Today, the Chicago Cubs return! All winter long, we've waiting for the return of baseball. Spring Training play finally starts today for the Cubs at 2:05 CT against the Oakland A's at HoHoKam Park. Expectations are low for the team this season, but the great thing about baseball is that you never know for sure what is going to happen.
Rodrigo Lopez will be on the mound for the Cubs today. Here is the rest of the Cubs lineup in the order of today's batting order. Geovany Soto is out with a groin injury and could miss the first week of Cactus League play.
1. Alfonso Soriano, LF
2. Ian Stewart, 3B
3. Starlin Castro, SS
4. Bryan LaHair, 1B
5. Marlon Byrd, CF
6. David DeJesus, RF
7. Jeff Baker, DH
8. Darwin Barney, 2B
9. Welington Castillo, C
Pitchers expected to work in today's game
Rodrigo Lopez
Carlos Marmol
Dae-Eun Rhee
Rafael Dolis
Lendy Castillo
Marcos Mateo
Today's game will be broadcast on Cubs.com and MLB.com for free with Len Kasper and Mick Gillispie. Cubs.com will air most Spring Training games that cannot be heard on WGN-720. Pat Hughes and Keith Moreland will have their first broadcast of the year tomorrow.
Here is the Cubs schedule for the rest of this week along with broadcast information and starting pitchers.
Monday VS Oakland 2:05 WGN Radio, Ryan Dempster
Tuesday VS Colorado 2:05 WGN Radio, Matt Garza
Wednesday @Kansas City 2:05 WGN Radio, Jeff Samardzija
Thursday VS Seattle 2:05 MLB.com, Chris Volstad
Friday @CWS 2:05 MLB.com
Saturday @Milwaukee 2:05 WGN-TV, WGN Radio
Yesterday the Cubs tied in a five-inning intrasquad game 3-3. Brett Jackson hit his second home run in as many scrimmages. Jay Jackson pitched three scoreless frames and did not allow a base runner. Joe Mather took Trey McNutt deep in the fourth inning, while left hander Chris Rusin surrendered the long ball to Jackson. Tony Campana displayed his speed stealing two bags, one after it appeared that he was picked off.
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
Showing posts with label Chicago Cubs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chicago Cubs. Show all posts
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Epstein Close to Coming to the Cubs
Today news has broke that the Cubs are very close to bringing Theo Epstein in as their General Manager. There were reports today that the Cubs will have to compensate the Red Sox since Epstein is under contract, but that will be only a minor hurdle in completing the deal. The Bo-Sox would like Epstein to stay in Boston but they will not prevent him from leaving.
The Boston Harold has issued a report that says that Epstein is on the cusp of leaving his job in Boston for one with greater power in Chicago. An official announcement is expected in the next 24 to 48 hours.
According the Chicago Tribune Peter Gammons has tweeted that a deal could happen, but it is not as close and people think. The Tribune's article also said that the Cubs declined the comment on the issue.
Comcast Sports Net New England reports that the deal is close but not done yet. On the issue of compensation, most sources are reporting that it will not be top players on the Cubs roster, most likely only minor league prospects.
That's it for now, but we'll keep you posted as more news breaks.
The Boston Harold has issued a report that says that Epstein is on the cusp of leaving his job in Boston for one with greater power in Chicago. An official announcement is expected in the next 24 to 48 hours.
According the Chicago Tribune Peter Gammons has tweeted that a deal could happen, but it is not as close and people think. The Tribune's article also said that the Cubs declined the comment on the issue.
Comcast Sports Net New England reports that the deal is close but not done yet. On the issue of compensation, most sources are reporting that it will not be top players on the Cubs roster, most likely only minor league prospects.
That's it for now, but we'll keep you posted as more news breaks.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
More on the Garza Trade
The Cubs and Rays have finalized their eight player swap centered around starting pitcher Matt Garza. In addition to Garza, the Cubs have acquired Fernando Perez and Zachary Rosscup. The third player was originally thought to be a PTBNL, but Rosscup's inclusion in the deal surfaced today.
The Cubs send away five talented young players in Robinson Chirinos, Chris Archer, Brandon Guyer, Sam Fuld and Hak-Ju Lee. Here is more information on each of the three players the Cubs received in the deal. I'll write more about what they gave up in the next day or two.
Matt Garza
The Cubs send away five talented young players in Robinson Chirinos, Chris Archer, Brandon Guyer, Sam Fuld and Hak-Ju Lee. Here is more information on each of the three players the Cubs received in the deal. I'll write more about what they gave up in the next day or two.
Matt Garza
- Position: Pitcher
- B/T: Right
- Height/Weight: 6'4'', 215 lbs
- Age: 27
- Birthday: Nov. 11
- Teams: Twins ('06-'07) and Rays ('08-'10)
- 2010 Stats: 15-10, 3.91 ERA, 32 starts, 1 save, 204.2 IP, 150 K
- Career Stats: 42-44, 3.97 ERA
- Awards: 2008 ALCS MVP
- MLB Debut: August 11, 2006
- Drafted: by the Twins in the first round (25th overall) in 2005
- Postseason: 2-1, 3.48 ERA, 5 games
Fernando Perez
- Position: Outfield
- B/T: Switch/Right
- Height/Weight: 6'1'', 195 lbs
- Age: 27
- Birthday: April 23
- Big League Career Stats: .234 AVG, 3 HR, 10 RBI in 41 games during the '08 and '09 seasons
- Injuries: Missed most of 2009 with a dislocated left wrist. Bothered by wrist during 2010, playing just 116 Triple-A games.
- 2010 stats at AAA-Durham: .223 AVG, .280 OBP, 4 HR, 32 RBIs in 116 games
- Drafted: by the Rays in the 7th round of the '04 draft
- MLB Debut: Sept. 5, 2008
Zachary Rosscup
- Position: Pitcher
- B/T: Right/Left
- Height/Weight: 6'2'', 205 lbs
- Age: 22
- Birthday: June 9
- Highest Level: Class-A
- 2010 Stats: 3-1 with a 2.64 ERA in 12 games (8 starts) at Rookie Ball and Class A.
- Career Stats: 6-5 with a 2.66 ERA in 22 games (17 starts)
- Drafted: By the Rays in the 28th round of the 2009 draft
- Carrie Muskat of Cubs.com says that Rosscup could pitch in the bullpen for the Peoria Chiefs in 2011.
That's it for now, expect a post with radio/TV reaction tomorrow and another one early next week with information on the player whom the Cubs gave up!
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
2011 Schedule Breakdown: April
We are set for part one of our breakdown of the Cubs 2011 schedule. As Cubs fans count down to Opening Day, let us preview the month of April 2011.
VS Pittsburgh Pirates April 1-3
For the first time in years, Opening Day does not fall on a Monday. Major League Baseball has decided to back the start of the season up to Friday instead of the following Monday in order to prevent the World Series from extending into November. Mike Quade's first full season as the manager of the team opens up at Wrigley Field at 1:20 on April the first. All three games in the opening series will be day games.
VS Arizona Diamondbacks April 4-6
The first homestand concludes as the D'backs come to town for a Monday though Wednesday set. The two teams will do battle starting at 1:20 each afternoon. Alan Trammell, now the Arizona bench coach, will make a return trip to Wrigley as will outfielder Xavier Nady, who recently signed with Arizona.
@ Milwaukee Brewers April 8-10
The 'Crew start their opening homestand with a four game series against Atlanta, and then the Cubs home to town on April 8. After an off day on Thursday, the North Siders play their first night game of the year, which starts at 7:10.
@ Houston Astros April 11-13
Three straight night games at Minute Maid Park will take place. The 'Stros are expected to have an improved ballclub that will compete for the division title.
@Colorado Rockies April 15-17
The Cubs will go to the mile high city to cap off the first road trip of the season. The opener starts at 7:40, Saturday's contest gets underway at 7:10 and then the series finale is an afternoon battle.
VS San Diego Padres April 18-20
The first night game at Wrigley of 2011 will finally take place on April 18, a Monday night. The two teams play under the lights again on Tuesday before the series finale Wednesday afternoon.
VS LA Dodgers April 22-24
The nine game homestand continues on Friday as the Dodgers come to town. Lefty Ted Lilly may pitch against his old team for the first time this season. All three contests will take place during the day. The Cubs will try take care of business in this rematch of the 2008 NLDS.
VS Colorado Rockies April 25-27
The Cubs see a lot of the Rockies in the opening month, but then the two clubs don't meet again after April 27. There have been some pretty good battles when they meet over th years, including a thrilling comeback by the Cubs in May of 2008.
@Arizona Diamondbacks April 28-May 1
The Cubs will travel to the West Coast to Chase Field for the first time this season. The first two games are late night games (8:40 CT) and then there is one earlier night game before a 3:10 Sunday finale. The Cubs have never had much luck in Valley of the Sun dating back to their defeat in the 2007 playoffs.
VS Pittsburgh Pirates April 1-3
For the first time in years, Opening Day does not fall on a Monday. Major League Baseball has decided to back the start of the season up to Friday instead of the following Monday in order to prevent the World Series from extending into November. Mike Quade's first full season as the manager of the team opens up at Wrigley Field at 1:20 on April the first. All three games in the opening series will be day games.
VS Arizona Diamondbacks April 4-6
The first homestand concludes as the D'backs come to town for a Monday though Wednesday set. The two teams will do battle starting at 1:20 each afternoon. Alan Trammell, now the Arizona bench coach, will make a return trip to Wrigley as will outfielder Xavier Nady, who recently signed with Arizona.
@ Milwaukee Brewers April 8-10
The 'Crew start their opening homestand with a four game series against Atlanta, and then the Cubs home to town on April 8. After an off day on Thursday, the North Siders play their first night game of the year, which starts at 7:10.
@ Houston Astros April 11-13
Three straight night games at Minute Maid Park will take place. The 'Stros are expected to have an improved ballclub that will compete for the division title.
@Colorado Rockies April 15-17
The Cubs will go to the mile high city to cap off the first road trip of the season. The opener starts at 7:40, Saturday's contest gets underway at 7:10 and then the series finale is an afternoon battle.
VS San Diego Padres April 18-20
The first night game at Wrigley of 2011 will finally take place on April 18, a Monday night. The two teams play under the lights again on Tuesday before the series finale Wednesday afternoon.
VS LA Dodgers April 22-24
The nine game homestand continues on Friday as the Dodgers come to town. Lefty Ted Lilly may pitch against his old team for the first time this season. All three contests will take place during the day. The Cubs will try take care of business in this rematch of the 2008 NLDS.
VS Colorado Rockies April 25-27
The Cubs see a lot of the Rockies in the opening month, but then the two clubs don't meet again after April 27. There have been some pretty good battles when they meet over th years, including a thrilling comeback by the Cubs in May of 2008.
@Arizona Diamondbacks April 28-May 1
The Cubs will travel to the West Coast to Chase Field for the first time this season. The first two games are late night games (8:40 CT) and then there is one earlier night game before a 3:10 Sunday finale. The Cubs have never had much luck in Valley of the Sun dating back to their defeat in the 2007 playoffs.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Breaking News: Cubs Close to Sending D-Lee to Atlanta
Update 4:50 CT- The trade has been finalized. Derrek Lee has been sent to the Atlanta Braves. In return the Cubs get RHP Robinson Lopez, RHP Tyrelle Harris, and LHP Jeffrey Lorick. Lee will be available for Friday's game at Wrigley Field between the Braves and Cubs and is expected to make his Braves debut against his former team this weekend.
