Game Two - National League Division Series
Best of Five - Dodgers Lead Series, 1-0
Game Time - 8:30pm C.T.
Coverage - TV: TBS - Radio: 720 WGN, ESPN Radio, XM Radio Channel 184, 189
Location - Wrigley Field, Chicago
Carlos Zambrano (14-6, 3.91/1.29) vs. Chad Billingsley (16-10, 3.14/1.34)
The Big question for tonight's game.... Which Carlos Zambrano will show up? The Cubs are one loss away from putting themselves a hole that will be almost impossible to dig out of. The concern with Zambrano is how will a player that relies on his emotions be able to use them to his advantage in the biggest game of the season for his team. Zambrano has gotten the best of himself of late and if he struggles early, do not be surprised to see Ted Lilly out of the pen.
No two questions about it, tonight is a must win for the Chicago Cubs.
Wednesday night should have served as a wake up call for Lou Piniella's crew. While Derek Lowe has been on top of his game for a majority of the second half, so had Ryan Dempster. The Dodgers made Dempster throw strikes, he did not and the rest is history. The Cubs slipped back into their free-swinging ways after getting the lead and in order to leave for 'Mannywood' with the series tied, they must make Chad Billingsley work.
Scoring early and often with contributions from Alfonso Soriano, Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez will not only relax the team but give Carlos Zambrano enough breathing room that he can put together a win.
The keys for tonight's game.... Carlos Zambrano, Alfonso Soriano, Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez to step up and do what they are paid to do, win ballgames.
The lack of offense from the three players, that are supposed to lead the team, over the past two post seasons is more than concerning. Aramis Ramirez ended a 0-for-14 playoff drought with a double on Wednesday. Alfonso Soriano was 2-for-14 last October and followed up with a 0-for-5 in Game One....then there is Derrek Lee. Lee was 1-for-3 with a walk on Wednesday, last year 4-for-12 for the Cubs first baseman. One extra basehit from 'The Big Three' in four post-season games simply does not cut it. While Dempster walked away the first game on Wednesday, Alfonso Soriano, Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez MUST start doing their job.
Carlos Zambrano was 0-1 in 2 starts against the Dodgers this season with a 4.91 ERA and a 1.64 WHIP....the Dodgers hit a robust .317 against him and most of the damage was done in the 7th inning in LA in early June. Big Z received a no-decision at Wrigley on May 28th. The Cubs won 2-1 and Z allowed 1 run on 6 hits in 8 innings with 4 walks and 3 strikeouts. At Dodger Stadium was a different story.
After throwing the ball extremely well in the first 6 innings a couple of misplayed balls by the Cubs defense allowed the Dodgers to break the game open. Zambrano ended up losing the game on June 7th, 7-3. Zambrano allowed 7 runs on 13 hits in 6 2/3 innings with a walk and 6 strikeouts.
The Cubs need their ace tonight, more than ever.
- Blake DeWitt - 1-for-4 with 2 walks
- Andre Ethier - 6-for-13 with a double and a walk
- Rafael Furcal - 3-for-23 with 2 doubles and a walk
- Nomar Garciaparra - 1-for-4
- Matt Kemp - 3-for-6 with a home run
- Jeff Kent - 8-for-33 with a double and 4 walks
- James Loney - 3-for-11
- Russell Martin - 8-for-13 with a home run and 4 walks
- Juan Pierre - 7-for-32 with a double and 5 walks
- Manny Ramirez - 0-for-3
After a solid first half of the season (9-8 in 21 games, 19 starts, with a 3.25 ERA and a 1.30 WHIP), Chad Billingsley was just short of spectacular in the second half. Billingsley was 7-2 in 14 starts, 13 games, with a 2.99 ERA and a 1.39 WHIP. In his last 4 starts (5 appearances), 3-0 with a 3.24 ERA and a 1.48 WHIP....while teams hit .296 against him.
The Cubs will have chances tonight and must make him work. Billingsley walked only 80 batters in 200 2/3 innings this season but he gave up 188 hits.
Billingsley was 0-1 in 2 starts against the Cubs this season with a 4.91 ERA and a 1.45 WHIP. The Cubs hit .256 with 3 home runs and 5 walks in 11 innings. Billingsley lost to the Cubs at Wrigley Field on May 26th, 3-1. He allowed 2 runs on 4 hits in 6 innings with 2 walks and 7 strikeouts. At Dodger Stadium on June 5th, Billingsley received a no-decision in a 5-4 Cubs win....he allowed 4 runs on 7 hits in 5 innings with 3 walks and 8 strikeouts.
- Henry Blanco - 0-for-1
- Mark DeRosa - 2-for-6 with a home run
- Jim Edmonds - 1-for-11 with 2 walks
- Kosuke Fukudome - 1-for-5 with a home run and a walk
- Derrek Lee - 1-for-6 with a home run
- Aramis Ramirez - 1-for-7
- Alfonso Soriano - 2-for-8 with a walk
- Geovany Soto - 0-for-4 with a walk
- Ryan Theriot - 3-for-5 with a walk
Let's Talk Cubs Baseball....
OK....Carlos better bring his A game....I just got an email from the Cubs that was selected to be able to purchase 2 tickets to an NLCS game!!!!
GOOOOOOOO CUBSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!
OK....Carlos better bring his A game....I just got an email from the Cubs that I was selected to be able to purchase 2 tickets to an NLCS game!!!!
GOOOOOOOO CUBSSSSSSSSSSS!!!!!!!!
Congrats Joe!
Too cool!!
I think Z knows how this works. He'll bring his arm and his bat tonight. Lets ease this nervousnnes and win this thing.
Tonight's lineup behind Big Z....
Soriano - LF
Theriot - SS
Lee - 1B
Ramirez - 3B
DeRosa - 2B
Edmonds - CF
Soto - C
Fukudome - RF
Zambrano - P
Hey CCO! It is a new day full of hope...but for the first time in a loooong time, its a diffrent kind of hope. Not hopping for a miracle here just hopping for calmness to our players so that they can play to thei capabilities....That is all I ask, because that alone should get us the win that could turn this team into champions.
Go Cubs, really, Go, play with the fire that brought you here.
Lou, Lou, Lou. You just could not pull the trigger on doing the right thing by moving DeRosa to right and putting Fontenot at second, could you?
