Cubs Roster Shaping Up

Dale Sveum and his coaching staff are expected to make the Cubs final roster decisions after today's Cactus League game. Many of the choices are starting to leak and it appears that much of the roster is set. Sveum would like to use his players in the roles that they will be in during the regular season for the final five games of Spring Training. Expect announcements regarding the roster today or tomorrow.

Here is how the roster is expected to break down.

Starting Rotation
1. Ryan Dempster
2. Matt Garza
3. Chris Volstad
4. Jeff Samardzija
5. Paul Maholm

Starting Lineup
1B- Bryan LaHair
2B- Darwin Barney
SS- Starlin Castro
3B- Ian Stewart
C- Geovany Soto
RF- David DeJesus
LF- Alfonso Soriano
CF- Marlon Byrd*
*According to the Sun-Times, the Cubs have been trying to trade Marlon Byrd and still could pull off a last minute deal before Opening Day. The Braves and Nationals are among the teams in the mix. Byrd could be dealt at some point before the deadline even if he is not moved before Opening Day. If Byrd is traded sometime before the season or early in the season, it does not necessarily mean Brett Jackson will take over centerfield duties. Tony Campana or Dave Sappelt could be called up to split time with Reed Johnson and Joe Mather if the Cubs feel that Jackson needs more time to develop. Bruce Levine feels that the Cubs will hold on to Byrd until Jackson is ready.

Bench
INF- Jeff Baker, lock to make the team
INF- Blake DeWitt, near lock to make the team
OF- Reed Johnson, lock to make the team
OF- Joe Mather, near lock to make the team
Backup Catcher- Either Welington Castillo or Steve Clevenger will fill the final spot on the Cubs bench and serve as the backup to Soto. Bruce Levine mentioned in his chat that he gives the edge to Clevenger since he is more ready to a call a game at the big league level.

Bullpen
Closer- Carlos Marmol
RH Setup- Kerry Wood
LH Setup- James Russell
The other four bullpen spots are still to be determined, but many people feel that Shawn Camp and Rafael Dolis will take two of them. That leaves a slew of guys in the mix for the other two including Randy Wells, Rodrigo Lopez, Casey Coleman, Manny Corpas, Lendy Castillo and Scott Maine. Wells will likely be traded if he does not make the team, all the rest have minor league options. Marcos Mateo will start the season on the disabled list.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always.

Breaking Down Cubs Position Player Battles

With over two weeks left in Spring Training, there are still many spots on the Cubs roster up for grabs. Early this week we took a look at Dale Sveum's pitching staff decisions, click here for that post.

Today, we take a look at the position player battles that are going on in Cubs camp. The starting lineup is pretty much set, but there is some great competition for the five bench spots.

Backup Catcher
The backup catcher's position is often up for grabs during Spring Training. Seemingly every year the Cubs are trying to decide that spot. Some teams use the backup as a spot for a veteran, while other use it on a younger player who may have a future with the team as a starter. The Cubs will most likely use the latter this season. Jason Jaramillo was invited to camp, but an injury early on appears to have eliminated him from the competition. That leaves Welington Castillo and Steve Clevenger battling it out. Castillo appears to have the edge as a guy who has been in the mix for several years and seems to be ready. However, the Cubs may elect to give Castillo everyday playing time at AAA-Iowa instead of having him sit on the big league bench. Clevenger is also a talented player, but I am still giving Castillo the edge to win the job.

Fourth & Fifth Outfield Spots
With David DeJesus, Marlon Byrd and Alfonso Soriano penciled in as the everyday outfielders to start the season, the only spots open in the outfield will come on the bench. Fan favorite Reed Johnson is the type of the player that a team should want on its roster, so he appears to have the fourth outfield spot nailed down. That leaves Dave Sappelt, who was acquired from the Reds this offseason, speedster Tony Campana and non-roster invitee Joe Mather in the mix for the other spot. Campana is a nice weapon as a pitcher runner and defensive replacement, but Mather is making a good case with a .409 average this spring. I'm leaning toward keeping Mather as the team's number one pinch hit, while sending Campana back to Triple-A.