Update 12:40 CT- Bob Nightengale tweets that the deal will be finalized this afternoon.
The Cubs are close making a waiver trade that would send Derrek Lee to Atlanta. David Kaplan, who broke the news on his blog this morning, reports that Lee will waive his no trade rights and approve this trade because the Braves are a playoff contender that would give him a chance for another World Series ring.
The trade was first talked about on Sunday night when Jim Hendry was contacted by the Braves GM after Chipper Jones went down with a knee injury. The deal is not finalized yet, partly because of the bulging disc in Lee's back which has had him out since Sunday.
Atlanta wants to make sure that Derrek is healthy before they add his contract. The Cubs are not expected to get much talent back in return for their first baseman, but they will get some salary relief.
I'll update with more information as soon as it's available!
Update 12:40 CT- Bob Nightengale tweets that the deal will be finalized this afternoon.
The Cubs are close making a waiver trade that would send Derrek Lee to Atlanta. David Kaplan, who broke the news on his blog this morning, reports that Lee will waive his no trade rights and approve this trade because the Braves are a playoff contender that would give him a chance for another World Series ring.
The trade was first talked about on Sunday night when Jim Hendry was contacted by the Braves GM after Chipper Jones went down with a knee injury. The deal is not finalized yet, partly because of the bulging disc in Lee's back which has had him out since Sunday.
Atlanta wants to make sure that Derrek is healthy before they add his contract. The Cubs are not expected to get much talent back in return for their first baseman, but they will get some salary relief.
I'll update with more information as soon as it's available!
Friday, August 13, 2010
Series Preview: Cubs VS Cardinals
St. Louis here I come! I'll be blogging live from Gateway City all weekend as I take in the games on Friday night and Saturday afternoon.
The Cubs are trying to get things together. They are in the middle of a tough stretch of 20 games in 20 days, while the Cardinals are enjoying a stretch of three off days in an eight day span. The Cubbies lost three of four in San Francisco but played well in all four games. The bats are showing signs off life, but in the end a lineup of mostly subs couldn't get the job done against the Wild Card leaders.
They were without their starting first baseman & manager due to family problems, their catcher and third baseman due to injuries, and their second baseman and reserve infielder due to trades. On top of that, Alfonso Soriano and Marlon Byrd both received a day off in the series. Their bullpen includes five rookies. What about their two best starting pitchers in the first half? One disabled, one traded. It's no wonder the Cubs lost that series.
The Cubs have seen a ton of prospects get the chance to get some big league experience lately. Three position players alone were called up from Iowa during the set with the Giants. Darwin Barney made his big league debut at second base on Thursday but did not come to the plate. Welington Castillo made his debut on Wednesday night and doubled in his first big league at-bat. Micah Hoffpauir went 0-for-6 with an error in one start and one pinch hit AB in the series. Micah could be sent down today when Derrek Lee is activated off of the bereavement list.
D-Lee is expected to rejoin the team. Keep the fan favorite first baseman in your thoughts as his grandfather is very ill. Lou Piniella will also return to the dugout tonight after leaving to be with his ailing mother. Bench coach Alan Trammell managed the last four games and is now 1-6 on the year when he takes over for Lou.
While the Cubs will be with their manager, the Cardinals will be without theirs. Tony LaRussa was suspended by Major League Baseball for his involvement in a bench clearing brawl in a game between the Cards and Reds earlier in the week. LaRussa will start his suspension tonight and then return for the series finale on Sunday. Bench coach Joe Pettini is expected to be at the helm in place of the suspended skipper.
While the Cubs are 17 games out of first and falling fast, this is a very important series for the St. Louis ballclub. They swept the Reds this week and hold a one game lead over Cincinnati for the top spot in the NL Central. The Reds, who will also be without manager Dusty Baker because of the brawl, will take on the Marlins this weekend.
The Red Birds come in at 64-49, while the Cubs hold a record of 48-67. The pair of old rivals will see a lot of each other down the stretch. They play a three game series at Busch Stadium Sept. 13-16, and then the Cards come to Wrigley September 24-26. That series will conclude the Cubs final homestand of the season.
The Cardinals are one of the only team in the division that the Cubs do not have a record under .500 against... but their mark against the Cards is at .500 at 3-3. They dropped two of three at home May 28-30, but then the Cubs won the set July 23-25. This is the first trip the Cubs have made all season to Busch Stadium.
Aramis Ramirez could be back in the lineup tonight. He injured his left side on Monday when he dove for a ball and missed the end of the Giants series with soreness. The Cubs are starting to get some guys back in there, but another waive of guys from Triple-A is still expected.
Game 1: Friday at 7:15 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Thomas Diamond, RHP (0-2, 8.00 ERA)
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Jake Westbrook, RHP (0-0, 3.46 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN Radio
Game 2: Saturday at 3:10
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Zambrano, RHP (3-6, 5.76 ERA
Cardinals Starting: Chris Carpenter, RHP (13-3, 2.89 ERA)
TV/Radio: FOX/WGN Radio
Game 3: Sunday at 1:15
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (10-8, 3.66 ERA)
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Kyle Lohse, RHP (1-4, 5.89 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN-TV/WGN Radio
Let's push the Cardinals out of first!
The Cubs are trying to get things together. They are in the middle of a tough stretch of 20 games in 20 days, while the Cardinals are enjoying a stretch of three off days in an eight day span. The Cubbies lost three of four in San Francisco but played well in all four games. The bats are showing signs off life, but in the end a lineup of mostly subs couldn't get the job done against the Wild Card leaders.
They were without their starting first baseman & manager due to family problems, their catcher and third baseman due to injuries, and their second baseman and reserve infielder due to trades. On top of that, Alfonso Soriano and Marlon Byrd both received a day off in the series. Their bullpen includes five rookies. What about their two best starting pitchers in the first half? One disabled, one traded. It's no wonder the Cubs lost that series.
The Cubs have seen a ton of prospects get the chance to get some big league experience lately. Three position players alone were called up from Iowa during the set with the Giants. Darwin Barney made his big league debut at second base on Thursday but did not come to the plate. Welington Castillo made his debut on Wednesday night and doubled in his first big league at-bat. Micah Hoffpauir went 0-for-6 with an error in one start and one pinch hit AB in the series. Micah could be sent down today when Derrek Lee is activated off of the bereavement list.
D-Lee is expected to rejoin the team. Keep the fan favorite first baseman in your thoughts as his grandfather is very ill. Lou Piniella will also return to the dugout tonight after leaving to be with his ailing mother. Bench coach Alan Trammell managed the last four games and is now 1-6 on the year when he takes over for Lou.
While the Cubs will be with their manager, the Cardinals will be without theirs. Tony LaRussa was suspended by Major League Baseball for his involvement in a bench clearing brawl in a game between the Cards and Reds earlier in the week. LaRussa will start his suspension tonight and then return for the series finale on Sunday. Bench coach Joe Pettini is expected to be at the helm in place of the suspended skipper.
While the Cubs are 17 games out of first and falling fast, this is a very important series for the St. Louis ballclub. They swept the Reds this week and hold a one game lead over Cincinnati for the top spot in the NL Central. The Reds, who will also be without manager Dusty Baker because of the brawl, will take on the Marlins this weekend.
The Red Birds come in at 64-49, while the Cubs hold a record of 48-67. The pair of old rivals will see a lot of each other down the stretch. They play a three game series at Busch Stadium Sept. 13-16, and then the Cards come to Wrigley September 24-26. That series will conclude the Cubs final homestand of the season.
The Cardinals are one of the only team in the division that the Cubs do not have a record under .500 against... but their mark against the Cards is at .500 at 3-3. They dropped two of three at home May 28-30, but then the Cubs won the set July 23-25. This is the first trip the Cubs have made all season to Busch Stadium.
Aramis Ramirez could be back in the lineup tonight. He injured his left side on Monday when he dove for a ball and missed the end of the Giants series with soreness. The Cubs are starting to get some guys back in there, but another waive of guys from Triple-A is still expected.
Game 1: Friday at 7:15 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Thomas Diamond, RHP (0-2, 8.00 ERA)
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Jake Westbrook, RHP (0-0, 3.46 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN Radio
Game 2: Saturday at 3:10
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Zambrano, RHP (3-6, 5.76 ERA
Cardinals Starting: Chris Carpenter, RHP (13-3, 2.89 ERA)
TV/Radio: FOX/WGN Radio
Game 3: Sunday at 1:15
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (10-8, 3.66 ERA)
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Kyle Lohse, RHP (1-4, 5.89 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN-TV/WGN Radio
Let's push the Cardinals out of first!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Series Preview: Cubs VS Reds
Many baseball people and Cubs fans have deemed the 2010 season a lost cause for Lou Piniella's squad. However, the final two month will be very important in terms of getting some younger guys experience and playing time. At the same time, the Cubs must work to try to increase the trade value of some of their veteran players that could be dealt this winter or even swapped in a waiver trade before the end of August.
The fifth place Chicago Cubs meet the first place Cincinnati Reds this weekend at Wrigley to finish up this six game homestand. This series is huge for the Reds, who are trying to hold off the Cardinals for the top spot in the NL Central. The Cards are only a half a game back.
With the Astros recent winning streak, they've passed up the Cubbies, who continue to slump on all cylinders. The 'Stros are now only 13 games out of first and the Cubs are 13.5 games back. The Cubs are coming off a big 15-3 win in the series finale against the Brewers on Wednesday before enjoying an off day on Thursday. They still dropped the series with the Crew after suffering a bashing on Monday and another loss on Tuesday. The victory on Wednesday snapped a seven game skid.
The Reds, who are 61-48 for they year, have hopes of capturing their first NL Central crown since 1995. This year could be their first trip to the playoffs in 15 years. Cincinnati is coming off a series where they beat the Pirates two out of three at PNC. This set concludes a six game trip, then they will return home on Monday to welcome the Cardinals and Marlins to town.
Lou's crew has dropped every series of the year with Dusty Baker's team. They are 3-7 against the Reds this season. This will be the first meeting since the All-Star break between the Midwest foes. The last time they met the Cubs lost three of four at Wrigley to start the month of July.
The Boys in Blue return to The Queen City August 27-29 for the final meetings of the year between the two teams. The Cubs will have to take all six game left against the Reds in order to take the season series, and they need to go 5-1 to split it.
It will be interesting to see what kind of reaction Joey Votto gets when his name is announced today. Votto made some comments about Cubs fans during the All-Star break at Angel Stadium. He has said that he doesn't have an issue with Marlon Byrd or the organization, but just with the fan base. Joey's problems with the Faithful started when the Cubs won the NL Central at Great American Ballpark in front of thousands of Cubs fans in 2007. Votto says he will not sign autographs for supporters of the North Siders.
Starlin Castro and Tyler Colvin are both making cases for the Rookie of the Year in the National League. They will continue to bat one and two in the Cubs order this weekend and throughout the rest of the season. Jim Hendry has said that more players for AAA-Iowa are on the way. Will the Cubs add guys like Welington Castillo, Bryan LaHair, Brad Snyder, and Darwin Barney to the roster soon?
Carrie Muskat of Cubs.com thinks the chances are good that we will see Darwin Barney at Wrigley this year, but it may not be until September. The story is the same for many of the other position players that are playing well at Triple-A.