At least make a note to yourself. If your starter has thrown over 100 pitches by the 5th.....HE AIN'T GOT IT TONIGHT!
Lou, Lou, Lou. You just could not pull the trigger on doing the right thing by moving DeRosa to right and putting Fontenot at second, could you?
At least make a note to yourself. If your starter has thrown over 100 pitches and walked 7 by the 5th.....HE AIN'T GOT IT TONIGHT!
TICK TOCK TICK TOCK.... I can't wait for this game to start, and I'm beginning to think that my clock is moving backwards. Oh well, let's have a good ballgame tonight.
Agustin,
you seem like a sweet, sweet kid. And, honestly, that's a very good thing.
But, do you also believe in Santa Claus still? The Easter Bunny? The only thing that has changed about this anemic offense from last postseason is Fukudome in our lineup, and he is the weakest link right now.
As Albert Einstein once said, "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."
Batting Lee third, batting Fukudome period, and expecting anything out of Zambrano is a terrible thing. If Lou really did want to spark the team, he should either put Pie in RF or Johnson, because this is the same thing. You're putting crap on the field, and expecting gold, and it ain't gonna work.
I am crossing my fingers that Zambrano has a great game, otherwise they need to pack their bags and start preparing for a long offseason.
david, I'm glad you brought all of your faith tonight. If I were you, I wouldn't stop with crossing my fingers; I would go straight for a dozen or so live chickens.
David, keep your fingers crossed and quit using them to type.
Today's a new day. Anything could happen. Relax and root for the Cubbies, dude.
uhm...you hanged that curve ball there david!
Yes dude, I believe in Santa and he is headed to the north part of town tonight! [home run by sweet agustin]
Here we go Cubbies, Here we Go, clap, clap.
I don't know about Agustin, but I believe in Santa Clause, and I also believe in this Cubs Team!!
Don't know how much I will post tonight, the in-laws came to watch with us (maybe the good luck charm), but I will be with ya'll, if you know what I mean.
Go Cubs
lol @ Matt...
A convincing win tonight and the Cubs can regain some confidence themselves heading into LA.
Agustin, you must have been hitting post as I was typing. That one landed on Waveland!!
nick, the in-laws are NEVER a good luck charm... :)
I'll say this, the crowd better be rocking tonight.
I am not real sure what you are referring to Agustin, perhaps I don't understand you younger generation.
Matt "old woman", I'm actually using them to conjure up rational thoughts. WHy do you type?
As much as the Bill James cult try to make it so. Baseball ain't a rational game.
It's a romantic game. Full of passion and hope. Thats why I type.
You?
first time here........GO CUBS GO!!!!!!
John U - welcome to the CCO
Glad the crowd is in it!!!!!! Lets Go Cubs!!!!!!
Its time for this team to get TOUGH AND KICK SOME FU#$#$# DODGER ASSS... CMON MOFOS
Agreed Joe on the crowd. Looks like they are going attempt to be a factor tonight.
real nice inning for z lets go cubs
Great start for Z.
Here is how I see his start, it will be like my old high school football coach used to say "Adversity WILL strike; whether we win or lose depends on how you respond to it."
NICE K of Manny!!!!!! Great Carlos!!!!!!
Lets Go Cubs!!!!!!!!!!
This team is just so overmatched with RISP. Way to create an early statement. NOT. Geez.
Should have bunted Sori over..
patience!!!!!! make him throw strikes!!!!!!!
DAMN IT!
Nice of the guys to show up again. Lee flails at sliders in the dirt and Theriot tries to bare hand a ball in the hole putting men at 1 and 3 with no out. Hold on to your chairs.
Crap. SOS different postseason. Isn't there an offensive hero among them? OK, so maybe taking over 10 million a year in salary is not motivation enough, but good God! where is their pride?
ooooooooooooooooooh my god................................................
OH C'MON!!!!!!!!!
God-damn-it!
ARE YOU F*ING SERIOUS????
Its almost silly...
Flipping Ridiculous...best bet is we only give up 1 Run. Keep your cool Z!
Their faces are as blue as their uniforms from choking to death.
This..............wow...................................what.....................I can't do this, I'm serious. I really can't do this. It makes me physically ill. I get too worked up, adrenaline is going like I'm the one on the mound. This is unhealthy. Fuck Lee, he's brutal. He had one great year and the rest was very, very pedestrian. I am going to vomit...
fuc@#@@ MO#$#$#$# DEFENSE ==@#$E@#%$@#!@#%$#!%^$@%$#%$#^$@#^#$@^%$^@%#^%$^%$^56
=(
Torre is schooling Lou. Showing how to use strategy and how to get the good out of your players.
Considering how the offense has performed in the post season, now that it is 5-0 this game is over.
Sorry guys, but this team just proved it's a joke, and it's no laughing matter at all. THis is a horrible team, and it's over, and I'm sorry.
I know I'm new to this site, and it was almost therapeutic, but I just can't watch this garbage anymore.
Lee you expect to make a mistake, but not DeRosa...and they made us pay, and we WON'T come back, make no mistake.
Harden is our only chance. After him, then what? The Dodgers have the killer instinct, just look at their faces. Then look at ours. We look like lost puppies.
Zambrano did a fine job, and I give him credit, but his infield let him down.
I cannot believe this. Right now they can't hit the ball or catch the ball....
Self-Destruction...... wow Gotta find the offense now.....
THIS TEAM IS A BUNCH OF CHOKERS AND I AM DONE!
Ladies and gentlemen I present you with the end of the 2008 season. Once that 3rd run scored, this game and the season was ostensibly over.
The 5 runs were not Z's fault, he did his job.
Game and Series is OVER!!
What on Earth has happened?!!?? I'd rather have the Cubs of the mid-fucking-90's that were pathetic than this. At least there were no disappointments or letdowns. I knew what I was getting in Rey Sanchez and Steve Buchelle. This is unreal. Two fucking errors...are you kidding me?!?! Why is Lou sitting there with a fucking blank expression??!? I would be kicking the shit out of people. Seriously, what the fuck?!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ugh...this is gross. pathetic and sickening...look guys, there, casey blake fields it cleanly. how hard is it...what the fucking shit ass.....balls.........cock............augh
look at how they are pressing...Aram looked like Sammy Sosa stance up there...Since when are his hands that high?! and Soto...all crouched down and shit...you couldn't fit a greased bb in their asses. They are playing with the weight of 100 years on their shoulders and the fear to fail. They are scared....scared shitless. Unreal.