Reserve Infield Spot
Assuming the Cubs carry 12 pitchers, two catchers and five outfielders, there will be six spots left on the roster for infielders. Five of those will, unless there is an injury, be filled by Bryan LaHair, Darwin Barney, Starlin Castro, Ian Stewart and Jeff Baker. Baker will backup Stewart, Barney and LaHair, while Barney can slide over to shortstop when Castro needs a day off. That leaves a final spot open for an utility infielder. Blake DeWitt, who was released by the team but then brought back as a non-roster player, is one candidate. Adrian Cardenas, who played for the A's last season, is also in the mix even though he is hitting just .150 in Cactus League play. Other non-roster infielders in camp include Alfredo Amezaga, Edgar Gonzalez, Matt Tolbert and Bobby Scales. The last infield spot is very up in the air, but DeWitt receives my vote partly because of his .462 average in eight spring games.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always!

News, Notes and Links from Day 1 in Mesa

Pitchers and catchers officially reported to Mesa, Arizona for the start of Spring Training workouts today. Here's the latest as we start the countdown to the Cubs Cactus League opener, two weeks from tomorrow against the A's.

• ESPN Chicago reports that Blake DeWitt has until Wednesday to decide whether or not he will accept his outright assignment to Triple-A or become a free agent. Jed Hoyer is hopeful that DeWitt will chose to remain in the organization.
• According to Patrick Mooney of CSNChicago.com, the Cubs don't expect Starlin Castro's legal situation to be a distraction. Castro is expected to report to camp on time.
• Mooney tweeted today that Jed Hoyer expects to discuss and extension with Matt Garza, possibly this spring.
• Bruce Miles tweets that Theo Epstein has not seen "Moneyball" and has no plans to. He is not a fan of "proprietary" info getting out.
• Reed Johnson likes Dale Sveum's commitment to playing the game hard.
• Marlon Byrd says he lost 20 pounds during the offseason.
• It was 70 degrees and sunny today in Mesa.
• Chicago Cubs Online posted a nice look back at the Cubs offseason.
• Dale Sveum had individuals meetings with pitchers and catchers this morning and met with the media later in the day.
• Tomorrow official workouts begin at Fitch Park.
• Theo Epstein has put together a manual for Cubs staff members explaining The Cubs' Way.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!

2011 Winter Meetings Preview

The Cubs made their first move of the offseason this week, with more possibly on the horizon. Here's the latest.

Cubs Ink David DeJesus
On Wednesday the Cubs announced the signing of outfielder David DeJesus to a two year, $10 million contract that includes a club option for 2014. DeJesus can play all three outfield positions. He spent the first ten years of his career in Kansas City before playing for the Oakland A's last season. DeJesus hit just .240 in 2011 after hitting .318 in 2010.

Outfield Update
This move does not bode well for Tyler Colvin, who will have to earn his playing time since DeJesus could be the opening day starter in right field. Brett Jackson will be in the mix in Spring Training as well and Marlon Byrd could be shipped out before the start of the season. The Cubs are also searching for a buyer for overpaid leftfielder Alfonso Soriano.

Chris Bosio and Jamie Quirk Added to Coaching Staff
The Cubs have announced the Jamie Quirk will join Dale Sveum's coaching staff as the bench coach, while Chris Bosio will serve as the pitching coach. Mark Riggins will not return to the staff, while Pat Listach could be back as a base coach. Quirk was the Astros bullpen coach the last two seasons. Bosio, who coached with the Brewers in 2011, and Sveum have a long history together. An official announcement of the full coaching staff is expected this week.

A Busy Week Ahead?
Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer has said in several interviews that he expects the team to be very active at the Winter Meetings next week. There are rumors circulating that the Cubs are planning a full roster overhaul. Carlos Zambrano, Alfonso Soriano, Marlon Byrd and Matt Garza could be among the players that the Cubs are shopping, although Epstein has said he would like to build his pitching staff around a player like Garza. The team has been connected to Prince Fielder, Albert Pujols and Mark Buehrle.

Ron Santo
Today marks the one year anniversary of Ron Santo's death. He will have another shot at the Hall of Fame on Monday as this year's veteran committee vote is release. It would be a shame to see Ronnie go in without him there to see it, but it would be a great honor none-the-less. We'll have more on Santo's potential Hall of Fame induction Sunday and Monday.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on everything Cubs as always.