The last time the Cubs were in first place was one year ago today- August 6, 2009. For all of the fans that thought last year was a total failure as well, it's weird to think that at this point last season they were in first place.
Yesterday the Marlins signed former Cub Chad Tracy to try to help them to the postseason. In other news, Jeff Samardzija is pitching well in the rotation in Iowa. He's throwing a good cutter and getting swings and misses according to scouting reports. He could return to the bigs to either start or relief at some point soon.
Game 1: Friday at 1:20 CT
Reds Starting Pitcher: Bronson Arroyo, RHP (11-6, 4.01 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Tom Gorzelanny, LHP (6-5, 3.48 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN 720
Game 2: Saturday at 12:05 CT
Reds Starting Pitcher: Edinson Volquez, RHP (2-1, 6.35 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells, RHP (5-9, 4.40 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN 720
Game 3: Sunday at 1:20 CT
Reds Starting Pitcher: Travis Wood, RHP (2-1, 2.42 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Thomas Diamond, RHP (0-1, 4.50 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN-TV/WGN 720
The Cubs go to San Fransisco and St. Louis on their next trip which starts on Monday.
It's time to play the role of spoilers!
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
The fifth place Chicago Cubs meet the first place Cincinnati Reds this weekend at Wrigley to finish up this six game homestand. This series is huge for the Reds, who are trying to hold off the Cardinals for the top spot in the NL Central. The Cards are only a half a game back.
With the Astros recent winning streak, they've passed up the Cubbies, who continue to slump on all cylinders. The 'Stros are now only 13 games out of first and the Cubs are 13.5 games back. The Cubs are coming off a big 15-3 win in the series finale against the Brewers on Wednesday before enjoying an off day on Thursday. They still dropped the series with the Crew after suffering a bashing on Monday and another loss on Tuesday. The victory on Wednesday snapped a seven game skid.
The Reds, who are 61-48 for they year, have hopes of capturing their first NL Central crown since 1995. This year could be their first trip to the playoffs in 15 years. Cincinnati is coming off a series where they beat the Pirates two out of three at PNC. This set concludes a six game trip, then they will return home on Monday to welcome the Cardinals and Marlins to town.
Lou's crew has dropped every series of the year with Dusty Baker's team. They are 3-7 against the Reds this season. This will be the first meeting since the All-Star break between the Midwest foes. The last time they met the Cubs lost three of four at Wrigley to start the month of July.
The Boys in Blue return to The Queen City August 27-29 for the final meetings of the year between the two teams. The Cubs will have to take all six game left against the Reds in order to take the season series, and they need to go 5-1 to split it.
It will be interesting to see what kind of reaction Joey Votto gets when his name is announced today. Votto made some comments about Cubs fans during the All-Star break at Angel Stadium. He has said that he doesn't have an issue with Marlon Byrd or the organization, but just with the fan base. Joey's problems with the Faithful started when the Cubs won the NL Central at Great American Ballpark in front of thousands of Cubs fans in 2007. Votto says he will not sign autographs for supporters of the North Siders.
Starlin Castro and Tyler Colvin are both making cases for the Rookie of the Year in the National League. They will continue to bat one and two in the Cubs order this weekend and throughout the rest of the season. Jim Hendry has said that more players for AAA-Iowa are on the way. Will the Cubs add guys like Welington Castillo, Bryan LaHair, Brad Snyder, and Darwin Barney to the roster soon?
Carrie Muskat of Cubs.com thinks the chances are good that we will see Darwin Barney at Wrigley this year, but it may not be until September. The story is the same for many of the other position players that are playing well at Triple-A.
The last time the Cubs were in first place was one year ago today- August 6, 2009. For all of the fans that thought last year was a total failure as well, it's weird to think that at this point last season they were in first place.
Yesterday the Marlins signed former Cub Chad Tracy to try to help them to the postseason. In other news, Jeff Samardzija is pitching well in the rotation in Iowa. He's throwing a good cutter and getting swings and misses according to scouting reports. He could return to the bigs to either start or relief at some point soon.
Game 1: Friday at 1:20 CT
Reds Starting Pitcher: Bronson Arroyo, RHP (11-6, 4.01 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Tom Gorzelanny, LHP (6-5, 3.48 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN 720
Game 2: Saturday at 12:05 CT
Reds Starting Pitcher: Edinson Volquez, RHP (2-1, 6.35 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells, RHP (5-9, 4.40 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN 720
Game 3: Sunday at 1:20 CT
Reds Starting Pitcher: Travis Wood, RHP (2-1, 2.42 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Thomas Diamond, RHP (0-1, 4.50 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN-TV/WGN 720
The Cubs go to San Fransisco and St. Louis on their next trip which starts on Monday.
It's time to play the role of spoilers!
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
Sunday, July 25, 2010
The Hawk's Day
2010 must be the year of the hawk. In Chicago alone, the Blackhawks took home the Stanley Cup and Andre "The Hawk" Dawson was finally voted into Cooperstown.
Today's the day that Dawson is officially inducted into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. Coverage from Cooperstown starts at 11:30 on the MLB Network. This is truly a day set aside for Dawson for several reasons.
1) He is the only player going into to the Hall this year.
2) The Cubs play the Sunday Night Game of the Week, so the fan base can focus on the induction this afternoon.
3) This honor is long overdue.
The rest of the 2010 Hall of Fame class is made up of umpire Doug Harvey, manager Whitey Herzog, broadcaster John Miller, and writer Bill Madden. Dawson will be entering the Hall of Fame wearing an Expos cap, even though he made clear that his first choice would have been to go in as a Cub.
Check out the Hawk4theHall blog where they count down the ten greatest moments of Andre's career. The site did a great job of showing support for Dawson before he was elected. Charley, the writer of Hawk4theHall, also points out that The Hawk could be the last guy ever to go into the Hall wearing an Expos cap.
Other articles to honor Dawson:
Today's the day that Dawson is officially inducted into the Major League Baseball Hall of Fame. Coverage from Cooperstown starts at 11:30 on the MLB Network. This is truly a day set aside for Dawson for several reasons.
1) He is the only player going into to the Hall this year.
2) The Cubs play the Sunday Night Game of the Week, so the fan base can focus on the induction this afternoon.
3) This honor is long overdue.
The rest of the 2010 Hall of Fame class is made up of umpire Doug Harvey, manager Whitey Herzog, broadcaster John Miller, and writer Bill Madden. Dawson will be entering the Hall of Fame wearing an Expos cap, even though he made clear that his first choice would have been to go in as a Cub.
Check out the Hawk4theHall blog where they count down the ten greatest moments of Andre's career. The site did a great job of showing support for Dawson before he was elected. Charley, the writer of Hawk4theHall, also points out that The Hawk could be the last guy ever to go into the Hall wearing an Expos cap.
Other articles to honor Dawson:
- Cubs.com remembers the 1990 season.
- The Sun Times reports that Dawson's speach has been ready for months.
- Phil Rogers counts down ten important things about Andre's road to Cooperstown.
- Barry Rozner of the Daily Herald talks about the bond between Tim Raines and The Hawk.
So once again, congratulations Andre Dawson!
Friday, July 23, 2010
Series Preview: Cubs VS Cardinals
When it's the Cubs and the Cardinals, the two teams step it up a notch. Usually, no matter where the teams are in the standings, competitive baseball is played! Let's hope that is the case this weekend when the 43-53 Cubs meet the 54-42 Cards at Wrigley Field.
St. Louis has the lead in the NL Central by 1.5 games over the Reds. They are 11 games in front of the 4th place Cubs. The Cards lost to the Phillies yesterday, but they're 8-2 in their last ten games! That loss snapped an eight game winning streak and ruined a perfect homestand. Today is the start of a six game road swing that will continue on to New York after Sunday.
This stretch of ten straight games at Wrigley started on a positive not when the Cubbies took three of four from the Phillies. However, they lost two of three at the hands of the woeful Astros. A winning homestand hinges on this set against the NL Central's top dog.
The Cubs and Cards have only met in one other series so far this year. The Cubs dropped two of three at Wrigley May 28-30. St. Lou got wins in blowout fashion, 7-1 in game one and 9-1 in game three. A lot of rivalry games will be played in the final two months, as these two teams meet 3 times in August and 6 in September. They play the next two of those series at Busch Stadium and the September 24-26 set will be back at The Friendly Confines.
Even though Tony La Russa has said that he will probably never manage the Cubs, he will still have to field a lot of questions from the Chicago media about the job opening. Tony's future is uncertain as 2010 is the final year of his contract. He has said that there are too many conflicts for him to take the Cubs job because of his relationships and history with both the Cardinals and White Sox.
General Manager John Mozeliak is much more comfortable after inking a three year extension last week. Cubs GM Jim Hendry also has job security after it was announced that he will lead the search for a new skipper. Hendry's main focus right now is the trade deadline that is only 8 days away. So far the Cubs have been silent and there have not been too many big moves around baseball.
Jayson Stark of ESPN.com says that Ted Lilly will almost certainly be traded. Tom Gorzelanny is on the market as well. With Carlos Zambrano rehabbing at Triple-A Iowa, it is possible that he could fill any opening in the rotation at some point. Z is expected to return to the bullpen next weekend in Colorado. He tossed a shutout inning for the I-Cubs last night and will make two more appearances there.
Carlos Silva will not pitch in this series because he is going to work with Larry Rothschild on the side after two straight bad outings. The Cubs say the issue is not injury related, but Silva has had hamstring problems this season.
Even though the three big stories this weekend seem to be the search for Lou's replacement, the trade deadline, and the HOF induction, there are still some big games to be played between the Cubs and Cardinals.
Game 1: Friday at 1:20 CT
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Jeff Suppan, RHP (0-3, 4.20 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells, RHP (4-7, 4.33 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN/WGN Radio
Game 2: Saturday at 12:05 CT
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Blake Hawksworth, RHP (4-5, 4.85 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Tom Gorzelanny, LHP (5-5, 3.12 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN Radio
Game 3: Sunday at 7:05 CT
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Chris Carpenter, RHP (11-3, 3.05 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (8-7, 3.70 ERA)
TV/Radio: ESPN/WGN Radio
The Cubs will travel to Houston after Sunday's game to start a trip that also will see a stop in Colorado. They will return to Wrigley on August 2.
Let's go get a series win!
St. Louis has the lead in the NL Central by 1.5 games over the Reds. They are 11 games in front of the 4th place Cubs. The Cards lost to the Phillies yesterday, but they're 8-2 in their last ten games! That loss snapped an eight game winning streak and ruined a perfect homestand. Today is the start of a six game road swing that will continue on to New York after Sunday.
This stretch of ten straight games at Wrigley started on a positive not when the Cubbies took three of four from the Phillies. However, they lost two of three at the hands of the woeful Astros. A winning homestand hinges on this set against the NL Central's top dog.
The Cubs and Cards have only met in one other series so far this year. The Cubs dropped two of three at Wrigley May 28-30. St. Lou got wins in blowout fashion, 7-1 in game one and 9-1 in game three. A lot of rivalry games will be played in the final two months, as these two teams meet 3 times in August and 6 in September. They play the next two of those series at Busch Stadium and the September 24-26 set will be back at The Friendly Confines.
Even though Tony La Russa has said that he will probably never manage the Cubs, he will still have to field a lot of questions from the Chicago media about the job opening. Tony's future is uncertain as 2010 is the final year of his contract. He has said that there are too many conflicts for him to take the Cubs job because of his relationships and history with both the Cardinals and White Sox.