Hey, sorry I have been away for so long, I work for the US GOV so I travel around...but I had to post. This is the most ridiculous thing I have ever seen. Honestly it seems like this is a completely different team from the one that had won 97 games this entire season. I, for one was optimistic this entire season, a kool aid drinker as you would call it. I just can't anymore, this just tears me apart, it's like getting kicked in the gut over and over and over. You wanna believe that these guys can make the 5 runs up and win this ballgame, but for some reason, this time I just can't. It seems like the players have rolled over. It's mind boggling to me, how a team with this much talent, with such a swagger during the regular season would amount to this. I just...don't know anymore...
For those of you actually interested in watching a good game, you should check out ESPN. It's Pitt vs USF, which is ranked 10th, with 12 minutes to go, they're down 3, and it's really interesting.
Football will be my therapy. I actually prayed for the Cubs...no lie...but unlike football, there are no Hail Mary's that can be answered, unless they come up with a 5 run home run sometime.
Good night all, and it was a pleasure spending the last few days with you. Hopefully next year we can get a new first baseman and some more pieces to put it all together.
I guess hell is still hot as ever, and not freezing anytime soon
C'mon guys Z will hold em we need our bats!!!!!
Good inning by Z. We have to start putting some solid swings on the ball. Trust me I have that sick feeling as well, but it IS only the 3rd..right?
Good thing Lou rested everybody at the end of the season, becuase winning has nothing to do with momentum.
david no one obviously cares bout that fucking football game on this SITE FOR THE CUBS FAITHFUL LETS GET SOME FUCKING RUNS COME ON
The crowd is doing everything they can to get them going. I hope the players relax and just hit. We can get 5 runs. Z looks dominant; he's doing his part. The only real hit he's given up is the 3-1 pitch to Martin with the bases loaded. He should have never been in that situation.
I'm done moping.
Its time to rally the troops!
LETS GO CUBS!!!!
PEICE BY PEICE, LETS GRAB THIS ONE BACK!!!
Z is pitching his ?@! off. It is time for his blankin' teammates to wake up and hit the blankin' ball and quit this swing and miss @?!?!!!!
Time for them to get their heads out of their....
HIT THE BALL, DRIVE THE BALL AND ACT LIKE YOU WANT TO PLAY THE GAME OF BASEBALL!!!!
Being a Cubs fan is like dating a chic for all the wrong reasons...you know shes going to break your heart, but shes soooo damn hot and does just enough outside of her looks to keep you coming back for more. Always that hint of maybe she'll stop fucking me over, but no...it won't happen. She's a dumb heartless bitch, just like the Cubs...they break my heart every year. I know it's not over and I'll watch every pitch until it is, but just going through this is aweful...why is fukudome even on the team...he's terrible.
Absolutley Chad We're not out of this yet!!!!!
Atleast Z came to play.
Z draws the first walk..... FU#$ the pitching --- this dude has MORE HEART than the rest of the team COMBINED...
Z has showed more composure both offensively and defensively than the whole rest of the team tonight.
C'mon Sori! At least he has worked the count so far..will it yield good results?
1 run per inning -- CMON!!!!!!!!!!!!1111111
The one thing our offense lacks --- is a SUPERSTAR ---- not just for the superstars personal impact but for the ability to instill confidence in others...
THE BIG 3 are a bunch of no.2 quality hitters.
at this point I'd prefer to see the B team in there..the team that played the Mets..
Good thing Lou rested everybody at the end of the season, becuase momentum has nothing to do with winning.
Keep the faith guys.....
And for those that would like to whine like my daughters kindergarden class....I believe reruns of Andy Griffith or Family Ties are on Nick at Nite.....that might sooth things for you. No personal attack there....but c'mon....some of these posts.....really????
BEST OFFENSE IN THE NL?
sure doesn't look like it AT HOME ---- 2 runs in game 1, shut out in Game 2 --- THIS IS SHAMBOLIC
Can someone tell me when the last time was that the Cubs scored at least 5 runs or more in a post season game?
Our defense is pathetic...reminds me of Alex Gonzalez booting the DP in Game 6 2003.
Our defense has been DISGRACEFUL and players should be shot in the head as punishment
wonder if Lou has given it any thought to put Marquis in see what happens,that way Big Z can pitch if need be game 4 or 5?? go get em cubbies..i may be dumb but i still have faith!!!
OK.....has an entire infield ever made an error in one game?? Geesh..... Ok Riot your turn.....
Poor Z..... actually is pitching awesome....
we cant get out of our own way man oh man this is killin me
Cmon guys.....
Break out the bats!!! Lets get some runs!!!!!!
This offense NEEDS TO KICK IT INTO GEAR RIGHT MOTH#@$$ FUC#$# NOWWWWWWW
Let's predict which Cub will say that "Maybe going out on the road will help us relax"
Well, question answered...we got the fearless Big Z there tonight. Things can't get worse so, the odds are on our side for a comeback right?
Well, question answered...we got the fearless Big Z there tonight. Things can't get worse so, the odds are on our side for a comeback right?
Well, question answered...we got the fearless Big Z there tonight. Things can't get worse so, the odds are on our side for a comeback right?
Every hitter is pressing. No one looks like they did in the reg season. 2-0 count Billingsby(sp) can't fin the plate and Soriano swing at a ball way out of the zone. Someone needs to call Aramis he hasn't showed up yet.
Could someone in the dugout get fired up????????????
I am about to lose it.
Cubs about to go 0-7 in their last 7 post-season games......
The 'BIG 3' are now 8 for 46 in the last 2 post-seasons with 0 HR...... 'BIG SHITHEADS' is what I call them
Looks like the 2008 chapter in the lore of the star-crossed franchise to go with 69 84 89 98 and 03 is being written;
Lou's big error may have been not tanking in the Mets series. If they could have gotten by the Mets in 5 there may hsve been enough positive momentum to play with either Phille or LA in a 7 game series where their depth may have made a difference. They have just not been a strong enough group as a team to hitch themselves up to the challenge and now are crumbling apart.
This organization may get it done when everyone in the world has finally given up hope as the pressure of hope and angst appears to have corroded the spirit of this club.