Counting Down to the Trade Deadline

Update 3:20pm CT: The Major League Baseball trade deadline has come and gone and the Cubs were silent today. There is always an outside chance of a deal taking place that we have not yet found out about, if so we'll let you know about it.

Today is Major League Baseball's trade deadline. After 3pm Central Time this afternoon, non-waiver trades cannot be made again until after the World Series. The Chicago Cubs have already made one move, shipping Kosuke Fukudome to Cleveland for two minor leaguers. Will they make another one prior to the deadline today?

Let's take a look at some of the moves Jim Hendry has made on July 30-31 in his time as GM:

• A year ago today, Jim Hendry made a last second move, trading Ted Lilly and Ryan Theriot to the Dodgers for Blake DeWitt and two prospects.




• In 2009, the Cubs sent Kevin Hart to the Pirates for John Grabow and Tom Gorzelanny the day prior to the deadline.





• On July 31, 2004 the Cubs added Nomar Garciaparra and Matt Murton from the Red Sox in a four team trade. Alex S. Gonzalez was sent to the Expos in the deal.

Most of the time, Hendry has been more active earlier in the month. It does not seem like any deals are close to being completed at this time. However, there is a chance that a move could be made today. Here is that latest!

• Buster Olney tweets that the Cubs will not trade Carlos Pena today.



• The Pirates asked about Pena, but sensed that the Cubs didn't want to move him, according to Jon Heyman of SI.



• Heyman also tweets that the Cubs have told other teams they want to keep both Pena and Byrd. Jon thinks that they could have gotten a good return for Marlon.



• Ryan Dempster says that staying with the Cubs is more admirable that approving a trade.



• Update Noon Central: George Ofman reports that the Rangers were interested in Carlos Marmol, but the Cubs turned them down.



• Derrek Lee is back in the National League. He has been traded to the Pirates, who will play the Cubs in a four game series starting tomorrow!



• Kevin Goldstein says that front office guys are confused about the lack of moves by the Cubs.



• CSN Chicago reports that the Cubs look at Matt Garza as a building block.

I will update that bulleted list throughout the day with the latest rumors and notes. Please keep checking back, as I'll keep you posted!

Rumor Roundup on the Day Before the Deadline

The Major League Baseball trade deadline is tomorrow at 3pm Central Time. The next two days we will have all the action covered right here on Everything Cubs Blog. Let's take a look at the latest from the rumor mill!

• David O'Brien says that Marlon Byrd is on the Braves' radar.


• Jim Hendry does not think that the Cubs need a complete overhaul, according to Gordon Wittenmyer.


• Aramis Ramirez still wants to stay with the Cubs the rest of the season. He does not plan to waive his no trade clause. It appears that any deal involving Ramirez is highly unlikely.


• Bruce Levine reports that a major deadline deal is unlikely for the Cubs.


• Carlos Pena is drawing interest, but the Cubs are hesitant to deal him because he may be in their plans for next season.


• In a non-trade related note- Andrew Cashner will throw off a mound in Mesa today. This will be the first time he has done so since May 16. He could return in a month.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted throughout the rest of the week!

Countdown to the Deadline: 5 Days

The Chicago Cubs have less than 5 days to dump players that are not going to be a part of the team in the future. The click is ticking on Jim Hendry, who has yet to make a move. With little activity, there is no shortage of rumors!

• Jim Hendry told Comcast Sports Net that he expects a turnaround by 2012.


• The Sun Times and Jon Heyman have contradicting reports on Carlos Pena. Heyman says that Pena is on his way out, but the Sun Times thinks they might hang on to him and could even bring him back next year.


• Heyman tells us that the Cubs are looking to deal John Grabow, but that will not be easy.


• The Red Sox and Indians have interest in Kosuke.


• Sean Marshall, Ryan Dempster, Aramiz Ramirez, Kerry Wood and Matt Garza are all staying with the Cubs the rest of the season.


• Jim Bowden tells us (via the CCO) that there are a great deal of teams interested in Marlon Byrd.


• Jayson Stark of ESPN reports that Kosuke Fukudome could be the one Cub dealt at the deadline.


• Stark believe that Carlos Pena would clear waivers for an August deal.


• A Pittsburgh newspaper lists Pena as one of three bats that the Buccos are interested in!

