.
Not Him Again
I guess it wouldn't be a Chicago Cubs blog post without Milton Bradley. The outspoken former Cub told ESPNChicago.com today that the city of Chicago was at fault for his 2009 struggles. "Two years ago, I played, and I was good. I go to Chicago, not good. I've been good my whole career. So obviously it was something with Chicago, not me." Oh, Milton. The Cubs travel to Seattle this summer for interleague action. To bad the M's don't visit Wrigley.
Baseball is back! I'll keep you posted.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Cub Roundup Befored Heading over to HoHoKam
Tomorrow the Chicago Cubs will head over to HoHoKam Park, where they will have a regular practice. Then, Spring Training games get underway on Thursday, when the Cubs take on the A's at 2:05 CT.
Cubs Poll
Thanks to everyone who voted on our last Cubs poll here on Everything Cubs Blog. Here are the results:
Who will become the Cubs' 5th starter?
1. Jeff Samardzija: 46%
2. Tom Gorzelanny: 40%
3. Marshall/Silva: 6% each
Now we have a new poll up on the right sidebar of the blog mainpage!
Who should be the Cubs starting second baseman?
A) Jeff Baker
B) Mike Fontenot
Please vote! Also, feel free to comment on any posts with your thoughts (it's quick and easy!) or email me at cubsblogmailbag@aol.com.
Cactus League Pitching Rotation
Thursday- Randy Wells; then Sean Marshall, Mike Parisi, J.R. Mathes, and Esmalin Caridad.
Friday- Carlos Zambrano
Saturday- Carlos Silva (VS White Sox on WGN)
Sunday (ss)- Tom Gorzelanny, Jeff Samardzija
Monday- Ryan Dempster
Each starter is expected to go two innings.
Thursday's Lineup
Today Lou announced the starting lineup for Thursday's game against Oakland. This very well could be the same lineup we see on Opening Day with Soriano taking Colvin's place.
1. Theriot- SS
2. Kosuke- RF
3. Lee- 1B
4. Ramirez- 3B
5. Byrd- RF
6. Colvin- LF
7. Fontenot- 2B
8. Soto- C
Starlin Castro is expected to get into the game in the 4th or 5th inning as a replacement for Theriot.
Boycott
Four clubs- the Dodgers, White Sox, Reds, and Angels, boycotted the Cactus League breakfast, which is supposed to be a friendly event to kick off the new baseball season. The reason these four clubs did not show is because they are upset about the proposed "Cubs tax" that would charge fans of all teams in order to keep the Cubs in Arizona. The South Siders in particular have been very vocal about their dislike for this idea.
Injury Updates
Ted Lilly has been back on the field working out and stretching. He's been dealing with a shoulder injury, a knee problem, and a high fever. Geovany Soto missed Monday's practice because he was sick with the flu. Jeff Gray is expected to throw off the mound tomorrow. He has not pitched yet this spring because of a groin injury. Angel Guzman tossed about 60 pitches from 45 feet on Monday, but is not expected to throw off of flat ground until next week.
Practice Updates
Thomas Diamond has pitched well in batting practice so far, but he let one pitch slip away and nailed Alfonso Soriano on Monday. Sori was OK and joked about the HBP. Arizona Phil of The Cubs Reporter tells us that John Grabow was hit hard in yesterday's practice. Phil also observes that Kosuke, Soriano, and Soto have all hit well in BP. Ryne Sandberg and Alan Trammel worked with Starlin Castro at Fitch Park and both were impressed. Tim Sheridan has been posting some great photos over on his blog. The is a lot of young talent in camp that will get playing time in Cactus League games.
Toast to Harry
The 12th annual world wide toast to Harry Caray took place yesterday, which would have been the Caray's 96th birthday. At 7:40, Cubs fans in Harry Caray's Restaurants all over the world toasted to Caray. The newest part of the restaurant family, Harry Caray's Tavern, opened yesterday. The Tavern is in Navy Pier, where the toast was held. Special guests included Dutchie Caray, Ernie Banks, Richard Dent, Bobby Hull, Len Kasper, Bill Kurtis, Harold Ramis, and Otis Wilson. We miss you Harry, and may you help make this be the year!
Other Notes
Cubs Poll
Thanks to everyone who voted on our last Cubs poll here on Everything Cubs Blog. Here are the results:
Who will become the Cubs' 5th starter?