PS; what does it say about the quality of ownership when Crane Kenney has holy water spread in the dug-out. I guess that is saying the ownership believes in the curse. What an inspiring thing to say to your team entering a very momentus playoff. With this leadership I am rooting for every minute that takes the team closer to a transfer of ownership. This meltdown may actually turn out to have a silver lining because the new ownership won't be lulled in to thinking that this is anything more than a middling operation as presently constituted
Im gonna cry. This is not the same team that won the division and Z has done his part but the rest of the team has flat let him down...we gotta have a big inning in us though...Come on boys!
THE BIG 3 are not good enough to wash Manny Ramirez's jock-strap
Out of curiosity's sake:
Would ya'll take 3 years of Manny?
im done I cant watch any more of this
We already have an overpaid Lf'er
Matt
IN A HEARTBEAT!!!!!! I'd love Manny to be Manny in Chicago!!
Matt....no place to play him. Not with Soriano.
LA developed Billingsley, Kershaw and Broxton
Cubs developed Rich Hill, Sean Marshall and Mike Wuertz --- DOHHHHHHHH!!!!! which group is better?
The Brewers got Sabathia, the Cubs got Harden --- which pitcher is gonna get $120 million in the off-season and which one is gonna get the 1 year deal???
Jim Hendry is a moron who does just enough to keep ass-kissing, kool-aid drinking morons happy
The real fans are showing themselves tonight. Look, we are all gonna be pissed that is clearly obvious if you have been following the team the last two days. But this series is not over and we call ourselves the best fans and pout about how we always have the bad luck and all this shit and thats why were the best. But when our team struggles, and i know its been struggling forever, we all turn our back and act like babies and like were not fans all this crap. Again, I know this losing every year really sucks but we did choose to be Cub fans and there are many teams/franchises that are way worse off than us. Next year, no matter how this ends (good or bad) we will all be geared up and ready for Next Year when that time rolls around. And thats what makes us Great CUB fans, we are there every year showing hope that this may finally be the year. So i know this really sucks and i know this post is gonna piss a ton of people off, lets stay true to our colors and be proud fans.
Go Cubs!
What we need to do is get Fukudome's to quit his wail and bail crap....he looks so pathetic hitting these days.....
Then we need to consider some form of trade.....that packages Lee in it.... give Hoffy the 1st base job, gives us another lefty bat....
Hopefully Pie will be ready for the CF job next year...and Edmonds will accept a role playing spot on the team....
Fukudome --- more like Fuc#$# Assh#$#
4 Innings left...I'm calling a comeback for the ages!
I would not like to be the guy cleaning the
Cubs players underwear...cause that has a
Lot of crap.
this series, if lost, is not a bad thing for cubs fans. i say that because it means that the tribco was not able to buy a world series in the last year and justify to themselves (and some of us) the many years of neglect and indifference. next year, hopefully, the sale will be final and we can look forward to ownership that cares about improving the team and ballpark in every successive year.
the faster this season ends, the sooner the sale can commence and the closer the date gets to the 'post-tribune' era. screw tribco.
Fukudome -- Another Ichiro -- another Hideki Matsui -- SLOBBER SLOBBER go the fools......
Fukudome might be worse than Kaz Matsui, let alone Hideki Matsui --- High OBP? His approach at the plate might be more FUNDAMENTALLY UNSOUND than Corey Patterson......
I am absolutely steaming and ready to kill someone
The Andruw Jones signing was probably the worst Free Agent signing in the off season...but I think Fukudome's signing has got to be up there too...what a bust of a season
Manny can play RF
Fukudome looks more lost than Natalie Halloway at the plate, he's a damn joke and its a shame that we'll have his sorry ass for 3 more years. I'd rather have Nick Swisher out there.
Baron, I know you are upset...like most, but the Cubs did develop Carlos Zambrano and Carlos Marmol.
Statement Maker....
You are ABSOLUTELY right....just wish you'd say it under your name....no need to hide who you are....
I've alluded to the same thing....some people on here are being suprisingly whiny.... First it's a freaking game....if you are THAT into it....it's a problem.....
I understand being "into the team"....hell out of all sports the Cubs are my team of teams.... Been a fan for 25 years this season....not the longest...but not the shortest either....I'm pissed about whats going on.....but I'm not gonna pout...I'm not gonna throw a temper tantrum.... I'll keep rooting...and if it ends bad....I'll be counting the days till spring training....because there is hope! We've made it to the playoffs back to back for the first time in 100 years....we're obviously on the right track.....
I'm watching a beautiful pitching performance by Carlos Zambrano. Except for hitting Casey Blake, of course.
You're right of course Neil,
I can't be sensible right now..... I AM BLOWING A VOLCANIC FUSE and about to throw my TV out the window
lets try the nice approach ... PRETTY PLEASE --- 2 runs this inning ---
Have we become the Angels of the NL? Excellent throughout the season, but go down quietly in the post-season..
I want to go on record right now. It will be CUBS vs. Phillies NLCS
I'm with you Baron...and to all you loser dorks posting about how we aren't real fans and to knock off the negativity and what-not...get a fucking life. (terrible call @ 2nd on the bunt,he was safe.) anyway, get a life...I'm tired of this losing bullshit. I don't care how great of a year it was, the ring is all that matter, and divisional title, been there done that, who cares. I would have taken a .500 year with a WS title than a great regular season with a shitball ending like always. If you're happy with that, if you're okay with just getting here or having "a good year", go fucking coach little league. I hear they give you a trophy for participating and everyone plays and has a great time. That seems more suited for you than real baseball, where winning matters. Not just in the regular season, but winning a damn title. I'm tired of adding "good seasons" to the list of disappointments. If you take this offensive, good, you're probably a pussy.
I'm sorry...I feel like I'm taking crazy pills and I just got a call from a douchebag Sox fan........augh...............
Tony Gwynn just stated the problem.
Memo to Lou for game 3:
Pull f**king Fukudome!!!!!!! If D-Ro is not healthy enough for the OF....put Reed Johnson out there!!
Put scrappy-doo Fontenot in at 2B for another lefty stick.....
Walk by and slap Lee, Ramirez, and Soriano three-stooges style and tell em to wake the hell up.....
I missed his comment...I was too busy going insane. I may need to take tomorrow off...mental health day.