Click here for my full deadline update from Sunday.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted throughout the week.

Possible Roster Moves

The Cubs currently have three players that are close to coming off the disables list. Kerry Wood is trying to recover from his blister issue. He has begun to toss on the side. Marlon Byrd is set to begin his rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa tomorrow, but no time table is in place for his return. Darwin Barney is already rehabbing and could return to the big league team on Wednesday.

When these players return, the Cubs will be forced to make several roster decision to make room on the club. Let us take a look at their options to make room for each player.

To Make Room for Kerry Wood
Option A) Send Chris Carpenter back to Iowa
Option B) Trade/DFA John Grabow
Option C) Trade/Release/Demote Rodrigo Lopez
My Take) The best option would probably be getting rid of John Grabow, but the Cubs are unlikely to dump is salary. Most likely Carpenter will be headed back to the minors, but I'd rather see more of him than Lopez.

To Make Room for Marlon Byrd
Option A) Send Tony Campana back to the minors
Option B) Send Lou Montanez back to the minors
Option C) Trade Kosuke Fukudome
My Take) There are probably no takers for Kosuke, so it looks as if one of the kids is going to Iowa. I would send Montanez back down so that the Cubs can receive a longer look at the younger and faster Tony Campana. However, if Campana is not going to play with Byrd, Johnson, Soriano and Kosuke all on the roster, it would make more sense to send him to AAA for some ABs. Montanez is right handed so he makes for a better platoon partner with Kosuke.

To Make Room For Darwin Barney
Option A) Send DJ LeMahieu to Triple-A
Option B) Send both Campana and Montanez to the minors, keep LeMahieu as a backup infielder, use Baker and DeWitt in the outfield if need be.
Option C) Trade Baker or DeWitt
My Take) DJ most likely needs to go back down. I would hate to see the Cubs waste a young player on the bench when he probably needs more seasoning at the minor league level.

Feel free to jump in with your take in the comments. How the Cubs handle these decisions will really indicate the direction that the team is going in. The injuries have actually allowed the Cubs to take a look at some of the younger players, now it is time to find out which younger players have earned a spot in the roster full time.

Today is the 51st anniversary of Ron Santo's big league debut! Check out my book review of Ron Santo A Perfect Ten on View From the Bleachers by clicking here.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always.

Off Day Chatter as the Injuries Pile Up

First of all, sorry about the lack of blogging that has occurred throughout the month of May. I've had a very busy schedule and unfortunately this blog ends up getting shortchanged. I plan to slowly but surely return to more regular blogging. By the first or second week of June, we will be in full swing with everyday posting throughout the summer.

For now, let's take a look at the lengthy list of injuries that are plaguing the Cubs.

• Marlon Byrd was hit in the face in a scary moment during Saturday's Cubs/Red Sox games. He has been placed on the 15-day DL to recover. Reed Johnson will have to pick up the slack and receive regular playing time in centerfield. Tony Campana will see an increased role as the now fourth outfielder. Byrd's roster spot was filled by an extra pitcher, but the Cubs could decide to add a fifth outfielder this week. Lou Montanez was scratched from the Iowa Cubs game today and there is a rumor that he will be called up.



• Top centerfield prospect Brett Jackson is currently dealing with an injury of his own, so he is not an option.



• Geovany Soto has been sidelined with a groin injury. Soto is expected to come off the disabled list in the next week. In his absence, Koyie Hill has seen much of the playing time and continued to do very little at the plate while committing several errors in the field. Weligton Castillo received the nod behind the dish on Sunday and was charged with catcher's interference.



• Andrew Cashner suffered a major setback and is expected to be out most of the summer. He is shut down once against, pretty much starting over in his rehab process.



• Randy Wells is on the road to a return. He pitched in a rehab start for Iowa yesterday and everything went fine. He could return to the rotation as soon as next week. The Cubbies need him back as they their fourth and fifth starters have struggled.



• James Russell received another emergency start on Sunday as Matt Garza went down with the latest injury. Team physicians were to exam Garza's elbow today. The Cubs hope he will return for his next start.



• Jeff Baker was the latest to be bit by the injury bug when he strained his left groin during Sunday's game. There is no word on how severe his injury is.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted!