1. Jeff Samardzija: 46%
2. Tom Gorzelanny: 40%
3. Marshall/Silva: 6% each
Now we have a new poll up on the right sidebar of the blog mainpage!
Who should be the Cubs starting second baseman?
A) Jeff Baker
B) Mike Fontenot
Please vote! Also, feel free to comment on any posts with your thoughts (it's quick and easy!) or email me at cubsblogmailbag@aol.com.
Cactus League Pitching Rotation
Thursday- Randy Wells; then Sean Marshall, Mike Parisi, J.R. Mathes, and Esmalin Caridad.
Friday- Carlos Zambrano
Saturday- Carlos Silva (VS White Sox on WGN)
Sunday (ss)- Tom Gorzelanny, Jeff Samardzija
Monday- Ryan Dempster
Each starter is expected to go two innings.
Thursday's Lineup
Today Lou announced the starting lineup for Thursday's game against Oakland. This very well could be the same lineup we see on Opening Day with Soriano taking Colvin's place.
1. Theriot- SS
2. Kosuke- RF
3. Lee- 1B
4. Ramirez- 3B
5. Byrd- RF
6. Colvin- LF
7. Fontenot- 2B
8. Soto- C
Starlin Castro is expected to get into the game in the 4th or 5th inning as a replacement for Theriot.
Boycott
Four clubs- the Dodgers, White Sox, Reds, and Angels, boycotted the Cactus League breakfast, which is supposed to be a friendly event to kick off the new baseball season. The reason these four clubs did not show is because they are upset about the proposed "Cubs tax" that would charge fans of all teams in order to keep the Cubs in Arizona. The South Siders in particular have been very vocal about their dislike for this idea.
Injury Updates
Ted Lilly has been back on the field working out and stretching. He's been dealing with a shoulder injury, a knee problem, and a high fever. Geovany Soto missed Monday's practice because he was sick with the flu. Jeff Gray is expected to throw off the mound tomorrow. He has not pitched yet this spring because of a groin injury. Angel Guzman tossed about 60 pitches from 45 feet on Monday, but is not expected to throw off of flat ground until next week.
Practice Updates
Thomas Diamond has pitched well in batting practice so far, but he let one pitch slip away and nailed Alfonso Soriano on Monday. Sori was OK and joked about the HBP. Arizona Phil of The Cubs Reporter tells us that John Grabow was hit hard in yesterday's practice. Phil also observes that Kosuke, Soriano, and Soto have all hit well in BP. Ryne Sandberg and Alan Trammel worked with Starlin Castro at Fitch Park and both were impressed. Tim Sheridan has been posting some great photos over on his blog. The is a lot of young talent in camp that will get playing time in Cactus League games.
Toast to Harry
The 12th annual world wide toast to Harry Caray took place yesterday, which would have been the Caray's 96th birthday. At 7:40, Cubs fans in Harry Caray's Restaurants all over the world toasted to Caray. The newest part of the restaurant family, Harry Caray's Tavern, opened yesterday. The Tavern is in Navy Pier, where the toast was held. Special guests included Dutchie Caray, Ernie Banks, Richard Dent, Bobby Hull, Len Kasper, Bill Kurtis, Harold Ramis, and Otis Wilson. We miss you Harry, and may you help make this be the year!
Other Notes
- The Cubs "We Believe" DVD that was filmed during the 2008 season will finally go on sale on April 13.
- The Cubs and the Northwestern Wildcats are working out a plan to have a college football game at Wrigley Field.
- Soriano's only wish: Good healthy.
- Ryan Dempster is hoping to see Chad Tracy make the team.
That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Spring Training Preview: The Bench
Koyie Hill- C
A year ago, Hill quietly had a solid year as the Cubs' backup backstop. When Soto went down last summer, he got the chance to start an unprecedented 26 games in a row behind the dish. A typical backup catcher, he brings good defense and just enough offense to get by (.237 AVG in 2009). Koyie is also a good teammate, a good caller of the game, works well with the staff, and throws out a lot of baserunners. Last year, Hill had to earn his spot on the club in Spring Training, but this time around his job is secure.
My Prediction: Lock to make the Opening Day roster
Xavier Nady- OF
In January, the Cubs added to their outfield depth by bringing Xavier in via free agency. Nady started last year with the Yankees, but played only seven games before being shut down to have Tommy John surgery. Nady is not yet at full health, but has been working on his arm strength with pitching coach Larry Rothchild. He will be used as a DH some during Spring Training early on, so he can start out by getting his ABs in before playing defense in game situations. "X" plans to be ready to go by Opening Day. He will see most of his time in right field spelling Kosuke Fukudome from time to time.