Actually Joe at this point I would rather see Pie in RF, will not lose any defense and let Soriano have the rest of the night off. Put Johnson in LF and see what can happen. Soriano is not helping.
I may actually take next year off...no baseball. I need to find another obsession...Maybe I'll start working out again and try to make a comeback. Then I can be a Cub and choke all over the place. I know I'm better than Bob Howry, doesn't say much, but he gets paid 4mil a year...
I wish we were winning 6-0.
LOWS I've been a cub fan for 40 years now. My heart breaks each and every time my beloved cubs lose weather it be the playoffs or a game in late may. I LOVE THE CUBS! I am very disappointed right now, as a matter of fact i couldnt sleep last night after the loss. But I have come to terms with the fact that I support my team win or lose. To me that is what being a TRUE CUBS FAN is all about. I watched almost every game this year and had a lot of fun doing it. It's not over yet....but if it is...i'll be there next year and next and next!!!!
Now I have to deal with the INSUFFERABLE SMUG BASTARD RED SOX FANS AT WORK Tomorrow....
I Have Cubs Paraphernelia all over my cube and these OBNOXIOUS NEW ENGLAND SHMUCKs are gonna spit on me tomorrow
CAN WE SCORE 1 FORKING RUN
Yea, I know, it's a sickness...a disease. I hope to not pass it on to my children.
Neal Cotts is still playing for the white sox...Howry as well...
why are we pouring salt into our wounds...this is retarded....we couldn't beat Hawaii's little league team playing like this...can't hit,field,pitch...dogshit. At least dick stockton isn't a dick...
This is painful as hell, but I still can't help but laugh. Seriously? What is going on out there? Talk about a meltdown. It's like a comedy of fools.
Dodgers - Angels WS anyone? f that's true, I won't be watching a game of it.
Okay Baron, you are in Red Sox country and I have a serious question for you.
I was thinking about this earlier today and I think you know how much I admire the Red Sox organization. How similar do you feel the Cubs organization is right now to the one the Red Sox had before John Henry and his group bought the team, I think in 2001?
If you want to answer tomorrow, that is fine or you can send me an email. But I am very curious to read your thoughts.
At least Harden will win tomorrow and stop the bleeding. Lilly will probably pitch well too.
But if career back-up DeRosa and scrappy Theriot can't handle pretty routine groundballs (for a pro) then it doesn't matter who pitches.
Like Edmonds said: Focus Focus Focus!!!!
Hello again everybody (in Harry Caray voice).
I'm not gonna do what you all think I'm gonna do, and just...freak out (flailing hands like Jerry MacGuire)
Anyway, on my sabbatical I realized a few things. Most of you all on here are more negative than I ever was, most just don't write as lengthy.
This game was pathetic...this series thus far is pathetic, but honestly, deep down, did any of you really expect much. I mean, I know you're all faithful fans, and deep down, so am I, but weren't some of you also thinking logically with your minds instead of your hearts. Of course we all want them to win. I literally cried when Eddie Vetter came out with that song, but I knew better than to think this team could go all the way....this year at least, and I mean, just this year.
We have the pieces to do it. We have Soriano, when he gets hot, is one of the best players in the league, but he's VERY streaky, and that's the problem. We have one of the best third basemen in the world, Theriot is a solid little sparkplug and so is is buddy Fontenot. DeRosa is as good as it gets in terms of role players. Zambrano, Lilly, Dempster, and anything we get out of Harden will be gravy. Wood and Marmol are as good as it gets in the pen. But, as far as I'm concerned, the rest of the roster could use a makeover, starting at first base.
Need I remind you all that a certain switch-hitting first baseman at the age of 29 with an average yearly statline of: 36 hr, 121 rbi, .290 avg and .378 OBP is available in Teixeria
Howry is gone, Edmonds will retire, Marquis will be replaced, Blanco probably won't be back, Cedeno will probably be traded. Edmonds would be the only one that hurts because of his power, but everyone else won't be missed.
If you think about it, all Teixeira costs is draft picks, and that really isn't a big deal to us, since we can't develop much out of our drafts. Trading Lee makes the most sense, because he still, at least, has a little value. Lee only had one season of 100+ rbi, and I tried telling everyone that, but that's beside the point, and I don't care to discuss bygones.
the bullpen needs a makeover, and we'll be good, but the question is, where do you get the solid pen guys? They are just way too hard to come by, and as the Dodgers have proven, you kind of have to develop your own, which we can't seem to do.
I wish MLB would fine Manny for wearing that nasty looking batting helmet
Great....now we have as many hits as errors in the 7th inning.....
Ironic enough 2 players each have a hit and error....
I wish the MLB would fine the Cubs for playing so poorly.
Neil,
You'rs is a serious question that needs a thoughtful response which I will do from work tomorrow.... I am too drunk, too pissed off, to everything to make any sense now -- all i want to do tonite is SPEW and SPEW
I cannot believe we left Fukudome in there....THAT was a spot for Ward to go for the 3 run bomb! Or Fontenot.....or hell even Jason Marquis!!!!
WTF LOU???????????? Maybe we gave that option out a little to quick....very disappointed in his managing in these 2 games!!!!
Did you just see that called 2nd strike to fuk? I know it doesn't matter, but that pitch was a foot outside. Unbelievable.
I'm suffering through this with you--with Pat and Ron's audio and the TBS video. IMO there were 3 errors in the 2nd. Riot could have gloved the ball and gotten Loney at 1st. He thought he might get two with the bare hand attempt. So the whole infield did us in tonight. I think Z's effort and demeanor have been excellent--good enough to win a lot of games.
The mystery of our seeming to find a way to lose in the post season is as bewildering as it is disgusting. I don't think its fate. It's likely that our big people don't have timely, special occasion perfomance capabilities. That can be translated as leadership--but it's more than that. They don't find another gear when games really matter. That, I think, adds pressure on the little people who then make critical errors of commission or judgment.
If tonight's bitter disappointment holds, we have the longest of shots left. But it makes no sense for the Faithful to do anything other than to keep hope and high expectations alive. That's the only calling with any plus possibilities if you opt in for the duration. Rather than self torture, chastizing others and dangerous anger, why not opt out? Re-group, re-fresh, change loyalties, find another team or outlet for your energies.
Aaron, I am right with you. I think Teixeira would be the perfect piece to build an offense around. Derrek Lee is a bum. I've said it with you all year, and have gotten blasted by everybody. He looks like emotionless, so lifeless, i'd rather have the Hoff at first right now. Maybe that'll knock some sense into Lee.