The Good & The Bad From This Week in Cubs Baseball

Here is what has been going on lately with the Chicago Cubs, starting with the positives.

• They came from behind in the ninth inning on Saturday for their first dramatic victory of the season.


• The starting rotation looked solid all week long, with Casey Coleman, Matt Garza and Ryan Dempster all turning in strong pitching performances.


• Jeff Baker has continued to play a key role for this team.


• Carlos Pena has busted out of his power drought with three long balls.


• The Cubs homered their way to a series victory in Las Angeles.


• Kosuke Fukudome is red hot at the plate. It is crucial for him to continue to hit at least until Tyler Colvin gets his act together.


• Mike Quade has used his bench and rotated guys so that everyone gets some needed rest.


• Marcos Mateo and Jeff Samardzija have both continued to do a fantastic job in the bullpen. Mateo earned his first career victory on Saturday.


• Darwin Barney has stayed conistent.

On the negative side:

• The Cubs found a way to lose the series to the Reds today. They did not get any offense to support Ryan Dempster.


• Starlin Castro had the worst week of his young career, continuing a horrific slump after a torrid start.


• The Cubs still have not won a Sunday game all season.


• Kerry Wood could not get his job done on Saturday, although the Cubs eventually won the game.


• The Cubs left the bags loaded twice in Sunday's loss. They had the bases full with nobody out in Friday's defeat and failed to do any further scoring.


• Failure to drive guys in from third with less than two out continues to irk the Cubs.


• Marlon Byrd continues to hit third and continues to do very little.


• Aramis Ramirez has been at the plate in some key spots and failed to come up with needed base hits.

Happy Mother's Day to all the moms out there! The Cubs have an off day tomorrow before they play the Cardinals for the first time this season starting Tuesday night at Wrigley Field. I will try to have several updates throughout the week as I plan to start daily blogging back up in less than a month!

The Good & The Bad: Week 2

The Cubs lost a tough one today 9-5 at the hands of the Rockies, with the game tied at 5 entering the bottom of the eighth. With the loss, the Cubs finished the road trip at 4-5 and are now 7-8 on the season. Let's start with the good from this week.

• Starlin Castro is a stud. He collected seven hits on Saturday and Sunday alone! Starlin is looking good in the lead-off spot.


• Darwin Barney has slid comfortably up to the No. 2 spot in the order. He, too, had a big week. Bob Brenly on Darwin today, "You can't teach instincts."


• Jeff Samardzija looked sharp today, sending down all six men he faced.


• The Cubs showed some signs of life on Saturday and Sunday, playing a couple of close games against a tough Rockies team.


• Koyie Hill notched his first hit of the season.


• The Cubs finally tallied their first stolen base this season. (Castro)


• Casey Coleman pitched a great game on Saturday.

And now the bad...

• The Cubs middle of the order has a grand total of one home run this season.


• No. 5 hitter Carlos Pena is 2-for-14 with runners in scoring position.


• No. 3 hitter Marlon Byrd is 3-for-20 with men in scoring position.


• The Cubs bullpen day on Tuesday in Houston was a total failure. James Russell was hammered and the 'Stros extended the lead against guys like Samardzija and Stevens.


• Tyler Colvin is still slumping.


• This team has lacked both speed and power, not a great combo.


• Marcos Mateo's eighth inning today in which he nearly escaped a second and third with no out spot, but ended up giving up four two out runs.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted as Everything Cubs as always!

Pitchers and Catchers Have Reported

We can officially say those five magical words, "Pitchers and catchers have reported!" Baseball is right around the corner as the Cubs and the Oakland A's meet two weeks from today at HoHoKam Park. Everything Cubs blog will have you covered throughout Spring Training.

Tomorrow will be the first official workout and the first full squad workout will take place on Saturday. Mike Quade and Jim Hendry are both scheduled to meet the media today. I will update this post throughout the day with more information that comes from the Valley of the Sun.

Here are some tidbits to start us off!