General Manager John Mozeliak is much more comfortable after inking a three year extension last week. Cubs GM Jim Hendry also has job security after it was announced that he will lead the search for a new skipper. Hendry's main focus right now is the trade deadline that is only 8 days away. So far the Cubs have been silent and there have not been too many big moves around baseball.
Jayson Stark of ESPN.com says that Ted Lilly will almost certainly be traded. Tom Gorzelanny is on the market as well. With Carlos Zambrano rehabbing at Triple-A Iowa, it is possible that he could fill any opening in the rotation at some point. Z is expected to return to the bullpen next weekend in Colorado. He tossed a shutout inning for the I-Cubs last night and will make two more appearances there.
Carlos Silva will not pitch in this series because he is going to work with Larry Rothschild on the side after two straight bad outings. The Cubs say the issue is not injury related, but Silva has had hamstring problems this season.
Even though the three big stories this weekend seem to be the search for Lou's replacement, the trade deadline, and the HOF induction, there are still some big games to be played between the Cubs and Cardinals.
Game 1: Friday at 1:20 CT
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Jeff Suppan, RHP (0-3, 4.20 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells, RHP (4-7, 4.33 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN/WGN Radio
Game 2: Saturday at 12:05 CT
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Blake Hawksworth, RHP (4-5, 4.85 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Tom Gorzelanny, LHP (5-5, 3.12 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN Radio
Game 3: Sunday at 7:05 CT
Cardinals Starting Pitcher: Chris Carpenter, RHP (11-3, 3.05 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (8-7, 3.70 ERA)
TV/Radio: ESPN/WGN Radio
The Cubs will travel to Houston after Sunday's game to start a trip that also will see a stop in Colorado. They will return to Wrigley on August 2.
Let's go get a series win!
Monday, July 19, 2010
Series Preview: Cubs VS Astros
After starting the second half successfully by taking three of four from the Phillies the question is Can the Cubs win with consistency? After knocking Roy Halladay around on ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball, the Cubbies must avoid the let down factor and win a series against the lowly Astros.
Saturday's game was a tough one, because the Cubs were that close to sweeping the series and having a four game over .500 weekend instead of a two games over .500 weekend.
The Cubs have a history of having trouble with struggling teams like the Astros and Pirates. If this mini turn around is for real, beating the 'Stros before a tough weekend series with St. Louis is a must.
Houston comes in to Wrigley Field with a 37-55 record, 14 games back in the NL Central. They are still in fifth place, 4.5 ahead of the Bucs. After a crucial series victory, the Cubs are tied with the Brewers for third in the division. Both teams are 9.5 games back of St. Louis, who took over first with a win yesterday.
The Astros, who are in the Windy City for three games, have had a tough go of it on the road, 17-29 this season. They started their second half by dropping two of three in Pittsburgh. Houston will look to bounce back tonight after a tough 9-0 defeat yesterday.
The Cubbies dropped two of three when the two teams met August 16-18 at Wrigley. The Cubs lost the first set of the year at Minute Maid June 4-6, so the 'Stros have a 4-2 edge in the season series thusfar. The two teams will not go long without seeing each other, as a three game set in Houston starts next Monday. The Central division foes will battle at Wrigley one more time after this series, September 6-8 in the final meetings of the year.
Marlon Byrd had a great series against the Phills and continued to show that he's a team player. Marlon was hit by the pitch four times in the series, twice last night. He is second in the league in HBP with 16. Rickie Weeks, who has been plunked 17 times, leads the league.
Tyler Colvin hit lead-off yesterday and Starlin Castro returned to the No. 2 spot in the order. We'll see if Lou keeps the kids at the top tonight. Piniella also showed craftiness in the series, calling for two squeeze bunts and several other strategic plays to try to get the offense going.
Carlos Zambrano could rejoin the team in time for their next road trip, which starts a week from today. Z tossed a simulated game in Mesa and is expected to make a rehab start at Triple-Iowa this week.
Game 1: Monday 7:05 PM CT
Astros Starting Pitcher: Wandy Rodriguez, LHP (6-11, 4.97 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Zambrano, RHP (9-3, 3.45 ERA)
TV/Radio: WCIU/WGN 720
Game 2: Tuesday 7:05 PM CT
Astros Starting Pitcher: Wesley Wright, LHP (0-0, 5.59 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (8-7, 3.57 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN 720
Game 3: Wednesday 1:20 PM CT
Astros Starting Pitcher: Brett Myers, RHP (7-6, 3.35 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ted Lilly, LHP (3-8, 4.07 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN-TV/WGN 720
The bottom line for the Cubs is just taking it one win at a time. After this series they will enjoy a day off tomorrow and then host St. Louis to round out the ten game homestand. The Astros start a homestand of their own against the Reds on Friday. The Cubs and Brewers will be in town to play the 'Stros next week.
The MLB Trade Deadline is less than two weeks away... but will the Cubs play on the field effect whether the Hendry decides buy or sell, or is it a case of too little too late.
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
Saturday's game was a tough one, because the Cubs were that close to sweeping the series and having a four game over .500 weekend instead of a two games over .500 weekend.
The Cubs have a history of having trouble with struggling teams like the Astros and Pirates. If this mini turn around is for real, beating the 'Stros before a tough weekend series with St. Louis is a must.
Houston comes in to Wrigley Field with a 37-55 record, 14 games back in the NL Central. They are still in fifth place, 4.5 ahead of the Bucs. After a crucial series victory, the Cubs are tied with the Brewers for third in the division. Both teams are 9.5 games back of St. Louis, who took over first with a win yesterday.
The Astros, who are in the Windy City for three games, have had a tough go of it on the road, 17-29 this season. They started their second half by dropping two of three in Pittsburgh. Houston will look to bounce back tonight after a tough 9-0 defeat yesterday.
The Cubbies dropped two of three when the two teams met August 16-18 at Wrigley. The Cubs lost the first set of the year at Minute Maid June 4-6, so the 'Stros have a 4-2 edge in the season series thusfar. The two teams will not go long without seeing each other, as a three game set in Houston starts next Monday. The Central division foes will battle at Wrigley one more time after this series, September 6-8 in the final meetings of the year.
Marlon Byrd had a great series against the Phills and continued to show that he's a team player. Marlon was hit by the pitch four times in the series, twice last night. He is second in the league in HBP with 16. Rickie Weeks, who has been plunked 17 times, leads the league.
Tyler Colvin hit lead-off yesterday and Starlin Castro returned to the No. 2 spot in the order. We'll see if Lou keeps the kids at the top tonight. Piniella also showed craftiness in the series, calling for two squeeze bunts and several other strategic plays to try to get the offense going.
Carlos Zambrano could rejoin the team in time for their next road trip, which starts a week from today. Z tossed a simulated game in Mesa and is expected to make a rehab start at Triple-Iowa this week.
Game 1: Monday 7:05 PM CT
Astros Starting Pitcher: Wandy Rodriguez, LHP (6-11, 4.97 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Zambrano, RHP (9-3, 3.45 ERA)
TV/Radio: WCIU/WGN 720
Game 2: Tuesday 7:05 PM CT
Astros Starting Pitcher: Wesley Wright, LHP (0-0, 5.59 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (8-7, 3.57 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN 720
Game 3: Wednesday 1:20 PM CT
Astros Starting Pitcher: Brett Myers, RHP (7-6, 3.35 ERA)
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ted Lilly, LHP (3-8, 4.07 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN-TV/WGN 720
The bottom line for the Cubs is just taking it one win at a time. After this series they will enjoy a day off tomorrow and then host St. Louis to round out the ten game homestand. The Astros start a homestand of their own against the Reds on Friday. The Cubs and Brewers will be in town to play the 'Stros next week.
The MLB Trade Deadline is less than two weeks away... but will the Cubs play on the field effect whether the Hendry decides buy or sell, or is it a case of too little too late.
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Series Preview: Cubs VS Phillies
After three full days of resting up, the Cubs will return to the field tonight when they host the Phillies at Wrigley. They finished up the All-Star Break by losing three of four to the Dodgers this past weekend. The final game of the first half, a thrashing at the hands of L.A., perfectly summed up the frustration felt by Cubs fans this season.
The Phillies are in for four to start this ten game homestand. The Astros will come to town next followed by the Cardinals. The red hot Philadelphia club, who completed a four game sweep of the Reds with a 1-0 win on Sunday, will start the second half with eight games in the Midwest. The will travel to St. Louis at the conclusion of their series in Chicago.
The defending National League champs currently stand in third place in the East at 47-40. That mark puts them 4.5 games back of the over-achieving Braves. They haven't played very well on the road at 20-22, but teams can get away with a .500 road mark if they play very well at home.
The Cubbies are an example of a team that does not play very well at home or on the road. Their 20-23 home mark is not bad compared to their overall record of 39-50. With the loss on Sunday, the Boys in Blue dropped to fourth in the Central, 9.5 out of first.
Going into this season, most people didn't expect the Cubs to win the division, but nobody expected them to play as poorly as they have so far. Everyone in the organization is hoping to see a better product on the field in the second half. With the July 31 trade deadline looming, it's time for the organization to decide what direction they want to go in. Reportedly there are offers on the table for Ted Lilly, Ryan Theriot, and Xavier Nady. Management may want to see a few more games before they call for a fire sale, so it's important for this team to have a good series in order to keep the current roster intact.
Marlon Byrd is the lone Cub who can call himself an All-Star. He did a fine job of single handily representing the organization at Angel Stadium on Tuesday. He helped the National League to a 3-0 victory, the first time the Senior Circuit took a Mid-Summer Classic W single 1996. Byrd walked, scored, and made a terrific defensive play in the ninth inning. Byrd will take that momentum into this four game stint against his former team.
After managing the N.L. to a win on Tuesday, Philly skipper Charlie Manuel will try to get his club to roll over the slumping Cubs. Manuel's roster was staked with former Cubs last year, but now the lone ex-Cub is veteran pitcher Jamie Moyer, who will start game one of this series.
The two teams met at Citizens Bank Park earlier this season, a brief two game set May 19-20 that resulted in a split. The season series will conclude when this set wraps up on Sunday.
Starting tonight, 50/50 game day raffles will take place at Wrigley Field. One fan will win big at every home game the rest of the season. Proceeds benefit Chicagoland charities. Click for the press release from Cubs.com.
Game 1: Thursday 7:05 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (7-7, 3.61 ERA)
Phillies Starting Pitcher: Jamie Moyer, LHP (9-8, 4.51 ERA)
TV/Radio: WCIU/WGN Radio
Game 2: Friday 1:20 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ted Lilly, LHP (3-8, 4.08 ERA)
Phillies Starting Pitcher: Joe Blanton, RHP (3-5, 6.41 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN Radio
Game 3: Saturday 12:05 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells, RHP (4-7, 4.61 ERA)
Phillies Starting Pitcher: Cole Hamels, LHP (7-7, 3.78 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN Radio
Game 4: Sunday at 7:05
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Tom Gorzelanny, LHP (4-5, 3.16 ERA)
Phillies Starting Pitcher: Roy Halladay, RHP (10-7, 2.19 ERA)
TV/Radio: ESPN/WGN Radio
The first game of this series is of the utmost importance. Setting the tone in a series has been critical for the Cubbies. Since May 21, they've gone on to loose every series where they've dropped game one and gone on to win every series where they've won the first game.