Zambrano is a fighter. Kept his emotions in check. Pitched a great ballgame. Pleasantly surprised. If I was Lou, I wouldn't give Fukudome another start in the post-season. Ever.
I'm in this for the long-haul, but man...
As I sit here pissed off about the game...something dawned on me......with the horrible play in the playoffs the last two years.....I couldnt help but think how this town (San Diego) went through this with the Chargers a couple years ago....Good Ol Coach Marty Schotenheimer who could do so well with the team during the regular season.....but could never get them past the first round in the playoffs.....
I know Lou won a Series in 1990......but c'mon....the Cubs have looked so under prepared the last two post seasons it's not even funny.....
A 2 out rally is starting and you leave Fukudome in there. I have never seen a player lose it from one half to the other. Ryan Dempster looked better at the plate than Kosuke.
That 2nd called stike was mind numbingly bad on Fuk.
Fukudome should be sent to AAA.
I see the fans erupting in anger at the end of this.
Soriano, Lee and Aramis need to give back their last paychecks. They don't deserve them.
If this is the year then a come from behind win would be fitting.
I don't think you blame this on Lou. This team has simply played horrible. Not saying Lou didn't make bad moves (or non-moves for that matter) but the entire TEAM has not shown up at the plate.
This is a very bad night. There will be an entire offseason for banter on what moves should or should not be made. I'll be right there.
Time to pray for a miracle, starting on Saturday.
It's really a moot point considering I'm not Lou and never will be, but after all those errors, and half-assed effort at the plate, I would've IMMEDIATELY pulled Lee, DeRosa, and Theriot, and put in Ward, Fontenot, and Cedeno, respectively. Additionally, I would've pulled Fukudome. I was pulling my hair out. My wife, who barely watches came into the room at that point, and was like, "isn't that the guy that's been sucking really bad right now? why are they letting him hit?" If she can get it, why can't Lou?
I agree with whoever said on here, "Lou got completely schooled by Torre". You're damn right he did, and we need swift action, and nothing is happening.
Edmonds tried to tell the team to focus. Did you all see his interview? Our bullpen lacks focus. Every single one of our pitchers has given up a run. Do you guys realize how hard that is to do in the playoffs. I mean, it's damn near impossible, because that's where the best teams go, and we're nowhere close to being the best team, and haven't been since May.
It's also why the Brewers were getting schooled by the Phillies---because they didn't belong in the playoffs either. 97 wins...that's a great season, but we also we're that clutch. Everyone forgets most of that "clutchness" came in April and May.
Everyone and their mom could've seen Lee being MIA in the playoffs. Why? Because if you had half a brain, you'd look at stats, and see he NEVER was clutch to begin with...we just got suckered into signing a guy with one decent year to a long-term contract like we always do...a guy that had a career year, much like Soriano had with the Nats the year before we signed him too...much like Burnitz before we signed him...blah blah blah
Dempster, Marshall, Marquis, Zambrano, Cotts, Marmol, Samardzija...that leaves game 3 starter Harden, and possible 4 starter Lilly, along with Wood and Howry, who haven't given up runs, or inherited runs (in Cott's case) to score
Unfortunately, it's become this sort of impending doom. I know we have the talent to win at least one game in a series, but this is the playoffs, and teams that rise to the occasion win, and we haven't even gotten out of bed it seems.
That's a cycle for the infielders....great freakin job!!
Can we have a team leader PLEASE?????? Someone needs to go in that locker room.....tip over the table with the dinner spread and rip asses!!!! I mean seriously GO OFF!!! Edmonds??? Woody?? SOMEBODY BE A LEADER!!!!! This has been PATHETIC!!!!
wow..of all the teams in the playoffs..the Cubs hands down have looked the worst and least like a playoff team.
not sure what folks see that indicates the Cubs could win game 3..even with Rich Harden pitching...can't win if you can't hit and score..and can't win if you can't catch and throw
oops...spoke too soon. everyone except Howry, Lilly, and Harden now
Couldn't have had that at bat 5 innings ago Lee?
Ron Darling doesnt see many Cubs games does he.....saying we dont want Lee leading off an inning (this was his 3rd leadoff ab) we want him up with ducks on the pond....guess he missed all 55 of D. Lee's double plays he hit into.....
Lou has been Torre's bitch 3 times in a row now in the playoffs.....
10-1 is DESTRUCTION..... THIS SERIES IS OVER... NO lets take it 1 game at a time.... 10-1 after 55-25 at home ...... HUMILIATION --- DESTRUCTION __ COMPLETE THROUGH AND THROUGH.....
That was a fair ball....
as they say, pitching, defense, and timely hitting win in the playoffs.
4 errors is an embarrassment to the team, to the fans, and to past players in the playoffs. It must be killing guys like Banks, Santo, and others, as well as Sandberg, Grace, and Dawson, who would've given anything to get back to the playoffs with the Cubs, and when they see a lackluster effort like we've had, it must be ripping them apart inside, because they know they would've had the fortitude to get the job done.
No, I do not see how we can possibly come back from this. Harden is good for only 5-6 innings anyway, and when everyone in the pen has given up runs now, and our defense is non-existent, how can you guys expect anything other than another painful loss. I sincerely hope this is not the end, but how can it not be? Anyway, that's just my humble and very upset opinion right now.
I dream of Teixeira, of Manny in the OF, or even Milton Bradley, and some middle relief that we can count on. As I said before, there is reason for optimism with a solid core: Soto, Fontenot, Theriot, ARAM, DeRosa, etc.
Neil, I'd have to agree. But do you know the rule on it? ANyone? It looked like it kicked up the blades of grass...at least DeRosa still knocked the runs in though
D. Lee is 2-4 tonight Joe S and Trevor.... hes hitting .429 in the NLDS --- with 1 GIDP --- thats not awful --- though his error WAS!!!! strange Soriano on the other hand is 3 for 18 as a Cub in the playoffs with 0 HR--- and he makes $136 MILLION
***by rule, I mean to the left of the line and stuffif it nicks the line. I can't remember if a certain part has to be more over the line or what
Fukudome is 0-7 with 3 Ks in the playoffs following his stellar .257, 10 HR regular season.......
and half this forum was licking his balls the last off-season
1 Positive ---
I am fully on the De-Rosa bandwagon now!!!! Guy has tremendous heart and fight
baron, my comment on Lee was meant to be more of a general "really, offense, you couldn't have done this earlier?"