• It is expected to be 77 degrees and sunny in Mesa today.
• Reed Johnson has reported early, according to a tweet from Bruce Miles. Johnson says that his experience with the Cubs was the best of his career. He does not mind fighting for a job this spring.
• Carlos Marmol has already taken his physical and is close to a multi-year deal with the team.
• Tim Sheridan's most recent post mentioned that Marlon Byrd has been working with Tyler Colvin and showing him some tips.
• Carrie Muskat writes that Jeff Samardzija will have a shot at the rotation, but Bruce Levine and Gordon Wittenmyer have reported that the Shark will only be looked at for the pen.
• Wittenmyer told David Kaplan yesterday on Cubs Insider that Casey Coleman will most likely be sent back to Triple-A to start the year.
• Levine continued his Spring Training previews yesterday with a look at the outfield. Mike Quade will have to decide who his starting right field is (Kosuke or Colvin) and who his fifth outfielder is (Perez or Johnson).

I'll keep you posted throughout day one of the 2011 season!!!

Marlon Byrd on Waddle & Silvy

• Marlon is "doing all right" and just relaxing at this point.
• His first year experience was a blast despite the losing record. He loved going out there and being a Cub every single day.
• The day game atmosphere and fan situation was right up his ally.
• He was very happy when he found out that Mike Quade will be the manager for the next several years.
• At the beginning of Spring Training this past season, Byrd knew that Quade was a managerial type.
• Mike always has the answers players need. Marlon likes his perpetration and energy.
• Byrd is confident that the Cubs can win in 2011. The young guys that came in got better and got a taste of the big leagues.
• It was tough playing the way they did this year, but they can improve.
• The Cubs need a first baseman. Marlon is not sure what the team needs as far as pitchers.
• "Who wouldn't like Adam Dunn? That would be a big pick-up," he said.
• Byrd is having fun watching his friends and former teammates in Texas play in the World Series. It has been tough watching them lose the past few days.
• Marlon has texted with some of the Rangers during this series.

That's it for now, but I'll have more this weekend!

10-27 Bruce Levine Chat Recap

• This is an important week for the Cubs, who will find out if their $84 million training facility will be approved by Mesa voters.
• Adam Dunn is the Cubs "number one priority".
• The most likely player to be traded by the Cubs this offseason is Kosuke.
• Levine expects Big Z to stay with the Cubs because of his no-trade clause.
• Marlon Byrd should get a good share of the vote for an NL Gold Glove. He made just three errors all year.
• Jim Hendry's fate after this two-year contract will be decided by how many more young players come through the organization in the next few years.
• Bruce thinks Mike Quade will be the last manager Hendry hires. Both have two year contracts and their fates seem to be interwined.
• If Hendry can find a way to trade some payroll the Cubs may be able to afford Dunn.
• Right now, it looks like Blake DeWitt will start at second next year.
• Bruce doesn't see Josh Vitters making the team next year. He expects Jay Jackson and Brett Jackson to make the roster out of Spring Training. Chris Archer could be in line for a call-up during the year.
• Tyler Colvin was thinking about playing winter ball in Mexico, but that's probably not going to happen now.

That's it for now, but I'll keep you posted on Everything Cubs as always.

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!"

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!

Numbers Breakdown: A Look at the 2009-2010 Offseason Now

Half way through the year, we always like to take a look at back at what Jim Hendry did in his offseason transactions. It's fun to grade the moves when they happen, but at that point we are just speculating. Now that we have seen the Cubs play, we know if how the moves are turning out so far.

Based on the Cubs record, one would think that the Hendry's offseason moves have not panned out. However, that is not necessarily the case!

Date: 11/19/09
Move: Traded Aaron Heilman to Arizona for Ryne White and Scott Maine
Heilman's Numbers (this season): 2-3, 3.83 ERA
Maine's Numbers: 2.20 ERA in 12 games at AA, 3.81 ERA in 20 games at AAA
White's Numbers: .228 AVG 11 games at Daytona
Move Grade: B-

Date: 11/20/09
Move: Resigned John Grabow
Grabow's Stats: 1-3, 7.36 ERA in 28 games this season
Move Grade: F

Date: 12/4/09
Move: Jake Fox and Aaron Miles traded to Oakland for Jeff Gray, Ronny Morla, & Matt Spencer
Fox's stats: .222 AVG, 51 games between Baltimore and Oakland
Miles' Stats: Only played in minor with A's before being released, picked up by St. Louis
Gray's Stats: Brief stint w/ Cubs, 5.00 ERA in 7 game at AAA, currently injured
Morla's Stats: 2-2, 3.58 ERA, 28 games at Peoria
Spencer's Stats: .286 AVG at Daytona; .264 AVG, 9 HR, 33 RBIs at AA
Move Grade: A-