The key to a good second half for the team is bounce back performances from the stars (namely Lee and Ramirez). It all starts tonight...
so I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!
The Phillies are in for four to start this ten game homestand. The Astros will come to town next followed by the Cardinals. The red hot Philadelphia club, who completed a four game sweep of the Reds with a 1-0 win on Sunday, will start the second half with eight games in the Midwest. The will travel to St. Louis at the conclusion of their series in Chicago.
The defending National League champs currently stand in third place in the East at 47-40. That mark puts them 4.5 games back of the over-achieving Braves. They haven't played very well on the road at 20-22, but teams can get away with a .500 road mark if they play very well at home.
The Cubbies are an example of a team that does not play very well at home or on the road. Their 20-23 home mark is not bad compared to their overall record of 39-50. With the loss on Sunday, the Boys in Blue dropped to fourth in the Central, 9.5 out of first.
Going into this season, most people didn't expect the Cubs to win the division, but nobody expected them to play as poorly as they have so far. Everyone in the organization is hoping to see a better product on the field in the second half. With the July 31 trade deadline looming, it's time for the organization to decide what direction they want to go in. Reportedly there are offers on the table for Ted Lilly, Ryan Theriot, and Xavier Nady. Management may want to see a few more games before they call for a fire sale, so it's important for this team to have a good series in order to keep the current roster intact.
Marlon Byrd is the lone Cub who can call himself an All-Star. He did a fine job of single handily representing the organization at Angel Stadium on Tuesday. He helped the National League to a 3-0 victory, the first time the Senior Circuit took a Mid-Summer Classic W single 1996. Byrd walked, scored, and made a terrific defensive play in the ninth inning. Byrd will take that momentum into this four game stint against his former team.
After managing the N.L. to a win on Tuesday, Philly skipper Charlie Manuel will try to get his club to roll over the slumping Cubs. Manuel's roster was staked with former Cubs last year, but now the lone ex-Cub is veteran pitcher Jamie Moyer, who will start game one of this series.
The two teams met at Citizens Bank Park earlier this season, a brief two game set May 19-20 that resulted in a split. The season series will conclude when this set wraps up on Sunday.
Starting tonight, 50/50 game day raffles will take place at Wrigley Field. One fan will win big at every home game the rest of the season. Proceeds benefit Chicagoland charities. Click for the press release from Cubs.com.
Game 1: Thursday 7:05 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (7-7, 3.61 ERA)
Phillies Starting Pitcher: Jamie Moyer, LHP (9-8, 4.51 ERA)
TV/Radio: WCIU/WGN Radio
Game 2: Friday 1:20 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ted Lilly, LHP (3-8, 4.08 ERA)
Phillies Starting Pitcher: Joe Blanton, RHP (3-5, 6.41 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN Radio
Game 3: Saturday 12:05 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells, RHP (4-7, 4.61 ERA)
Phillies Starting Pitcher: Cole Hamels, LHP (7-7, 3.78 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN Radio
Game 4: Sunday at 7:05
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Tom Gorzelanny, LHP (4-5, 3.16 ERA)
Phillies Starting Pitcher: Roy Halladay, RHP (10-7, 2.19 ERA)
TV/Radio: ESPN/WGN Radio
The first game of this series is of the utmost importance. Setting the tone in a series has been critical for the Cubbies. Since May 21, they've gone on to loose every series where they've dropped game one and gone on to win every series where they've won the first game.
The key to a good second half for the team is bounce back performances from the stars (namely Lee and Ramirez). It all starts tonight...
so I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!
Monday, June 21, 2010
Series Preview: Cubs VS Seattle
Tomorrow night the Cubs will return to action to battle the Seattle Mariners in the first of a three game interleague set. The off day today came at a perfect time for the club to rest up after dropping six of the last seven series. On Sunday, the bats showed some signs of life in a 12-1 stomping of the L.A. Angels to avoid the weekend sweep at Wrigley.
Geovany Soto was the only Cub to homer yesterday launching his eighth dinger of the year. It was good to see Geo go deep, but it was also good to see the Cubs finding some other ways to score some runs. Carlos Zambrano helped his own cause with a run scoring single and got his first win at Wrigley since last July. Z went seven innings and allowed only one run to improve 3-5 overall on the year. Despite the fact that the game was already in the bag, Andrew Cashner and Carlos Marmol got their work in pitching the eighth and ninth respectively. Neither man surrendered a run. Derrek Lee drove in four runs and Marlon Byrd, who was hitting lead-off doubled twice.
The Seattle Mariners are not having a fun 2010 campaign either. They are just 28-41, which puts them in last of four teams in the AL West and 13 game behind first place Texas. The M's have played decent ball at Safeco Field where they hold an 18-17 mark.
The Mariners also have an off day today. They are in the midst of a four game winning streak including a sweep of the Reds this weekend to kick off their six game homestand. They are also in the middle of 15 straight games against NL opponents.
Seattle has several former Cubs on its roster, most notably controversial outfielder Milton Bradley. The Ex-Cubbie is hitting just .215 with 6 homers and 25 runs batted in. He will be swamped by his old pals from the Chicago media all series long. Luckily for him, Bradley does not have to go back to Wrigley to face the Cubs' faithful, which he has publicly ripped since departing from the North Side. Pitcher David Aardsma is also with the Mariners. Aardsma was a piece in the Cubs bullpen during the forgettable 2006 season before they shipped him to the White Sox in the Neal Cotts trade. The only reason David will be remembered by Cubs fans is because his last name comes first alphabetically on the list of all the players in Cubs history. Garrett Olson is another familiar name on the roster. Olson has never appeared in a game in the blue pinstripes, but he was a Cub for a short time during the 2008-2009 offseason. Garrett came over from Baltimore in the Felix Pie deal but was sent to Seattle along with Ronny Cedeno in the trade that netted the Cubs reliever Aaron Heilman.
These two clubs don't exactly have a long history of playing one another. They've played a total of six games (three in Chicago, three in Seattle) most recently at Wrigley in 2007. The Cubs took two of three in '07 and in '02 when the clubs met in Seattle. Every year, they face off during Spring Training games. This spring, they played only one Cactus League game against one another... a 1-0 Cubs win in Peoria on March 28.
This series will be a homecoming for manager Lou Piniella, who led the M's from 1993 to 2002. The Mariners made four postseason appearances during his tenure including 2001 when they won 116 regular season games.
Cubs' legend and radio broadcaster Ron Santo decided not to make the trip to his hometown. Ronny, who's 70 years old and has already had several health scares this season, is feeling fine and just wants to stay back to rest up. He will rejoin the Cubs when they play at U.S. Cellular Field on Friday. Santo plans to cut back on his travelling because of his health. Dave Otto will fill in for this series.
Third baseman Aramis Ramirez is expected to come off the DL at some point during this series. Rami finished his rehab stint in Peoria 1-6 with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. Gordon Wittenmyer reports that the Cubs will activate Aramis, who was hitting just .168 before going down with the thumb injury, prior to Wednesday night's game. The Cubs will have to make a corresponding roster move... which means Chad Tracy could be in danger of being sent back to Iowa once again.
Game 1: Tuesday at 9:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster (5-5, 3.67 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Jason Vargas (5-2, 2.88 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN+, WGN Radio
Game 2: Wednesday at 9:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells (3-5, 4.92 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Cliff Lee (5-3, 2.55 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN, WGN Radio
Game 3: Thursday at 2:40 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Silva (8-2, 3.01 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Felix Hernandez (5-5, 3.39 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN, WGN Radio
The Cubs are embarking on a six game road trip, but after the three in the Pacific Northwest they will be right back to the city of Chicago to play the South Siders. They are 31-38, 7 games out of first, and in third place in the NL Central. The bottom line: The Cubs are much in need of a series win... and against last-place Seattle a sweep would not be too much to ask for.
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
Geovany Soto was the only Cub to homer yesterday launching his eighth dinger of the year. It was good to see Geo go deep, but it was also good to see the Cubs finding some other ways to score some runs. Carlos Zambrano helped his own cause with a run scoring single and got his first win at Wrigley since last July. Z went seven innings and allowed only one run to improve 3-5 overall on the year. Despite the fact that the game was already in the bag, Andrew Cashner and Carlos Marmol got their work in pitching the eighth and ninth respectively. Neither man surrendered a run. Derrek Lee drove in four runs and Marlon Byrd, who was hitting lead-off doubled twice.
The Seattle Mariners are not having a fun 2010 campaign either. They are just 28-41, which puts them in last of four teams in the AL West and 13 game behind first place Texas. The M's have played decent ball at Safeco Field where they hold an 18-17 mark.
The Mariners also have an off day today. They are in the midst of a four game winning streak including a sweep of the Reds this weekend to kick off their six game homestand. They are also in the middle of 15 straight games against NL opponents.
Seattle has several former Cubs on its roster, most notably controversial outfielder Milton Bradley. The Ex-Cubbie is hitting just .215 with 6 homers and 25 runs batted in. He will be swamped by his old pals from the Chicago media all series long. Luckily for him, Bradley does not have to go back to Wrigley to face the Cubs' faithful, which he has publicly ripped since departing from the North Side. Pitcher David Aardsma is also with the Mariners. Aardsma was a piece in the Cubs bullpen during the forgettable 2006 season before they shipped him to the White Sox in the Neal Cotts trade. The only reason David will be remembered by Cubs fans is because his last name comes first alphabetically on the list of all the players in Cubs history. Garrett Olson is another familiar name on the roster. Olson has never appeared in a game in the blue pinstripes, but he was a Cub for a short time during the 2008-2009 offseason. Garrett came over from Baltimore in the Felix Pie deal but was sent to Seattle along with Ronny Cedeno in the trade that netted the Cubs reliever Aaron Heilman.
These two clubs don't exactly have a long history of playing one another. They've played a total of six games (three in Chicago, three in Seattle) most recently at Wrigley in 2007. The Cubs took two of three in '07 and in '02 when the clubs met in Seattle. Every year, they face off during Spring Training games. This spring, they played only one Cactus League game against one another... a 1-0 Cubs win in Peoria on March 28.
This series will be a homecoming for manager Lou Piniella, who led the M's from 1993 to 2002. The Mariners made four postseason appearances during his tenure including 2001 when they won 116 regular season games.
Cubs' legend and radio broadcaster Ron Santo decided not to make the trip to his hometown. Ronny, who's 70 years old and has already had several health scares this season, is feeling fine and just wants to stay back to rest up. He will rejoin the Cubs when they play at U.S. Cellular Field on Friday. Santo plans to cut back on his travelling because of his health. Dave Otto will fill in for this series.
Third baseman Aramis Ramirez is expected to come off the DL at some point during this series. Rami finished his rehab stint in Peoria 1-6 with 2 walks and 2 strikeouts. Gordon Wittenmyer reports that the Cubs will activate Aramis, who was hitting just .168 before going down with the thumb injury, prior to Wednesday night's game. The Cubs will have to make a corresponding roster move... which means Chad Tracy could be in danger of being sent back to Iowa once again.