My Prediction: Lock to make the Opening Day roster (unless placed on the DL)
Micah Hoffpauir- 1B
Last year was a weird one for Hoff. The left handed hitter started off the year with a great Spring Training and a good month of April, but then as the weather heated up Micah cooled off. At one point in the summer, he was sent back down to AAA Iowa for a few weeks to work on his hitting. He has to rake with the stick, because his defense is nothing spectacular. If Hoffpauir doesn't play well in Spring Training, he could find himself on a bus to Iowa because the Cubs signed several veteran bats this winter that will compete for bench roles, including Kevin Millar, Bryan LaHair, and Chad Tracy.
My Prediction: Will lose his roster spot to NRI Kevin Millar and find himself starting the year in AAA.
Andres Blanco- SS
The opposite of Hoffpauir, Blanco has a great glove, but doesn't bring much hitting wise. Last year, when the Cubs were hit by a rash of injuries and struggles, Blanco was called up and made the most of his limited duty. Andres' 2009 included several "Web Gem" defensive plays and even a clutch hit or two. However, Blanco's fate is mostly out of his own hands. With so much competition for roster spots, if Mike Fontenot can do a decent job at short stop, there will be no need for Blanco to start the year with the big squad. If Lou is not comfortable with Mike at SS, then Blanco will make the roster as Theriot's backup. Piniella has stressed that he would like to give his position players more rest this season, so a solid bench will be a key.
My Prediction: Starts the year at AAA
Sam Fuld- OF
This kid is really a "gamer". Last year, when Sam was called up, he brought a certain spark to the ballclub. Fuld can run, bunt, hit, and play great defense in the outfield. Last year he made several highlight real catches that were truly incredible! In my opinion, every good club needs a guy like Fuld. Sam's skill is not in question, but roster space is. Xavier Nady seems to have the 4th outfielder's spot locked up, and with 12 pitchers, 5 outfielders may not be possible. However, remember that the Cubs did break camp with 5 outfielders in 2009 (Kosuke, Soriano, Bradley, Gathright, and Johnson) plus Hoffpauir who also plays the corner spots.
My Prediction: Wins one of the two open spots on the Cub bench
Tyler Colvin- OF
This winter, the former #1 draft pick bulked up. According to sources in Mesa, Colvin has added about 25 pounds of muscle over the offseason. Reporting to camp in shape is also a good start, but with the crowded outfield chances are slim to none that Colvin starts the year in the majors. However, catching the eye of Piniella and his staff is always a good idea, because you never know when they'll be an injury during the year. It's good to see Ty working his way back after suffering several injuries that slowed his progress. Colvin was called up and got into a few games late in the 2009 season, making one great play in the outfield.
My Prediction: Will start the year at AAA
Welington Castillo- C
There is certainly a lot of depth at the catching position in the system, which is nice to have even though the Cubs seem set with Soto and Hill at the big league level. If something were to happen to one of the Cubs' backstops, Welington Castillo might be the first guy to get the call-up. His numbers at the plate were down last year, hitting just .232 in 95 games for the Smokies. He also played in the Futures Game in 2008 and in the Arizona Fall League last year.
My Prediction: Will start the year at AA
James Adduci
This winter, Adduci got the opportunity to be one of the minor leaguers to attend the Cubs Convention. James, along with Castillo, Brett Jackson, and Cashner, got to experience the mobs of Cub fans at the minor league Q&A hosted by Vineline. James was busy this winter, as he also played in the Caribbean Winter Leagues. He hit .300 in 131 games under Ryne Sandberg in AA a year ago. This left handed batter will not compete for a spot on the 25-man roster, but the organization has showed their faith in him by placing him on the 40-man roster.
Other Spring Training Preview Posts
A year ago, Hill quietly had a solid year as the Cubs' backup backstop. When Soto went down last summer, he got the chance to start an unprecedented 26 games in a row behind the dish. A typical backup catcher, he brings good defense and just enough offense to get by (.237 AVG in 2009). Koyie is also a good teammate, a good caller of the game, works well with the staff, and throws out a lot of baserunners. Last year, Hill had to earn his spot on the club in Spring Training, but this time around his job is secure.