Date: 12/18/09
Move: Traded Milton Bradley to Seattle for Carlos Silva & cash
Bradley's Stats: .210 AVG in 62 games
Silva's Stats: 9-3, 3.45 ERA, 17 starts
Move Grade: A

Date: 1/2/10
Move: Signed Marlon Byrd to a 3-year contract
Byrd's stats: .317 AVG, 18 games
Move Grade: A

Date: 1/27/10
Move: Signed Chad Tracy to a minor league deal w/ Spring Training invite
Tracy's stats: .250 AVG, 28 games before being DFA'd
Move Grade: C+

Date: 1/29/10
Move: Signed Xavier Nady to a one year contract
Nady's Stats: .225 AVG, 62 Games
Move Grade: C-


Move (Grade): Allowing Kevin Gregg (B-), Neal Cotts (A), Reed Johnson (C), Rich Harden (B+), and Chad Fox (A) to leave via free agency.

With the additions of Byrd, Silva, and some prospects and the subtractions of Jake Fox, Miles, Bradley, Heilman, and other Hendry had a very good offeason. The only moves that didn't turn out well were resigning Grabow and signing Nady.

Overall Offseason Grade Now: B

And remember... the numbers don't lie!

First Half Cubbie Awards

All in all, it was not a good first half for the Cubs. In fact, it was a very bad first half for our fourth place Cubbies. However, there have been a few bright spots. Let's give out the Cubs First Half Awards!

MVP: Marlon Byrd, the Cubs only All-Star
Cy Young: Carlos Silva
Biggest Surprise: Carlos Silva
Most Underrated: Sean Marshall
Most fun to Watch: Carlos Marmol
Prospect of the First Half: Brett Jackson
Pitching Prospect of the First Half: Austin Bibens-Dirkx
Best Rookie: Tyler Colvin
Best Pitching Performance: Ted Lilly's no-hit bid into the 9th against the White Sox
Biggest Offensive Game: Starlin Castro's homer, triple, and six RBIs in big league debut
Biggest Hit: Walk-off homer in the 11th by Aramis Ramirez on May 17 VS Rockies
Team Player: Marlon Byrd
Effort Award: Koyie Hill/Ted Lilly

We'll continue to review the Cubs first half of the season throughout the All-Star break. Our break posts will also feature recaps of All-Star events and minor league All-Star games, former Cub updates, a look at the rumor mill, and look at the 2009-2010 offseason now.

Series Preview: Cubs VS D'backs

After a 2-5 homestand, the Cubs will try to bounce back in this three game series in Arizona. The two teams are meeting at Chase Field for the first time this season. The Cubs took three out of four at Wrigley Field from April 29-May 2, which was the first series between the two clubs in 2010. The Cubs and Diamondbacks will not meet again until next season after Wednesday's game.

The Cubs are embarking on a seven game road trip that leads up to the All-Star Break. After this series, they will play four at Dodger Stadium. The Cubs are in fourth place with a 35-47 mark. They are 11.5 back of first place Cincinnati but just two back of the third place Brewers. The Cubs dropped three of four against the Reds at Wrigley this weekend. Yesterday's game got ugly in the seventh inning when Ted Lilly and Jeff Stevens gave up a total of eight runs. Drew Stubbs hit three home runs on the Fourth of July in his team's 14-3 blowout win.

The Cubs are 15-24 on the road going into this West Coast trip, and 3-7 in their last ten games. However, things have also been a struggle for the D'backs. They fired manager A.J. Hinch and GM Josh Byrnes last week. Jerry Dipoto will take over GM duties for the rest of the year and bench coach Kirk Gibson has been named the interim manager. Gibson's club has a 32-50 record, which puts them in dead last in the NL West, 17 games behind the Padres.

The D'backs are in the middle of a ten game homestand that they started by losing two of three to the Dodgers. They dropped yesterday's game 3-1. After the Cubs leave town, the Marlins will come in for four before the break.