Game 1: Tuesday at 9:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster (5-5, 3.67 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Jason Vargas (5-2, 2.88 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN+, WGN Radio
Game 2: Wednesday at 9:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Randy Wells (3-5, 4.92 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Cliff Lee (5-3, 2.55 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN, WGN Radio
Game 3: Thursday at 2:40 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Silva (8-2, 3.01 ERA)
Seattle Starting Pitcher: Felix Hernandez (5-5, 3.39 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN, WGN Radio
The Cubs are embarking on a six game road trip, but after the three in the Pacific Northwest they will be right back to the city of Chicago to play the South Siders. They are 31-38, 7 games out of first, and in third place in the NL Central. The bottom line: The Cubs are much in need of a series win... and against last-place Seattle a sweep would not be too much to ask for.
"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Crosstown Showdown History
The Cubs and White Sox have been meeting each year since interleague play started in 1997. Bragging rights are on the line and this year even more so with both teams struggling and the BP Crosstown Cup up for grabs for the first time. Yesterday's game was not pretty, but hopefully the Cubs step it up the rest of the weekend at Wrigley.
Before we preview the rest of this year's Crosstown Showdown, let's take a look back at the history of the Cubs/White Sox series.
The two teams in the Windy City met for the first time on October 9, 1906 in Game 1 of the World Series. The Sox won the series in six games. The two clubs have never met in the World Series again to date, and they would not play each other at all in games that counted until interleague play in '97. The season series consisted of only one three game set at Comiskey Park in '97. The Cubbies won the first regular season game ever against to Sox on June 16, 1997 by a score of 8-3. The home South Siders bounced back and took two of three.
In 1998 the first and only sweep in the Crosstown Classic took place when the Cubs took all three at Wrigley Field. The next year the six game (3 in each park) format began. In 2006, one of the most famous (or infamous) Crosstown Series moments took place. Michael Barrett punched A.J. Pierzynski in the face after A.J. ran over Michael on the play at the plate. A bench clearing brawl and four ejections followed the punch.
For the first time ever both clubs in the Windy City met as division leaders in 2008. The road team won all six games of the series that year resulting in a 3-3 season tie. A Cubs/Sox game was postponed for the first time in 2009. It was made up in September, but both teams were already out of the race.
With the win yesterday, the White Sox now lead the All-Time regular season series 38-35. The Sox have won the season series six times, the Cubs have won three times, and they've split the six games four times.
Coming up at 3:10 on FOX the series continues with Game 2 at Wrigley. Carlos Silva, who's looking to improve upon his perfect 8-0 record, will pitch against Mark Buehrle. Tomorrow night the final game of Part 1 of the showdown will take place on ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball at 7:05 CT. Ted Lilly (1-5) and Gavin Floyd (2-6) are both having tough years. They will face off tomorrow on the hill.
Cubs/Sox Series at U.S. Cellular Field:
Friday June 25 3:05 CSN
Saturday June 26 6:10 FOX
Sunday June 27 1:05 WGN
When the Cubs are in need of a win... Silva's the right guy to have going!
-"I don't care who wins as long was it's the Cubs."
Before we preview the rest of this year's Crosstown Showdown, let's take a look back at the history of the Cubs/White Sox series.
The two teams in the Windy City met for the first time on October 9, 1906 in Game 1 of the World Series. The Sox won the series in six games. The two clubs have never met in the World Series again to date, and they would not play each other at all in games that counted until interleague play in '97. The season series consisted of only one three game set at Comiskey Park in '97. The Cubbies won the first regular season game ever against to Sox on June 16, 1997 by a score of 8-3. The home South Siders bounced back and took two of three.
In 1998 the first and only sweep in the Crosstown Classic took place when the Cubs took all three at Wrigley Field. The next year the six game (3 in each park) format began. In 2006, one of the most famous (or infamous) Crosstown Series moments took place. Michael Barrett punched A.J. Pierzynski in the face after A.J. ran over Michael on the play at the plate. A bench clearing brawl and four ejections followed the punch.
For the first time ever both clubs in the Windy City met as division leaders in 2008. The road team won all six games of the series that year resulting in a 3-3 season tie. A Cubs/Sox game was postponed for the first time in 2009. It was made up in September, but both teams were already out of the race.
With the win yesterday, the White Sox now lead the All-Time regular season series 38-35. The Sox have won the season series six times, the Cubs have won three times, and they've split the six games four times.
Coming up at 3:10 on FOX the series continues with Game 2 at Wrigley. Carlos Silva, who's looking to improve upon his perfect 8-0 record, will pitch against Mark Buehrle. Tomorrow night the final game of Part 1 of the showdown will take place on ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball at 7:05 CT. Ted Lilly (1-5) and Gavin Floyd (2-6) are both having tough years. They will face off tomorrow on the hill.
Cubs/Sox Series at U.S. Cellular Field:
Friday June 25 3:05 CSN
Saturday June 26 6:10 FOX
Sunday June 27 1:05 WGN
When the Cubs are in need of a win... Silva's the right guy to have going!
-"I don't care who wins as long was it's the Cubs."
Sunday, April 4, 2010
30 Clubs in 30 Days Recaps: Chicago Cubs
Happy Easter Sunday Cubs fans! Opening Day is tomorrow! Carlos Zambrano will take the hill as the Cubs take on the Braves with the first pitch at 3:10 CT. Tonight, don't miss WGN-TV's special "What it Means to be a Cub" show which starts at 8:00.
For now, we'll conclude our preview of the National League Central by recapping the Cubs episode of MLB Network's "30 Clubs in 30 Days".
Here are the links to the other recaps:
For now, we'll conclude our preview of the National League Central by recapping the Cubs episode of MLB Network's "30 Clubs in 30 Days".
Here are the links to the other recaps:
We do not have the Reds preview at this time, but maybe we can get that up by the time the Cubs play the Reds next weekend.
Now let's jump into the Cubs "30 in 30".
Host Greg Amsinger was joined by Dan Plesac and John Hart. Hart said that whatever could have went wrong did go wrong for this club last year. The Milton Bradley situation was a snap shot of their season. John thinks this team is built to win again. If they don't win, they'll be disappointed. Dan pointed out that last year they were in the race until they lost the one guy they coudn't (and still can't) afford to lose, Aramis Ramirez.
Additions:
- Carlos Silva, SP
- Chad Tracy, 1B
- Marlon Byrd, OF
- Xavier Nady, OF
Subtractions:
- Rich Harden, SP
- Neal Cotts, RP
- Kevin Gregg, RP
- Aaron Heilman, RP
- Milton Bradley, OF
- Reed Johnson, OF
Plesac thinks that Bradley was a bad fit for the Cubs. It just wasn't meant to be. The other subtraction that could help is Kevin Gregg. He didn't have the kind of year he needed to in 2009. Hart says that Carlos Silva is a veteran guy who could help this ballclub. John called Marlon Byrd "the exact opposite of Milton Bradley." He's a solid defender and a good baseball player.
Hazel Mae joined the guys from Mesa with interviews and reports. First, she was joined by Derrek Lee, the clubhouse leader:
- Lee likes to lead by example.
- He thinks that something just clicked in for him last year.
- Derrek was able to drive some balls over the fence in 2009.
- The Cubs have the team to get into the postseason.
- He doesn't see it as pressure, Lee just likes to go out there and play the games.
- D-Lee likes the way everyone is hungry and guys came into camp ready to go.
Dan thinks that Lee has some gas left in the tank. He's a guy who is hard to root against. Hart pointed out that Derrek does a lot of the little things, he doesn't just make a living off of slugging the ball out of the ballpark.
2009 Offensive Ranks
- Runs: 707 (10th in NL)
- Average: .255 (12th)
- HR: 161 (5th)
- OBP: .332 (9th)
- SB: 56 (16th)
- SLG%: .407 (8th)
Lou Piniella joined the guys:
- Soriano will not be hitting lead-off this year. The Cubs have found a home for him in the six hole. Sori's been working hard with hitting coach Rudy Jaramillo.
- The Cubs have a healthy Aramis Ramirez and they need him to swing the bat.
- Lou is happy with the good arms in the bullpen, but they are having to rely on a lot of young arms.
- Last year the Cubs scored 148 runs less than they did in 2008. They are hoping to get 3/4 of those runs back.
- Lou is hoping that Marmol will be successful as the Cubs full time closer.
- Piniella thinks he's calmed down a heck of a lot. He has had a lot of managerial experience.
- He is going to do the best job he can do for this organization and we'll see what happens.
Projected Lineup:
- 1. Theriot, SS
- 2. Kosuke, RF
- 3. Lee, 1B
- 4. Ramirez, 3B
- 5. Byrd, CF
- 6. Soriano, LF
- 7. Fontenot, 2B
- 8. Soto, C
Dan likes Ryan Theriot at the top of the lineup. He's not flashy, he makes all the plays, and he puts the ball in play. Fukudome hasn't lived up to what the Cubs thought they were getting. Ramirez is an "RBI machine" who hits good pitching. They need him in the lineup 150 days a year. Hart thinks Marlon can do a lot of things with the bat. John says that Soriano is the key guy with this club. Sori has a speed/power combo that is rare in the game today. Geovany Soto is better than he was last year.
Marlon Byrd talked with Hazel:
- Milton told Marlon to just enjoy his time in Chicago.
- Right now Byrd feels like Chicago is a great fit for him.
- Rudy has made the transition to a new club easier.
- Marlon doesn't feel like he has anything to prove. He knows he can hit, even outside of Texas.
Hart thinks that players believe in Rudy. He has a very good philosophy.
2009 Pitching Ranks:
- Wins: 62 (6th in NL)
- ERA: 3.71 (5th)
- Opp. Avg: .252 (3rd)
- Quality Starts: 94 (2nd)
- Strikeouts: 839 (2nd)
Carlos Zambrano joined Hazel:
- Cubs fans will see a new look Big Z in 2010. The biggest change is that he will keep his emotions in check.
- Now that his daughter in 9 years old, he does not want her to see him do crazy things.
- Zambrano has gone back to the basics of pitching. He will keep throwing his four pitches.
Projected Rotation:
- Zambrano
- Dempster
- Wells
- Gorzelanny
- Silva
Looking at the top two, Z and Demp are a pretty good one, two punch. Plesac thinks that Ryan flies under the radar. He has great location of his fastball and does a good job commanding his split finger pitch. Randy Wells is built for innings and really emerged as a nice middle of the rotation starter last year. When the Cubs get Ted Lilly back they'll have a good lefty in the rotation.
- Jeff Samardzija, RHP
- Sean Marshall, LHP
- Justin Berg, RHP
- Esmalin Caridad, RHP
- John Grabow, LHP
- James Russell, LHP
- Carlos Marmol, RHP- Closer
When Marmol is good, he's really good. When he's bad, he has a hard time finding the strike zone. In the first half of 2008, he was one of the best setup men in the league. This bullpen is revamped and very young. Hart says that Caridad has power stuff. Grabow is a veteran guy who can help the young guys. Samardzija came to Spring Training hoping to land a spot in the rotation, but he can still help the bullpen.
The farm system is solid, but they are a little thin at the top. They've traded guys away to get some big league talent, but they do a great job internationally. They do have some good young players. Here are the top ten:
- Chris Carpenter, RHP
- Andrew Cashner, RHP
- Starlin Castro, SS
- Tyler Colvin, OF
- Ryan Flahery, 2B
- Bradon Guyer, OF
- Brett Jackson, OF
- Jay Jackson, RHP
- Hak-Ju Lee, SS
- Josh Vitters, 3B
Lee is a guy that can do some things and looks like he could help this club at some point. Josh Vitters is a corner infielder with some pop. The guy that John Hart thinks will step up is Starlin Castro. He can do a lot of things.