Why was Fuk batting there?
3 Strikeouts for Fukudome ---
Neil, I think it would be hard for even you, who have been a staunch defender of his pluses to call his signing a remote success..
what the hell is Lou's problem. Does he ever learn? Guy is HORRIBLE, and he leaves him in, and he looks at strike three in a "must swing at anything resembling a strike" situation.... WOW
7-2 and 10-3 to the 84 game winning Dodgers with a 36-45 road record.... This is one of the GREATEST CHOKE JOBS I have ever seen in my life watching baseball
Aaron, if I remember correctly, by rule if any part of the ball hits the chalk it is a fair ball.
....by the way, good to hear from you.
Baron, I am going to wait until next season on Fukudome. I am very disappointed in his performance tonight....and for a majority of the second half, gotta swing the bat.
DeRosa has driven 4 of the grand total of 5 runs so far...and scored the 5th run! He is the only one who has shown up to the plate
If this is truly our year...we will win the rest of the three games
Fukudome is a joke.......
He was new to the league and pitchers challenged him early on with fastballs....he hit like crazy....
Then came the curve balls and he looks like Harry Caray swinging a bat.....I mean an absolute joke...it's not even a bad slump....he looks like a child swinging up there.......
Neil,
Last Year, Jacque Jones was .285, 5 HR, 33 2B, 66RBI, .735OPS
This year, Fukudome was .257, 10 HR, 25 2B, 58 RBI, .738 OPS ... and their is not THAT MUCH of a difference in their defense.... we are not talking Sammy in right here...
Frankly, a 2003 Sammy with 25HR, 200 strikeouts and 10 errors is a LOT better than Fuk --- because of the PRESENCE that he had
Baron, I was "licking Fukudome's balls" and was one of the guys really wanting to see him signed. Yes, I knew the success (or lack thereof) of Japanese hitters coming to the states. I had done my research. But usually, the hitters can at least hit for average. I fully expected 10 HR's from him. I did not expect a .250BA. But if you look at the options that were out there, there really wasn't any. And RF was a HUGE glaring hole for the Cubbies last year. So would I have done the move over again? Absolutely.
I hate Derrek Lee. Only because he is in the #3 batting order. He fits more of a #5 or #6. Teixeria is a perfect #3 hitter, with Aram cleaning up. Yes, I know i'm not the GM. But I think Lee has outstayed his welcome in Chicago. In fact, I think he should've been gone the minute he publicly called out Steve Stone for being "too critical" on the team, leading to the forced resignation of Stoney, which led to the Bozo called Len Kasper (I like bob brenly), which ultimately led to this year's playoff collapse.
Thanks Neil, I needed time to cool off. I've been talking to some people about getting involved in MLB, and I can't divulge much on it, but hope I get my shot so I can finally apply some stuff.
As I've always said, OBP, clutch hitting, and statistical averages ALWAYS rule. A free swinger, is a free swinger, is a free swinger, just as a career .250 hitter is always a .250 hitter. He might have a career year, and it's true...it can happen, and some team will be dumb enough to give him a long-term deal, but some schmuck in some teams front office will give him a sweetheart deal.
The Cubs have a history of doling out bad deals: George Bell (though he netted us Sosa), Floyd, Mel Rojas, Burnitz, Todd Hundley (though he netted us Grudz and Karros which helped us), Danny Jackson, Dave Smith, Soriano, Fukudome, Howry, Eyre, D Lee, Marquis, Gaetti (signing him after the improbable run was a mistake given his age), I could go on and on. We sign 'B' free agents left and right, but we always seem to lose out on 'A' free agents. Soriano was an 'A' in our minds, but hardly anyone was going after him, and look how he's turned out for us. Derrek Lee had one good year, and it still blows my mind how someone like him could get a deal like he did, and how a schmuck like Hendry gave it to him...ditto Marquis (only Marquis NEVER had a career year so-to-speak, which makes it even more dubious)
Point blank, what we need to do to fix this team is this (in this order):
1) Lee needs to be traded for relief/SP help/prospects AND, do WHATEVER it takes to sign Teixeira
2)Soriano needs to be shopped (just to see what we can get before he gets older and more injury-prone)
3)Fukudome needs to be shopped back to Japan and/or in the US
4)Milton Bradley/Manny Ramirez/Baldelli/Dunn/Crawford/Abreu all need to be examined as options
5)Just give Pie a full shot at CF if/when Edmonds retires
6)resign Reed Johnson (he's a gamer)
7)trade Marquis for anything, and I mean ANYTHING
8)Let Wuertz, Howry, and Cotts walk
9)Go after Jeremy Affeldt, Brian Fuentes, and Eric Gagne (yes I said it, but only on a 1 yr + option and only for middle relief)
10)re-sign Wood and Dempster (but with Dempster, only at a reasonable amount---do NOT overpay)If Dempster prices himself out of our range, then make a significant offer to Burnett
11)Gauge Sabathia's interest...if he doesn't seem to care about playing for the Cubs, then go after Derek Lowe. We NEED ground ball pitchers, and Lowe is exactly that.
Here's what we need to be cautious about----our starting pitching next year...Z has been hurt, and probably still is, but isn't telling anyone, Dempster had a career year this year, and proved how erratic he can be in the postseason, Harden is an injury waiting to happen, Lilly is always at the top in HR's given up, and Marquis shouldn't even be back. Essentially, what that means, is you have to have a contingency plan. Either you go with your minor league system (but who do we even have outside of Marshall, Hill--if he can return to form, Hart, Samardzija--if not in relief?) or you go the free agent route (which I think we should with the guys I mentioned.
But, if we do not trade Lee, we will NOT be in it next year. He's held the team back this year with his de-moralizing GIDP's, and statistically, at a power position, we can do a TON better. Teixeira, btw, is also a gold glover.
Anyway, I just wrote an essay, which I didn't want to do, so I'll just stop
I'm sick of your monday morning quarterbacking Aaron, why the hell aren't you managing the big's????
We didn't hit.....we didn't field...& we didn't come to play....thats why we suck!