Both teams have only one All-Star. Chris Young and Marlon Byrd are both NL reserve outfielders, and both men will make their first trip to the Mid-Summer Classic. Young is hitting .264 with 15 homers and 57 RBIs. Byrd leads the Cubs with a .309 average to go along with his 9 homers, 35 RBIs, and .355 OBP.

Aramis Ramirez, who's hitting just .177 in 55 games, was scratched on Sunday with swelling in his thumb. He has already missed several weeks with a thumb injury this season. No timetable has been set for his return.

The homestand was not a favorable one for the Cubs. Lee hit .120, Theriot hit .222, Lilly gave up a career high 11 hits on Sunday, and they stranded 17 guys on base in Saturday's win. The Cubs are looking to snap a string of losing 11 straight series openers with a win this afternoon. In those 11 series, the Boys in Blue are 1-10. Tyler Colvin, who went deep twice yesterday for the first time in his career, is the only Cub swinging the bat well.

Game 1: Monday at 3:10 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Tom Gorzelanny, LHP (2-5, 3.14 ERA)
D'backs Starting Pitcher: Ian Kennedy, RHP (3-6, 3.77 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN 720

Game 2: Tuesday at 8:40 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Carlos Silva, RHP (8-2, 2.96 ERA)
D'backs Starting Pitcher: Barry Enright, RHP (1-0, 1.80 ERA)
TV/Radio: CSN/WGN 720

Game 3: Wednesday at 8:40 CT
Cubs Starting Pitcher: Ryan Dempster, RHP (6-7, 3.54 ERA)
D'backs Starting Pitcher: Edwin Jackson, RHP (6-6, 4.74 ERA)
TV/Radio: WGN-TV/WGN 720

Can the Cubs lackluster offense pick it up? It will be a challenge, as the Cubs have always been known to have problems on the West Coast!

"I don't care who wins as long as it's the Cubs!"

Numbers Breakdown: Are Marmol & Silva All-Star Snubs?

Before we get into tonight's Number Breakdown, a come of other matters of business. First of all, congratulations to Cubs center fielder Marlon Byrd on his All-Star Selection. Byrd will be the lone Cubs representative on July 13 at Angel Stadium. Shifting gears, I want to wish all of my readers a happy Fourth of July! Even though our favorite team has dropped three of four, I hope you enjoyed a nice holiday weekend with friends and family.

Most of our voters on our last poll on the right sidebar agree that Marlon Byrd is the most deserving Cub in the All-Star Game. However, pitchers Carlos Silva and Carlos Marmol also got a good amount of votes. In my opinion, Silva and Marmol should be in the Mid-Summer Classic. Let's compare the stats of Silva and Marmol to that of the other pitchers on the National League staff in today's Numbers Breakdown!

Carlos Silva: 8-2, 2.96 ERA, 1.08 WHIP
Carlos Marmol: 2-1, 2.13 ERA, 1.24 WHIP, 16.3 K/9, 15 SV
Roy Halladay: 9-7, 2.42 ERA, 1.11 WHIP
Josh Johnson: 8-3, 1.82 ERA, 0.97 WHIP
Tim Lincecum: 8-4, 3.28 ERA, 1.30 WHIP
Tim Hudson: 8-3, 2.37 ERA, 1.17 WHIP
Jonathan Broxton: 3-0, 2.08 ERA, 16 SV
Arthur Rhodes: 3-2, 1.09 ERA, 0.91 WHIP
Adam Wainwright: 11-5, 2.34 ERA, 1.03 WHIP
Chris Carpenter: 9-2, 3.16 ERA, 1.21 WHIP
Brain Wilson: 2-0, 2.10 ERA, 22 SV
Evan Meek: 3-2, 0.98 ERA, 1 SV
Ubaldo Jimenez: 14-1, 2.27 ERA
Matt Capps: 2-3, 3.19 ERA, 22 SV, 1.39 WHIP, 7.9 K/9
Yovani Gallardo: 8-3, 2.56 ERA

So, there are some really good NL relievers. However, Marmol should be an All-Star over Matt Capps. Since Washington has to have an All-Star, the Capps selection over Marmol is acceptable.

However, Carlos Silva is definitely a snub. He should be in the game over Carpenter and Lincecum. It is still possible that a Cub will be called to replace someone due to injury or a Sunday before the break start.

Remember, the numbers don't lie!