My Prediction: Lock to make the Opening Day roster
Xavier Nady- OF
In January, the Cubs added to their outfield depth by bringing Xavier in via free agency. Nady started last year with the Yankees, but played only seven games before being shut down to have Tommy John surgery. Nady is not yet at full health, but has been working on his arm strength with pitching coach Larry Rothchild. He will be used as a DH some during Spring Training early on, so he can start out by getting his ABs in before playing defense in game situations. "X" plans to be ready to go by Opening Day. He will see most of his time in right field spelling Kosuke Fukudome from time to time.
My Prediction: Lock to make the Opening Day roster (unless placed on the DL)
Micah Hoffpauir- 1B
Last year was a weird one for Hoff. The left handed hitter started off the year with a great Spring Training and a good month of April, but then as the weather heated up Micah cooled off. At one point in the summer, he was sent back down to AAA Iowa for a few weeks to work on his hitting. He has to rake with the stick, because his defense is nothing spectacular. If Hoffpauir doesn't play well in Spring Training, he could find himself on a bus to Iowa because the Cubs signed several veteran bats this winter that will compete for bench roles, including Kevin Millar, Bryan LaHair, and Chad Tracy.
My Prediction: Will lose his roster spot to NRI Kevin Millar and find himself starting the year in AAA.
Andres Blanco- SS
The opposite of Hoffpauir, Blanco has a great glove, but doesn't bring much hitting wise. Last year, when the Cubs were hit by a rash of injuries and struggles, Blanco was called up and made the most of his limited duty. Andres' 2009 included several "Web Gem" defensive plays and even a clutch hit or two. However, Blanco's fate is mostly out of his own hands. With so much competition for roster spots, if Mike Fontenot can do a decent job at short stop, there will be no need for Blanco to start the year with the big squad. If Lou is not comfortable with Mike at SS, then Blanco will make the roster as Theriot's backup. Piniella has stressed that he would like to give his position players more rest this season, so a solid bench will be a key.
My Prediction: Starts the year at AAA
Sam Fuld- OF
This kid is really a "gamer". Last year, when Sam was called up, he brought a certain spark to the ballclub. Fuld can run, bunt, hit, and play great defense in the outfield. Last year he made several highlight real catches that were truly incredible! In my opinion, every good club needs a guy like Fuld. Sam's skill is not in question, but roster space is. Xavier Nady seems to have the 4th outfielder's spot locked up, and with 12 pitchers, 5 outfielders may not be possible. However, remember that the Cubs did break camp with 5 outfielders in 2009 (Kosuke, Soriano, Bradley, Gathright, and Johnson) plus Hoffpauir who also plays the corner spots.
My Prediction: Wins one of the two open spots on the Cub bench
Tyler Colvin- OF
This winter, the former #1 draft pick bulked up. According to sources in Mesa, Colvin has added about 25 pounds of muscle over the offseason. Reporting to camp in shape is also a good start, but with the crowded outfield chances are slim to none that Colvin starts the year in the majors. However, catching the eye of Piniella and his staff is always a good idea, because you never know when they'll be an injury during the year. It's good to see Ty working his way back after suffering several injuries that slowed his progress. Colvin was called up and got into a few games late in the 2009 season, making one great play in the outfield.
My Prediction: Will start the year at AAA
Welington Castillo- C
There is certainly a lot of depth at the catching position in the system, which is nice to have even though the Cubs seem set with Soto and Hill at the big league level. If something were to happen to one of the Cubs' backstops, Welington Castillo might be the first guy to get the call-up. His numbers at the plate were down last year, hitting just .232 in 95 games for the Smokies. He also played in the Futures Game in 2008 and in the Arizona Fall League last year.
My Prediction: Will start the year at AA
James Adduci
This winter, Adduci got the opportunity to be one of the minor leaguers to attend the Cubs Convention. James, along with Castillo, Brett Jackson, and Cashner, got to experience the mobs of Cub fans at the minor league Q&A hosted by Vineline. James was busy this winter, as he also played in the Caribbean Winter Leagues. He hit .300 in 131 games under Ryne Sandberg in AA a year ago. This left handed batter will not compete for a spot on the 25-man roster, but the organization has showed their faith in him by placing him on the 40-man roster.
Other Spring Training Preview Posts
- Non Roster Pitchers
- Non Roster Catchers
- Non Roster Infielders
- The Starting Rotation
- The Bullpen
- The Starting Position Players
Now we're set to go for the Cactus League, which is just days away!
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