Jeff Samardzija joined Hazel Mae:
- Samardzija is excited to end up with the big league club. This is a team that he watched for a long time growing up.
- He and Lou talked about the team situation and decided that Jeff fits best in the bullpen.
- The 2009 season didn't go the way Jeff wanted it to, so he went to Mexico where he ended the year on a positve note. He was able to work on a couple of things in winter ball.
- The MPL closed the gap from the offseason to Spring Training.
The Cubs All-Time Home Grown Team:
- 3B- Santo
- SS- Banks
- 2B- Herman
- 1B- Palmeiro
- C- Hartnett
- LF-Carter
- CF- Brock
- RF- Williams
- SP- Maddux
- RP- Lee Smith
Dan thinks this is a very impressive list. With this collection of players, it's hard to believe they haven't won the World Series. Plesac's argument is that Mark Grace should be on the All Time Home Grown club.
Billy Williams chatted with Hazel:
- Williams' role is to give "a little teaching about hitting" and about playing the game of baseball in Spring Training.
- He thinks he stays young by hanging around the young people in camp.
- Guys like to pick Billy's brain about hitting.
- It's refreshing to see a kid like Tyler Colvin on the verge of trying to make a ballclub. He is going to be a good player.
Baseball Prospectus Projection: 79-83, 8 GB, second in NL Central
Dan Plesac thinks the Cubs will finish 3rd because of the inexperience in the bullpen.
John Hart has St. Lou over Lou. He predicts that they'll finsh second.
Dan thanks Alfonso will have 30-35 homers. Hart agrees that he can bounce back with 35 dingers!
Friday, December 18, 2009
Milton Bradley Traded to Seattle
Updated at 4:30 CT with Radio Recaps (bottom of post)
According to ESPN Chicago.com the Cubs have traded Milton Bradley to Seattle for right handed pitcher Carlos Silva. The Mariners will sent a total of $9 million to the Cubs, and $3M of that amount will be to even out the difference between Silva and Bradley's salary in 2010. The other $6 million "constitutes payroll relief for the Cubs and will be paid out over 2010 and 2011.
Bruce Levine says that the money could be used to help the Cubs add a center fielder so that Kosuke can be moved to right.
The Cubs have watched Carlos Silva in Venezuela the last 7-10 days.
As Paul Sullivan points out, the Cubs will visit Seattle for interleague play June 22-24.
Here is the official press release from Cubs.com.
Info on Carlos Silva:
According to ESPN Chicago.com the Cubs have traded Milton Bradley to Seattle for right handed pitcher Carlos Silva. The Mariners will sent a total of $9 million to the Cubs, and $3M of that amount will be to even out the difference between Silva and Bradley's salary in 2010. The other $6 million "constitutes payroll relief for the Cubs and will be paid out over 2010 and 2011.
Bruce Levine says that the money could be used to help the Cubs add a center fielder so that Kosuke can be moved to right.
The Cubs have watched Carlos Silva in Venezuela the last 7-10 days.
As Paul Sullivan points out, the Cubs will visit Seattle for interleague play June 22-24.
Here is the official press release from Cubs.com.
Info on Carlos Silva:
- 30 years old
- Right Handed Pitcher
- 1-3 with an 8.60 ERA in only 8 games in 2009 due to injuries
- 4-15 with 6.46 ERA in 28 Games in 2008
- Career 60-64 record with an ERA of 4.72
- Signed by the Phillies as an amateur free agent in 1996
- MLB Debut: April 1, 2002
- Played for Phillies (2002-2003), Twins (2004-2007), and Mariners (2008-2009) before being traded to the Cubs
- Currently playing for Caribes in the Venezuelan Winter League. He has an ERA of 8.00 in 4 games there so far, going a total of 9 innings.
Ryan Theriot joined Waddle & Silvy today to talk about the trade & more:
- When asked about his mood after the Bradley trade, Theriot said he's doing better because the sun is out, and he heard a trade rumor that the Cubs are doing their best to get Drew Brees.
- Ryan saying that his memory of the Saints growing up is his dad throwing the remote at the TV by the second or third quarter because they were so bad. Now it's good times in New Orleans.
- When asked if he was avoiding the (Milton Bradley) topic, Theriot said, "What topic?"
- Theriot said that it really is surprising to him that Milton was traded to the Mariners.
- He said that he knows Silva is a bulldog and a good guy to have on your staff.
- Silvy said Silva has a good reputation.
- Ryan isn't worried about the Cubs.
- Talent wise, the sky is the limit for Milton Bradley. "Just my judging last season, it's really a coin flip what you're going to get," Theriot said.
- If things would have been going well on the field, it would have been a totally different story.
- Ryan learned how to stay humble and professional no matter what from Kerry Wood.
- Bradley was a wear on the entire Cubs team. Ryan did everything possible to try to help the situation, but it was just difficult for everybody. Bradley being gone will help the clubs focus and make the Cubs much better.
Bert Blyleven also joined the Waddle & Silvy show today to talk about Carlos Silva:
- Bert was there the day when Milton Bradley tossed the ball into the stands.
- As a Twins broadcaster and fan, he kind of liked Bradley's move to toss the ball into the stands.
- He also likes Jim Hendry's move to trade "his headache".
- Silva went to Seattle and had a miserable year after pitching well in Minnesota.
- Carlos has had some back problems, and in 2009 his shoulder flared up, so he made only 6 starts.
- Silva has good control, a good sinking fastball, and is a battler.
- Blyleven compared him to Carlos Zambrano, except he doesn't walk or strikeout a lot of guys.
- Carlos gives up a lot of home runs. In 2006, he gave up a league leading 30 home runs. When his sinker stays up in the strike zone, it's a very hittable pitch.
- Silva has a chance to turn over a new leaf with the Chicago Cubs. All is not lost.
- He "works his rear end off", has a great work ethic, and is a great guy to have in the clubhouse.
- Carlos is dedicated to the game of baseball. If he's healthy, Blyleven thinks he will be a great fit for the Cubs.
Yesterday (before the trade) Ron Santo talked with Waddle & Silvy:
- Ronny's feeling well. Marc had just had dinner with Andy Masur in San Diego, and Marc was talking with Marc for the first time in awhile.
- As long as he's feeling good, Santo will do as many games as he can broadcasting on WGN Radio next season.
- Ron has been working out every other day all winter.
- When he doesn't travel with the team, he goes nuts at home. He says he's better off being there.
- "I just love working with that man. He's the best," Ron said of his partner Pat Hughes.
- There was no doubt in Ron's mind that he'd be back for the next 3 years. He's been surprised that everyone has been calling him congratulating him on the 3 year contract.
- Broadcasting and watching the Cubs at the ballpark is like therapy for him. When he walks in the ballpark, he feels really good.
- Ron loves the Ricketts family taking over the team because he came up with the Wrigley family. He liked playing for a family owned team because it's more personable.
- Tom's definitely going to bring a winner here. The talent is there and the Cubs are on the right track.
- Ron believed definitely that Bradley would be moved. He was right. Santo added that there will be other moves for the Cubs.
- He thinks we'll see more trades than free agent signings.
- The key for the Cubs returning to postseason play is health. When you have 4 of your main pitchers out for a month, Aramis Ramirez out for 2.5 months, and bad years from Soto, Bradley, and Soriano, that's what happens. Soto has the talent to come back and stay healthy, and Ronny thinks Soriano will be back next year. Santo thinks Kosuke will be moved to right field.
- He likes Theriot in the leadoff spot or the number two spot, but the Cubs are still looking at other leadoff men.
Paul Sullivan joined Boers and Bernstein on 670 the Score today:
- When asked how he was, Sully said "Can you here the champagne?"
- Half the time you could get a good interview with Bradley half the time he was a lunatic.
- Hendry knew what he was getting with Milton Bradley
- Jim took all the blame, and rightfully so.
- Paul says that lots of this is Bradley's fault, but Hendry will have to live with the move to get him the rest of his career.
- Tom Ricketts was paying close attention to the Bradley situation to ensure that Hendry made the right move.
- At one point Jim thought he could get a serviceable player, but he got sick of trying to work out a better trade than Silva.
- The Cubs did not want to take this through Christmas.
- Marlon Byrd could be the next move. Sully is not a big fan of Byrd, he would rather the Cubs make a play at Jermaine Dye and leave Kosuke in center.
- The Cubs lack a power hitter for the 5th spot in the lineup.
- Sullivan says that the Cubs need to look at all options before they move Kosuke to right.
- Byrd is going to want a 3 year deal, he has the same agent of Milton Bradley, and he's getting older.
- Guys don't draw a lot of walks under Rudy Jaramillo. Rudy likes guys to swing.
- It's going to be interesting to watch what Jaramillo can do to reshape the Cubs bats.
- Sullivan says that the window is still open for the Cubs team because the division they play in is going to leave it open.
- Once you win the division and get in the playoffs, who knows.
- If Soriano and Soto have better years, that will help tremendously.
- It's hard to stay how much the Bradley stuff really affected the Cubs' play on the field.
- There were a hand full of people who didn't speak to Milton the entire season according to Sullivan.
- Once Hendry told the team the news that Bradley was going to be suspended for the last two weeks of the season, the team celebrated and cheered in the clubhouse.
Still more to come, expect this post to be updated once again.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
What are Cubs Fans Thankful for?
Happy Thanksgiving Cubs fans! Today is a day for turkey, pie, family, and football... but let's talk a little Cubs.What are Cubs fans thankful for this year?
- The sale is finally complete! We can finally move on to talking about the team again instead of a lot of rumors surrounding the sale. We're thankful to have Tom Ricketts!
- Only exactly 50 days until the Cubs Convention, and 100 days until Spring Training!
- The Hot Stove season is in full swing!
- Milton Bradley will not be back in 2010 (hopefully)!
- Starlin Castro is in the Cubs organization. He is developing well, and played great in the Arizona Fall League. Castro is the Cubs shortstop of the future.
- There's lots of great Cub related things you could add to your Christmas List! Check out Vineline magazine, MLB.com, DVDs of classic Cubs games, and many great Cubs books. I'll be reviewing these products over the next month.
- Derrek Lee, Randy Wells, Ted Lilly, and John Grabow in 2009.
- The MLB Network. They have great baseball programming all year around. Friday at 6 PM CT they will air the 1990 All Star Game, which was at Wrigley Field.
- There's no lack of Cubs Coverage in the offseason! You have this blog to be thankful for, as well as all the other great Cubs Blogs and sites out there. Check them out on our right sidebar!
- Oh... and Kevin Gregg will not return to the Cubs.
Also, today:
12:30pm on CSN Chicago- 2009 Cubs Classic- Cleveland Indians @ Chicago Cubs (June 19, 2009)
Again, everyone have a happy and safe Thanksgiving. More posts tomorrow, but for now let's enjoy some food, family, football, and fun!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Bullpen Moves: Heilman traded, Grabow re-signs
According to Jon Heyman, the Cubs have traded Aaron Heilman to the Arizona Diamondbacks! The first real move of the offseason for the Chicago Cubs. Heilman was traded from the Mets to the Mariners last offseason, then the M's shipped him to Chicago, and now the Cubs have sent him to AZ.
The Cubs were expected to non-tender Heilman, so they were happy to get a few prospects for him. They received pitcher Scott Maine and first baseman Ryan White in return for him.