John, I don't want to manage...LOL, lay off...relax, it's good-hearted fun anyway. We sucked, and after Fukudome's struggles inhibited our offense, and Lee was killing rallies with his double plays, and Howry couldn't get anyone out to save his life, I pretty much knew we weren't built for the postseason, just as I knew last year we won't, and I'll catch flack for that, and I know that. It's part of being on here with some fans that can't take hearing that.
Look, I'm not about to argue who's right and who's wrong. Fact is, we're all fans on here...loyal, diehard fans that desperately want to see a winner. Some on here want to voice there opinion when they see a dud, while others deep down believe it's a dud, but don't want to talk about it. Neither way is wrong.
I hope that Harden does phenomenal in Game 3 and our offense wakes up. But what in the first 2 games has given you any indication that it will actually happen. He might pitch his heart out like Zambrano, but we'll inevitably find a way to give up runs for him...it's just how it's gone. But, on the other side of the coin, what if they off-day does us some good to reflect, collect ourselves, and come back fighting? Wouldn't that be some kind of story? To come back against Torre like the BoSox did. I mean, the BoSox lost something like 19-7 or whatever, and won 3 straight. Maybe the Dodgers get too cocky, and we come back. That's what I like to believe, and I really hope happens.
However, as I said, and as Piniella pointed out throughout the year---don't get too excited about this team. After all, it is the Cubs, and we really don't have any go-to guy in the playoffs. Every pitcher in the bullpen, save for Howry who hasn't played yet, has been touched up for runs. Our big three haven't even shown up to play in the postseason two years in a row, and we kill ourselves with these damn double plays, and looking at strike three in the 9th inning when you swing at ANYTHING close to a strike. I would give anything to have Manny on our team right now. Guys like Manny are what postseason baseball is all about---clutch performers.
Keep in mind, early in the summer, around the trade deadline, I was saying it wasn't SOLELY pitching that we needed, but we also needed a big bat. I suggested Dunn, because I never knew Boston would actually trade him. But the Dodgers hardly gave up anything to get him, and I know we could've beat their offer. Where was Hendry there? Both he and Piniella killed this team by running Fukudome out there so much when it really counted. I'm under the belief, and I don't know if I stand alone here...but if we had simply DFA'd Howry, and benched Fukudome, and traded for a decent bat for RF, we could've won like 116 games, and that's not really a stretch, considering how many games Howry blew, and how many AB's Fukudome came up with runners on in tight ballgames, only to ground out weakly to the right side, or pop out on the infield. That's only 19 more games than what we won, but I digress...anyway, many missed opportunities for the players, and many missed chances for Hendry and Piniella to turn this thing around.
Hopefully Piniella finds himself with an opportunity to make good decisions in Game 3, rather than no decisions at all.
Cubs sweep Dodgers...........on the way to their 2008 World Championship........the next three won't be close.....Cubs will dominate the "DUDgers". Dodgers suck....we are great...no way we lose to these bozos. We are the best team ever assembled. EVER! GO CUBBIES!!!! YEA!!
I believe my post, the 173rd, is some sort of CCO record!
(waiting for applause to die down)
As for next year (although I haven't given up this year yet) I think we are looking good:
Z is still young...I doubt he needs surgery, but probably needs rest.
Harden may be able to be managed to avoid injury...he had a decent amount of starts this year, and is an unbelievable talent.
Samardzia could be converted to a starter.
Wood could be converted back to starter...better for his blisters to get the rest between starts.
Angel Guzman will be that much further removed from surgery.
Zambrano
Harden
Wood
Samardzia
Guzman
That doesn't even include Lilly, Marshall, or Dempster if you resign him.
No matter what you think of Marquis, he does eat innings, and is servicable as a #5, if we can't unload him.
I would say our starting pitching is good to go.
We need a bullpen overhaul, with Marmol positioned as the closer, or perhaps one more year with Wood as closer to further season Marmol.
Now our lineup:
Fukudome will improve, as do most FA's in their 2nd year with the Cubs. His defense is solid, and if he can get back up to the .285 range, his OBP will be close to .390, which would be pretty good.
Soriano is a star...streaky...but a star. I think his defense will continue to improve, as far as getting to balls, learning the best routes to the ball. His arm is, obviously, incredible.
Pie/Edmonds/Johnson: probably sufficient for CF, although it would be nice to see Pie rise to the occassion and claim this job as his own. His speed would be a weapon the Cubs could use.
If Fukudome just implodes, Hoffpauir is a possibility there, or DeRosa, if we trade for a 2B.
Lee hits .290, plays good defense, and can apparently at least hit 20 homers. He needs to move out of the #3 spot, as his tendency to hit into DP's means he should not be in the top RBI positions. Let him slide to #6.
Soto at C. This kid sure looks like the real deal. Doesn't really need to improve either...just do this for the next 10 years, and the Cubs will retire his number! Seems like his D is good, and likely will improve, too.
Ramirez at 3B is the longest-tenured Cub, except for Z and Wood. Not a kid anymore, but still in his prime. Expect the usual .290/30/100 from him, which is awesome.
Career backup Mark DeRosa had a helluva year. Certainly love him for his versatility, but if Pie loses out to Edmonds next year again, the 2B spot could be an area for adding speed. With Eric Patterson traded, I don't think we have much in the farm. If he can repeat his production, he is certainly a solid guy.
Theriot. No power. Probably not the greatest glove. needs to stop trying to steal so much. Good average. Adequate.
So who do you get rid of?
We were so good in the beginning, due to the Fukudome OBP factor being infectious.
The key to 2009 is:
Fukudome rebounds
Pie ascends
Bullpen is made over
That is all.
The sad truth is that the best team did NOT win this series. How did this happen? We have the best team in baseball......this was our year. This team was not ready for the postseason, and that is management's fault. Cub fans and players deserved better. Cub fans unite, lets get a bonafide big league winning manager in here to manage the most talented team in baseball....before it's too late.
This cannot stand. You suck Lou.
Next spring is shaping up to be quite interesting. the Cubs will be the clear favorite again to win it all, but can they put this season's dissapointment behind them and get over the hump?
This is when a new manager with a proven pro track record can light a fire under the boys and get this team the World series ring it and it's fans deserve.
Can't wait to be at the parade when it happens.....
Keep the faith loyal fans, next year we dominate regular season AND postseason. GO CUBS!!!!!