Some Notes on Scott Maine:
The Cubs were expected to non-tender Heilman, so they were happy to get a few prospects for him. They received pitcher Scott Maine and first baseman Ryan White in return for him.
Some Notes on Scott Maine:
- Left handed pitcher
- 24 years old
- Drafted by the D'backs in the 6th round of the 2007 amateur entry draft
- Pitched in 36 games at AA Mobile in 2009. He had an ERA of 2.66 and a 3-3 record as a relief pitcher.
- Made 12 appearances at AAA Reno going 1-2 with a 3.68 ERA.
- Scout.com page
Notes on Ryne White:
- Spells his name like Ryne Sandberg!
- First baseman
- Born and went to High School in Chicago
- Went to college at Purdue University in Indiana
- Bats: Left, Throws: Left
- Selected by the D'backs in the 4th round of the 2008 draft
- Played the entire 2009 season at High Class A Visalia.
- In 116 games he hit .266 with a OBP of .371, 6 HR, 52 RBIs, and 3 SB.
- Hit .275 over his 2 minor league seasons so far.
The Bullpen re-gained a key member today as well, lefty John Grabow.
The Cubs signed Grabow to a 2 year deal worth about $7.5 M according to Bruce Levine. The deal is not yet official, but it will be "no later than Friday".
Stay tuned, it's Thursday so later we'll have our Cub Minor League Coverage post later! And this is just the start of what should be an interesting winter for our Cubbies...
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Cubs Introduce Bradley
The Cubs had a press conference today to announce that the signing of Milton Bradley is official. The deal is 3 year, $30 million. I'll post a recap of the press conference coming up. Stay tuned...
Cubs Chairman Crane Kenney spoke first:
- This is the first time that a player who was not a Cub has said focused on wanting to come to Chicago the whole off season.
- Crane says Milton was very patient and thanked him and his team for that.
- He thinks Bradley will be a very productive player for the Cubs.
Jim Hendry was up next:
- He said dealing with Milton was a very positive process.
- The Cubs were really in need of landing an outstanding outfielder who can hit left handed.
- The Cubs have known all off season that they needed to get the right guy.
- Randy and Jim have talked about 1000 times on who would be the right fit. They did their homework.
- Jim and Milton had dinner together in LA. He came away thinking great things about Milton.
- Bradley told Hendry that he knew it would take a little time, but he wanted to become a Chicago Cub. That was on the 5th or 6th of November!
- The Cubs are convinced that Bradley is in really good health.
- The Cubs are thrilled to have him and he is exactly what they needed to help them get to the next few levels that they haven't been able to get to the past few years.
Next Bradley put on his Cubs jersey. He wears number 21, the same number Sammy Sosa made popular Cubs. So we have another #21 in Right Field. Bradley stepped up to the mic
- Bradley said that it is a great honor to say he's a Cub.
- He considers himself the most blessed man on the face of the earth today.
- Milton says the Cubs have been on his radar for awhile now.
- All he wants to do with the Cubs is WIN.
- He says he got nothing but honesty from Jim.
- Someone asked why he wanted to come to the Cubs. He said that going into every year the focus is winning the World Series.
- Bradley doesn't like people speaking about him if they've never met them before.
- Levine asked about him trying to stay on the field. He said that he has been on a good workout all off season.
- He says he doesn't have to explain the past "incidents"
- Bradley does everything he can to help his team win on each given day.
- He has spoke to Derrek Lee and Chad Gaundin about playing for the Cubs. Bradley says he's never talked to someone who didn't like playing for the Cubs.
- Bradley says he's an outfielder at heart not a DH.
- There is no pressure in baseball. It's easy!
I'll have more posts throughout the night on Bradley and other Cubs topics.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Cubs 2008 Naughty and Nice List
Well, tomorrow's Christmas Eve and it's time to put together our 2008 Cubs Naugty and Nice lists. Here's what I got:
Nice:
Ryan Dempster- for leading the team in wins
Jim Hendry- for adding Reed Johnson, Jim Edmounds and Rich Harden
Sweet Lou- for winning manager of the year
Geo- for winning Rookie of the Year and for having a great year
Mark DeRosa- for having the only Cubs playoff HR and for dealing with the trade rumors for 2 year in a row
Mike Fontenot- for being the most underrated guy on the Cubs.
Carlos Zambrano- for tossing a no-no
Jeff Samarjiza- for having a great first few months in the Bigs
Pat Hughes- for being such a great play-by-play man
All the Cubs fans who are still loyal despite the lack of winning
Henry Blanco- for accepting his role even thought he got little playing time
Sam Fuld- for signing lots of autographs in Spring Training
Jason Marquis- for no good reason
Ted Lilly- for being the best 4th starter in the game of baseball
Carlos Marmol- for being a great set up man
Adam Dunn- for wanting to be a Cub
Naughty:
Jim Hendry- for letting Kerry Wood go
Derrek Lee- for grounding into so many double plays
Alfonso Soriano- for choking in October
Aramis Ramirez- for choking in October
Matt Sinatro- for getting lost when he drove to Cincinnati with Lou
Kosuke- for falling apart after the first 2 months of the year.
Joey Gathright- for jumping of cars
Felix Pie- for never proving himself
MLB Veterans Committee- for leaving Ronny out, again
-The Cubs fans that say they won't follow the team as closely any more because of the sweep to end the season.
Rich Hill- for have a "lost" season
Ronny Cedeno- for taking up Matt Murton's spot on the 2008 Cubs roster
Micah Hoffpauir- for waiting his turn
Bob Brenly- for not getting that managers job
Raul Ibanez- for signing with the Phills
Dave Otto- for being boring when ever he fills in for Ron Santo
MLB Network- for stealing Dan Plesac and his train
TBS- for giving the Cubs bad luck in the playoffs
Well what do you think? Leave a comment!
Trivia Answer: Reed Johnson did gymnastics as a child.
The Next 2 Days Comcast Sports Net will be reliving the Cubs and White Sox 2008 seasons. Here's the schedule:
Christmas Eve:
7:00 PM CT- CSN Rewind: 2008 Chicago White Sox
Christmas Day-
10:00 AM- Repeat CSN Rewind: 2008 Chicago White Sox
Noon- Sox Classic; Cle @ CWS Sept. 28, 2008
2:30 PM- Cubs Classic; Mil @ Cubs Sept. 18, 2008
7:00 PM- CSN Rewind; 2008 Chicago Cubs
Check out the holiday episode of Cubscast from yesterday.
And listen to "Harry Caray" visiting with Steve Cochran of WGN Radio on Christmas Eve 2004.
Well, I'm going to take a break the next few days to enjoy Christmas. I'll be back with an update on the Cubs on Friday.
Everyone, have a very Merry Christmas.
☺ Brandon
Nice:
Ryan Dempster- for leading the team in wins
Jim Hendry- for adding Reed Johnson, Jim Edmounds and Rich Harden
Sweet Lou- for winning manager of the year
Geo- for winning Rookie of the Year and for having a great year
Mark DeRosa- for having the only Cubs playoff HR and for dealing with the trade rumors for 2 year in a row
Mike Fontenot- for being the most underrated guy on the Cubs.
Carlos Zambrano- for tossing a no-no
Jeff Samarjiza- for having a great first few months in the Bigs
Pat Hughes- for being such a great play-by-play man
All the Cubs fans who are still loyal despite the lack of winning
Henry Blanco- for accepting his role even thought he got little playing time
Sam Fuld- for signing lots of autographs in Spring Training
Jason Marquis- for no good reason
Ted Lilly- for being the best 4th starter in the game of baseball
Carlos Marmol- for being a great set up man
Adam Dunn- for wanting to be a Cub
Naughty:
Jim Hendry- for letting Kerry Wood go
Derrek Lee- for grounding into so many double plays
Alfonso Soriano- for choking in October
Aramis Ramirez- for choking in October
Matt Sinatro- for getting lost when he drove to Cincinnati with Lou
Kosuke- for falling apart after the first 2 months of the year.
Joey Gathright- for jumping of cars
Felix Pie- for never proving himself
MLB Veterans Committee- for leaving Ronny out, again
-The Cubs fans that say they won't follow the team as closely any more because of the sweep to end the season.
Rich Hill- for have a "lost" season
Ronny Cedeno- for taking up Matt Murton's spot on the 2008 Cubs roster
Micah Hoffpauir- for waiting his turn
Bob Brenly- for not getting that managers job
Raul Ibanez- for signing with the Phills
Dave Otto- for being boring when ever he fills in for Ron Santo
MLB Network- for stealing Dan Plesac and his train
TBS- for giving the Cubs bad luck in the playoffs
Well what do you think? Leave a comment!
Trivia Answer: Reed Johnson did gymnastics as a child.
The Next 2 Days Comcast Sports Net will be reliving the Cubs and White Sox 2008 seasons. Here's the schedule:
Christmas Eve:
7:00 PM CT- CSN Rewind: 2008 Chicago White Sox
Christmas Day-
10:00 AM- Repeat CSN Rewind: 2008 Chicago White Sox
Noon- Sox Classic; Cle @ CWS Sept. 28, 2008
2:30 PM- Cubs Classic; Mil @ Cubs Sept. 18, 2008
7:00 PM- CSN Rewind; 2008 Chicago Cubs
Check out the holiday episode of Cubscast from yesterday.
And listen to "Harry Caray" visiting with Steve Cochran of WGN Radio on Christmas Eve 2004.
Well, I'm going to take a break the next few days to enjoy Christmas. I'll be back with an update on the Cubs on Friday.
Everyone, have a very Merry Christmas.
☺ Brandon
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Cubs sign Joey Gathright
The Cubs have agreed to a 1 year 800,000 deal with Joey Gathright who was non-tendered by the Royals last Friday. Gathright adds speed off the bench and can play all 3 outfield positions. It seems that Felix Pie is out of luck because he is out of options which means that he can not be sent back to AAA and Gathright is a similar player to him except Joey is a better hitter. Gathright is a left handed bat, but the Cubs will continue to pursue a middle of the order, left handed bat for right field.
Quotes from Jim Hendry:
Quotes from Jim Hendry:
- "We set out to find a real speed guy for the club and a left handed hitter and he makes a lot of sense."
- "He's a world class speed guy who can do a lot of things for us."
- "If he's not starting, he's a tremendous piece off the bench every day."
- "We're a long way from opening day, a lot of things can happen."
- "I feel confident that we'll end up with a good left handed hitter, there's still a lot of things to do."
In my opinion, the Gathright move does add some speed and depth, but this isn't going what we were hoping for. I would expect that the Cubs still acquire 1-2 more left handed hitters that are everyday players, not just bench guy. I don't think the Cubs really needed another backup outfielder because we already have Reed Johnson (or Kosuke if Reed starts) and DeRosa or Hoffpauir can back up the corner outfield spots to give Soriano and our new right fielder days off.
More Gathright Info:
- 27 years old
- Bats: Left, Throws: Right
- Played for Tampa Bay 2004-06, KC 2006-08
- .263 Career average
- 1 Career HR, 78 SB
- Drafted by Rays in the 32nd round of the 2001 Draft
- 22 RBI & 21 SB in 2008.
Other Cubs Rumors:
- According to Ken Rosenthal, Fucal is headed back to the Braves.
- Bobby Abreu is seeking a 3 year, $48 million dollar deal.
- Kevin Towers said he will listen to all offers on Peavy, but is no longer actively trying to trade him.
What do you think of the Gathright signing?
I'll keep you posted.
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